We get calls to test for allergens in a property for various reasons. It may be that a client of ours is allergic to cats and is purposely moving into an apartment building that has never allowed the occupants to have cats.
Before signing a lease or buying the apartment, our client wants to ensure no cat allergens are in the new space.
A dust sample would be best for this case. Another more common example is when an individual is susceptible to a specific allergen and wants to know if that particular allergen is present in her home. An indoor air quality sample would be best for this case.
Many factors can cause poor air quality. Our air quality testers can test the air in every room in your house and examine circulation patterns.
Dust is made up of various particles, including dirt, pollen, skin cells, animal dander, and many others. These particles can be tiny and easily inhaled, causing multiple health problems.
One of the main ways dust can make us sick is by causing respiratory issues. Inhaling dust particles can irritate the nose and throat lining, leading to sneezing, coughing, and congestion. For people with allergies or asthma, inhaling dust can trigger an allergic reaction or an asthma attack, worsening their symptoms.
Dust can also contain harmful chemicals, bacteria, and viruses. Exposure to these substances can cause a range of health problems, from skin irritation to respiratory infections and even cancer in some cases.
In addition to respiratory problems, dust can cause eye and skin irritation. When the dust settles on surfaces, it can also create a breeding ground for dust mites, exacerbating allergies and asthma symptoms.
Overall, while small amounts of dust are not usually harmful, prolonged exposure to high dust levels can be dangerous and cause a range of health problems.