Cockroaches and Asthma
WouterCockroaches may not be the first thing you think about when it comes to your health, but if you live in a home with cockroaches, you might be susceptible to asthma. The allergens they carry can trigger asthma and allergies in many people. Cockroach allergens can cause a stuffy nose, coughing, and wheezing. According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), cockroach allergens are present in 63 percent of US homes. These allergens can trigger an asthma attack in people with or without asthma.
People with cockroach allergies should see a doctor if they have symptoms. In many cases, medications can reduce their symptoms. However, some people may not respond well to these medicines. In those cases, an allergist may recommend immunotherapy. This long-term treatment aims to change the course of allergic disease by altering the body’s response to allergens. In the meantime, you can also try allergy-friendly products.
Cockroach allergy is a very real possibility, especially for those who live in urban areas. It is estimated that between 897,000 and 2 million people in Los Angeles suffer from cockroach allergy. This number is higher than other U.S. cities, such as New York, Boston, and Seattle. If you live in an area where cockroaches are common, you may be prone to developing asthma and allergies.
Studies conducted on cockroach allergy have shown that exposure to cockroach allergens increases the incidence of asthma and atopy. The severity of asthma has also been associated with exposure to environmental pollutants, such as house dust mites.
