Allergies are caused by certain things which trigger the immune system. These triggers are known as allergens. Indoor allergens are very common and as bad as outdoor allergens like pollen as told by allergy physicians. Here’s everything you need to know about them.
What Are Allergens?
Allergens are specific things, which can trigger your immune system and cause allergic reactions. Allergens are the root cause of allergies, and they should be avoided to make sure that your allergies don’t aggravate. Allergens can be of many types. There may be some foods, which your body can’t digest or doesn’t react well to. Allergens are also present in nature. They can be transferred from one place to another via wind and water. They are so small, that they are almost invisible to the naked eye.
The allergens can get attached to your skin or clothes and it can go into your respiratory tract, either through your nose, eyes, mouth or ears. This is why you should keep yourself protected against these allergens.
Types Of Indoor Allergens
Allergens which can be present indoors are of the following types:
Dust Mites
Dust mites are one of the most common types of indoor allergens present. They are present in the dust. People who are very allergic to dust will experience shortness of breath, coughing, sneezing and wheezing. Dust mites go into your respiratory tract and cause a lot of breathing issues. Dust mites are also quite small, so they go unnoticeable, which is why it is very easy for them to enter your body. If you are working in dust, make sure that you are protecting your eyes, mouth and nose from the dust, by either covering them or wearing a protective breathing mask.
Pet Fur
A lot of people are allergic to animal fur. Animal fur which causes allergic reactions to people mostly include cat and dog fur. These animals shed their hair everywhere, so it can easily transfer from one place to another. This fur can then go into the nose or mouth and can cause breathing problems and skin issues too. Some people experience their faces getting swelled up and the appearance of dry and red patches all over their face and neck is proof that the person is allergic to animal fur.
Insects
A lot of insects can cause allergies too. Indoor insects which can cause severe allergic reactions are mostly cockroach and bees. Cockroach stings and bee stings can lead to fever and redness on the skin. It can also lead to extreme itching all over the body. So, you should be careful around insects if you are allergic.
Mold
If you live in a humid and moist environment, then molds are bound to be formed in your house. Molds and fungi can also cause a lot of allergies. The reaction is mostly transferred through touch. It can lead to sensitivity and redness in the affected area.
How To Avoid Indoor Allergens?
Now that you know what indoor allergens are, here is what you can do to prevent or avoid them.
Check For Any Leaks
Molds and fungi are usually formed when there is abundant moisture in your house. So, you should check for leakages around the house, whether it’s on the water pipes or your hardwood, you should get the places checked and if there is any mold forming, then you should get it removed and repair the crack, otherwise things can escalate.
Don’t Keep Pets If Allergic
If you are allergic to pets, then it’s a good idea not to keep any, as their hair can cause allergic reactions to the body.
Fumigation
To get rid of insects in the house, you can call in fumigation teams to get rid of all the insects and creepy crawlies in the house.
Well Ventilated Space
Having good ventilation will prevent dust from accumulating and you will not be triggered by dust mites. You can have your windows open or invest in an air purifier.
There you have it! Now that you know what indoor allergens are, you can take steps to prevent them from entering into your body and cause severe allergic reactions. Furthermore, consult with the best allergists Manassas for prevention and treatment.
