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Allergies: Avoiding Indoor Triggers

Introduction

Allergic rhinitis causes symptoms like sneezing, congestion, and a runny nose. But you can control these symptoms with medicine and by avoiding the things that cause them (allergens). If you are allergic to indoor allergens, such as dust mites, animal dander, and mould, you can take some simple steps to get them out of your house.

By doing these things, you may have fewer symptoms or less severe symptoms.

How can I control allergens in my home?

First, work with your doctor to find out what you're allergic to. When you know what triggers your allergies, you can take steps to control those allergens in your home.

To reduce allergens inside your home, you can:

Adults spend one-third of their time and children spend half of their time in their bedrooms, so it is important to take steps to prevent allergens in this room.

Other things you can do

Polluted air does not cause allergies, but it can irritate the nose and lungs. This may make it more likely that you will have symptoms.

  • Avoid tobacco smoke, smoke from wood-burning stoves, and fumes from kerosene heaters.
  • If you have a wood-burning stove, try to use one that is airtight and does not leak smoke into your home.

Credits

Current as of:
February 10, 2021

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Brian D. O'Brien MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Rohit K Katial MD - Allergy and Immunology