How to Improve Indoor Air Quality in your Home
In this blog post, we underline the importance of maintaining a healthy indoor environment at home and explain the link between air quality and allergy symptoms.
What Could You be Allergic to in Your House?
When it comes to poor air quality and allergy triggers, many of us tend to think of outside triggers such as vehicle pollution and high pollen levels. However, the concentration of pollutants can actually be two to five times higher inside than outdoors. If you or family have been sneezing or wheezing more than usual at home, indoor pollution and allergy triggers could be to blame. Let’s examine the common culprits below:
1. Dust Mites
Dust mites are microscopic insects that feed off human skin flakes. They are among the most common in-home allergens. These tiny bugs thrive in warm, moist environments, which means bedding and soft furniture are often filled with these invisible pests. Although they don’t bite, they can inflame the nasal passages, leading to itchy, watery eyes and nasal congestion.
2. Mould
Mold is another common household allergen because it tends to grow in damp, dark places like basements, behind drywall, and in small, poorly-ventilated bathrooms. Like dust mites, mould can cause respiratory problems along with dry, itchy skin. Some types of mould, like black mould, are more toxic than others.
3. Pollen
Indoor pollen levels can also be higher than you might think, particularly if your family tends to enjoy the outdoors during the spring and summertime, as all that outdoor pollen is easily tracked indoors.
Pets can also carry pollen inside, which is why some people mistakenly think they are allergic to dogs when it’s actually the pollen on your dog.
4. Cockroaches
Homes may have cockroaches that secrete allergens in their saliva and faeces. It’s a common myth that the chemicals used to eradicate cockroaches cause allergic reactions, when in fact the bugs themselves are the culprits.
5. Pet Allergies
If your household includes four-legged members, you may be exposed to more allergen triggers than you think. Cats and dogs shed invisible dust particles that can become airborne and travel throughout your home with ease. Even the protein in animal saliva, urine, and feces can cause an allergic reaction in some people.
Signs of Allergic Reactions in the Home Include:
- Sneezing
- Watery eyes
- Itchy skin
- Nasal congestion
- Difficulty breathing
- Allergic Rhinitis
- An overall feeling of malaise
Symptoms of indoor allergies can range from mild to severe, and some people even require prescription medication to get relief from the swelling within their breathing passages caused by dust mites, mould, pollen, and other irritants. Kids are particularly susceptible to poor indoor air quality because of their developing alveoli (tiny air sacs in the lungs), so long-term exposure can lead to respiratory issues.
Simple Solutions to Improve Indoor Air Pollution
Source Control
Ensure proper ventilation
Ensure proper air filtration/cleaning
Replace Old Filters
Smoke Outside
Avoid Painting, Spraying Combustible products indoors (or near ventilation units)
Reduce and Remove Moisture
Looking for solutions to deal with indoor air quality pollution? Contact us for comprehensive solutions.
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