Overview
- Specialists highlight HVAC and moisture problems that can spread mold spores linked to red eyes, congestion and wheezing, with severe black mold causing flu-like illness and posing greater risk to children.
- Heating dries nasal tissues and can recirculate dust, so experts advise careful humidifier use with frequent cleaning to prevent mold growth and to maintain comfortable indoor humidity.
- Dust mites, found in most homes, thrive in bedding and soft furnishings, prompting recommendations to use allergen-proof encasements, wash sheets in at least 120°F water and keep indoor humidity below 50 percent.
- Pet dander travels on clothing and clings to dust, so doctors suggest keeping animals out of bedrooms, cleaning their items regularly and using HEPA air purifiers, noting there is no truly hypoallergenic dog or cat.
- Faulty fireplaces, furnaces, generators or stoves can emit carbon monoxide, with typical levels near gas stoves at about 5–15 ppm per EPA guidance and dangerous outcomes at very high concentrations, so detectors with twice-yearly battery changes are urged.