Think you might be allergic?
Take the Quiz: Indoor Allergies
Indoor allergens shouldn't control your life.
Take this SHORT QUIZ* to learn more about your symptoms.
Plus, there's a new, natural way to control allergens, backed by science.
It's important to note that the severity of symptoms can vary from person to person, and the timing of the reactions may also differ. Some people may experience immediate symptoms, while others may have a delayed response, making it more challenging to identify the trigger. Paying close attention to when and how your symptoms manifest can provide valuable insight.
Allergens aren’t just found outdoors – in fact, many allergens thrive indoors, hiding in the places we least expect. Dust, mold, pet dander, and even chemicals in our cleaning products can provoke indoor allergies that lead to persistent discomfort.
What Causes Indoor Allergens?
Indoor allergens are tiny particles or substances that trigger allergic reactions when inhaled or come into contact with the skin. Common sources include:
- Dust Mites: Microscopic creatures that thrive in bedding, upholstery, and carpets.
- Mold Spores: Found in damp areas, like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, mold spores spread easily in the air.
- Pet Dander: Tiny, often invisible particles of skin shed by cats, dogs, and other animals.
- Pollen: Surprisingly, pollen can drift indoors, especially in spring and fall, and settle on surfaces.
- Cockroach Droppings: These pests leave allergens in their droppings, saliva, and bodies, which can be especially bothersome in humid environments.
- Chemical Allergens: VOCs (volatile organic compounds) from paints, cleaning agents, and perfumes can irritate airways and trigger allergic responses.
Common Symptoms of Indoor Allergies?
Indoor allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe, often mirroring those experienced with outdoor allergens. They include:
- Nasal Congestion and Sneezing: Persistent sneezing and stuffiness are frequent signs.
- Itchy, Watery Eyes: Eyes can feel irritated, itchy, or watery.
- Coughing and Wheezing: Particularly common among those with asthma or respiratory sensitivities.
- Skin Rash or Itching: Hives or eczema can develop upon skin contact with allergens.
- Fatigue and Brain Fog: Some people feel sluggish and mentally foggy due to constant immune responses.
Tips and Tricks for Managing Indoor Allergens
Use Allergy-Proof Bedding
Encasing mattresses and pillows in dust-mite-proof covers keeps allergens at bay.
Treat The Source
Most products on the market don't treat the source, the allergens in your home. When these allergens become airborne, they can trigger an allergic reaction. Use Allergen Spray to get full air & surface allergen control.
Take A Shower
Allergens (especially pet allergens) are sticky and can stick to clothes, hair, shoes, furniture, and much more. Take a shower and wash your hair before going to bed- rinsing off removes allergens traveling on you.
Change Air Filters
Change your air filter often; the more pets you have, the more the filter needs to be changed. Go for a high-rated MERV filter, 11 or above. Contact an HVAC company to help you understand what MERV rating your HVAC system can handle.
Clean Regularly but Carefully
Vacuum carpets with a HEPA-filter vacuum, mop hard floors, and use microfiber dusting cloths to trap particles. Use Allergen Spray after vacuuming to help control the allergens that become airborne after vacuuming.
Control Humidity Levels
Keep indoor humidity between 30-50% to prevent mold and dust mite growth. Dehumidifiers and air conditioners are helpful tools.
Wash Pet Beds and Toys
If you have pets, regularly wash their bedding and toys to reduce dander buildup.
Declutter
Piles of clutter collect dust, so keep surfaces clear and organized.
A new kind of allergen defense
Allergen Spray
Don't let allergies control your life
Quick guide on allergy relief products for your allergies
Over-the-counter (OTC) meds
Antihistamines: These block the release of histamine, a chemical in the body that triggers allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes.
Nasal corticosteroids: These reduce inflammation in the nose, which can help relieve congestion, runny nose, and sneezing.
Side effects are possible with these types of medication
Nasal Sprays
Corticosteroid nasal sprays: These are available over-the-counter (OTC) or by prescription. They work by reducing inflammation in the nose, which can help relieve congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. These sprays typically take a few days to start working maximally.
Antihistamine nasal sprays: These are typically prescription-only and work by blocking histamine, a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction.
Side effects are possible with these types of medication
Air Purifiers
Air Purifiers: Like tiny air vacuums specifically designed to combat allergies. They pull in surrounding air with a fan, and then those allergenic hitchhikers get trapped inside filters before the air is circulated back into the room. The key filtration technology is a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter, which acts like a super fine mesh that efficiently captures microscopic airborne particles like pet dander.
No side effects but can't control allergens on surfaces so only treating half the problem.
Allergen Spray
Allergen Spray: A new kind of allergen defense. Designed and backed by world leading science to render allergens inactive both in the air and on surfaces, so you get full control. Only 100% minerals, no harsh chemicals or scents. Just spray your house and enjoy allergen free living. Learn more about Allergen Spray.
No side effects, and full air & surface control.
*This quiz is intended for info only; it is not to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure a disease, allergies, or more.
Articles
Best Air Purifiers for Pet Allergies
It's important to choose an air purifier that matches the size of the room where it will be used. Larger rooms will require a purifier with a higher CADR (Clean...
Recognizing the Signs of Magnesium Deficiency
Migraines: Studies suggest that magnesium deficiency may play a role in the frequency and severity of migraines.