The Dirty Truth About Allergies

Controlling Allergen Exposure in the Home

(ARA) - There may be no place like home, but for more than 50 million Americans who suffer from allergies(1), there's no place for allergens in the home. Indoor allergens, such as dust mites, mold and pet dander, are more common than people may think. In fact, at any given time, 80 percent of people in the U.S. are exposed to dust mites and 60 percent are exposed to cat or dog dander(2).

To help control bothersome nasal allergy symptoms, such as nasal congestion, a runny, itchy nose and sneezing, it may be necessary to drag the mop and dustpan out of the closet.

"Many people put a great deal of time and energy into making their house a comfortable place to live," said Linda Cobb, author of the book "Talking Dirty with the Queen of Clean." "But as an allergy sufferer, I know that even the comfiest couch or prettiest table settings can't distract from the discomfort caused by nasal allergy symptoms."

This Old House
While the entire house is susceptible to allergens, certain rooms may be hot spots for the culprits. For example, more than one million dust mites live in the average bed - they thrive in pillows, mattresses and comforters(3). The bathroom is also a danger zone, because moisture from the shower and damp towels creates the ideal environment for mold growth. Thorough cleaning helps rid a home of allergens by creating an unwelcoming atmosphere for these unwanted guests.

Cleaning Up Your Act

* Invest in allergen-proof protective covers for mattresses, box springs and pillows
* Wash your sheets weekly in hot water - at least 130 degrees F - to kill dust mites(4)
* Vacuum regularly using a machine with an air filter and bags that seal in dust, minimizing allergens
* Keep bathrooms well-ventilated and wash towels regularly to prevent mold growth
* Prevent pet dander from spreading by keeping dogs and cats off furniture
* Visit a doctor for proper diagnosis of your allergies and to discuss treatment options
* Check out nasal-allergies.com to learn more about indoor nasal allergies and check local pollen counts

Treating Your Nasal Allergies

Even for the most meticulous cleaner, it's impossible to remove all allergens from the home. Cobb recommends visiting a doctor, who can prescribe an appropriate treatment, if you continue to experience symptoms.

"The American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology recommends prescription intranasal corticosteroids as a first line treatment for patients with nasal allergy symptoms, including congestion," said Dr. Eric Schenkel, allergy specialist and director of Valley Allergy and Asthma Treatment Center in Bethlehem Township, Pa.(5)

Intranasal steroids, which are available for adults and children, include NASONEX(R) (mometasone furoate monohydrate) Nasal Spray, 50 mcg (calculated on the anhydrous basis).

"With a few simple cleaning tips and a visit to a doctor, it can be easy to help control nasal allergy symptoms - and appreciate your shiny floors and windows, too," said Cobb.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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