The Relationship between Pests Infestations and Allergies
For some, allergies will always be a fact of life. Though common allergenic culprits such as pollen and dust are familiar, a silent menace could be living in your Michigan home: household pests that are common invaders such as cockroaches, rodents, dust mites, and bed bugs. These unwanted guests may do more than just bug you; they can truly effect your health by shedding powerful allergens.
The urine, feces, and dead skin flakes of these creatures get airborne, bringing on allergies, asthma exacerbations, and skin irritations. Grasping this link is the beginning toward a healthier, pest-free home. In this feature, we will discuss which pests are the leading culprits, how they impact your health, as well as the top methods for keeping your family safe against these allergens.
Common Michigan Pests that Produce Allergies
Not all pests are created equal when it comes to allergen-ness. Back here in West Michigan, these are the big perpetrators:
Cockroaches: A main cause of indoor allergies, more so in large cities like Grand Rapids. Cockroach allergens in droppings as much as in exoskeletons can trigger severe asthma attacks, more so in children.
Rodents (Rats and Mice): Because they are so common in Holland as rural area pests, their urine, droppings, as well as their dander can greatly reduce your indoor air quality. Infestations often go un-noticed so these allergens accumulate over periods of time.
Dust Mites: These tiny insects live in dusty spots and can be discovered under mattresses, rugs, as well as upholstery. Particles of their feces are a top allergen source and can also aggravate asthma as well as eczema.
Bed Bugs: Although bites by these insects are a cause for concern, the resulting itching and swelling can cause secondary skin infection. Infestation by bed bugs can also cause panic as well as lack of sleep, further affecting health in general.
How Pest-Related Allergies Affect Your Health
Health effects by allergens of pests vary from mild to serious:
Respiratory Problems: Aerodynamic allergens that are typical in pests may cause chest tightness, breathlessness, as well as wheezing, especially in asthma patients in Holland, MI.
Skin Reactions: Exposure by direct contact with allergens can lead to rashes, hives, and persistent itchiness.
Sinus Issues: Stuffy sinus cavities, sneezing, and watery eyes are typical responses to breathing in pest allergens.
Secondary Infections: Ongoing scratching due to pest bites can allow bacteria entry, causing skin infections.
Symptoms That You May Be Allergic To Pests In Your Home
If you experience persistent allergy symptoms that you can't attribute to a cause, consider these symptoms:
Symptoms get worse indoors: If you feel better once you move out of your house, then indoor allergens by pests could be the culprit.
Chronic nighttime allergies: Nighttime allergies often become severe when dust mites and bed bugs become more active during nighttime hours, thus exacerbating symptoms during this period.
Recurrent asthma symptoms: Cockroach and mouse allergens were significantly implicated in asthma symptom exacerbation.
Unaccounted skin irritations: Unexplainable welts or rashes could be a sign of pests like bed bugs.
Reducing Sources of Allergy and Preventing Pests
Promotion towards a healthier home starts with prevention. Allergy irritants can be significantly reduced by:
Seal Off Food and Clean Often: Seal off food in air-impregnable containers as a deterrent for pests. Vacuum regularly and deep clean carpets and upholstery.
Repair Leaks and Humidity: Fixing breaches and lowering humidity can make a house less welcoming to pests.
De-clutter: Pests love clutter as a hiding place. De-cluttering takes away their hideaways.
Regularly Wash Bedding: Wash bedding in hot water to kill dust mites and bed bugs.
Use Air Purifiers with HEPA Filters: These can remove allergens successfully from the air.
Expert Pest Exterminator Serving Allergy Victims in West Michigan
Although do-it-yourself treatments are advisable, a recurrent infestation necessitates a professional approach. At Empire Pest Control, we comprehend the specific requirements that dwellers in Holland, Grand Rapids, and Muskegon need. Our approach towards an Integrated Pest Management system seeks to find where the issue begins and provide selective yet effective treatments that get rid of pests without recourse to chemicals that can exacerbate allergies.
We provide:
Residential Pest Services: Tailored treatments for area residences in the Holland, MI area.
Animal Removal & Exclusion: We exclude wildlife such as raccoons, squirrels, and bats that also transmit allergens.
Humane Exclusion for Bats: Closing up areas so that they do not develop colonies and abandon guano.
When Should You Call a Pest Control Professional Near You?
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If you reside in Holland, Grand Haven, Grand Rapids, or the tight-knit area of West Michigan and wake up with recurring allergy symptoms that can be attributed to a potential pest invasion, it's time to bring in the experts.
You observe frequent sightings of pests like droppings or cast skin. Symptoms persist or escalate in spite of efforts on your part. You require an overall solution for the safety of your family's health and home. Keep a minor issue from escalating into a health epidemic. Call Empire Pest Control now for a trained inspection and tailored pest solution approach for a healthier, pest-free living space. Call now at (616) 796-8900.
