7 Common Household Allergens in Raleigh, NC

Allergens can be a major problem in your home in Raleigh, NC. Identifying some common allergens is important for properly managing allergies and reducing their impact on your life. Here are seven common household allergens that can affect indoor air quality.

1. Dust Mites

Dust mites are microscopic creatures that live in household dust and can trigger allergic reactions, such as sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, runny noses, and skin irritation. They are more common during the summer months, and you will find them in mattresses, pillows, carpets, stuffed furniture, and upholstered furniture.

It’s important to vacuum and dust regularly to reduce the number of dust mites in your home. You can also use hypoallergenic covers for mattresses, pillows, and box springs.

2. Pet Dander

Pet dander is a common allergen found in homes with dogs, cats, and other companion animals. It combines tiny skin particles shed from the pet and can cause allergic reactions. These reactions can affect the eyes, skin, lungs, and airways.

To reduce pet dander in your home, vacuum regularly, and bathe your pet often to remove loose hair and dander. You can also use air purifiers to help reduce pet allergens. If you are particularly sensitive, keeping your pets out of the bedroom may be a good idea.

3. Cockroaches

Cockroaches can trigger allergies by releasing allergens into the air as they crawl. They can also cause asthma attacks if you are allergic or sensitive to the proteins found in their bodies. Cockroaches thrive well in warm, humid, and cluttered environments.

Eliminating cockroaches from your home is the most effective way to avoid an allergic reaction. Use sealed containers to store food, keep counters clean, and use insect repellents to keep them away. Besides, block any gaps or holes in your home to stop them from coming in.

4. Pollen

Pollen is a common allergen found in New Hill, NC, and it can cause seasonal allergies. Trees, grasses, and weeds release microscopic pollen grains into the air during certain seasons. Accumulation of pollen can reduce indoor air quality and cause allergic reactions.

To reduce pollen allergens in your home, you can keep windows closed during high pollen count days, use air filters to reduce the number of pollen particles in the air, and remove any plants near your home that may be causing allergies. Also, you can take an antihistamine to help reduce the symptoms of allergies.

5. Biological Growth

Biological organisms can grow in damp areas such as bathrooms and basements and cause allergic reactions in some people. Their growth is also a sign of moisture problems in your home that can lead to further health issues.

Reducing the humidity levels in your home is a good way to reduce biological growth. Keep your home clean and dry, use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, fix any leaks promptly, and keep organisms from growing in your home. If they cover a large area, hire a professional to remove them.

6. Chemicals

Chemicals from cleaning products, air fresheners, and aerosols can cause allergic reactions. Examples of these allergens include formaldehyde, benzene, and ammonia. These chemicals can cause allergic reactions and other respiratory problems when they enter the air.

Using natural cleaning products is a good way to reduce chemical allergens. It’s also wise to choose air fresheners that are free of chemicals and avoid using aerosols in your home.

7. Tobacco Smoke

Tobacco smoke contains hundreds of chemicals that can cause serious health problems, including allergies. Secondhand smoke can also cause allergies even if you don’t smoke.

The best way to avoid tobacco smoke allergens is to avoid smoking and secondhand smoke. You should also keep your home well-ventilated by opening windows and using exhaust fans or air filters.

Poor indoor air quality can cause allergic reactions and other respiratory issues. If you want to improve your home’s air quality, contact our team at Airmakers Heating & Cooling, LLC for HVAC maintenance.

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