Home is the busiest place where we start our day. Family members are cooking, washing, cleaning, working, and moving around doing various tasks. It is a normal activity to see in a household, but it can release small particles and chemicals that build up in the air you breathe. It doesn’t matter how big or small the house is the air inside may be causing breathing problems, especially for people with allergies and asthma. If you are someone who suffers from asthma or allergies, you need to control triggers at home. Here are some common triggers and some ways to help control them at home.

1.     Cockroaches – Keep your home cockroach-free by storing food in sealable containers. Dirty dishes and other sources of food waste should be cleaned up. Make sure to clean up spaces and clutters where roaches find shelter.

2.     Molds – When moisture in the air builds up high, mold can form in the bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Mold may also form on pillows when you sweat. Wash pillowcases every week and dry them thoroughly.

3.     Dust Mites – Dust mites are tiny, microscopic animals usually found in house dust. Wash all bedding every week. Dust mites thrive on carpets. Remove carpeting, especially in the bedroom. Vacuum as often as possible.

4.     Animal Dander – The dead skin cells of warm-blooded animals (such as cats, dogs, mice, and birds) is known as animal dander. It’s best if the pet lives in an isolated area. Wash your pet weekly. Pets should not be in the car with an allergic person for extended periods. Wash hands after direct contact with your pet. Avoid facial contact with animals and contact with the pet’s toys. Or better not to keep pets if there’s someone in the household with asthma or allergy.

5.     Tobacco Smoke – Smoking should not be allowed in the home. Ask family members and friends to smoke outdoors. 

In addition to seeing a doctor regularly and taking medications as prescribed, the most important things that you can do are to make your environment free from triggers. Health professionals agree that controlling allergens in the home can significantly reduce the symptoms of people who suffer from allergies or asthma. And cleaning is one of the first and easiest steps to controlling the most common indoor allergens that can trigger attacks. 

Sources: CDC/WebMD/CleaningInstitute