 Managing
Dust Associated Allergies
(ARA) - For millions of Americans
who suffer from hay fever, sneezing, wheezing and watery eyes
are a way of life. But they don't have to be. Most patients can
enjoy normal, active lives through a combination of medical treatment
and avoiding allergy triggers by preventing them from entering
the home and removing allergens that do get in.
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Doctors at the Division of Allergy
and Immunology at the University of California at Davis, one
of the world's leading allergy research institutions, recommend
frequent deep cleaning of the home, including vacuuming at least
twice a week. According to a recent U.C.-Davis clinical study,
using a built-in central vacuum system offers the best means
to remove household dust, dust mites, pollen and pet dander,
the leading triggers of allergic rhinitis. The U.C.-Davis study
participants used Beam Serenity Series Central Vacuum Systems
during the clinical study.
"A central vacuum system
is up to five times more powerful than a conventional vacuum,
so it captures far more allergens," says John Coghlan, president
of Beam Industries. "A central vacuum also pulls all of
the contacted material out of the living area to a canister in
the garage or basement so it won't recirculate in the home." |
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Doctors at the U.C.-Davis also offer
other recommendations to reduce the severity of allergy symptoms
including:
* Maintaining relative humidity
at less than 50 percent. Dust mites cannot survive in a low-humidity
environment.
* Cleaning and maintaining forced-air
heating systems and air conditioners at least once a year.
* Dusting furniture with a damp
cloth rather than a dry one.
* Installing and using bathroom
and kitchen exhaust fans that are vented to the outdoors.
* Enclosing pillows, mattresses
and box springs with mite-proof coverings and washing bedding
at least once a week using water at least 130 degrees.
* Replacing fabric-upholstered
furniture with leather upholstery or with furniture made of plastic,
wood or metal that won't trap allergens.
Experts also advise patients
to consult their doctor to determine the appropriate regimen
for managing allergies or asthma, and notify the doctor of any
change in symptoms. |
