Environmental Allergy
Table of Contents
Environmental Allergy Prevention Overview
While avoidance is the best way to reduce an allergic reaction, it is sometimes impossible to do so, especially when they are in the environment. Most things that cause an allergic reaction in the environment are far too small to see, so it is important to check the counts (for pollen, mold, etc.) before going out for the day. Once you have seen the counts for the day, you now know if you should limit your exposure to the outdoors that day.
Decrease Your Exposure to Dust Mites
Dust mites typically live in the home, so it is important to keep the home as clean as possible. Since most time is spent in the bedroom, that should be the focus of cleaning. Removing carpet or vacuuming very regularly will help eliminate exposure. Bedding should be washed weekly in hot water.
Decrease Your Exposure to Pollen
Before you make your plans for the day, check to see what the pollen counts are. If you must go outside, then you should cover your hair with a scarf and wear sunglasses. Once you are back inside, then you should shower and change into clean clothes.
Decrease Your Exposure to Pets
An allergy to pets does not necessarily mean that you must get rid of them. Most people are not allergic to the fur on the animal, but instead their dander. Pets should not be allowed in the bedroom. They should be taken regularly for grooming.
Decrease Your Exposure to Irritants
In people with asthma, irritants trigger an asthma attack. Most irritants come from the fumes of household cleaners and tobacco smoke. When you know what your irritants are, then you will need to change to a household cleaner that does not have certain chemicals in them. If tobacco smoke is an irritant, avoid people’s homes that smoke.
Decrease Your Exposure to Mold
To decrease your exposure to mold, you must clean regularly. If mold is visible, you can clean it with bleach. Regular cleanings of the bathroom, laundry room, and kitchen will help decrease your exposure to mold.