When springtime comes, you or your loved ones may develop allergies. Itchy eyes, runny nose, the symptoms go on and on and it may be hard to get relief. However, is it the weather or pollen that causes your allergies, or something else? A little-known fact is that pests, such as rodents, dust mites, roaches, and more, might be behind the allergy symptoms you're experiencing.
What Pests Cause Allergies?
Here are some common household pests that have been proven to trigger allergies in people:
Mosquitos
A red bump on your skin that's itchy for several days before disappearing is a sign of a mosquito bite. For individuals with mosquito bite allergies, however, symptoms are more severe and can include bruising, swelling, and large areas of excessive swelling. Also called "skeeter syndrome", this allergic reaction is quite rare. If you're allergic to mosquito bites, it can have a huge impact on your ability to enjoy spring. Severe itching can cause a skin infection.
Ladybugs
Asian ladybugs are generally harmless, but you may develop several allergic reactions from touching them, or to their bites. Ladybug "blood", called hemolymph, which it instinctively releases whenever disturbed, can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Some of the allergy symptoms that you can develop from exposure to these bugs include hives, conjunctivitis, asthma, and allergic rhinitis.
Stinging Insects
If you've never been stung by a wasp, hornet, yellowjacket or other flying insects, it's hard to say how your body would react. Although some people only have mild reactions to bee stings, others are highly allergic and can develop anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. In fact, around 5% of all people will have a serious allergic reaction to a sting, so it's a good idea to have a pests prevention plan before spring kicks in. You can hire a pest control service to treat any known bee nests in the area.
Bedbugs
Bedbugs are flat wingless insects, usually of a reddish or brown color, about half the size of a dime. They're blood-sucking parasites, and they often feed at night—mostly on people. Bedbug bites may appear as itchy, red bumps, and are sometimes confused with allergic rashes. The rash may be grouped in a line, which can show the pattern of the bedbug feeding.
Fire Ants
Fire ants are aggressive stinging ants. Nearly everyone experiences some sort of reaction to the sting of a fire ant, the most common of which is a sterile pustule, which is an elevated lesion, at the site of the sting. If you're stung by fire ants, you may experience a significant amount of redness, swelling, and itching around the site of the sting. You may also experience severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis.
Prevent Pests-Triggered Springtime Allergies Now!
The best way to prevent allergies from springtime pests is to make sure you're protected against pest problems all year long. Keep in mind that pests allergens can be dangerous not only for you but also for your loved ones, which is why it's best to do all you can to prevent springtime pests altogether. The team at Thomas Pest Control is committed to keeping your home pest-free for the safety of your family. Contact us now!
