Dirty air ducts can lead to a variety of problems in your home. From the potential fire risk and carbon monoxide poisoning that we discussed in our previous blog post about cleaning air ducts to the bacteria and viruses that lurk in unclean air ducts. These microorganisms can cause everything from severe flu-like symptoms to something as minor as an itchy throat or runny nose. Depending on your circumstances, some of these illnesses may be more prevalent than others. However, any one of them can be exacerbated by exposure to unclean air ducts. You should hire a Columbia Air Duct Cleaning Company. Read on for a full list of common illnesses triggered by dirty air ducts:
Asthma Attack
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting your lungs. It is triggered by exposure to allergens that cause your airways to swell and become inflamed. This can make it difficult to breathe, potentially leading to an asthma attack. Air ducts can accumulate dust and other allergens, so they can be a source of these triggers. When the air is circulating through unclean ducts, it can distribute those allergens throughout the building. This can trigger asthma attacks in occupants. If you have asthma and your air ducts are dirty, you should have them professionally cleaned as soon as possible.
Allergic Reactions
Dust mites are common allergens found in unclean air ducts that can cause reactions ranging from minor itching to life-threatening anaphylactic shock. Symptoms include irritation around the eyes, nose, and throat. If your ducts are especially dirty and infested with dust mites and other allergens, you might experience a reaction after simply walking into your house. Dust mites and other allergens can be safely removed by air duct cleaning services. Having your ducts regularly by an air duct cleaning company can help to prevent or reduce allergic reactions. Dust mites are commonly found in carpets and upholstery as well, and can also be found in bedding and clothing. Therefore, it is important to clean these items often as well. You can use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to remove as much dust mite debris as possible. You can also wash your sheets and clothes in hot water, as these are the best ways to remove dust mites and other allergens from fabrics.
Influenza (Flu) and Rhinitis
The flu (influenza) is a viral infection that leads to flu-like symptoms such as fever, headaches, and muscle aches. It can also cause symptoms in the upper respiratory system, such as a runny nose, cough, and sore throat. Similarly, rhinitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose. It can be caused by allergies, infections, and irritants in the environment. Rhinitis is often accompanied by excessive mucus production, which can make you more susceptible to respiratory infections. Air ducts can be a major environmental irritant. When the ducts are dirty, they can circulate a lot of dust and other irritants throughout the home. This can cause rhinitis and make people more susceptible to catching the flu. Having your air ducts cleaned regularly can help to reduce the amount of dust and other irritants in your home, and thus, your susceptibility to the flu and rhinitis.
Viral Infections such as the Common Cold and the Flu
Colds and influenza (flu) are two of the most common viral infections in the world. They are usually, but not always, caused by a type of virus called rhinovirus. A dirty environment can breed viruses, as pathogens like bacteria and viruses thrive in dirty environments. Viruses such as the common cold and the flu thrive in unclean air ducts and can be easily spread throughout a building when the air is circulated through them. Having your air ducts professionally cleaned on a bi-yearly basis can help to minimize the spread and growth of these viruses. This can help to keep the rest of the family healthy and minimize the amount of time you are sick.
Illness Caused by Bacteria and Viruses
Bacteria and viruses are present in all environments, indoors and outdoors. However, they thrive in unclean environments that provide ample food and shelter. Air ducts are a prime example of such an environment, providing bacteria and viruses with carbon dioxide, food, and shelter. Bacteria can cause illnesses such as pneumonia, strep throat, and staph infections. Viruses can cause everything from the common cold to the flu. If the air ducts in your home are especially dirty, they can be a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses. This can lead to illness among the occupants of your home. Bacteria and viruses can be removed by air duct cleaning. Having your ducts professionally cleaned can help to reduce the number of bacteria and viruses in your home, and thus, your risk of becoming ill.