ALLERGY PROOF YOUR HOME

Allergies or irritants have caused most people at one time or another to have watery and itching eyes, a runny nose, and sneezing. True allergies occur from being highly sensitive to substances known as allergens.

Common allergens are pollen, mold, animal dander, house dust mites, chemicals, insect venom, certain foods, or medicines. Irritants include tobacco smoke, strong odors, alcoholic beverages, air pollutants, change in weather conditions, and stress. Some irritants we have no control over, like change in the weather. However, many allergens can be lessened or controlled, such as the allergens in our homes.

Keep windows and doors closed, and use air conditioning when possible. Use an air cleaner with a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter. Do not use window or attic fans that may bring outside air in the house. Stay in the house and avoid outdoor activities, especially during high pollen count times. Shower, or take a bath, and change clothes after outdoor activity. Dry clothes in a vented dryer, not outside.

Wipe down the bathroom walls, tub, and shower curtain daily to prevent mold growth. Scrub grout and tiles with a cleaning solution that kills molds. Replace moldy wallpaper with mold-proof paint. Clean the refrigerator regularly. Wash swamp coolers, and fix all water leaks. Use the air conditioner and dehumidifier to reduce indoor humidity to less than 50 percent. Use exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen to remove excess moisture.

Use zippered, airtight cases on pillows, mattresses, and box springs to keep dust mites from getting in them. Wash all bedding weekly-including pads, pillowcases and covers-in water that is at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit (54.4 degrees Centigrade) to kill dust mites. Avoid feather pillows, down comforters, bunk beds, and canopy beds. Carpeting should be removed where possible, especially in bedrooms and bathrooms. Hardwood, tile, or vinyl floors are better, but should be vacuumed weekly. Washable non-skid rugs can be used, but need to be washed weekly. Upholstered furniture should be avoided when possible.

When animal dander is the cause of allergies, it is best to remove the pet from the home. If this is not acceptable, the pet should stay out of the bedroom, with the bedroom door closed. Keep the pet off furniture. The pet should be shampooed weekly to reduce allergens. There are also dry shampoos for pets that make it easier to rid them of allergens, than a wet shampoo.

Keep food or garbage in closed containers. Take garbage out regularly. Rinse all cans and bottles before throwing them in kitchen trash to discourage cockroaches. Do not store paper bags, newspapers, or cardboard boxes. Try not to breathe fumes from paint, insecticides, strong cleansers, or products containing irritants.

Anyone with allergies should not smoke and should avoid being around those that do smoke. If there is an allergy prone person in the household, and others want to smoke, they should smoke outside. No smoking should be allowed in the car. Avoid wood burning fireplaces and stoves.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File ALLE4160.RF2 VRS# 4160 Data Version 7.0