HOUSTON, TX – As predicted, Ike has left more than storm damage in its wake. Hurricane winds have stirred up irritants, mold spores and pollens into the air and it will be some time before everything settles down.
The problem is compounded for regions that are still in the dark. No power means no air conditioning. However, open windows to cool down a home also mean that the allergens and irritants are now inside. Add the beginning of the fall allergy season, with weeds and grasses pollinating, and the difficulties increase for anyone who has inhalant allergies.
On the other hand, the homeowner has to be equally concerned about mold. The best way to stop mold is to dry out the home. Some experts recommend that you open your home to outside air as soon as possible to reduce mold growth. But then, you let pollen and other allergens in.
If you’ve got asthma or allergies, you have to find the best solution for your situation. Here are some tips to deal with or get ready for the fall-out from a damaging storm of any kind:
1. If your home is damaged by water, you will have to open it to drier outside air to stop mold - especially if you don’t have electricity. You may have to find other accommodations until you can get the mold removed. Because mold is toxic for the allergic and non-allergic alike, this will be a first priority.
2. Avoid opening windows if your home is not water damaged. This will keep outdoor allergens out. However, getting overheated in a stuffy home will also help to trigger asthma. Therefore, if you don’t have power, go to locations that have electricity and filtered air systems, such as malls or stores, office buildings, local recreational centers, schools and libraries.
3. If you have to move out of your home in advance of a storm, you could be in your car for a long time. Be sure to change the cabin air filter regularly. Use the recycle option on the air conditioning for your car. This will keep the air in your car as allergen-free as possible.
4. If you can ride out a storm in your home, you need your air to be as clean as you can. Change filters on all air conditioning or furnace systems as per the manufacturer’s instructions. You may want to use HEPA filters and change them more frequently to keep the level of allergens as low as possible.
5. When you can leave your home, plan outdoor activities carefully. Avoid windy days (when pollen counts are higher) and early morning hours (when pollen and mold spore counts are at the highest point of the day).
6. Get rid of leaves and branches or debris around your home. These can provide an environment for mold to grow.
7. When in doubt, follow your medical practitioner’s treatment plan for your condition as closely as possible. If your symptoms worsen or do not improve, contact a health care professional.
Source: PR Web
