We’re a sneezin’, wheezin’ nation, and it’s not getting any better. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases reports about 50 million Americans are plagued with some type of allergy. This ranks allergies, in all their various forms, sixth on the list of chronic diseases in the United States. What may surprise you are some of the allergens that can kick off such reactions and their source of origin, the daily pollen count may be the least of our worries.

Dr. Brent Allan has degrees in public health, environmental health and nutrition. These are Dr. Allan’s tips for reducing pollutant exposure.

1) MOISTURE: It can cause mold. Install exhaust fans in bathrooms, and look for areas where leaks may occur.

2) CARPETS: Vacuum regularly. Dust mites live everywhere and are responsible for a number of allergies.

3) DRYERS: Clean your lint screen regularly—outside. Make sure your exhaust vent is connected and cleaned regularly.

4) PESTICIDES: Avoid pesticide use in the house. If you have an infestation problem, call a professional exterminator who uses products with natural ingredients.

5) CLEANING PRODUCTS: Household cleaners typically release unhealthy or irritation vapors. Use non-aerosol and nontoxic products. The cleansers that smell “lemony fresh” are probably not the best, although they smell healthy.

6) DRY CLEANING: Dry cleaners use volatile chemicals to clean your clothes. After you pick up your dry cleaning, remove the plastic bag and hang your clothes outside for a few minutes before placing them in the closet.

7) SHOWERHEAD FILTER: Identify and use a showerhead filter that eliminates at least 95% of chlorine.

8) WATER PURIFIER: Use one with multiple technologies to maximize effectiveness.

9) AIR PURIFIER: Use an air purifier that includes multiple strategies, like ionization, oxidation and UV to bring the solution to the pollution.

For further information call Joyce Rizzo of Healthy Home Products at 321-637-1924 or visit www.rizzoair.com.