reducing allergens in your home

Many people are surprised to learn that Emergency Department visits for asthma peak in late September and October, not in the spring. That’s because of a convergence of late-season pollen, mold in fallen leaves, wind that stirs it all up and, in many parts of the country, turning on the heat for the first time. Any dust that has collected in the system will be stirred up, and this potent combination can set off the allergy symptoms you’re familiar with: a stuffy or runny nose; itchy, watery eyes; a persistent cough; and if you have asthma, wheezing and difficulty breathing. Anything that causes an allergic reaction is called an allergen.

Since I am both a registered respiratory therapist who specializes in caring for patients with lung diseases, and an RN, I have a lot of experience working with people living with allergies and asthma. This month, I’ll give you commonsense tips for things you can do around the house to reduce the allergy load, and let you in on some new technologies that can help you in your efforts.

Start by thinking about the bedroom, since that’s where you spend about a third of your life. Instead of an upholstered chair or headboard, which are hard to get completely clean, choose a wooden headboard and perhaps a wooden rocking chair for a little relaxing. It’s easier to keep these clean by dusting.

Most dust cloths or feather dusters don’t trap dirt, dust, and pollen – in fact, they often stir particles around and even release them into the air. Experts say not to dust with a dry cloth, because it will just spread the particles around. Your best bet is to spray the surface to keep the dust in place before you remove it with a cloth. However, some people with allergies are very sensitive to sprays. Instead, you can try the Scotch-Brite® Dusting Cloth from 3M. These cloths are made with a unique microfiber texture that lifts and traps dust -- without adding other cleaning products. No more dust floating around the room or being moved from one place to another. You can use these dusting cloths on any surface, including glass and chrome, and  you can toss them in the washing machine, and use them over and over.

Dust mites are tiny insect-like creatures that can’t be seen with the naked eye. They feed off dead skin cells that normally fall off our bodies and collect in mattresses, pillows, and upholstered furniture. The average mattress holds between one-and-a-half and two million dust mites -- no matter how great a housekeeper you are! If you or your family members have allergies, dust mites can spell M-I-S-E-R-Y. Since we spend about a third of our lives sleeping in bed, dust mites there can be particularly troublesome.

Your best approach to reducing the number of these pesky critters is to wash all your bedding at least once a week in hot water of about 130 degrees. Don’t forget stuffed animals and blankets -- and choose pillows that can be put in the washing machine, too.

You can also reduce dust by filtering air where it enters your home -- through your air conditioner or heating system. When was the last time you changed your filter? (Do you even know if your system has a filter?) The Filtrete Ultra-Allergen Filter from 3M captures up to 30 times more smoke, pollen, pet dander and other allergens than standard fiberglass filters. It is a snap to use -- just replace your old filter and put in a new one every 2 to 3 months. I particularly like this filter because it meets the American Lung Association’s Health House Indoor Air Quality Guidelines.