 Molds
and mildews release disease-causing toxins, however, mold is not
the only biological contaminant that causes adverse health
reactions. Other indoor air contaminants include dust mites
(shown in this picture), pet dander (skin flakes), droppings and
body parts from cockroaches, rodents and other pests or insects,
viruses, and bacteria. Many of these biological contaminants are
small enough to be inhaled and all of them can cause illness,
some may even cause death.Some biological contaminants
trigger allergic reactions, including hypersensitivity
pneumonitis, allergic rhinitis, and some types of asthma.
Symptoms caused by biological pollutants include sneezing,
watery eyes, coughing, shortness of breath, dizziness, lethargy,
fever, and digestive problems. People who have noticed only mild
allergic reactions, (or even no reactions at all), may suddenly
find themselves very sensitive to particular allergens.
Children, elderly people, and people with breathing problems,
allergies, and lung diseases are particularly susceptible to
disease-causing biological agents in the indoor air.
Biological contaminants are, or are produced by, living
things and are often found in areas that are humid, damp or wet
such as cooling coils, humidifiers, condensate pans, or poorly
vented bathrooms. They are also found in draperies, bedding,
carpet, and other areas where dust collects may accumulate, such
as under furniture, behind washers, dryers, refrigerators,
stoves, dishwashers and other areas that are often overlooked in
routine housekeeping.
Central air conditioning systems and HVAC duct work can
become breeding grounds for all of these allergen producing
contaminants and can then distribute these contaminants through
an home or office building.
The most common biological contaminant that people have
severe allergic reactions to is house dust because it is usually
home to dust mites that feed on shed skin cells and produce
excrement that is a common household allergen associated
especially with asthma and respiratory allergies. However, an
allergy to cockroaches is similar to an allergy to dust mites.
If you are allergic to house dust (dust mites), you may also be
allergic to cockroaches. The cockroach allergens stem from their
shed outer coverings (cuticles), their saliva, and their eggs
and feces. Cockroach allergens can be found in house dust and
bedding.
Symptoms
The symptoms of cockroach allergy are similar to other types of
inhalant allergies. Listed here are some of the symptoms
associated with cockroach allergy.
- Chronic severe bronchial asthma
- Chronic stuffy nose
- Constant sinus infection
- Repeat ear infections
- Skin rash
According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and
Immunology (AAAAI), "Although some success has been achieved by
providing allergy shots to cockroach sensitive asthma patients,
at present this is not considered to have proven efficacy."
For more information on allergen screening services and
rates call 1-800-369-8532
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