You love having guests in your home, but common household allergens are unwelcome. Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to foreign substances, such as pet dander, causing mild to severe discomfort for individuals. Let’s explore five household allergens lurking in your home in Annapolis, MD, and how to get rid of them.
Dust Mites
Dust mites are among the most common indoor allergens in homes. While they’re too small to see with the naked eye, dust mites are close relatives of ticks and spiders.
These microscopic creatures work their way into soft places such as pillows, blankets, mattresses and stuffed animals. Dust mites feed on dead skin cells, and their waste products can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Maintaining a clean and well-ventilated living environment is important to reduce dust mite allergens in the home. Regularly vacuum carpets, wash bedding in hot water, use allergen-proof covers on bedding and maintain the cleanliness of your air filters.
Microbial
Microbial are another common allergen found in homes in Annapolis, MD. It’s a biological growth released into the air, traveling and settling on various surfaces. They typically grow and reproduce in damp and poorly ventilated areas such as bathrooms, basements and kitchens.
Allergic reactions can manifest in different ways, including itchy skin or a rash, watery or itchy eyes and a runny or itchy nose. However, severe reactions, such as difficulty breathing and asthma, can also occur.
Regular cleaning, proper maintenance and addressing water leaks in damp areas can help reduce the presence and impact of pathogens in indoor spaces. Professional help may be necessary if you suspect a large-scale problem.
Pet Dander
Chances are that dander is a problem in your home if you own a pet. It’s likely that you do, since 67% of U.S. households had at least one pet in 2020. These included more than 63 million dogs and 42 million cats.
Pet dander is the tiny skin, hair, saliva and urine particles that animals such as cats, dogs, guinea pigs, rabbits, hamsters and birds shed. These particles contain proteins that, when inhaled, can trigger allergic reactions. Common symptoms of pet allergies include sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, facial pain, coughing, chest tightness and wheezing.
These allergens stick to upholstered furniture, clothing and carpets. Therefore, regular grooming of pets and frequent cleaning and vacuuming of surfaces can help. Many pet lovers today love to sleep with their animals, but keeping them out of bedrooms also helps.
One of the best ways to fight a pet dander problem is with a professional. A preventive maintenance plan is a wise approach.
Tree Pollen
Annapolis, MD, experiences the presence of tree pollen, a fine, powdery substance easily carried by the wind for miles. In the area, oak, maple, walnut, willow and cedar trees are the common culprits.
Pollen enters the home through open windows and doors. Individuals with tree pollen allergies may experience sneezing, itchy eyes and nasal congestion.
It’s important to keep your windows and doors closed during peak pollen times and regularly clean and vacuum. A top-notch service technician can install an air purifier to improve your health and well-being.
Cigarette Smoke
Finally, cigarette and cigar smoke can =make allergy symptoms worse and increase the risk of developing allergies and asthma. Of course, quitting smoking is the first thing you should do to prevent cigarette smoke in your home and improve your air quality.
It’s good to know the five household allergens lurking in your home in Annapolis, MD. You can reduce allergens and create a healthier living environment by focusing on allergen hotspots such as the bedroom, living room and kitchen. Contact Coastal Heating & Air Conditioning Co., Inc. for a complete line of indoor air quality services and products to meet your needs.
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