Indoor allergies are allergies that are usually triggered inside the home or bedroom. For some, this type of allergy usually comes on at night, right when the person settles in for bed. Indoor allergies usually manifest as respiratory allergies. What this means is that indoor allergy sufferers will often experience either: Allergic rhinitis or hay fever, which causes a stuffy nose, itching, sneezing, and watery eyes; or
Allergic asthma, which causes sufferers to experience airway constriction.
The most common triggers for indoor allergies are: Dust mites are microscopic pests that feed on dead skin cells. They live in mattresses, bed linens, upholstered furniture, stuffed animals, carpets, and curtains, often preferring a humid environment. People with dust mite allergies are not actually allergic to the mites themselves, but to proteins found in dust mites' excretions. Because dust mites thrive in hot and humid places, people experiencing nighttime allergy symptoms are advised to keep the humidity levels in their homes below 50 percent. This can be done with the help of a dehumidifier. People with pet allergies are allergic to the proteins found in animal dander or dead skin cells. When our pets shed, they leave their dander all over our homes, spreading it on our bedroom furniture, carpets, clothes, etc. The most common cause of pet allergies is exposure to cats and dogs, but all animals with fur are potential sources of allergies. Mold usually grows in dark and wet environments, like bathrooms and under the kitchen sink. But plumbing problems, a leaking AC unit, and a damaged roof can all bring moisture into unexpected places, allowing mold to grow on carpets, drywall, wallpaper, and rugs. Yes, you can be allergic to cockroaches. Like dust mites, cockroaches carry a protein that many people are allergic to. Cockroach allergies are also known to trigger asthma attacks in those with allergic asthma. Pollen is an airborne allergen and one of the most common causes of seasonal allergies in the United States. Although pollen is created outside, the wind can carry it towards your bedroom window. It can also stick to your hair or clothes, which you can then bring indoors.