What Are Cockroach and Mouse Allergens?

Cockroaches and mice are annoying pests that are also destructive. Cockroaches contaminate surfaces and pick up bacteria, human pathogens, and parasites. They spread salmonella and other bacteria.

Mice can also spread disease to humans and destroy property. Humans can be affected if they have direct contact with infected rodents, urine, feces, or nests.

These pests also contain allergens, causing allergic reactions and asthma attacks. An allergen is a substance that causes an allergic immune reaction. Enzymes in proteins are common allergens. These allergens act like dust mites, aggravating symptoms when they are kicked up into the air. The body parts, saliva and waste of cockroaches are allergens. Here’s a look at the effects of these allergens.

Cockroach Allergens

Cockroach allergens are found in the feces, saliva, and body parts of cockroaches. Even dead cockroaches can cause allergic reactions. These allergens are very small and can easily become airborne, which can lead to allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Cockroach allergens are particularly problematic in urban areas where cockroach infestations are common.

Mouse Allergens

Mice also carry allergens in their hair follicles, dander, urine, feces, and saliva. These allergens can become airborne and cause respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness. Mice are especially problematic in homes with pets, as they can carry diseases that can be transmitted to other animals. Kitchen floors often have high levels of mouse allergens. These allergens could also be in the walls or on uneaten food.

Common Allergy Symptoms

Mice and cockroach allergens can cause allergy symptoms such as:

• Coughing
• Nasal congestion
• Skin rash
• Wheezing
• Ear infection
• Sinus infection

Children are especially sensitive to mice and cockroach allergens. In more severe cases, people may experience difficulty breathing and chest tightness. Those with asthma may develop asthma attacks.

Treatment

If you suspect that you have a mouse or cockroach allergy, schedule an appointment with an allergist, who can conduct a skin test. If a reaction develops, your allergist may recommend medications or allergy shots, which help your body become less sensitive to specific allergens.

Some common medications include: Please consult with your Doctor.

• Antihistamines. They can relieve sneezing and itching in the nose and eyes. They also reduce a runny nose and nasal stuffiness. These are available as pills, liquids or nose sprays.
• Nasal corticosteroids. This is a type of nose spray that reduces swelling in your nose and blocks allergic reactions.
• Cromolyn sodium. This is another nose spray. It blocks the release of chemicals that cause allergy symptoms, including histamine and leukotrienes.
• Decongestants. These help shrink the lining of the nasal passages and relieve stuffiness. They are available as pills, liquids, nose sprays or drops.

Preventing Infestations

Preventing cockroach and mouse infestations is the best way to avoid exposure to these allergens. Some common ways to prevent infestations include:

• Keeping your home clean and free of food debris. Cockroaches and mice are attracted to food sources, so keeping your home clean and tidy can help prevent infestations.
• Sealing up cracks and crevices in your home. Cockroaches and mice can enter your home through small openings, so sealing up any cracks or holes in your walls and floors can help keep them out.
• Using traps and baits. There are many different types of traps and baits available, and traps may be especially helpful if you have mice. Cockroaches may be harder to eradicate.
• Hiring a professional pest control service. In cases of severe infestation, your best bet is to call a professional pest control service to help eliminate the problem.

Preventing Exposure to Allergens

In addition to preventing infestations, there are also ways to reduce exposure to cockroach and mouse allergens if you do have an infestation. These include:

• Vacuuming regularly to remove allergens from carpets and upholstery.
• Using a HEPA filter in your vacuum to trap allergens.
• Keeping your home well-ventilated to prevent allergens from becoming trapped indoors.
• Using allergen-proof covers on your bedding and pillows.

Contact Us Today

Cockroach and mouse allergens are common indoor allergens that can cause respiratory symptoms and trigger asthma attacks. Preventing infestations and reducing exposure to these allergens can help protect your health and improve your quality of life.

Get rid of cockroaches, mice, and other pests for good with help from The PEST Group. With more than 250 years of combined leadership in the pest control industry, we have the experience to safely and effectively take care of your pest problems. We serve California, Hawaii, and Florida. Give us a call at  888-801-3220 to schedule a free inspection for your home or business.