Indoor allergies such as pet dander, dust mites, and mold spores may lead to symptoms similar to seasonal pollen allergies such as sneezing, itchy eyes and runny noses.
Recent advances in indoor allergen knowledge from mites, cockroaches, mammals (cats and rodents) and fungi has resulted in groundbreaking trials designed to reduce exposures.
Pet Allergies
Pet allergies are caused by proteins found in skin flecks, fur and saliva (known as dander) which the immune system misinterprets as potentially dangerous, leading to reactions such as runny nose, eye irritation and wheezing. Most often these reactions are mild-moderate in intensity but more serious reactions may require immediate medical assistance for relief, especially if breathing becomes impaired.
If symptoms indicate anaphylaxis, please call triple zero immediately for emergency help. Allergies to pets can affect people of any age; most commonly seen among children but may wane over time.
Avoidance may be ideal; however, for allergy sufferers who also cherish their family pet(s). When avoidance is not an option, strategies like creating an allergy-free zone within the home and using HEPA air cleaners may help decrease allergen levels.
Skin prick testing can be an effective way to confirm pet allergies by applying small amounts of the allergen on one’s forearm and then scratching. If a small red bump appears after scratching, this indicates histamine release and therefore an allergy reaction against that allergen tested. Blood tests may also be performed; however they tend to be less reliable.
Dust Mites
Dust mites, tiny bugs that thrive in warm and humid environments, are one of the main sources of allergies to house dust. Allergic symptoms typically develop when the immune system responds to proteins found in dust mite feces and decomposing bodies by producing antibodies against them, prompting an immune reaction in which runny nose, watery eyes, itchy nose and sneezing occur as part of a chain reaction in your body.
These allergens are prevalent across climates and homes with pets, with higher concentrations occurring in warmer areas or with lots of cloth bedding and furniture in homes with pets. Their symptoms range from mild to severe; some individuals only experiencing itchy eyes, runny nose and occasional sneezing while others suffer ongoing congestion, coughing, face pressure issues, itchy skin issues or severe asthma attacks.
Allergies to mite feces and decomposing bodies may cause skin conditions like itchy rashes that mimic atopic dermatitis (eczema). Breathing in their waste products may also elicit an allergic response leading to wheezing and difficulty breathing.
If you suspect you have a dust mite allergy, your physician can perform a simple skin test to measure the size of the raised spots that look as though you have been bitten by insects (known as wheals). They may also prescribe quick-relief medications and/or immunotherapy in order to help desensitize your immune system from allergens.
Mold
Molds can be found throughout nature and indoors when moisture becomes prevalent, creating conditions suitable for mold to flourish and spread its spores through the air, potentially triggering allergic reactions in sensitive individuals and asthma symptoms. Mold spores are tiny fungus-like organisms with threadlike cells. They feed off dead organic material in moist environments such as basements, kitchens and storage rooms where pipes meet, producing smooth furry or velvety filaments with multiple colors ranging from yellow, black or even velvety surfaces that release mycotoxins which cause various symptoms including difficulty breathing difficulty fatigue headache nausea sinusitis and sinusitis symptoms in some patients.
Some species of mold are capable of inducing serious infections in people with compromised immune systems. Such infections, known as histoplasmosis or cocidicimycosis, may lead to pneumonia and other lung issues; histoplasmosis may also spread throughout other parts of the body such as eyes, skin and nervous systems causing additional damage.
If you believe you may have an allergy to mold, consult a health care professional immediately. They will review your medical history before performing tests like skin prick testing or blood work to assess your immune system response to molds. It is also wise to keep a record of when allergy symptoms appear in order to inform them when and where.
Asthma
Asthma is a long-term respiratory condition characterized by inflammation of the airways. This inflammation causes difficulty in breathing and can be triggered by allergens such as pet dander, mold spores, trees, grasses, dust mites and cockroaches; additionally secondhand smoke or chemical fumes may trigger attacks as well. Mild symptoms of asthma may include itchy eyes or nose; runny nose; sneezing; wheezing; while severe cases may lead to wheezing, shortness of breath or coughing episodes.
Allergy specialists can assist patients in pinpointing allergy triggers by conducting skin and blood tests that measure levels of immunoglobulin E antibodies that bind with allergens in the body. Skin testing also can determine your sensitivity to various allergens and help pinpoint your specific allergies.
Antihistamines and decongestants may help alleviate indoor allergies. If they persist, our allergy doctors may suggest immunotherapy treatment as a more permanent solution. Immunotherapy involves administering small doses of allergens over time to get your body accustomed to them and reduce allergic reactions, ultimately decreasing or even eliminating allergy symptoms altogether. Our allergy and asthma doctors can also prescribe various other treatments to ease your symptoms, including bronchodilators that open up narrowed airways and inhaled steroids that help control swelling and inflammation, or nebulizers that deliver fine mist particles directly to the lungs.
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