Indoor allergen allergy
Allergy to Mold, Dust Mites or Animals
What it is
This is an allergy to substances commonly found in the home, such as mold, dust mites or animal dander. It occurs when the body reacts to the particles in the air that we breathe or come into contact with.
Related sheets available: Allergy, Difficulty Breathing
What you can do at home
What to do
- Vacuum furniture and rugs.
- Dust often with a damp cloth, especially in bedrooms.
- Choose curtains and rugs that are easy to wash.
- Use dust mite covers on mattresses and pillows.
- Wash bedding (sheets and blankets) in hot water every week.
- Put items that cannot be washed in the dryer on a hot setting.
- If you are allergic to an animal, consider no longer living with the animal.
For young children
- Keep only a few stuffed animals or dolls in their bedroom.
- Wash stuffed animals and dolls in hot water at least twice a month.
Avoid
- Reduce clutter and other items that collect dust, such as trinkets, upholstered furniture, rugs and carpeting.
- Avoid feather pillows, thick down comforters, flannel sheets and wool blankets.
- Avoid shaking out bedding.
- Avoid smoke and anything else that can irritate the lungs, such as dust or chemicals.
- Avoid using floor or ceiling fans, especially in bedrooms.
When to seek medical attention
Difficulty breathing for no apparent reason
A skin rash (redness or bumps) for no apparent reason
Frequent red eyes or a runny nose for no apparent reason
Need help?
Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.
Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.
Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.
If you do not have a family doctor, go to gap.soinsvirtuels or call 811, Option 3.
When to go to the hospital right away
Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction (redness, itchy skin, or swelling of the lips, tongue or face), along with at least one of the following:
- A high-pitched sound when breathing (stridor) or difficulty breathing
- Bluish or purplish lips or fingers
- Feeling weak or dizzy, or loss of consciousness
- A very rapid heartbeat
- Stomach ache, vomiting or diarrhea (watery stools)
For young children (ages 0 to 2):
not responding as usual, being limp or difficult to wake