Spring means a lot of different things for different people. For some, it means rebirth, the end of winter (hooray!), and beautiful flowers and trees are once again blooming. For others, the warm weather and those flowers and trees mean frustrating seasonal allergies are on their way. Spring allergies can hit some people much harder than others, to the point of making the warmer season something to dread. There’s help on the horizon!
As National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month draws to a close, Rose Pest Control and the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) would like to remind you that it may just be more than the spring pollen causing your respiratory discomfort. Believe it or not, spring pests can also be a contributing factor to your allergies. Read on to discover some allergy causes you may not have known about.
You’re probably not going to like this, but the most common allergen other than pollen is caused by cockroaches. Not only do they spread 33 different kinds of bacteria according to the NPMA, but their saliva, droppings, and decomposing bodies are comprised of allergen proteins that can trigger symptoms. It can affect everyone, but children tend to get hit harder by these symptoms. Unfortunately, cockroaches aren’t the only pests that can cause problems because rodents and dust mites can also leave you itching and sneezy.
WHAT CAN I DO TO BREATHE EASIER THIS SPRING?
These pests can cause more than just allergy symptoms, but we have some DIY advice to help you get started this season. Here are some Rose Pest NPMA-approved tips to make sure you breathe easy this season:
- Exclude pests by sealing cracks and gaps in walls and floors using a silicone-based caulk.
- Pay special attention to where utility pipes enter.Maintain the humidity level in the house at about 50 percent by properly ventilating basements and crawl spaces.
- Consider running a dehumidifier in these areas to prevent moisture buildup.
- Vacuum at least once a week using a vacuum with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate) filter.
- Dust hard surfaces frequently using a dust rag or damp cloth. Limit the amount of fabric items in each room since they attract airborne allergens like dust mites and pet dander.
- Clean or replace the filters in your furnace and air conditioner each month.Wipe surfaces daily, including counters, stovetops and sinks. Don’t leave dishes to pile up in the sink and make sure to clean crumbs and spills right away.
- Store food in airtight containers and avoid leaving pet food out for long periods of time.
- Dispose of garbage regularly in a sealed trash bin.
- Encase pillows and mattresses in allergen-proof covers to control dust mites. Avoid down pillows or comforters.
- Wash blankets, throw rugs and bedding in hot water, preferably at 130 degrees F, or take them to be dry-cleaned.
Allergen and dust-free homes are happy homes! Make sure you jot down the above tasks and repeat them as necessary to eliminate any possible causes of discomfort that you can prevent from ever returning
