Over millions of people suffer from allergy and asthma across the country. Indoor allergens, such as pet dander and cockroach dropping, can trigger allergic reactions. These reactions can range from a runny nose to breathing difficulty. Some even suffer from chest tightness, which could eventually put them at risk if not treated.
Although it’s nearly impossible for a house to be entirely free of allergens, there are ways to help you reduce the numbers to which you might get exposed. You can try these pointers to help you diminish indoor allergens to help you live your everyday life.
Vacuum regularly
Vacuuming in areas that quickly accumulate dust is an excellent way to reduce allergens inside your home. It’s very much applicable to areas with carpets, as dust can gather between the fibers. Vacuuming can dislodge the dust trapped in your carpet. So, doing it as often as you can help avoid the dust from building up. Doing it every week should do the trick. But you have to ensure that you’re using a vacuum filter with a HEPA filter. Doing so will help you get rid of tiny particles that might trigger your allergy more effectively. Shampooing your carpet can also be helpful.
Pick up the clutter
Ideal Home says that piles of clutter can also be a hot spot for collecting dirt and other types of allergens. It’s essential to get rid of all your clutter to reduce dust build-up as much as possible. Go through all your belongings and see which ones aren’t essential. See if there are items that can either be worth salvaging or thrown into the bin. You can then donate your stuff to charity or give it to others who need it.
Clean the windows
Curtains and blinds can also accumulate dust and other allergens over time. That’s why Mayo Clinic suggests getting them cleaned up. Doing it regularly will get rid of any dust that’s accumulated over time. Cotton or synthetic fabric curtains are often washable. So, it’s much easier to maintain them. Meanwhile, you can also consider replacing your regular horizontal blinds with roller-type shades that are entirely washable.
Wash your bed sheet regularly
It’s not just the dust that you need to worry about if you want your home to be as close to becoming an allergen-free home. It would help if you learned how to control the dust mite population, too. Everyone knows that the bed can quickly become a dust mites haven if not appropriately maintained. So, you need to ensure that you wash your bed sheets at least once a week to eliminate all the tiny critters and dust build-ups from your bed. You should also ensure that the pillows and mattresses have dust-mite-proof covers.
If the above tips didn’t help reduce your family member’s allergic reactions, then it’s time to do an allergy test. Another sound option is to consult your doctor or healthcare provider. Doing so will help you know more about your options. A series of allergic conjunctivitis treatment or other similar care options can help manage your loved one’s health condition.