Asthma is the leading cause of long-term illness
in children, and experts say the number of children affected by
the disease has been on the rise during the past 10 years. According
to a recent study published in Pediatrics magazine, asthma cases
could drop nearly 40 percent among American children under age
6 if susceptible youngsters didn't have pets or other allergy
triggers in their homes.
Following are some tips offered by the American
Lung Association for reducing allergens in the home.
Keep pets out of the bedroom. Because so many
hours are spent in the bedroom sleeping, this will reduce exposure
to asthma and allergen triggers.
Bathe your dog or cat weekly. Doing so will help
remove a lot of pet fur dander.
Place allergen-resistant covers over mattresses
and pillows. Blankets and sheets should be washed every week
in water that is at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you can't keep your pet off a couch or loveseat,
cover these pieces with removable, washable slipcovers.
Wash walls and floors periodically.
Have a non-allergic family member brush your
pet outdoors on a regular basis.
Use a high efficiency furnace filter and replace
it every two or three months. A high efficiency filter can capture
up to 30 times more pet dander, pollen, and other allergens
than standard fiberglass filters.
Run the furnace fan continuously, regardless
of the outdoor temperature. This will enable the filter to capture
more particles of pet dander and other allergens in the air.
To ensure the furnace runs continually, set the thermostat to
the "on" rather than the "auto" position.
Vacuum frequently using a vacuum cleaner with
a high efficiency filtration system.
Take particular care to wash your hands after
handling your pet, and wear a facemask when changing your cat's
litter box.
Keep your house well ventilated. Ventilation
provides a fresh source of outdoor air and will help dilute
pet allergens. Run the air conditioner when pollen counts are
high.
Replace heavy curtains with lightweight, washable
ones; roller or vertical blinds are a good alternative.
Consider removing carpets from the bedroom and
use wooden flooring.
Use enclosed bookcases and curio cabinets instead
of open shelves.
If you are a Munson Healthcare patient and have a compliment,
concern, or complaint, please contact one of our Patient
Liaisons.
