Some allergies are allergic reactions to allergens found within the home caused by dogs, cats, mice, rats, roaches and dust mites. Some symptoms of medical conditions caused by household allergens are, sneezing, wheezing, asthma, and skin rashes. Overall, 30% to 40% of the population are allergic to one or more indoor allergens. Approximately 80% of children with asthma or nasal symptoms are allergic to indoor allergies. Having an allergic reaction to indoor allergens is a risk factor for asthma, in the same way that a high level of cholesterol increases the risk of heart disease. The risks of developing asthma if you're exposed to indoor allergens are comparable to more well known risk factors. It is therefore important to identify allergens within the home, and reduce allergen levels, preventing others from becoming allergic, and secondly reduce symptoms of people who are already sensitive to the allergens.
Today, we spend 90% of our time indoors, either at home, or in the workplace. This move toward a sedentary indoor lifestyle, may contribute toward the increase in asthma seen over the past 30 years.
We know that asthma patients who are admitted to allergen free hospital rooms will improve over a period of several months. Clinical studies have shown that lungs of asthma patients improve if allergen levels in the home are reduced. We recommend testing for indoor allergens, as they can be detrimental to your health, and the health of those around you.
Some studies suggest that avoiding allergens in the first few years of life prevents development of allergies and asthma. Large clinical trials are now being carried out to verify those studies. If you are allergic, and are planning to have children, it is prudent to seek counseling from your doctor on avoiding indoor allergens and allergenic foods early in life, and testing for allergens that may be present within your home.
|
