Common Household Pests That Trigger Asthma

February 25th, 2019

You or your child may be one of the millions of people in the United States who have asthma. While asthma has no cure, its symptoms can be managed. Knowing what triggers asthma is key to managing and preventing asthma attacks. Common household pests can trigger asthma. You can take measures to prevent household pests. If you have a pest problem, a pest control company can eradicate these common pests.

Cockroaches

One source of allergens that may trigger asthma is a cockroach. Cockroaches have proteins in their body parts, their droppings, and their saliva that people are allergic to. Even dead cockroaches can trigger asthma. Symptoms include a runny nose; sneezing; watery or itchy eyes; coughing; skin rashes; and an itchy throat, mouth, or nose. More severe symptoms include chest pain and difficulty breathing.

Dust Mites

Many people are allergic to dust mites. Dust mites are tiny, and you can't see them. They live in carpets, rugs, pillows, mattresses, and beddings. They can cause an allergic reaction which can trigger an asthma attack or aggravate your symptoms.

Stinging Insects

Stinging insects, such as yellow jackets, wasps, bees, and fire ants, can cause allergic reactions and elevate asthma symptoms. Some people have immune systems that overreact to the venom of these insects when they sting them. Symptoms include itching, hives, and shortness of breath. Some people experience anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal allergic reaction.

Rodents

Droppings and urine of mice and rats can cause serious allergic reactions in some people. Rodents can pick up urine with their feet and spread it to different parts of your home. Some of these allergens are flaky and may become airborne. You may experience a stuffy nose, itchy eyes, coughing, rashes on your skin, and difficulty breathing.

• Keep food sealed.
• Check paper and cardboard food containers for signs of bugs.
• Sweep kitchen floors and wipe kitchen counters and tables daily.
• Dispose of your garbage regularly and keep garbage lids secure.
• Reduce clutter in your home, particularly in areas like your basement and attic.
• Empty and dry pet bowls each night, and don't leave your pet's food or water out overnight.
• Wash bedding in hot water.
• Use protectors for your mattress and pillows.
• Dust your furniture frequently.

• Vacuum carpeting and rugs frequently.
• Wash stuffed animals and toys in hot water and don't place them on the bed.
• Seal cracks, holes, or crevices around entry points in your home.
• Make sure window screens aren't damaged.
• Keep basements and crawl spaces ventilated and dry.
• Make sure your plumbing doesn't leak and your faucets don't drip.
• Reduce humidity in your house by using a dehumidifier or air conditioner.
• If you think you have rodents, place sticky pads in your basement, bathrooms, and kitchen.