Increased allergen levels: Asthma cause

Washington, Mar 4 (UNI) Asthma symptoms may alleviate with increased allergen levels at home, study says.

Asthma, one of the most common chronic ailments affecting millions worldwide has been shown to be triggered by a wide range of substances called allergens.

The study, carried out at University of Iowa, suggested asthmatics having allergies might increase symptoms by reducing allergen exposures inside their homes.

''Indoor allergen exposures are of major concern in relation to asthma because most people spend a majority of their time indoors, especially at home,'' stated Darryl Zeldin, principal investigator.

The indoor allergens studied included those from dog, cat, mouse, cockroach, dust mite and the fungus Alternaria.

Several factors were found to contribute to the increased concentrations of allergens, including race, income, type of home, and sources of allergens, such as presence of pets and pests.

The study also showed that homes with children were less likely to have high allergen levels, since homes with children might be cleaned more frequently than homes without children.

With regular household cleaning might be an effective regimen keeping allergens at bay.

''Although reducing allergen levels in the home may not prevent individuals from developing asthma, reducing exposure levels is crucial for those whose asthma is allergic in nature,'' concluded lead researcher Paivi Salo.

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