Indoor Allergens (cont.)
How do dust mites cause allergic symptoms?
The digestive enzymes that are discharged into the mite feces are the most
bothersome of the dust-mite allergens. Less potent allergens are found in the
mite bodies. The mite's tiny fecal pellets disintegrate to form a very fine
powder that can easily float into the air when
disturbed. This commonly occurs during vacuuming, making
the bed, turning in bed while sleeping, or walking on the
carpet. When an allergic person inhales these particles,
asthma or nasal allergy symptoms may occur. There is also
evidence that allergic eczema can be aggravated by this
exposure.
Allergy
facts
- Each dust mite lives for approximately 30 days and
produces about 20 fecal pellets per day. During that time,
females may have added 30 new dust mites to the population.
- About 10% of the population is allergic to dust mites. About
80% of asthmatic children are allergic to dust mites.
Can cockroaches cause allergic symptoms?
Over the past decades, cockroaches have become
recognized as a powerful indoor allergen. Cockroach
allergy can be a major factor in serious asthma and nasal
allergy. Cockroaches tend to be very troublesome in inner-city areas, multifamily dwellings, and around areas of food
preparation.
Cockroaches are among the oldest of all living species
(about 350 million years old). The three species of
cockroaches that are commonly found in the United States
are Blatella germania (German), Periploneta americana
(American), and Blatella orientalis (Oriental). (The genus
name for the American cockroach, periploneta, is derived
from the Greek word, planetes, which means wanderer.)
Cockroaches are hardy, adaptable creatures that thrive
in areas where food and water supplies are plentiful. They
may be found around dripping faucets and kitchen areas.
They do stray, however, to other areas and can commonly be
found in children's bedrooms where food is often eaten.
The major cockroach allergens are found in their digestive
enzymes, saliva, and body parts. As is the case with dust-mite allergens, these microscopic particles become airborne
when disturbed by motion in the room.
Next: What about allergies to molds? »
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