Cockroaches are very common pests found in most households. But did you know that these six-legged critters can trigger asthma symptoms due to their saliva and droppings? If you or anyone in your family is suffering from asthma attacks, the cause behind such condition might be hiding underneath your kitchen sink or cupboards. How can these creepy crawlies trigger asthma symptoms and attacks?
Cockroaches: The Asthma Trigger
Cockroaches produce allergens that can trigger allergic reactions in some people. The source of these allergens can be from the decomposing cockroach bodies or their excrements that disintegrate into tiny particles which can become airborne. Although these allergens cannot remain airborne for a long time, stirring up the settled particles through dusting or vacuuming can cause these particles to be inhaled by sensitive people; thus causing allergic reactions.
Every individual reacts to roaches differently. It can depend on how sensitive a person is to the allergens, the level of infestation, and the quality of air ventilation inside the house. There are individuals who are very sensitive to such allergens that they suffer from asthma attacks. Asthma is an allergic reaction. Some of the asthma symptoms you need to watch out for include:
- Increased nighttime coughing
- Feeling tired after doing normal activities
- Your peak expiratory flow rate decreases
- Restless sleep due to nighttime coughing
- Coughing with physical activities
- Other allergy symptoms, including runny nose, inflamed skin, and itchy eyes.
How To Decrease Exposure To Roaches
The best way to deter roaches is to keep your home clean and sanitary. Roaches thrive in dirty and moist areas; thus, eliminating their food and water sources, as well as getting rid of potential breeding areas can discourage these bugs from getting into your home. You can also do the following:
- Empty garbage bins and cans every day and remember to keep them sealed all the time
- Keep food out of the bedroom and limit it to the kitchen only
- Do not let empty food containers and drink cans and bottles accumulate in any area of your room. Immediately dispose them into the garbage
- Do not let uncovered food out
- Clean and sanitize the kitchen floors and countertops at least every week
- Seal any holes and cracks to prevent roaches from gaining entry to your household.
- Consider using roach traps or natural pest control solutions.
If you have a major roach infestation at home, immediately call a professional exterminator. A professional can easily get rid of these pests. If you are worried about the side effects of certain pest control chemicals, you can ask them if they can use eco-friendly pest control solutions.