Reducing Perennial Allergens
+ Dust Mites
Dust mites are a common household allergen. But with these tips, they can be minimized:
Encase mattress, pillow and quilt in impermeable covers
Wash all bedding in the hot cycle at least once a week.
Replace carpets with linoleum or wood flooring – or steam clean them regularly.
Use a central vacuum if possible, otherwise an efficient vacuum with a HEPA filter.
Replace curtains with blinds or wash them regularly in hot water.
Keep upholstered furniture to a minimum – opt for plastic, leather and wood.
Keep dust-accumulating objects in closed cupboards.
Remove soft toys or hot wash / freeze them regularly.
Control household humidity.
Refrain from storing things under the bed.
+ Dog and Cat Allergies
People allergic to dogs and cats should not keep pets. However, these steps may help reduce symptoms:
Keep the dog or cat out of the main living areas.
Install HEPA air cleaners in the main living areas.
Have the dog or cat washed twice a week, and keep their litter box in a remote area.
Clean all upholstered furniture your pet has contact with, or use leather furniture
Replace carpets with linoleum or wood flooring.
Use a central vacuum if possible, otherwise vacuum with a HEPA filter.
+ Molds
Molds thrive both indoors and out. To limit exposure to mold:
Keep windows and doors closed - opt for an air conditioner.
Use a dehumidifier to minimize your home's humidity.
Install exhaust fans in humid areas such as the kitchen and bathrooms.
Install HEPA air cleaners in the main living areas and bedrooms.
Use fungicides to kill / slow the growth of mold.
Decrease the amount of organic material (e.g.: plants) inside.
Have heating and air conditioning units inspected regularly.
+ Cockroaches
Even if cockroaches keep out of sight, their presence in a home leaves behind debris that can be irritating to allergy sufferers . Exterminate the cockroaches, then:
Sterilize all surfaces, vacuum repeatedly and wash all household fabrics.
Seal and caulk cracks in plaster and flooring to limit the cockroaches access.
Control household humidity.
Keep food and garbage in airtight containers.
Wash dishes immediately, don't let dirty dishes stand overnight in the dishwasher.
Wipe up food spills promptly.
+ Reducing Seasonal Allergens
You’ll never be able to eliminate airborne pollen but you can try to restrict contact by:
Closing car and household windows and limiting outdoor exposure.
Avoid attic or window fans - they increase pollen circulation within the house.
When coming inside, take a shower to rinse off pollen, and change your clothes.
Use the air conditioner in your car and home.
Avoid outdoor activities such as camping, during high pollen seasons and especially on sunny, windy days.
Dry all clothes in a dryer - not outside.
Tips for Outdoor Activities
+ Gardeners
Make the most of a rainy day, when the pollen count is at the lowest.
Wear gardening gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, protective glasses and a hat. Afterwards, leave these clothes outside or wash them immediately.
Remove weeds before they release pollen. If allergic to grass, try to avoid contact.
Take a shower immediately after returning indoors.
+ Hikers
Visit a doctor to determine your specific triggers to help you plan when and where to go.
Choose hiking paths and campsites above the tree line to minimize pollen exposure.
Rocky trails have less pollen than forested ones.
+ Golfers
Avoid the course when being maintained - grass cuttings increase pollen.
Stay home on windy days when airborne pollen is more plentiful.
+ Travelers
Research your destination and avoid areas with allergy-inducing flora and fauna (e.g. the tropics).
Consider taking medication with you – ask your doctor or pharmacist about AERIUS®. Keep all medication in their original containers for clarity, and be sure to pack them in your carry-on bag
Air out the car before a road trip by opening the windows and turning on the air conditioning.
