by Glenda Thompson

Created on: December 08, 2008   Last Updated: January 30, 2009

Dust mites, the tiny relatives of ticks and spiders, are now recognized as being the main cause of asthma, chronic hay fever and other allergies. The knowledge that the average mattress contains 2 million dust mites (according to www.asthma.org.uk) is enough to send one into a sneezing frenzy! Dust mites cannot be seen by the naked eye, in fact they are so small that six of them can fit onto a pin head. They thrive in the warm, humid conditions of the mattress, the pillow, and bedding in general, where they feed on dead skin cells.

Over four million people in the UK (85% of the population) who suffer from asthma are sensitive to house dust mites. Other common allergens include pollen (tree, weed and grass) mold and animal dander. There are also common irritants, such as formaldehyde, that cause sneezing and watery eyes, but they are not considered to be allergens if they do not activate the immune system's response.

The question is how to deal with these common allergens in the home? Interestingly enough, the most effective, least expensive, and simplest options are not always followed. Many people choose medications or vaccinations despite their drawbacks. Fortunately, there are lots of simple methods, both old and new, to help with the avoidance of these allergens. People with asthma or allergic rhinitis due to dust mites, moulds, or other indoor allergens, should feel better if they take these simple measures:

Keep the home cool (between 68 and 72 degrees F); Maintain a low humidity (between 40 and 50%); and make certain there is good ventilation.

An Air Purifier is essential to maintaining an allergen free and healthy home. For those who suffer from allergies, it is crucial to inhale purified air. The air purifiers listed below have been selected for their versatility. More information on each item can be found on Allergymatters.com

FIVE TOP PRODUCTS THAT PREVENT ALLERGIES IN THE HOME

The LIGHTAIR IONFLOW 50F is a Standard Air Purifier and is quiet, uses virtually no electricity and is very easy to maintain. It needs no expensive replacement filters, instead all the dust and particles are attracted to the collector, which can be removed and washed in warm soapy water. Created by a Swedish company, it is environmentally friendly and totally safe. This unit can be at home anywhere, creating the perfect balance between blending in and standing out, and creating clean air in rooms up to 50m in under 5 hours.

FILTRETE ULTRA SLIM AIR PURIFIER is a quiet, very slim,

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