Improve Air Quality
Air filters reduce the levels of allergens. Electrostatic and high-efficiency particulate absorption (HEPA) filters can effectively remove many allergens from the air. If functioning improperly, however, electrostatic filters may emit ozone, which can be harmful to the lungs of asthma sufferers.
A dehumidifier may help because house mites need high humidity to live and grow. Take special care to clean the unit frequently with a weak bleach solution (one cup bleach in one gallon of water) or a commercial product to prevent mold growth.
Toys and Animals
If you are caring for a child who is dust-sensitive, you should keep toys that will accumulate dust out of the child’s bedroom, such as stuffed toys. Washable toys of wood, rubber, metal, or plastic are recommended. Clean toys should be stored in a box or chest.
You should also keep all animals with fur or feathers out of the bedrooms. You should consider that if you are allergic to dust mites, you are likely allergic to cats, dogs, and other animals.
Although these steps may seem difficult at first, experience plus habit will make them easier. The results—better breathing, fewer medicines, and greater freedom from allergy and asthma attacks—will be well worth the effort. For more health and medical information, please visit our Web sites.
By Alice M Crayouord, MD, PhD
