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How Do Pests Affect Allergies And Asthma?

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Does this sound familiar? You come into your home and settle in for a quiet night of supper and some television; maybe you have some work around the house you'd like to get done, or perhaps you have a hobby. Whatever the activity, as soon as you get started, you notice that your allergies are acting up. But you thought you left all the allergens outside. After all, isn't that where allergies are usually stirred up, outside, by pollen and pollution? Well, perhaps there is something else causing your symptoms.

Did you know that the number of people suffering from allergies in the United States is on the rise, to the tune of more than 50 million people! That's a lot of sneezing and watery eyes. And while it may all seem somewhat hopeless, especially since allergies are acting up even inside your home, take heart because there may be some relief in sight.

How Do I Protect My Property From Birds?

It has been estimated that around 65% of homes in the U.S. have allergens floating around in the air and stuck to surfaces in the home that come directly from the saliva, droppings, and decomposing bodies of cockroaches. It has also been estimated that around 80% of homes contain allergens from mice droppings. Consider also that people with asthma have increased symptoms in homes where pest allergens are present. So it's no wonder so many people are not finding an escape from their symptoms when they go indoors.

Is There Anything That Can Be Done About This?

Yes. There are a number of things you can do that will potentially reduce the amount of pest-related allergens you have floating around in your house and, subsequently, reduce your symptoms.

  • Find your feather duster (or buy one) and thoroughly remove all the dust from your home.
  • Keep up with the laundry pile. Dirty clothes and linens can be a favorite breeding ground for pests and a harborage for dust.
  • Regularly clean the screen vents on your home's heating/cooling system.
  • Keep your kitchen trash in a lidded container and take it out nightly.
  • Regularly vacuum and wash all floors.
  • Thoroughly clean your kitchen, paying close attention to areas where food particles tend to build up such as between the stove and counter, under the fridge, and inside the toaster.
  • Store all food in tightly sealed containers or in the refrigerator.
  • Don't leave dirty dishes in a pile by your sink. Either wash them right away or place them in a sink full of soapy water.
  • Dry out your home using fans or dehumidifiers, and keep all areas well ventilated.
  • Inspect the outside of your home for gaps and cracks and seal these using a caulking gun.
  • Make sure all water is directed away from your walls and foundation and keep your gutters free from debris.

While performing all the above suggestions may reduce the number of allergens and allergy-causing pests in your home, the only sure-fire way to completely rid your home of pests, and keep them out, is with the help of a professional pest control company. Here at Action Pest Control, there is no pest issue too small or too big for us to handle. If you would like to be able to breathe easy in your home once again, take action and get home pest control today! You'll be relieved that you did.