Asthma Explorers Club is the place to go for kids who like to play, have fun, and learn more about their Asthma. We also have great information for parents too.
My 7 year old daughter recently was evaluated by an allergy specialist because of her worsening year-round nose allergy and asthma. She was allergic to dust mite, cockroaches and pollens. He discussed eliminating allergy triggers from our home, especially in her bedroom. I wonder if you could further explain what I should do to help my child.
Please realize that it's impossible to completely remove household allergens. But with certain changes, allergens can be reduced, which should diminish your child's symptoms due to indoor allergens. Here are some suggestions:
- Encase her pillows and mattress in allergen-proof encasings, which should be washed every three months. Wash the regular bedding in water that's at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit. That should remove a good deal of the dust mite allergen from the bedding. Remember, the bed is the primary source of dust mites.
- Try to use a vacuum cleaner that's certified to effectively remove allergens and trap them within the vacuum cleaner system. You should purchase one with a HEPA filter. In addition, the vacuum cleaner system should not leak.
- I understand that you have a dog. It's imperative that the dog be kept outside as much as possible. It should not be allowed in your child's bedroom and should be kept off wall-to-wall carpet and upholstered furniture as much as possible.
- Remove the feathers/down from your daughter's bedroom. In addition, it would be best if upholstered furniture is not stuffed with feathers.
- If it's economically feasible, it would be best not to have a wall-to-wall carpet in your child's bedroom because it could easily become a source of dust mite and/or dog allergy. The best flooring is tile or hardwood.
- Try to keep the humidity in her bedroom between 25% and 40%. Less than 25% is irritating to the respiratory tract, and greater than 50% increases the risk of more dust mite and/or mold.
- Make sure there are no water leaks under the house, in the attic, in the bathrooms or other parts of the house. Water collection increases the chance of increased mold. If your child is allergic to mold, then significant indoor exposure will increase her symptoms.
- The use of HEPA filters to decrease dust mite exposure is controversial. However, if you live in a very humid environment, it may help, especially running it in your child's bedroom.
- Cockroaches are the major indoor allergen for people, especially children, who live in apartments. Cockroaches love food, so make sure you don't leave food out overnight and that the kitchen floor is kept as clean as possible.
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The Asthma E-Club is not a substitute for consulting with your physician. We can't diagnose or prescribe. We will provide important information on asthma intended to be useful for your family. This may assist you in decisions that can positively affect your life.