Allergen Testing

Allergens and Asthma

An allergen is a substance that causes an allergic reaction in individuals sensitive to it. Common household allergens include cat and dog dander, dust mites, and mouse, rat, and cockroach residues.

According to a study by the Children's Hospital Medical Center of Cincinnati, more than 2 million asthmatic children and adolescents in the United States might not have the disease if risk factors were removed from their homes. Which means that asthma in children could be reduced by nearly 40 percent by eliminating household allergens and pollutants.

Pets – not family history or heredity – appear to be the major risk factor. Children and adolescents with histories of pet allergies were 2.4 times more likely to be diagnosed with asthma.

Animal Dander

Proteins in the dander, urine, feces, and saliva of warm-blooded animals can cause allergic reactions or trigger asthma in certain individuals. The most effective method of controlling animal allergens in the home is simply not to allow animals indoors. If possible, indoor pets should be limited to areas with hardwood, tile, vinyl, or stone flooring. Pets should never be allowed in carpeted bedrooms.

Homebuyers with allergies are advised to have their homes – especially bedrooms – tested for household allergens. Contact us for information on allergen screens or testing for specific allergens in your home.