The symptoms that are most often reported by those who live in a house that is not good for their health include respiratory symptoms as well as cognitive issues. This could include foggy thinking, headaches, and sleep disturbances too.
High Levels of Humidity
If your home has an elevated level of humidity, or if you know that your humidity levels are higher than 60%, then this can be a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. If the levels are high enough, then you may find that the mold is able to spread behind the walls and if this happens for long enough then you may find that you end up experiencing a plethora of health issues. This can include everything from allergic reactions to stomach issues and even nerve damage. High humidity can also make your home a haven for dust mites, which can easily lead to allergic reactions and sleep disorders.
Tons of Dust
Dust can be a real nuisance, and at the same time, it can carry dust mites. This can impact your nasal passage and it can also affect your eyes too. Studies have shown that dust mites put a lot of pressure on your immune system, and this weakens it over time. Dust is also known for attracting dirt from the outside and this can include pesticides and herbicides. This can make your nervous system overreact and this is the last thing that you need. If you want to learn how to minimize dust, then it is wise for you to use a HEPA filter. You also need to avoid wearing shoes in the house, and that you take the time to wash any bedding or stuffed animals on a regular basis. If you know that you struggle with allergies, then you need to do your bit to hire an allergy specialist as they can help you to minimize your symptoms as much as possible.
Water Damage
A lot of people experience water damage from time to time. It may be that it is from a weak window or that it is the result of a basement flood. Either way, flooding is awful for your home and if you do not get it taken care of by a professional then this will work against you. If you do see water damage or if you have an ongoing leak, then you have to clean it up properly so you do not end up attracting mold. Some of the tell-tale signs of water damage include soft or warped ceilings as well as trim that doesn’t quite fit flush to the wall.
Tight Seals
The energy movement is now in full swing. A lot of homes are sealed tight, and this stops any outdoor air from being able to reach the inside. While this is great for energy bills, it is a potential health issue. Indoor air is often dirtier when compared to outdoor air. If you want to limit some of the effects that come from this, then make sure that you open the windows and the doors in your home. You also need to utilize mechanical ventilation, such as by installing an air-to-air heat exchange. Lastly, make sure that you use air vents that can pull air from the outside in, when cooking or baking.
Moisture
Moisture intrusion can easily refer to any water that may make its way into your home, whether it is from the outside or the inside. Water that comes from the outside can easily cause a lot of damage from behind the walls and it can also lead to issues such as mold. This is even the case with smaller amounts. Even though condensation may well seem harmless, it can put your home at a much higher risk when it comes to mold. It is often seen when the outside air is cooler and much drier than the indoor air. If you can you need to try and stop this from happening by making sure that you have a well-ventilated home and by also making sure that you do what you can to try and wipe down the condensation when it occurs.
So, as you can see, it is entirely possible for your home to set off your allergies and if you are not careful, then you may find that you end up suffering needlessly. By keeping an eye out for issues like this, you can be sure to make your home a happier, healthier, and safer place to live for you and your whole family.
