Spring allergens are in the air. This time of year is particularly difficult for people who suffer from asthma and
allergies; that is why May is set aside as "Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month." Now, University of Missouri-Columbia
respiratory care professionals are making sure people know how to create a healthier home free of allergens, a leading cause
for missed days from school and work.
"We want to educate people about the biggest asthma and allergy triggers and how to minimize those triggers," said Terri
Dobey, clinical instructor of respiratory therapy. "They really need to know how to solve the problem, not just identify it."
Many people try to escape the problem by heading indoors; however, according to Environmental Protection Agency studies,
indoor air pollution may be 2 to 5 times higher than outdoors. Asthma and allergy sufferers are especially sensitive to
contaminants in the air within their own homes. Therefore, it is important to make it easy for people to find simple but
often unknown ways to create healthier environments within their own homes. Most people spend almost 90 percent of their time
indoors. Children, the elderly and people with health problems will likely spend more time indoors and they are the most
susceptible to the effects of poor indoor air quality.
A few of the top offenders can be found in the bedroom. Dust mites thrive in soft furnishings, such as bedding materials.
These microscopic organisms give off particles that cause allergic reactions when inhaled. To reduce dust mite exposure,
Dobey advises to cover mattresses and box springs in a zippered mite-proof encasement and encase pillows, including those
designated as "hypo-allergenic," or at least wash them in hot water once a week. Pets never should be allowed in bedrooms and
stuffed animals should only be allowed if they can be laundered regularly, Dobey said.
In the bathroom, mildew or mold can be an allergy and asthma trigger. Shower curtains should be washed regularly and mold can
be removed by washing with a solution of 1⁄4 cup of bleach in a gallon of water. Bathrooms should not have wall-to-wall
carpet. Personal hygiene products, such as aerosols and fragrant perfumes, also can be an irritant for asthma and allergy
suffers, Dobey said.
An interactive Web site developed with support from the Missouri Foundation for Health is available to take people on a tour
though each room of a home to discover hidden problems. The MU Extension website is fse.missouri.edu/iaqhome/iaqhome.html.
University of Missouri-Columbia
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