Wednesday, March 26, 2003

Managing dust-associated allergies

For millions of Americans who suffer from hay fever, sneezing, wheezing and watery eyes are a way of life. But they don't have to be. Most patients can enjoy normal, active lives through a combination of medical treatment and avoiding allergy triggers by preventing them from entering the home and removing allergens that do get in.

Doctors at the Division of Allergy and Immunology at the University of California at Davis, one of the world's leading allergy research institutions, recommend frequent deep cleaning of the home, including vacuuming at least twice a week. According to a recent U.C.-Davis clinical study, using a built-in central vacuum system offers the best means to remove household dust, dust mites, pollen and pet dander, the leading triggers of allergic rhinitis. The U.C.-Davis study participants used Beam Serenity Series Central Vacuum Systems during the clinical study.

"A central vacuum system is up to five times more powerful than a conventional vacuum, so it captures far more allergens," said John Coghlan, president of Beam Industries. "A central vacuum also pulls all of the contacted material out of the living area to a canister in the garage or basement so it won't recirculate in the home."

Doctors at the U.C.-Davis also offer other recommendations to reduce the severity of allergy symptoms including:

Maintaining relative humidity at less than 50 percent. Dust mites cannot survive in a low-humidity environment.

Cleaning and maintaining forced-air heating systems and air conditioners at least once a year.

Dusting furniture with a damp cloth rather than a dry one.

Installing and using bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans that are vented to the outdoors.

Enclosing pillows, mattresses and box springs with mite-proof coverings and washing bedding at least once a week using water at least 130 degrees.

Replacing fabric-upholstered furniture with leather upholstery or with furniture made of plastic, wood or metal that won't trap allergens.

Experts also advise patients to consult their doctor to determine the appropriate regimen for managing allergies or asthma, and notify the doctor of any change in symptoms.

For more information on the U.C.-Davis study or information about central vacuum systems, visit www.beamvac.com.