Pollens

Keep windows and doors closed

Avoid using window or attic fans that draw in outside air

Use air conditioning

Refrain from outdoor activities during times of high pollen counts (especially early morning and early evening) – can follow seasonal pollen counts in the newspaper

Following outdoor activities, shower or bathe and change clothes

Dry clothes in a vented dryer, not outside on the line

Molds and Fungi

Outdoor Exposures:

Refrain from walking through uncut fields, working with compost or dry soil, and raking leaves

Keep windows and doors closed

Avoid using window or attic fans that draw in outside air

Use air conditioning

Indoor Exposures:

Clean moldy swamp coolers

Fix all water leaks

Use air conditioning and dehumidifier to reduce indoor humidity to 20-50%

House Dust Mites

Encase mattress, pillow and box springs in an allergen-impenetrable cover

Wash bedding weekly on the hottest water setting (>130°)

Reduce indoor humidity to 20-50%

Remove stuffed toys from bedroom

Vacuum regularly (preferably with a high filtration system)

Minimize upholstered furniture

Pets

Remove pets from home…if removal of the animal is not acceptable, then:

Keep the pet out of the patient’s bedroom and keep door closed

Isolate pet from upholstered furniture and carpets

Wash the pet weekly to decrease the amount of dander and dried saliva

Use a HEPA filter in bedroom and elevate cleaner off of the floor

Close air ducts in the patient’s room

Other

Attempt to reduce the population of cockroaches by control of food and water sources, routine cleaning, and regular use of poison baits, boric acid, and traps

Control dust as much as possible by removing blinds and carpets, cleaning curtains and floors often, and dusting all surfaces frequently; ideally, someone other than the patient should do the cleaning.

Read food labels if allergic to additives such as sulfites or peanuts