Do you sometimes suffer from allergy-like symptoms at home and you don't really know why? Although allergy problems can be caused by a number of issues and should be correctly diagnosed by a medical professional, there are indeed household pests can can cause issues you may not be aware of. In this article, Nelon-Cole wants to make you aware of some of the issues facing homeowners across the Carolinas so that they can better understand the causes.
Many pests produce allergenic proteins or substances that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. It's important to identify and address pest infestations promptly to reduce the risk of allergic reactions. Regular cleaning, proper food storage, and maintaining a dry and well-ventilated environment can help minimize the presence of pests and their allergenic particles. If allergies persist, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Let's consider some of the more common pests found in Carolina homes and the possible health issues they can cause.
COCKROACHES Cockroaches cause allergic reactions and worsen asthma symptoms. Cockroach droppings, saliva, and body parts can trigger allergic reactions in some people. Exposure to cockroach allergens has been linked to asthma symptoms and other respiratory issues. You might have an infestation if you or someone in your home has the following:
Postnasal drip
Skin rashes
Itchy and watery eyes
Coughing
Ear infections
Congestion
Wheezing
General feelings of anxiety
Chest tightness
These pests carry bacteria as they travel through your property. They cause allergies with the following types of waste that contain potent allergen proteins:
Droppings
Saliva
Shed skin
Deposited body parts
An estimated 17 to 41% of Americans have adverse reactions to cockroach allergens. Your Nelon-Cole pest control technician is specifically trained to handle difficult infestations such as cockroaches.
RODENTS
You or someone in your home can be allergic to pests such as mice and rats. Allergens from these rodents are present in many homes across the Carolinas. The primary allergens associated with rodents are found in their urine, saliva, and dander (tiny flakes of skin). When these substances become airborne, they can be inhaled or come into contact with the skin, leading to allergic symptoms. It's important to note that individuals with a pre-existing allergy or asthma are more susceptible to developing allergic reactions to rodent allergens. Additionally, prolonged exposure to high levels of rodent allergens may increase the risk of sensitization in individuals who were previously not allergic.
Mice and rats can trigger unpleasant allergy symptoms such as:
Nausea
Stuffy nose
Itchy skin
Eczema
Sneezing
Congestion
Itchy nose
Itchy throat
Rashes
Hives
Asthma attacks
How do these pests cause allergies? They do so from the pheromones and bacteria in their:
Droppings
Urine
Saliva
Skin
You’ll know if you have rodents in your home or business if you find their droppings near your food supply or hear scurrying in the walls. Keep your property safe by dealing with a mouse or rat infestation by calling your Nelon-Cole pest control professional.
DUST MITES Dust mites are tiny, microscopic creatures that feed on human and animal skin flakes. Dust mites are invisible to the naked eye, but their adverse health effects are evident in 20 million American residents. You probably have thousands of dust mites in the furniture, floors and windowsills around your home or business. They are a common indoor allergen, and exposure to dust mite allergens can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The primary allergens produced by dust mites are found in their feces and body fragments. These allergens become airborne and can be inhaled or come into contact with the skin, leading to various allergic symptoms.
Common allergic reactions to dust mite allergens include:
Respiratory Symptoms: Inhaling dust mite allergens can cause symptoms such as sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, coughing, and wheezing. Individuals with asthma may experience exacerbation of their symptoms.
Skin Irritation: Direct contact with dust mite allergens or contaminated surfaces may lead to skin irritation, redness, or itching.
Eczema Flare-ups: People with eczema (atopic dermatitis) may experience flare-ups or worsening of their skin condition when exposed to dust mite allergens.
It's important to note that dust mites thrive in warm, humid environments, and they are commonly found in bedding, mattresses, pillows, upholstered furniture, and carpets. If allergic symptoms persist or are severe, individuals should seek advice from an allergist or healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management, which may include medications to control symptoms or allergen immunotherapy for long-term relief. Your Nelon-Cole technician has safe, effective solutions to help rid your home of dust mites.
STINK BUGS
Stink bugs, also known as shield bugs, belong to the family Pentatomidae. While they are primarily known for their unpleasant odor emitted as a defense mechanism, they are not typically associated with causing allergies in humans. The odor is produced by the release of chemicals when the bugs feel threatened.
However, it's worth noting that some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions upon direct contact with the secretions or bodily fluids of stink bugs. These reactions are generally mild and can include redness, itching, or a rash at the contact site. In rare cases, individuals with heightened sensitivity may experience more severe skin reactions.
If you come into contact with stink bugs or their secretions and develop skin irritation, it's advisable to wash the affected area with soap and water. Applying a mild anti-itch cream or taking an antihistamine may help alleviate symptoms.
While stink bugs themselves may not be a common cause of respiratory allergies, their presence indoors can sometimes lead to the growth of mold. Stink bugs are attracted to warm indoor environments during cooler months, and their droppings can contribute to mold development. Mold allergies, rather than stink bug allergies per se, could be a concern in such cases.
If you suspect that exposure to stink bugs or their environment is causing allergic symptoms, or if you experience severe reactions, it's recommended to consult with an allergist or healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and guidance on managing symptoms.
We encourage you to give us a call and let our quarterly treatment and inspections keep your home protected year-round. Call 1-888-7-TheWeb or simply fill out a request here on our website for a fast, no-obligation services quote. Your home will thank you with lower yearly maintenance bills as your pest problems become a thing of the past!
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