Managing Indoor Allergies
| 16 June 2010
Managing Indoor Allergies
Allergies affect persons in all walks of life. Here are simple ways to help you identify allergic reactions, as well as ways to help manage your allergy symptoms.
Indoor Allergy Symptoms:
- Sore or scratchy throat
- Runny nose
- Watering, red, or itchy eyes
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Sneezing and coughing
- Red, irritated skin or welts
Potential Indoor Allergens:
- Bugs
- Mold and mildew
- Animal dander
- Dust mites
- Scented candles, fabric softener, detergent, perfumes, shampoos, and soaps
Ways to Reduce Indoor Allergens:
- Keep windows closed
- Change air conditioning and furnace filters
- Vacuum frequently with a vacuum which uses HEPA filters (Canister vacuums, even with HEPA filters, often release allergens into the air when you empty the canister. Choose your vacuum carefully.)
- Dust frequently with a damp cloth, rather than dry cloth and scented furniture polish
- Wash sheets, pillows, shower curtains, and window curtains regularly
- Purchase special mattress and pillow covers that trap or repel allergens
- Use a saline nose rinse daily to help remove allergens from the nose
When to seek medical attention from your doctor or local ER:
- If you are experiencing difficulty breathing, tightness of chest, or a tightening of throat, contact your local emergency department immediately.
- If you have attempted to manage your indoor allergens and are still experiencing allergy symptoms, visit your primary care physician. Outdoor allergens and food allergies may be affecting you.
More to come on how to manage outdoor allergies later…
