Private MD News

Homeowners are more likely than renters to minimize household allergens

Category: Allergy Testing

A lab test to identify one's allergy profile is the first step to properly addressing allergies and preventing hypersensitive reactions in the future. One of the next steps would be to minimize the number allergens in one's home. However, researchers from the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) discovered that individuals with allergies are less likely to take appropriate action in the house if they rent, rather than own, the residence.

According to a survey, 91 percent of homeowners make changes in order to reduce allergens in their living space. The same is true for only 63 percent of renters.

Other results indicated that both homeowners and renters are willing to wash bedding in hot water, clean visible mold and decrease humidity in their space. However, getting rid of carpeting, covering upholstered furniture and using air purifiers were less common practices among all study participants.

Additional allergen-minimizing tactics provided by the ACAAI include keeping pets out of the bedroom, bathing pets once a week, using a vacuum with a HEPA filter and using dust-proof covers for bedding and furniture.

People who are unsure of what they may be allergic to may benefit from a lab test to determine the immune systems' responses to different triggers.