People with allergies often have a genetic background that predisposes them to hives, eczema, hay fever or asthma, a so-called atopic terrain.
But the environment and the way of life are also very much in question. They are triggers or aggravating factors that can be acted upon.
- Bite the mites out of your bed
Carpets have long been accused of being the main reservoir of mites, these microscopic animals responsible for 45% of respiratory allergies. They must of course be vacuumed regularly but "there is always 10 times less mites in carpets than in bedding, the primary focus of these dead skin eaters," says Dr. Fabien Squinasi, former director of the laboratory of hygiene of the city of Paris.
However, specialists advise against the use of acaricide products because they are less and less effective and may contain irritants according to a study of the 60 million consumers magazine of March 2017.
The solution: "opt for a slatted frame (not fabric) to promote air circulation and reduce humidity, vacuum the mattress , prefer synthetic quilts and pillows and wash the sheets at 60 ° C to eliminate allergens, "advises Dr. Squinasi.
- Limit the green plants in the house
While they recharge the air oxygen but they maintain moisture and promote the development of extremely allergenic mold . In addition, some ornamentals release a lot of allergens. This is the case of yucca, saw palmetto and ivy, according to a study by the Free University of Brussels. Ficus and rubber, very common in apartments, are also at risk: their allergens are detectable within a radius of 3 meters.
In addition they contain proteins close to latex, which many allergic people can not tolerate. Nearly 80% of people with allergic rhinitis are sensitive to green plants. Reduce their number and ban them from the bedroom.
- Beware of sanitizing sprays
They are supposed to clean the air of our homes - especially sprays with essential oils - but they emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that pollute the indoor environment, according to the French Syndicate of Allergists. In addition, they release suspended droplets that attack the respiratory tract and may contain known allergens, such as limonene, which may trigger asthma attacks.
Similarly, limit household products in the form of aerosols. "When possible, use natural products such as Marseille soap and white vinegar," recommends Dr. Isabelle Bossé, President of the French Syndicate of Allergists.
- Air your interior
To protect yourself from allergens, air must be ventilated early in the morning and late at night when fewer pollens are flown. Or just after a shower.
In times of strong pollination, remember to trade your contact lenses for glasses, more protective. And shower when you return, especially if you have crossed a garden or rubbed flowerbeds.
- Find out about pollen risk in your area
Before putting your nose out, find out about pollen risks. Several free sites and applications give in real time the pollen varieties in the air and their concentration in your area.
The website of the National Aerobiological Surveillance Network ( www.pollens.fr ) provides surveys by city and department. The Pollens Alerts app (Stallergènes laboratory) offers indications on the zones of its choice. And the i-Pollen app (Urgo lab) even displays 7-day forecasts and sends alerts according to your allergic profile.
