Allergies

Unlike seasonal allergies such as hay fever, indoor allergies can last all year long. Allergy symptoms can actually be worse in the winter when the windows are closed and people are shut in with the allergens. Indoor allergies tend to be at their worst in the late summer, when dust mites are at most prevalent. Sensitivity to indoor allergens is very common and occurs at every age. It is less common in children younger than 5 years.

Common causes of indoor allergies

House Dust

Although many allergens in the environment can trigger allergic symptoms, house dust is the main culprit in indoor allergies. House dust is an airborne mixture that might contain fine particles of soil and plant material from indoors or outdoors, particles of human and animal skin dander and hair, fabric fibres, mould spores, dust mites, fragments of insects that have died and their waste, food particles, and other debris. Some dust is present in every home, regardless of how often or how thoroughly the house is cleaned.

Dust mites

Often, when people believe they are sensitive to dust, they are in fact sensitive to the dust mites and their waste particles that are found in household dust. Dust mites can be found in most homes, usually in beds and bed covers, upholstered furniture and fabrics. Preventative measures include: using a dehumidifier or air conditioner, washing bedding on a hot cycle (non-washable bedding can be frozen overnight to kill dust mites), replacing wool or feathered bedding with synthetic materials or allergen-proof bedding, using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter and avoiding the vacuumed area for 20 minutes to allow any dust and allergens to settle.

Pet dander

The allergic reaction to an animal is not caused by the animal’s hair. It is caused by substances in the animal’s saliva, urine, and especially dander (dead skin flakes that become loosened from the animal’s skin). The allergens become crusted on the animal’s fur and skin from urination or the animal licking or scratching itself; once dry, the allergens are released into the air, where they join the other components of house dust. Cats and dogs are most likely to cause allergic reactions.

Moulds

Moulds generally live outdoors but can normally be found in almost any indoor environment. They easily pass through open doors and windows and settle indoors, especially where there is excess heat and humidity. They grow and produce mildew which thrives in places like shower cubicles. Non-visible moulds can grow in unseen areas of the house, such as under flooring materials and behind walls. To grow, mould requires water; for example, from a leaking pipe or roof, or condensation. As it grows, mould releases more spores, many of which become part of house dust. While moulds can trigger allergic symptoms, like any other allergen, they rarely cause serious health problems, except in people who are seriously immunocompromised or on chemotherapy.

Symptoms of Indoor Allergies

• Itchy, congested nose

• Clear nasal discharge

• Itchy, watery, swollen or red eyes

• Sneezing

• Tickly, swollen throat

• Coughing or wheezing

• Tightness in the chest

• Reactions to animal allergens may be very mild or quite severe. Symptoms may occur immediately after exposure to the allergen, or they may build gradually for 8-12 hours after exposure or become persistent.

Self-Care Treatment Options

First-generation antihistamines are more likely to cause drowsiness. Depending on the product, the duration of action is often shorter than newer antihistamines and may necessitate taking the drug 3-4 times each day. Secondgeneration antihistamines can be taken over the long term with minimal side effects and are unlikely to cause sleepiness. The non-sedating antihistamines are convenient to take since they are taken once or twice daily. Saline nasal rinses reduce the symptoms of nasal allergies and can offer relief in conjunction with conventional treatment. Maintaining clear and nasal pages is important - the tiny hairs (cilia) inside the nasal passage work to carry dust, pollution and allergens to the back of the throat where they are swallowed and destroyed, before they can multiply and cause harm. If the nasal passages are dry or blocked, they become less efficient.

WWho is the patient? Sensitivity to indoor allergens is very common

and occurs at every age

WWhat are the Symptoms? Itchy, congested nose, clear nasal discharge,

irritated eyes, sneezing, tickly throat, coughing or wheezing

HHow long have the symptoms been present? Indoor allergies tend to be

at their worst in the late summer, when dust mites are at most prevalent

AAction already taken? Patients may have tried antihistamines but not

be aware of the benefits of nasal hygiene

MMedication? Saline nasal rinses and sprays are drug free and do not contain preservatives, so will not interact with other medication