badgercurls

My allergies have been really bothering me lately and I suspect that it's indoor allergies (dust or mold) that are bothering me. I take Zyrtec daily, but it only seems to take the edge off of my symptoms but not clear them up entirely. I know I should be more vigilant about reducing indoor allergens (esp. dust), but it's kind of overwhelming. So, I'd love tips, advice, even checklists or such for reducing allergens.

alacurl

Get an air purifier with a "true-HEPA" filter (not "HEPA-type" or HEPA-like.) We keep two running 24/7 -- you might need fewer or more, depending on your square footage or other factors.

They make a big difference in our house. DH used to get downright sick with allergies every spring. But not once since we got the purifiers.

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InissantAngel

Get yourself a neti pot and do daily sinus rinses.

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subbrock

when my daughter had an allery test done, she tested positive for dust allergies (i didnt even know that was possible). 2 main things to help with dust allergies would be encasing your bedding and buying a dehumidifier.

i found this list online that matches up with what her allergist suggested: http://www.netwellness.org/healthtop...ousedust.cfm#c

1. Encase the mattress, box spring and pillows in zippered, dust proof covers. Eliminate "dust catchers" from areas where you spend the most time--often the bedroom and living room or den. Use polyester fiberfill pillows (no kapok or feather pillows).
2. Preferably, floors should be vinyl or wood, and covered with washable area rugs only. Carpeting should be avoided. However, if carpeting is present, vacuum thoroughly 1-2 times a week.
3. Avoid heavy curtains and venetian blinds, if possible. Use window shades instead. If curtains are used, launder them periodically.
4. Wash blankets in hot water periodically. Avoid wool and down blankets.
5. Someone other than the allergic individual should do the house cleaning, especially "spring cleaning". If the allergic individual does the cleaning, he/she should wear a mask while doing so, and then leave the house or room for 30 minutes while airborne dust settles. It is also a good practice to dust with a damp cloth.
6. Air conditioners can control the high heat and humidity that stimulates mite growth. Use a dehumidifier in damp basements. Run a dehumidifier or air conditioner during periods of high humidity, particularly from spring through fall. You should also clean heating/air conditioning filters monthly. "H.E.P.A." air cleaners can remove airborne dust, but not the dust mites in bedding or carpets. Inexpensive tabletop models are not effective. Covering hot air vents with filters is beneficial.
7. Avoid wall pennants, macrame hangings, unnecessary pillows, books and magazines, stuffed animals and other dust collecting knickknacks. Furniture should be wood, leather, plastic or metal--as upholstered furniture tends to trap dust and become a site for dust mites to grow.
8. Keep all clothing in a closet with the door shut.
9. If using a humidifier in the winter, avoid over-humidification. Mites grow best at 75-80% relative humidity and cannot live under 50% humidity. Maintain the relative humidity at 40-50% (this can be measured using a humidity gauge).
10. If you are planning to move, select an apartment or house that is above-ground (i.e. no basement living areas), has wooden floors, and has bedrooms on the second floor (i.e. not over concrete which remains damp).

Laura Lee

Invest in some really good filters for your air vents and change them frequently. We replace ours a ton because my mom and I are both allergic to cats, mold, and dust, but we have 2 cats anyway because we love them

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The New Black

I wonder if spraying your furniture/carpets, etc with Frebreze anti-allergen works.

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OnyxCabelo

You've already received some great advice. I just wanted to suggest that you also consider getting a couple Peace Lilies - they are easy to care for, and they are great at removing impurities from the air.

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Josephine

If you haven't cleaned your air ducts/vents in a while, you might want to do that too. I've noticed that made a big difference. I'm also very allergic to dust and mold. If you have to clean, invest in getting a good mask. I've noticed my sensitivities to chemicals also goes up a lot in the winter. So I used vinegar and baking soda to clean and limit perfumes, air fresheners(including febreeze), etc. I'd recommend getting a cleaning service and get a good deep cleaning once a month.

badgercurls

Thanks, everyone. I am looking forward to getting some relief!

curlpro

Hi, I am allergic to mold in the worst way. Get a dehumidifier and keep the humidity in the house to 45%, I thought it was dust but it wasn't 1/4 as allergic, mold is the worst.
Cynthia