There are a lot of reasons not to like cockroaches. They spread disease, bring their waste into our homes and generally just gross us out. Sometimes, they even need cockroach pest control to remove completely. 

But did you know that cockroaches are also linked to allergens? If you’re allergic to these tough little insects then you have another reason for not wanting to find them in your home. In today’s post, we’re going to look at why cockroaches are linked to allergens. We’ll also explore some of the allergies caused by other common pests and why you’ll want them out of your home as soon as possible.

Which Pests Cause Allergens?

So we’ve already mentioned that cockroaches cause allergies. Generally, cockroaches are found in cities. We know that they’re normally found where humans are found.

Incredibly, it’s believed that up to 60% of people that suffer from allergies – and live in cities – are also allergic to cockroaches. Talk about bad luck. To make matters worse, cockroach allergens will also cause complications with any existing asthma condition.

But it’s not just cockroaches. Other common pests such as dust mites and rodents are also linked to allergens. So why is that? And what’s the common link?

What Causes These Allergens?

There’s every chance that you could be allergic to the cockroach itself. Cockroach bodies have been known to cause reactions. But as well as their bodies, cockroach waste also causes problems. Their saliva can also be dangerous too. Similar issues arise with waste from other pests.

If you’re allergic to cockroaches, then you’ll know about it. These are some of the most common symptoms:

• A constant blocked and stuffy nose
• Sinus issues and ear infections
• Itchiness – particularly around the eyes and nose
• Shortness of breath, wheezing
• Coughing
• A tight chest
• Rashes and problems with your skin

If you think may have a cockroach allergen, then contact your doctor to explain your symptoms.

How Can You Prevent Pest Allergens Spreading?

So hopefully we’ve made it clear that you don’t want to come into contact with pests that you’re allergic to. There are a few things you can do around the house to reduce your likelihood of suffering from allergy symptoms.

First of all, keep your kitchen clean. This goes without saying, but the fewer food crumbs, dirt, and leftovers there are, the fewer cockroaches will want to enter your kitchen. You’ll also be cleaning away any cockroach droppings and dirt without even realizing it.

That applies to your floor too. If cockroaches are present, they’ll have been scuttling along your floors. Dust mites will be swept away by vacuuming and anything that cockroaches have left behind will be too. Wash your clothes regularly, and make sure to maintain low moisture levels throughout your home. Cockroaches and other insects are drawn to damp, dark places. If there’s a leaking pipe anywhere in your home, fix it right away.

Rodent droppings, as we mentioned earlier, can also cause allergic reactions. Seal up any cracks, holes, and crevices you have around doors and windows. Rats and mice are incredibly intelligent and able creatures. If you leave them the smallest opportunity, they’re sure to take it.

Contact Truly Nolen for All Your Pest Control Issues

Some reports have suggested that if you find one cockroach on your property, there could be up to 800 others hiding in your walls, flooring, and basement. If you find one cockroach, don’t take the chance. 

Call the cockroach pest control experts today. Our talented Truly Nolen technicians will be able to take care of your infestation quickly and effectively. What’s more, we’ll clean up anything that we think could have caused an allergic reaction, so that you can get back to doing what you love around your home.