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Signs and Symptoms of Allergies in Your Home
An allergic reaction is the result of your immune system going on the defensive. When it detects an allergen, it produces antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE). In response, your cells release chemicals to fight the allergens, which result in your allergy symptoms. 1
Most Common Symptoms of Indoor Allergies 1, 2
Runny nose
Itchy eyes
Sneezing
General congestion or stuffiness
Where Allergens Hide in Your Home 3
Damp and humid areas
Indoor plants
Pets
Pillows and bedding
Plush furniture
Plush toys
Unsealed mattresses
Wall-to-wall carpet
Top 4 Allergy Triggers In Your Home
The most common sources of indoor allergies are dust mites, fungi (mould), mammals (both your pets and rodents), and cockroaches. 2
Dust mites
House dust mites are a major source of allergies worldwide. Mite-related allergens are more commonly airborne, and inhalation of these allergens is the most common way of exposure. Not as common, but mite-contaminated food can also be a source of allergic reactions. 2
How to control dust mites 3
House dust mites are a major source of allergies worldwide. Mite-related allergens are more commonly airborne, and inhalation of these allergens is the most common way of exposure. Not as common, but mite-contaminated food can also be a source of allergic reactions. 2
Keep surfaces clean and uncluttered
Avoid wall-to-wall carpet — use low-pile carpets, washable rugs, hardwood, or tiled flooring
Avoid heavy curtains
Avoid overstuffed furniture
Use sealed, allergen-resistant covers on your pillows and mattress
Wash bedding, pillows, and stuffed toys in water that’s at least 55°C; dry them in a hot dryer
Indoor mould
The common indoor mould and mildew that cause allergies thrive in dampness. You’ll find them in moist garages, basements, sheds, bathrooms, or anywhere with leaks.
How to reduce mould 1, 3
Reduce moisture in the bathroom, kitchen, and basement
Don’t run showers too long before hopping in
Use dehumidifiers
Limit the number of house plants, and ensure proper drainage
Fix leaks quickly
Remove mould from hard surfaces with water and detergent or, if necessary, 5% bleach; let them dry completely
Pet dander
There are no breeds of dogs or cats that are 100% allergen-free — not even the hairless ones. That’s because you don’t react to fur, but to allergens in saliva, dander (skin flakes), or urine. 1
How to manage pet dander 1,3
Avoid direct contact with pets
Keep pets out of your bedroom
Wash and change pet beds and toys often
Wash and brush your pets often — and wear a mask when you groom them
Wash your hands after handling pets
Frequently wipe and vacuum spaces where your pets spend time
Before getting a pet, ask your allergist to determine if you are allergic to animals
Cockroaches
The World Health Organization identifies 12 distinct allergens carried by cockroaches. 2
How to control cockroaches 1,3
Cover food, garbage, and recyclables; take the bins out quickly
Use poison baits, boric acid, and traps instead of chemicals, which may irritate your sinuses and/or asthma
Block crevices, wall cracks, and windows where they enter
Fix and seal leaks
Keep food in lidded containers
Put away used pet bowls and uneaten food
Vacuum and sweep after meals
Wash dishes immediately after use
Clean under stoves, refrigerators, or toasters where crumbs can accumulate
Wipe off the stove, cupboards, and other kitchen surfaces regularly
Allergy-Proof Your Home
It’s nearly impossible to completely avoid allergens in your home. But there are ways to reduce them. Mostly, these strategies aim to keep the air as clean as possible. 3 You can do this by:
Increasing the flow of outdoor air
Reducing humidity
Using air cleaners with certified allergy and asthma filters
Vacuuming the home frequently using a certified asthma and allergy friendly vaccum. 3
Managing the Symptoms of Allergens at Home
If you’re looking for short term relief from allergy symptoms, find out which Telfast product may be right for you.
Allergies Giving You Runny Nose?
When a cold virus or an allergen, such as pollen or dust, first enters the body, it irritates the lining of the nose and sinuses.
1. Andrew Moore, MD, reviewed. Indoor Allergens, American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology [aaaai.com], February 28, 2020. Reviewed on May 20, 2021. Retrieved from https://www.aaaai.org/Tools-for-the-Public/Conditions-Library/Allergies/Indoor-allergens-TTR
2. Anna Pomés, Martin D. Chapman, Sabrina Wünschmann. Indoor Allergens and Allergic Respiratory Disease, PMC/US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, June 2016. Reviewed on Oct. 5, 2021.
3. Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Ed. Control Allergens to Improve Indoor Air Quality, Reviewed by Medical Scientific Council, 2015. Reviewed on Oct. 5, 2021. Retrieved from https://aafa.org/allergies/prevent-allergies/control-indoor-allergens/
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