Health and Me

Rachel V Thomas

World Allergy Day: Hidden Allergy Triggers At Home You May Be Overlooking

World Allergy Day: Hidden Allergy Triggers at Home You May Be Overlooking

While many people blame pollen or changing weather for their allergies, health experts say hidden allergens inside the home may be just as responsible. On the occasion of World Allergy Day on July 8, doctors highlighted that <span>dust mites</span>, mold, pet proteins, and <span>household products</span> are among the often-overlooked triggers that can affect indoor air quality and contribute to persistent allergy symptoms.

They also cautioned that <span>chronic allergies</span> should not be dismissed as a minor inconvenience, as they can affect sleep, respiratory health, and overall quality of life.

Dr. Sanjiv Dang, ENT &amp; Allergy Specialist, Apollo Hospitals, Delhi, told <strong><em>HealthandMe </em></strong>that allergy symptoms lasting for weeks, months, or throughout the year may indicate chronic allergies and should not be ignored.

He explained that "allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to substances such as dust mites, pollen, mold, pet dander, or certain foods, releasing histamine". This can lead to symptoms including sneezing, nasal congestion, a runny nose, itchy eyes, and throat irritation. 

<h2>Hidden Allergens Go Beyond Pollen </h2>

Also read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/uk-met-office-warns-of-pollen-bomb-what-hay-fever-patients-need-to-know-article-154733562" data-type="tilCustomLink">UK Met Office Warns of 'Pollen Bomb': What Hay Fever Patients Need to Know</a>

Prof. (Dr.) Dwaipayan Mukherjee, Consultant ENT Surgeon, Kolkata, told <strong><em>HealthandMe </em></strong>that flower pollen is often blamed for seasonal allergies, but it is usually not the main culprit because its grains are larger and less likely to remain airborne. Instead, he said most seasonal allergies are caused by microscopic airborne pollen from grasses, weeds, and trees. 

Dr. Mukherjee, also the Past President of the Association of Otolaryngologists of India (AOI), added that homes can also harbor numerous microscopic allergens that negatively affect indoor air quality.  Common triggers include: 

<ul><li><strong>Dust Mites</strong></li></ul> These microscopic organisms thrive in mattresses, bedding, carpets, curtains, and upholstered furniture, and their presence depends more on warmth, humidity, and skin flakes than on how clean a home appears. 

<ul><li><strong>Mold</strong></li></ul>Found in damp areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and laundry rooms, it releases airborne spores that can cause sneezing, nasal congestion, coughing, and eye irritation. Poor ventilation and excess moisture can make the problem worse.

<ul><li><strong>Pet Proteins</strong></li></ul>Pet allergies are also frequently misunderstood. Dr. Mukherjee explained that pet fur is rarely the main cause of allergic reactions. Instead, proteins found in an animal's skin cells, saliva, and urine trigger symptoms and can remain suspended in the air or settle on furniture, clothing, and bedding. 

<ul>Household Products and Indoor Plants</ul>

Cleaning sprays, air fresheners, scented candles, and similar products may emit compounds that irritate sensitive airways and worsen allergy symptoms despite creating the impression of a cleaner environment. 

Indoor plants can also become a source of allergens if mold develops in damp potting soil or if certain plants release pollen. Outdoor pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds can also enter homes on clothing, shoes, and hair before settling on indoor surfaces, the experts said.

<h2>How Persistent Allergies Affect Health </h2>

Read More: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/new-hiv-vaccine-produces-powerful-virus-fighting-antibodies-human-trials-begin-article-154961451" data-type="tilCustomLink">New HIV Vaccine Produces Powerful Virus-Fighting Antibodies; Human Trials Begin</a>

Dr. Dang said chronic allergies are more than just a runny nose. Persistent nasal congestion can disrupt sleep, leading to snoring, frequent awakenings, daytime fatigue, poor concentration, reduced productivity, and mood changes.

He added that ongoing allergic inflammation can affect both the upper and lower airways. People with chronic allergies are at a higher risk of developing asthma, while those who already have asthma may experience worsening symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. 

Chronic allergies can also block normal sinus drainage, increasing the risk of recurrent sinus infections. Facial pressure, headaches, post-nasal drip, persistent congestion, and a reduced sense of smell may all indicate allergy-related sinus problems. 

<h2>How To Prevent Chronic Allergies </h2>

The experts advised relying solely on over-the-counter medications, saying they may provide temporary relief without addressing the underlying cause. They noted that prolonged use of certain nasal decongestant sprays can even worsen congestion over time, and also recommended consulting a healthcare professional if allergy symptoms persist for several weeks or throughout the year.

To help manage chronic allergies, the experts recommended: 

<ul><li>Improving ventilation indoors.</li></ul><ul><li>Controlling indoor humidity.</li></ul><ul><li>Using HEPA air cleaners.</li></ul><ul><li>Cleaning the home regularly.</li></ul><ul><li>Eliminate excess moisture.</li></ul><ul><li>Identifying and reducing exposure to allergy triggers.</li></ul><ul><li>Controlling mold growth indoors. </li></ul>

Health Conditions A-Z

health

world-allergy-day-hidden-allergy-triggers-at-home-you-may-be-overlooking

World Allergy Week

household products

Pollen allergy

Chronic Allergies

Hidden Allergy triggers

dust mites

new-research-challenges-the-one-night-sleep-apnea-test-doctors-have-relied-on-for-decades

New Research Challenges The One-Night Sleep Apnea Test Doctors Have Relied On For Decades

viral-squishy-toy-trend-leaves-children-with-severe-burns-doctors-issue-urgent-warning-to-parents

How This Viral 'Squishy' Toy Left Several Children With Severe Burns? Doctors Issue Warning To Parents

Health & Wellness

8 Sit-Up Variations to Strengthen Your Core and Build Stability

Benefits Of Ayurvedic Health Supplement Ashwagandha

9 Anti-Inflammatory Breakfast Options You Should Try

5 Foods You Should Avoid For PCOS, Says Gynecologist

Love Sitting With Your Legs Crossed? Here’s You Should Avoid It

6 Daily Foods That Are Secretly Increasing Your Calories

9 Brain Boosters You Should Do Everyday

Hip Exercises That Will Keep You Flexible As You Age

9 Leg Exercises Office Workers’ Should Do At Home

Benefits of Having Herbal Tea Every Morning

9 Daily Habits That Boost Your Brain Power

Lower-Body Exercises That Are Game-Changers

How Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar Helps You

Aging Myths You Should Never Believe

Superfoods That Support Your Gut Health

What Happens To Your Body When You Eat Instant Noodles Every Day?

Health Issues Premature Babies Often Face

Exercises Office Workers Should Do For Their Heart Health

Reasons Why You Should Add Raw Turmeric To Your Diet

Benefits Of Drinking Milk At Night: Why You Should Do It

Food That Provides Vitamin B12 Naturally In Your Diet

Surprising Health Benefits Of Fenugreek Seeds

9 Superfoods You Should Eat For Your Brain Health

What Does Mental Health Support Look Like At Work?

Long Stretches You Should Do To Unwind From Your Day

Colon Cancer In Young Adults: Early Symptoms You Should Know

Health Benefits Of Eating Dry Fruits Everyday

Are You At Risk For Fried Rice Syndrome?

These Tests Reveal How Well You Are Aging

Lower-Back Exercises You Should Do After A Long-Day's Work

Children’s Diet – What Kids Need To Eat For Immunity Building

Common Diabetes Myths That Could Hurt Your Health

Love Spicy Food? Here’s How It Affects Your Health

Superfood List: Veggies And Fruits You Must Have For Immunity

Foods People With IBS Should Avoid

Exercises To Improve Digestion

Easy Work Lunches You Can Make In The Morning

Hunger Vs Craving: Difference Explained In 60 seconds

These Things Can Cause Your Heart To Age Faster

High Carb Foods That Are Actually Healthy

While many people blame pollen or changing weather for their allergies, health experts say hidden allergens inside the home may be just as responsible. On the occasion of World Allergy Day on July 8, doctors highlighted that dust mites, mold, pet proteins, and household products are among the often-overlooked triggers that can affect indoor air quality and contribute to persistent allergy symptoms. They also cautioned that chronic allergies should not be dismissed as a minor inconvenience, as they can affect sleep, respiratory health, and overall quality of life. What Is A Chronic Allergy? Dr. Sanjiv Dang, ENT & Allergy Specialist, Apollo Hospitals, Delhi, told HealthandMe that allergy symptoms lasting for weeks, months, or throughout the year may indicate chronic allergies and should not be ignored. He explained that "allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to substances such as dust mites, pollen, mold, pet dander, or certain foods, releasing histamine". This can lead to symptoms including sneezing, nasal congestion, a runny nose, itchy eyes, and throat irritation. Hidden Allergens Go Beyond Pollen Also read: UK Met Office Warns of 'Pollen Bomb': What Hay Fever Patients Need to KnowProf. (Dr.) Dwaipayan Mukherjee, Consultant ENT Surgeon, Kolkata, told HealthandMe that flower pollen is often blamed for seasonal allergies, but it is usually not the main culprit because its grains are larger and less likely to remain airborne. Instead, he said most seasonal allergies are caused by microscopic airborne pollen from grasses, weeds, and trees. Dr. Mukherjee, also the Past President of the Association of Otolaryngologists of India (AOI), added that homes can also harbor numerous microscopic allergens that negatively affect indoor air quality.  Common triggers include: Dust Mites These microscopic organisms thrive in mattresses, bedding, carpets, curtains, and upholstered furniture, and their presence depends more on warmth, humidity, and skin flakes than on how clean a home appears. MoldFound in damp areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and laundry rooms, it releases airborne spores that can cause sneezing, nasal congestion, coughing, and eye irritation. Poor ventilation and excess moisture can make the problem worse.Pet ProteinsPet allergies are also frequently misunderstood. Dr. Mukherjee explained that pet fur is rarely the main cause of allergic reactions. Instead, proteins found in an animal's skin cells, saliva, and urine trigger symptoms and can remain suspended in the air or settle on furniture, clothing, and bedding. Household Products and Indoor PlantsCleaning sprays, air fresheners, scented candles, and similar products may emit compounds that irritate sensitive airways and worsen allergy symptoms despite creating the impression of a cleaner environment. Indoor plants can also become a source of allergens if mold develops in damp potting soil or if certain plants release pollen. Outdoor pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds can also enter homes on clothing, shoes, and hair before settling on indoor surfaces, the experts said.How Persistent Allergies Affect Health Read More: New HIV Vaccine Produces Powerful Virus-Fighting Antibodies; Human Trials BeginDr. Dang said chronic allergies are more than just a runny nose. Persistent nasal congestion can disrupt sleep, leading to snoring, frequent awakenings, daytime fatigue, poor concentration, reduced productivity, and mood changes. He added that ongoing allergic inflammation can affect both the upper and lower airways. People with chronic allergies are at a higher risk of developing asthma, while those who already have asthma may experience worsening symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Chronic allergies can also block normal sinus drainage, increasing the risk of recurrent sinus infections. Facial pressure, headaches, post-nasal drip, persistent congestion, and a reduced sense of smell may all indicate allergy-related sinus problems. How To Prevent Chronic Allergies The experts advised relying solely on over-the-counter medications, saying they may provide temporary relief without addressing the underlying cause. They noted that prolonged use of certain nasal decongestant sprays can even worsen congestion over time, and also recommended consulting a healthcare professional if allergy symptoms persist for several weeks or throughout the year. To help manage chronic allergies, the experts recommended: Improving ventilation indoors.Controlling indoor humidity.Using HEPA air cleaners.Cleaning the home regularly.Eliminate excess moisture.Identifying and reducing exposure to allergy triggers.Controlling mold growth indoors. 

world allergy day: hidden allergy triggers at home you may be overlooking

About Us

Contact Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Company

Health and Me is a premium website with content written and curated to function as a handbook for all Health concerns.

World Allergy Day: Hidden Allergy Triggers At Home You May Be Overlooking

The New Chapter After Cancer: Focusing On Wellness And Quality Of Life

Challenge Your Brain To Keep It Young: New Study Says Learning Another Language Can Help

Are You Getting The Right Cholesterol Test? ApoB May Be Better Than LDL

Health Conditions A-Z

World Allergy Day: Hidden Allergy Triggers At Home You May Be Overlooking

New Research Challenges The One-Night Sleep Apnea Test Doctors Have Relied On For Decades

How This Viral 'Squishy' Toy Left Several Children With Severe Burns? Doctors Issue Warning To Parents