Indoor allergen | Recommendations for reducing exposure |
Animal dander | Remove animal from house, or at minimum, keep animal out of patient's bedroom. Keep pet in a room with a HEPA filter, and replace the filter as recommended by the manufacturer. |
Cover air ducts that lead to bedroom with filters. Replace filters as recommended by the manufacturer. | |
Use air filters and vacuums with HEPA filters. Replace the filter as recommended by the manufacturer. | |
Dust mites | Less costly |
Encase mattress, pillows, and box spring in allergen-impermeable covers. Finely woven covers for pillows and duvets are preferable. | |
Wash bedding weekly in warm water with detergent or use an electric dryer on the hot setting. | |
Reduce indoor humidity to <50%. Use air conditioners in warm climates. Avoid living in basements because controlling humidity is very difficult. | |
More costly | |
Remove fitted carpets from the bedroom. If desired, use area rugs that can be picked up and cleaned. | |
Replace old upholstered furniture with leather, vinyl, or wood. | |
Cockroaches | Use poison bait or traps to control. Consult professional exterminator for severe infestation. |
Periodically clean home thoroughly. | |
Encase all food fully and do not store garbage or papers inside the home. | |
Fix water leaks. | |
Indoor mold | Clean moldy surfaces with dilute bleach solution. |
Fix water leaks. | |
Reduce indoor humidity to <50%. Avoid use of humidifiers. Use air conditioners in warm climates. Avoid living in basements. | |
Evaporative (or swamp) coolers should be avoided or cleaned regularly. | |
Rodents | Consult a professional exterminator. |
Periodically clean home thoroughly. | |
All food should be stored in sealed containers. Do not store garbage inside. | |
Repair holes in walls, doors, floors, and block other entry points. |
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