In this Article

• Introduction
• Cleaning and more cleaning: what really helps?
• What are great techniques for mold patrol?
• How can people with allergies ideally control the air quality and climate in their homes?
• How can dust covers help?
• What are carpet powders? Can they help?
• What to do with the pets?
• What do I do with those ghastly cockroaches?
• Allergy Treatment At A Glance
• Home Allergy Quiz - Slideshow
• Allergy Treatment Begins At Home Glossary
• Allergy Treatment Begins At Home Index

What do I do with those ghastly cockroaches?

Elimination of cockroaches is best accomplished by using a professional exterminator. However, this is only the first step. After the cockroaches have been eliminated, the areas they inhabited must be thoroughly cleaned since their residual debris is highly allergenic. Entry points should be sealed to prevent re-infestation. Use covered trash bins and empty then frequently. Do not store cardboard boxes, newspapers, grocery bags, or empty cans and bottles in your home as they can serve as breeding areas.

Effectiveness of Avoidance Measures

Allergen - Dust Mites

• Most Effective
• Dust Covers
• Weekly hot water washing of bedding
• Carpet Removal
• Keep rooms cool and dry
• Possibly Effective
• Chemical treatment of carpet
• Least Effective
• Air duct cleaning
• Special vacuum cleaners
• Air filters

Allergen - Cockroaches

• Most Effective
• Extermination with regular cleaning
• Possibly Effective
• Elimination of food and water sources
• Least Effective
• Extermination without regular cleaning

Allergen - Cats

• Most Effective
• Complete removal of cat
• Possibly Effective
• Move cat outdoors
• Least Effective
• Air filters
• Carpet cleaners
• Cat washing

Allergy Treatment At A Glance

• Avoidance is always the best treatment for allergies.

• There are many easy cleaning methods that can significantly decrease allergies.

• Controlling the air quality and climate of your home can bring you tremendous health benefits.

• If you are going to keep a pet that is a source of allergies, there are measures that you can take to optimize your home environment.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• diphenhydramine, Benadryl - Explains the medication diphenhydramine (Benadryl), a drug used for the relief of nasal and non-nasal symptoms of various allergic conditions such as seasonal allergic rhinitis.
• Eczema - Get information about eczema causes, skin symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. Types include dyshidrotic, atopic dermatitis, nummular, varicose and seborrheic eczema.
• Chronic Rhinitis and Post-Nasal Drip - Information on post nasal drip and chronic rhinitis includes symptoms such as itchy runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, ears, and throat, and nasal congestion.

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