These 7 Indoor Air Components Trigger Acute Asthma and Allergy Reactions

It is important to remember that the air within your home is not always pure and fresh. Our indoor air can contain a variety of household allergens and contaminants, based on the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. They can all be detrimental to the indoor air quality. 

Below are 7 main undiscovered risks that your indoor air may have. Read all the way down and find out how to purify your household air as well!

1. Volatile Organic Compounds

Small molecules with carbon that are mostly present as gases at ambient temperature are known as volatile organic compounds. It may surprise you to learn that indoor VOC concentrations can be anywhere from up to five times higher than those found outdoors. 

Numerous goods and procedures release these gases into the atmosphere. VOCs can cause airway irritation due to their tiny dimensions and volatile nature.

2. Smoke

Indoor air quality may deteriorate due to smoke and other contaminants. When you prepare food, burn candles or flames, or use gas-powered equipment, they may release toxic particles into the air. Cigarette smoke is also toxic as everyone is aware of. Smoke can trigger severe asthma and allergy reactions.

3. Mold and Mildew

Mold growth can occur anywhere; yet, mold and mildew are especially hazardous in humid conditions. This includes popular home areas like washing machines, cooking areas, cellars, and restrooms that are frequently moist and wet. In places with moisture and poor airflow, mold growth is inevitable.

4. Pollen Allergen

Leaving house entrances open will allow pollen to make its way into your house. The pollen allergen enters your body through your hair, clothes, and footwear as well. 

It is one of the dust constituents that can collect on surfaces within your home. For people with pollen allergy, they can experience acute airway irritation, per the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America

5. Pet Skin Cells

It is not uncommon to see pet skin cells and debris in dwellings. Pet dander allergy is prevalent, and most households contain these triggers. Pet dander can spread throughout houses, even among people without dogs, and is readily transported through clothing. 

Insect and animal leftovers are also potential hazards for people who do not own pets. Triggers of pet dander allergy include cockroach and rodent dander, both of which are prevalent in most households.

6. Dust Mites

An estimated 30% of people are sensitive to dust mites, making them possibly the most frequent cause of year-round allergies. Both asthma and eczema can be brought on by dust mite allergy. 

You can take precautions to lessen your chances of encountering dust mites and the ensuing allergy reactions, even if you might not be able to totally eradicate them from your home. For example, many of the signs and therapies for dust mite allergy also work for other environmental triggers.

7. Other Household Allergens

Massive populations of mold and other household allergens are apparent but not all airborne contaminants are. Mitigating the effects of typical offenders and hidden risks through proactive measures is the most effective approach to clean indoor air.

Bonus: How to Clean Indoor Air

Asthma and allergy-friendly certified air purifiers have demonstrated their ability to remove more than 75% of airborne household allergens. The certification requirement stipulates that these particles must be eliminated, not only rearranged about the space.