Pest allergies are an increasingly common issue in Florida as the weather allows the critters to thrive. Common household pests like cockroaches, rodents, dust mites, and stinging insects such as bees and wasps can trigger allergic reactions. These can include sneezing, itching, and nasal congestion. Sometimes, it can be severe and require immediate medical intervention.
Even if you get the treatment and remove the allergy-causing pest from your property, the allergens can still linger. Rodent droppings, urine, and dander can become airborne and cause respiratory issues. Cockroach allergens are known for aggravating asthma and allergy symptoms. Studies show that 63% of homes contain cockroach allergens.
Given the potential health risks associated with pest allergies, it is important to monitor your property for them regularly. This is where Oakland Pest Control comes in. They can effectively remove pests and eliminate the sources of allergens. Additionally, they can implement methods to prevent infestations in the future.
Signs and symptoms of pest allergies
General symptoms of pest allergies
Some of the common symptoms of pest allergies include coughing, sneezing, running nose, and itchy throat and eyes. People often confuse it with the symptoms of the common cold. However, pest allergic reactions may persist for weeks if the exposure to such allergens continues. If you have been experiencing the symptoms mentioned above, seek medical attention immediately.
Skin reactions
In many cases, a bite or sting from these pests can result in skin reactions at the infected site. It may include redness, swelling, and itching. Such skin reactions are commonly caused by stinging insects like bees and wasps or biting insects like mosquitoes.
Respiratory symptoms
Exposure to pest allergens, especially from household pests like fleas and cockroaches, can also lead to serious respiratory issues. Respiratory symptoms may include difficulty breathing, continuous coughing, and asthma attacks. For people with asthma, these allergens can make their condition worse.
Severe allergic reactions
In rare cases, exposure to pest allergens can lead to a life-threatening condition called anaphylaxis. In this condition, the blood pressure in your body drops, which leads to a narrowing of airflow, causing difficulty in breathing. It also leads to swelling in the mouth and throat, dizziness, and unconsciousness.
Treatment options for pest allergies
The treatment options for pest allergies may include preventive strategies, immunotherapy, and medications. The basic way to treat pest allergies is by limiting or reducing exposure to such allergens.
Make sure to keep your homes clean and tidy, as clutters and debris seem to attract these critters. Keep foods covered and in airtight containers to keep them away from cockroaches and ants. Also, wash your bedding with boiling water to kill bed bugs and moths.
You can also treat pest allergies with several over-the-counter medications. Some common medications include corticosteroid nasal sprays, antihistamines, and decongestants. They are highly effective in treating itching, sneezing, and nasal congestion.
However, in cases of severe stings or bites leading to allergic skin reactions, corticosteroid creams are prescribed. In acute allergic reactions, an epinephrine injection is given.
Another effective long-term treatment for pest allergies is immunotherapy. It is the best treatment for insect venom allergies. In this treatment approach, patients are given small doses of the particular allergen so that the body becomes used to it. Therefore, it becomes less sensitive to it.
In many cases, patients are given a combination of preventive strategies, medications, and immunotherapy as the treatment. The doctor will typically ask for information on your medical history before creating a treatment plan.
Protect your family from pests!
Pests are a nuisance in many Florida homes. They can contaminate your food and pose health risks. The danger is even greater for people with low immunity and pest allergies. If you are unsure whether you or your family is allergic to pests, you can get it checked with a doctor.
Call a pest control company and schedule an inspection today!
