Allergies
The most common causes of allergies are:
- House dust mites
- Pets
- Pollens
- Moulds and Fungal Spores
House Dust Mites
House dust mites are too tiny to see. They eat the flakes of skin we constantly shed. House dust mites are in every home and it does not mean that our homes are dirty. They are found in furniture and carpets and especially in our beds. We breathe in their waste products which may cause an allergic response in your airways. Signs of allergy to dust mites include wheezing when you are vacuuming or dusting; when you enter a dusty room or house; asthma symptoms during the night or first thing in the morning.
What to do:
- Use complete barrier covering systems on your mattress, duvet and pillow.
- Remove all carpets and replace with hard flooring if possible.
- Vacuum all areas frequently. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter and which has good suction. Vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters are more effective at picking up the house dust mite and do not scatter dust. Damp dust all surfaces or use an attachment on your vacuum cleaner.
- Keep soft toys to a minimum and wash at 60° C on a weekly or fortnightly basis.
- Hot wash (at 60°C) sheets, duvet and pillow cases once per week.
Watch "An Asthma Friendly Home" Video Watch "Asthma Triggers in the Home" Video
Pets
Complete avoidance of pet allergens is impossible as the allergens are ubiquitous and found in many environments outside the home. Removal of such animals from the home is encouraged, but it can be months before allergen levels decrease. Cats are the second major source of indoor allergen. A high proportion of Irish families keep cats and the allergens they produce tend to stay in the house for long periods. They are not a good choice of pet for families who have members with allergies. Other pets do not seem to produce such potent allergens, but dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and mice can cause problems for some people.
What to do:
Try to find a new home for your pet, alternatively, never allow pets into the bedroom and if possible, keep them outside. If you are visiting friends or family who have furry animals take extra medication beforehand or, if possible, ask them to visit you. People will understand if you explain why.
Pollens
Pollens can come from grasses, trees and shrubs. Privet has received publicity as a trigger for asthma but not everyone with asthma is sensitive to it. Grasses and weeds are so widespread and have such a long season that they are the major pollen problem in Ireland. Most grasses and weeds have two to six month seasons. If you have a passion for gardening or being outdoors, you can read more advice in our "Gardening with Asthma & Allergies" booklet.
What to do:
If pollen triggers your asthma it is important to review your treatment with your doctor or nurse in advance of the hay fever season. Look out for pollen forecasts on the television, in newspapers and on our website www.asthmasociety.ie. If high counts are forecast in your region, try to reduce time spent outside and continue to use your prescribed preventer medication. For more information refer to our "Asthma & Allergic Rhinitis Information" booklet.
Moulds and Fungal Spores
Moulds release tiny seeds called spores into the air, which can trigger asthma symptoms in some people. Mould spores are found in any damp place - from piles of autumn leaves and woody areas to bathrooms, kitchens and even piles of damp clothes.
What to do:
- Ensure the house is well ventilated .
- Remove mould or mildew from walls, shower curtains etc.
- Air clothes and wardrobes regularly.
- Avoid contact with spores from rotting vegetation e.g. compost, leafmould
- Mowing the lawn may disturb pollen and spores
- If you are considering air conditioning for your house, investigate before you buy, it can be expensive and not all types are suitable
- Vacuum filters need to be effective against the extremely small pollen and fungal spores. (The type of filter required is a HEPA. This is a type not a brand name).
