Terri Ramsey Beavers Every year, over 50 million Americans endure different allergies. A significant number usually have no idea about the cause of their discomfort. Surprisingly, some people experience these allergies only when they are indoors. Logically, this indicates the presence of an undiscovered allergen within the house. If you experience allergies at home, these may be the reasons.
1. Dust mites
In 1964, a group of doctors launched research to find out what house dust contains. They discovered a minuscule living organism that looked like a spider. It was 1/3mm in length and is what is known as the dust mite. These spider-like bugs live within mattresses, carpets, fabrics, etc., and are invisible to the naked eye. Moreover, because of the sticky pads on each of their eight legs, they can firmly attach to any surface indoors. Unfortunately, statistics indicate that many Americans react to the dust mite but are unaware.
Additionally, 10% of the world’s population has severe reactions to these arthropods. According to science, several people with dust mite allergies tend to be exposed to the waste released by these bugs. Another group of people also react to the dust mite’s body parts. Because these arthropods live indoors, people with asthma and other allergies easily get triggered when inside. However, when outdoors, all allergic symptoms seem to disappear. If this is you, dust mites may be the case. Fortunately, they can be eliminated by washing bedding, stuffed toys, etc., in hot water with a temperature not exceeding 54.4 degrees Celsius. The same temperature is recommended if you use the dryer but for 15 minutes only.
2. Termites invasion
Termites are not known to transfer diseases to humans or household pets. Unlike cockroaches and rodents, these tiny ant-like insects only cause significant damage to your home’s structure. However, few people know that a termite invasion in the home can trigger allergies. How does that happen? Termites often shed, produce dust and leave their droppings within the wooden framework of an invaded building.
These three things are often categorized under allergens. Therefore, while termites may not cause diseases, their activities can trigger allergic responses in the body. This includes constant sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, sore throat, etc. Sometimes, it may even trigger eczema in children. So, if you often experience these symptoms indoors, you may want to check your home for a termite invasion. If you are fortunate to find them, the next line of action would be to start termite treatment at home.
3. Mold
More often than not, mold is hard to get rid of. They are persistent organisms that play specific roles in the environment. Indeed, molds are not entirely bad, especially as they produce the penicillin antibiotic. However, certain types of molds can be a real headache to deal with indoors. Their invisible spores often float through indoor air and, when breathed in, can cause uncomfortable reactions. Molds often grow in potted plants, closets, bathrooms, crawl spaces, etc. They love warm, humid places, which explains why they appear in these specific areas of the home.