How does air quality affect allergies?
January 9, 2023 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Wilhelm Endres
Dear Doctor,
My name is Emilia Schottmann and I have been suffering from allergic reactions for some time now. Especially in the last few weeks, I have been experiencing increased problems with my allergy, which manifests in sneezing, watery eyes, and breathing difficulties. I am wondering if the air quality could have an impact on my allergies.
There are various factors in my environment that could affect the air quality. Firstly, I live on a busy street, which could lead to increased particulate matter pollution. Additionally, I recently got a new carpet in my apartment, which may exacerbate allergic reactions. Furthermore, I have noticed that my allergy symptoms worsen when I am in certain poorly ventilated rooms.
I am concerned that the air quality in my surroundings could worsen my allergies and I am wondering if there are ways to improve the air quality to alleviate my symptoms. Are there specific measures I can take to clean the air in my home or workplace and reduce my allergy symptoms? Are there also certain behaviors I should keep in mind to control my allergies? I would be very grateful for your advice and recommendations.
Thank you in advance.
Sincerely,
Emilia Schottmann
Dear Mrs. Schottmann,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as an allergist. I am sorry to hear that you have been experiencing allergic reactions, especially intensified in the past few weeks. Your question about whether air quality could have an impact on your allergies is indeed valid. In fact, the air quality in your environment can play a role in exacerbating your symptoms.
Regarding the factors that could influence air quality, which you mentioned, there are various measures you can take to improve the air in your home or workplace and thus reduce your allergy symptoms.
Firstly, the increased particulate matter pollution in a heavily trafficked street could indeed worsen your allergy symptoms. To minimize this, you could, for example, use air purifiers or air filters in your home to reduce particulate matter pollution. Additionally, it would be advisable to ventilate regularly to let fresh air into the rooms and improve air circulation.
The new carpet in your apartment could also exacerbate allergic reactions, especially if it releases dust or pollutants. It would be advisable to vacuum and clean the carpet regularly to reduce allergen exposure. Furthermore, you could consider using allergy-friendly carpets that contain fewer allergens.
Regarding poorly ventilated rooms that could worsen your allergy symptoms, it is important to ensure adequate ventilation. Open windows regularly to let in fresh air and avoid the accumulation of mold or other allergens in these rooms.
In addition to the mentioned measures, there are also certain behaviors that can help you control your allergies. These include avoiding allergens such as pollen or pet dander, regularly cleaning bedding and curtains, and wearing a face mask when working outdoors.
I hope this information helps you and supports you in alleviating your allergy symptoms. If you have any further questions or need more advice, I am happy to assist.
Best regards,
Wilhelm Endres
