Itchy eyes, a scratchy throat, sneezing and coughing are all symptoms of indoor allergies. If you or your family notice that your symptoms are worse at home, you’re likely experiencing the effects of poor indoor air quality. Indoor allergy triggers are one of the biggest threats to IAQ and the health of those inside your home.
Common Indoor Allergy Triggers
Eliminating the five most common indoor allergy triggers can improve the health of everyone in your home.
- Dust – Dust is made up of small particles that accumulate in the air and then fall and collect on various surfaces. Dust can be made of dead skin cells, plant matter, soil, insects, food and fibers. Any or all of these triggers can aggravate indoor air allergies. Regularly vacuuming and changing the furnace filter can reduce the amount of dust in your home.
- Dust mites – Dust mites are microscopic insects that feast on dust. These tiny critters often live on and around soft surfaces such as mattresses, pillows and couch cushions. Use pillow and mattress covers and wash linens in hot water to eliminate mites.
- Mold – Mold can develop in moist areas of the home without proper ventilation. Mold commonly affects basements, bathrooms and crawl spaces. A mixture of detergent, bleach and water can kill mold, but for large areas, consult a professional.
- Pet dander – Pet dander, not pet hair, is often the source of pet allergies. Pet dander is a protein present in an animal’s saliva that can irritate allergy sufferers. Pet dander clings to fibers and can often be found in the homes of individuals without pets. Change and wash your clothes after visiting a home with pets and clean your home routinely if pets live there too.
Learn more about Griffith Energy Services’ indoor air quality solutions to tackle indoor allergy triggers, or contact us today at 888-474-3391 to schedule an appointment!
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