Indoor allergies are just as annoying and itchy as outdoor, seasonal allergies. And, since you’re in an enclosed space, they can make life just as miserable. Here are some common myths surrounding indoor allergies, and the truth behind the matter.
Indoor Allergies only Happen in the Winter
We can experience indoor allergies at any time. Most people notice indoor allergies during the winter because we tend to close ourselves up inside as much as possible. With the windows closed, the furnace blowing air and everyone cooped up together, we notice the allergies much more.
During the warmer months, we may experience seasonal allergies to pollen, ragweed, and grass as well as indoor allergies. Or, you may have allergies that are assumed to be seasonal but are in fact caused by indoor allergens.
Indoor Allergies are Caused by a Dirty Home
Indoor allergies are caused by an abnormal response of the immune system to a typically harmless substance in the environment. While most people are not allergic to dust mites or mold, those with indoor allergies are.
Moreover, while a thoroughly cleaned home will ease allergy symptoms, allergies are not caused by a dirty home, but by substances that are found in every home. Regular cleaning will dramatically improve symptoms and prevent severe allergic reactions.
If you suffer from indoor allergies, try to determine what’s causing them. Typically indoor allergies are caused by mold, dust mites, pets and cockroaches. Once you know the cause of the allergy you can seek out the allergen.
There’s No Such Thing as an Indoor Allergy
Indoor allergies are exactly the same as any other allergy. They are caused by an abnormal reaction to a substance. Therefore, anyone could have an allergy to any number of substances.
Indoor Allergies Have Different Symptoms than Outdoor Allergies
All allergies tend to have the same symptoms. While different people may experience different symptoms, most allergy symptoms include itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, and congestion. Less common symptoms include wheezing and bodily itching. Severe allergy symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, cramps, diarrhea, mental confusion and swelling of the throat. If these symptoms occur, they require immediate medical attention.
Exposure may change a person’s sensitivity to an allergen, but scientists aren’t entirely sure how this works. Other factors that affect allergies are smoking, hormones, pollution and infections.
You Can Prevent Indoor Allergies
There is no way to prevent any sort of allergies. Allergies are genetic; if one parent has allergies, their child is 30% more likely. If both parents have allergies, their child is more than 60% likely to develop allergies. The child may not develop the same allergies as their parents have. The more intense the exposure to the allergen, and the earlier exposure occurs, the more likely the allergy will develop. It has been shown that breast feeding can reduce the likelihood of the child developing allergies.
The best way to prevent indoor allergies is to remove the allergen from the environment. Determine what substance you’re allergic to and take steps to remove it from the home. This may involve some serious cleaning, but will be beneficial in the long run.
http://www.webmd.com/allergies/guide/allergies-overview
