In this Article

• What are allergens?
• What actually is house dust?
• What are dust mites?
• What conditions are most favorable to dust mites?
• How do dust mites cause allergic symptoms?
• Can cockroaches cause allergic symptoms?
• What about allergies to molds?
• What about allergies to pets?
• What about allergies to indoor pollens and houseplants?
• Indoor Allergens At A Glance
• Pictures of Common Allergy Triggers - Slideshow
• Indoor Allergens Glossary
• Indoor Allergens Index

What about allergies to indoor pollens and houseplants?

It is surprising, considering how frequently outdoor pollens cause allergies, that few indoor plants are troublesome. Indoor plants are more leafy than flowering and do not pollinate as much as outdoor plants. Some offending indoor plants are the weeping fig (Ficus benjamina), which can cause eye allergies, and the flowering maple (Alutilon hybridum), which can cause asthma.

Indoor plants, especially those that are kept in damp wicker baskets, are a source of molds. Plant terrariums and large indoor plants are culprits as well. Dried flowers and live Christmas trees should also be avoided, as they are common carriers of molds.

Indoor Allergens At A Glance

• House dust is a mixture of components that can cause allergies.
• Dust mites thrive in warm, humid places.
• Cockroach allergy can be a major factor in serious asthma and nasal allergy.
• Symptoms of hay fever (allergic rhinitis) and asthma can be caused by the inhalation of mold spores.
• The "dander," or skin shedding of an animal, is more potent in causing allergic reactions than the animal's fur or hair.
• About 6% of the population is allergic to cats.
• Indoor plants, especially those that are kept in damp wicker baskets, are a source of molds.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• ELISA Tests -
• 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.

Read more Indoor Allergens related articles »

Latest Medical News

• Kids' Allergies: Schoolwork Can Suffer