According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, one in four Americans suffers from asthma or the effects of allergies. Eliminating or reducing household triggers is essential to minimize exposure to hazardous airborne pollutants. Whether it’s asthma, seasonal allergies, or indoor allergies, one of the simplest and most cost-effective methods to reduce particulate and molecular triggers is to purchase and implement the use of high-quality air filters.

How is clean air related to asthma and allergies?

James T. Li, MD of the Mayo Clinic had this to say about air filters: “Air filters that remove small particles, such as high-efficiency particulate (HEPA) air filters, are effective at removing allergens. from the air, without posing any problems. Ozone concerns. To function effectively, filters must be cleaned or replaced regularly, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. ” Dr. Li is also chairman of the Division of Allergic Diseases in the Department of Internal Medicine.

With this in mind, it is important to consult with your doctor about your specific condition and circumstances. Talk to your doctor about all of your symptoms and be sure to take note of any sources of allergens that may be making your asthma or allergies worse. Some of the triggers for asthma and allergies are:

• Pet dander
• Mold spores
• Dust
• Pollen
• Chemical vapors
• Pathogens
• Smoke

Keeping the air in your home clean

It is important to ensure that the air quality in your home is as clean as possible. There is not much you can do about external allergens when you leave your home. However, you have a high degree of environmental control over your home.

• Make sure your vents are clean and free of dust. Vacuuming regularly and properly disposing of bags or dirt helps reduce levels of irritants and contaminants.
• Regular cleaning of the surfaces of appliances, countertops, and furniture will also further clean your home.
• Using cleaners that are mild but reduce the growth of bacteria and viruses is also ideal.
• Make sure areas that store paints and chemical cleaners are well ventilated and not near your ventilation or air conditioning unit. Chemicals like bleach or paint thinner can affect and exacerbate asthma and allergy symptoms.
• Tobacco smoke is another culprit, as is smoke or fumes from burning materials.

The importance of air filters

The biggest, but perhaps the most important step is choosing a high-quality air filter. While price doesn’t always depend on quality, choose the best filter you can afford; don’t skimp. Air filters reduce indoor pollutants, such as particulate matter and molecular activators, by trapping them and preventing them from re-entering the air in your home.

Filters that have been treated with antimicrobial actives inhibit the growth and spread of mold and bacteria in the air. Airborne bacteria and mold are two pollutants that can seriously affect people with and without asthma and allergies.

Choose a charcoal pleated air filter to trap or capture molecular triggers, such as airborne pathogens or chemical vapors. Typical filters, without carbon or other proven molecular active, do not capture chemical vapors.

Be sure to replace your filters at least at the intervals recommended by their manufacturer. For cleaner air, replace filters more often.