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A hospitable home for allergy sufferers

October 30, 2009 12:36 am

FOR SOMEONE WITH allergies, there is noth- ing worse than walking into a home and knowing that in a few minutes you will be sneezing, wheezing, and rubbing your eyes in a desperate attempt to stop the itch. For millions of allergy sufferers, this is a common experience.

I've often thought that certain homes should post a warning: "We Love Pets," or "Mold Grows Here." Fortunately, there are steps anyone can take to make their home a safe and welcoming place for everyone--including those who suffer from allergies and asthma.

If it seems that almost everyone you know suffers from some kind of allergy or asthma, it's because over 60 million Americans, or one out of every four, suffers from these conditions. That number is on the rise.

An allergy is a disease of the immune system. It occurs when a substance causes an overreaction in a person's body, resulting in a broad range of symptoms. Asthma, on the other hand, is a disease of the lungs. During an asthma attack, airways become narrow or blocked, causing breathing difficulty, wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and other symptoms. Often, asthma episodes are triggered by an allergic reaction.

There are no cures for allergies or asthma. But they can be managed with prevention and treatment. One of the most important steps is to remove allergy and asthma triggers from the home. Common triggers are pollen, pet dander, dust mites, cigarette smoke, mold, roaches, and the use of certain cleaning and personal care products.

One of the best ways to remove allergy and asthma triggers is to keep a clean house. If possible, have someone without allergies or asthma do the cleaning. If that is not possible, the person who cleans should consider using a dust mask to prevent the inhalation of particles that are stirred into the air during cleaning. Remove household clutter that collects dust, and take out the trash regularly.

Carpet is a magnet for dust, hair and pet dander. Replacing your carpet flooring with wood, tile, or vinyl might help. If you love carpet too much to give it up, use a vacuum with a true High Efficiency Particle Air (HEPA) filter.

Also, check your furnace manufacturer's instructions and replace your air filter regularly. High quality filters will trap more dust and particles, but make sure they're compatible with your system.

In the bedroom, cover pillows and mattresses with a zippered plastic cover. These are available at most department stores or online. Wash all bedding once a week in hot water. Dust mites won't survive in temperatures above 130 degrees. It's recommended that you replace mattresses every 10 years, and pillows at least every five.

There is no easy way to say it, but pets are often the culprits behind allergy and asthma flare-ups. If you can't stand the thought of living without your animals, consider keeping them outside. At the very least, keep them out of sleeping areas and off fabric-covered furniture.

To combat mold and pests in your home, fix plumbing leaks, drips and cracks as soon as possible. Turn on the exhaust fan or open a window while showering to prevent the buildup of condensation. If you see mold, remove it with soap and water.

Clean up spills, crumbs, and any standing water that attract pests. Store food in airtight containers and use trash cans with lids. Be aware that those with asthma should stay away from liquid and spray pesticides.

Consider a ban on smoking inside your home and car. Secondhand smoke is a common trigger for asthma, along with other formaldehyde-containing products.

Be sure to read the label and follow directions on all cleaners, adhesives, cosmetics, paint, and air fresheners. You may need to limit the use of these products around those with allergies and asthma.

By reading this, you've taken the first step toward making your home a safe and welcoming place for everyone. For more information and tips on removing allergy and asthma triggers from your home, visit noattacks .org.