Most people are used to hearing about or experiencing allergies. Cigarette smoke, pet dander, pollen from plants & trees can make life just plain miserable. Food allergies can be very dangerous and are considered one of the most common allergies.
Did you know that pests can also trigger allergies and even asthma?
Common household pests such as rodents, cockroaches* and dust mites are considered a year-round trigger. Symptoms of these allergies include itchy/watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, coughing, skin rashes, shortness of breath and wheezing. Asthma attacks can also be brought on by pests and can be serious, and potentially life threatening.
*Cockroach allergies are particularly common and can be serious for children and seniors. Proteins from cast skins, egg casings and feces can become airborne and cause allergy symptoms.
It’s very important to acknowledge when sudden allergies start to occur. Especially if they are unseasonal.
Rodent Allergies
For people with allergies and asthma, rodents can be quite problematic. Rodents produce a few different types of allergens. Proteins found in rodent urine are considered inhalant allergens. Like urine and feces, dander from rodents can also carry throughout the home, triggering symptoms such as sneezing, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, itchy watery eyes, skin rashes and even triggering asthma. Rodent allergens will be in the highest concentration in areas where they nest and where there is food, such as a kitchen and/or pantry. Pay particular attention to these areas within your home.
Cockroach Allergies
Cockroach feces, saliva, egg casings and exoskeletons (cast skins) contain certain proteins that many people are allergic to. These allergens are considered airborne as they are often stirred up through daily disturbances, such as vacuuming or sweeping. Common symptoms from a cockroach allergy include: itchy skin and or skin rash, itchy watery eyes and stuffy nose. Coughing, wheezing and/or difficulty breathing can all be manifestations of asthma that is brought on by a cockroach allergy.
Stinging Allergies
When a person is allergic to a sting from an insect, their immune system overreacts to proteins from the insect's venom. People who suffer from stinging insect allergies may display signs of itching and/or hives, or more serious symptoms such as trouble breathing and anaphylaxis, which in some cases, can be fatal. Hornets, wasps, honeybees, yellow jackets and fire ants are known to cause allergic reactions from the venom being injected into the skin.
Lessen the threat of Allergies and Asthma
Taking measures to ensure that your home is free from these pests can reduce the symptoms dramatically.
- To keep bugs like cockroaches out, ensure that you keep your kitchen tidy, with all food kept in tightly sealed containers and countertops free of crumbs and spills. Check for any leaky pipes. Dispose of any garbage on a regular basis. Monitor cupboards for signs of bug activity. Use a glue board or trap if you suspect there are bugs. This will aid in knowing exactly what you are dealing with.
- Wash all sheets, pillowcases and blankets in hot water to kill dust mites and remove allergens. For any bedding that cannot be washed, place in the dryer on a high temperature for at least 15 minutes.
- Add a protective covering, such as a mattress encasement. This will help protect against dust mites and bed bugs. Encasements create a barrier between you and the mattress, preventing mites or bed bugs from getting in or out. Mattresses are expensive - protect your investment!
- Dust and then vacuum at least once a week. Pay special attention to any carpets or rugs where dust and other allergens may easily accumulate. Mopping hard floors (tile, hardwood) with their appropriate cleaner also helps to eliminate dust mites.
- Outside, seal any gaps, holes or cracks found on the exterior of your home. These openings make great places for wasps and hornets to nest. Remove or relocate any food sources that may be attractive such as hummingbird feeders, and other liquid nectar bird feeders. Remember to keep all food and trash areas completely covered. Yellow Jacket traps are effective as they attract the insects, trapping them inside. Lastly, consider carefully using an aerosol foam or spray to knockdown any active nests. You will want to ensure that this is done either early in the morning or late in the evening and using a telescoping aerosol can holder in order to maintain a safe distance.
Read more:
Roaches are gross and can make you sick
10 unexpected places you can find bed bugs
