Ways Your Home Might Be Making You Sick

4 Ways Your Home Might Be Making You Sick

 

Guest Post provided by: agingwellness.org

Like most people, you probably spend a lot of time at home. Although it’s a place where you can relax and feel safe and secure, your house might harbor hidden hazards which could compromise your health. Even with regular cleaning, upkeep, and maintenance, mold and dust can get out of hand. These are common issues to look out for and tips for managing them.

 

1. Mold

You might be familiar with the dangers associated with mold, but it’s more widespread than you may think.

Mold can grow in several places within your home, many of which are difficult to reach.

  • Plumbing leaks

  • Vacuum or air filters

  • HVAC systems

  • Humidifiers

  • Poor ventilation

 
These can lead to a build-up of different varieties of mold in your home, some of which can pose health risks.
Long-term exposure to certain mold strains can cause respiratory issues and increases the likelihood of your children developing allergies.
One way to combat mold is to check your plumbing for leaks, especially in areas that retain humidity, such as the bathroom or basement. In addition, make sure to clean your humidifiers  and filters frequently.Once mold develops, it can be costly to remove, sometimes requiring extensive renovations.
You can find the closest HVAC service provider in your area with an online search.

 

2. Dust Mites

If anyone in your family suffers from allergies or asthma, you should be concerned about dust mites.
These microscopic pests live in every household.
Feeding on the dust and dead skin cells in your furniture, bedding, and carpets.
As well are the most common trigger for dust allergies. Dust mite allergy symptoms include sneezing, runny nose,
and watery or itchy eyes, and in severe cases, may trigger debilitating and life-threatening asthma attacks.
Reducing the concentration of dust mites in your home can help ease the severity of symptoms.

 

While it’s impossible to rid your home of dust mites, you can manage their impact by keeping your house clean.

You can do this by vacuuming carpets and upholstered furniture, washing linens and pillows, and cleaning air filters. Pet households contain a higher concentration of dust mites,
so consider bathing your pets often and keeping them out of the bedroom and off the furniture.
Pet households contain a higher concentration of dust mites.
So consider bathing your pets often and keeping them out of the bedroom and off the furniture.

 

3. Bacteria

There are several ways you and your family might get exposed to harmful bacteria in your home.

Common culprits include dish sponge, expired foods, and unfiltered drinking water.

Food poisoning symptoms can be mild or severe, causing anything from an upset stomach to vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.

 

Replace your sponges weekly, be mindful of expiration dates, and don’t keep leftovers for too long.

According to experts, you should drink plenty of waterbut your faucets might be home to bacteria and mold.

Using a water filtration device keeps your water clean and safe to drink.

 

4. Hazardous Chemicals

When cleaning your home,

You probably use products that contain ingredients that could be hazardous to your family’s health.

These chemical compounds can irritate your skin, eyes, and lungs.

Especially if you don’t take extra precautions when using household cleaning products.

Protect yourself when cleaning with bleach or ammonia

by wearing gloves or face masks and opening the doors and windows. Another idea is to opt for non-toxic products., such as vinegar and baking soda, which can clean without causing headaches and respiratory issues.

Recognizing potential health hazards in your home can be challenging.
especially when they could be hiding in plain sight. Fortunately
Incorporating simple steps into your routine can help create a healthy home for your family.

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