How to Allergic Rhinitis-Proof Your Home

The term rhinitis, on its own, means the inflammation of the nasal membranes. Allergic rhinitis is a form of rhinitis triggered by allergens like dust, cat hair, etc. The most common symptoms of allergic rhinitis includes sneezing, nasal congestion, itching of the nose, or even bleeding of the nasal membranes or rhinorrhea.

This isn't really a condition that is unheard of. In fact, roughly 20% of the American population experience allergic rhinitis quite often. When managed properly, allergic rhinitis need not be a cause for alarm. But know that if you leave this untreated and poorly managed, complications that may significantly affect your quality of life may arise.

Aside from medications like antihistamines that help manage allergic rhinitis, there are other ways you can make your house more helpful in keeping your condition in check.

When you're not exposed to allergens, you're allergic rhinitis does not start. Avoiding triggers can help save you from the troubles of fixing your stuffy nose. Here are some tips to avoid allergic rhinitis attacks:

Remove dust collectors at home. Furnitures that appear to be dust magnets should be done away with, as dust is one of the primary allergens that trigger allergic rhinitis.

Use centralized air conditioning systems as much as possible. This will prove beneficial especially during high mould and pollen periods.

Don't push dust around the house with a duster. Use a wet mop or washcloth. Pushing the dust around spreads the allergen all around the house.

Use specialized covers on mattresses. There's a special dust mite cover that may help minimize the growth of bed bugs on your mattress and sheets.

Keep indoor humidity as low as you possibly can. Making use of dehumidifiers help keep the humidity level down at 40% to 45%

Mix up a batch of fungicide by combining equal parts of water and household bleach and using it to clean the sinks, shower stalls, vegetable storage areas, and garbage bins.

Install the new high-efficiency filters called HEPA filters. HEPA filters remove 99.97% of airborne particles that could trigger allergic rhinitis.

Move plants to your outdoor garden. Indoor plants are a common source of mould in the house.

Refrain from going out during seasons where plants and flowers usually pollinate.

Remember that nothing beats a good cure other than taking preventive measures. By making your house as allergen-free as possible, you significantly decrease your chances of having an episode.