How Roaches in Your House Can Affect Asthma & Allergies

Controlling roaches in the home is one of the primary concerns of every homeowner in the area. We all know roaches are creepy and gross, but they’re not just that… did you know they can also be an allergy and asthma trigger for many people? According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), cockroach saliva, droppings, and shed skin have been linked to allergy and asthma symptoms. The AAFA has discovered this allergen to be very common, with as many as 23-60% of asthmatics living in urban homes being sensitive to these creepy crawlies.

Are You or Your Family Member Allergic to Cockroaches?

You can develop sensitivities to cockroaches over a period of weeks or months. Cockroaches can be living in your home for quite some time before an allergy actually develops. As infestations grow over a period of time, the risk of experiencing an asthma attack due to exposure to these insects is much greater. That’s why it’s always best to make sure a small infestation is handled as quickly as possible. If you already have allergies to dust mites or other insects, chances are very good that you might develop sensitivity to cockroaches too.

Diagnosing an Allergy to Cockroaches

Not everyone who is exposed to cockroaches will eventually experience asthma or allergy symptoms. But, the following symptoms should be investigated, especially if they occur all year long:

• Itchy eyes
• Itchy nose
• Wheezing
• Scratchy throat

Allergens that occur in the home are generally not seasonal in occurrence. However, these allergies may be worse during the summer and winter when windows are sealed and ventilation to the home is poor.

Preventing a Cockroach Infestation

Cockroaches are resourceful little creatures. Many of them get into your home by hitching a ride on something you bring in yourself. They may come in on boxes, grocery bags, and other similar items. Some are even so bold that they just walk right in through your front door or pipes! Some of the best things you can do to prevent roaches in the home is to:

• Clean up crumbs
• Vacuum regularly
• Fix leaky pipes in your home
• Dispose of garbage regularly and don’t let any trash pile up
• Seal cracks and holes on the outside of your home, including all areas where pipes and utilities enter the home.

When an infestation is out of control, especially with cockroaches, the best thing you can do is call in a professional. At Anti-Pesto, we know exactly how to get rid of cockroaches and can help you regain your peace of mind. You shouldn’t have to share your house with roaches. Your children and family shouldn’t be exposed to them for health reasons. Depending on the level of your infestation, we can work with you to create a customized roach solution that works best for your household and family.

Howard Bright, Owner of Anti-Pesto Bug Killers, is the author of this blog.