Keep free of clutter, upholstered furniture, chenille bedspreads and knickknacks. Avoid under bed storage. Foam mattresses that state they are dust mite resistant still need to be encased as they will collect dust mites over time.

Did you know that studies show that 1 out of 4 people can be allergic to dust mites? 45% of homes have enough dust mites to trigger allergies and asthma. So washing bedding in hot water at 130 degrees, and encasing bedding can significantly reduce the levels of dust mites in the bedroom.

The best options for allergy-friendly flooring is tile, wood, or other hard floor covering. Dust mites and mold can thrive in carpeting. Throw rugs may be used. If you have wall to wall carpeting, we recommend synthetic, short pile, with synthetic padding. Steam cleaning your carpeting yearly can help reduce allergens. Keep in mind that carpeting should dry in 2-3 hours after cleaning, as increased moisture promotes mite growth.

Avoid using a humidifier since increased humidity promotes mite and mold growth. Run your air conditioning to keep humidity levels low and to slow dust mite growth during the summer months.

Pollen is prevalent in the southeast for 9 – 10 months a year. It’s difficult to avoid pollen, but we at Allergy Partners want you to lead as normal a life as possible. So in addition to our treatment plan, we recommend such simple avoidance measures as keeping bedroom windows closed. Using central or window air conditioning and changing filters monthly. Also, shower and shampoo hair as soon as you are done working or playing outside, and keep animals outdoor as they carry pollen on their coats.

As summer approaches, yellow jackets, hornets and fire ants become more active. Up to 5% of Americans are at risk for a severe allergic reaction. Many patients don’t know that many such reactions can be prevented by allergy shots. Symptoms after a sting may include itching, hives, difficulty breathing, dizziness, nausea and stomach cramps. Please tell our staff if you have had such a reaction, and we can schedule for testing.  And remember, any systemic allergic reaction must be seen and treated by a medical professional immediately. Call 911 if you or any of your family members has such a reaction.

Eliminating tobacco smoke from the allergic patient's environment should be the #1 step of environmental control. Studies show that children of smoking parents have 60% more upper respiratory infections than children of nonsmoking parents.

A vacuum cleaner which utilizes a HEPA filter is recommended. Whether a bag type vacuum cleaner or bagless, always empty into a closed plastic bag outside (not indoors). Vacuum one or two times weekly when the patient is not present. Wearing a mask may help if the patient must do the vacuuming.