Pests

Dust Mites

Dust mites are microscopic creatures related to spiders and ticks. Dust mites eat dead skin cells, and thus, live in areas where dead skin cells are found such as fabric, bedding, furniture, and carpets. Dust mites cannot drink water, but rather absorb it from the air making humid environments ideal environment.  When dust mites’ feces are breathed in, they can trigger asthma attacks. Some people are allergic to them and develop rashes, nasal congestion, itching, and sneezing. According to the National Center for Healthy Housing, exposure to dust mites can cause children who are predisposed to asthma to actually develop it.

Mice and Rats

Because mice do not have bladder control, when they run around in search of food they are constantly leaving behind a trail of urine. Many people are allergic to rodent urine. Other allergens come from rodent saliva, skin, and dander. Exposure to rodents is linked to increased asthma symptoms and can trigger asthma attacks. Also, although it is rare, rodents can expose humans to diseases such as hantavirus.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are also known as “Waterbugs” and “roaches”. They can live a month without food, but only one week without water. Cockroaches live in tiny, dark, cluttered places near food and water. Kitchens are bathrooms are common locations to find roaches. Cockroach waste, saliva, and body parts pose significant health risks and can trigger asthma attacks

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs feed on blood, but can live for several months without a meal. They are small, flat brown insects. They can travel far distances, but generally stay within eight feet of where people sleep. They can be found on mattress seams, pillows, and upholstered furniture. Bed bugs may leave small red itchy marks on your skin, but some people don’t react at all.