The Link Between Pests And Asthma

Asthma is a common respiratory condition that causes swelling in the airways which can make breathing difficult. While it can be mild and treated with an inhaler, it can also be severe and debilitating. Asthma symptoms are typically caused by dust, pollen, intense physical activity, chemicals, poor air quality, and other allergens. In addition, certain household pests like cockroaches, dust mites, and rodents can also cause asthma symptoms to flare up. Here are some common links between pests and asthma.

Airborne Irritants and Environment

Like other asthma triggers, pests can spread allergens through airborne particles. Cockroaches can spread allergens from their droppings and shedding body parts. Rodents like rats and mice can worsen asthma and allergy symptoms by leaving behind fur or droppings. Dust mites are especially common since they cling to dusty surfaces like carpet, bedding, and furniture. Households in urban or humid areas are at higher risk for cockroaches and dust mites due to dense population and high moisture content. Cockroaches and rodents also prefer areas close to water.

Symptoms and Chronic Health Issues

Asthma symptoms are very similar to the common cold and seasonal allergies making it hard to pinpoint the exact cause of certain reactions. Here are some common symptoms associated with asthma and exposure to pests,

• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Tightness in the chest.
• Wheezing
• Skin rash.
• Nasal congestion.
• Asthma attack.

Many of these symptoms are mild and can be treated with over the counter allergy medicine or an inhaler. However, prolonged exposure to pests and other allergens can cause chronic respiratory issues and asthma attacks.

Treatment

If you have pests in your home and suffer from asthma, eliminating the infestation as soon as possible is very important. Keeping your home clean and dust-free can help prevent pests from getting in. Changing your home air filters often, cleaning floors regularly, and keeping excess moisture out are all great ways to help prevent an infestation. Some store-bought traps can be helpful with pests, but they are limiting and may also cause asthma flare-ups in some people. When it comes to pests and asthma, it’s best to hire a professional. Contact us and our experts can help keep your home pest-free so you can keep asthma symptoms and allergies under control.