Pet Allergies
Why do certain animals trigger allergy symptoms?
Despite what many people may think, fur is not the culprit.
It's actually animal dander (dead skin flakes) floating in the air that is the main source of pet allergies. An animal only needs to be in a house for a few weeks to produce enough dander to cause an allergic reaction.
Are dogs and cats really your best friend?
Some breeds of dogs are less allergenic than others but all dogs and cats can cause allergic reaction. These even include the hairless variety; all shed dander.
- Pet birds
- Rabbits
- Rodents
And before you bring home any so-called "safe" animals, keep in mind that there's no such thing as a hypo-allergenic, fur-bearing pet. That's because dander still can accumulate in your home, only triggering an allergic response once it's reached critical levels.
Allergy-friendly pets
If you or a family member experiences severe allergic symptoms due to animal allergens, your best choice for a pet could be tropical fish or any amphibious creature.
Dust Allergies
Dust is one of the most common allergens
Dust mostly contains mites - the primary cause of dust-related allergies - in addition to other common allergens, such as animal dander, pollen and mold.
Dust mites: unwanted dead or alive
Dust mite excrement is actually the source of dust allergies. What does this mean to you? Essentially, dust mites, dead or alive, can cause allergic reactions.
Where do house dust mites settle? Wherever their food source, microscopic particles of dead skin, is likely to collect.
Common dust mite hiding places
You only have to take a tour of your home to discover the most common hiding places for dust mites:
- Softly upholstered couches and chairs
- Blankets
- Bed linens
- Carpets
- Stuffed animals and other dust-collecting toys
Mold Allergies
Mold spores found outdoors can also be found indoors.
Indoor molds shed spores all year long, particularly in damp environments.
At home, look for the most troublesome allergenic molds in damp breeding grounds.
- Poorly ventilated bathrooms
- Basements
- Under the kitchen sink
- Air conditioner or dehumidifier reservoirs
- Wherever water might collect and stand