Are you or your family members really struggling with allergies this season? I live in the Cleveland area and for some reason this season seems really bad. I usually never have problems with pollen or air allergens, but my nose has been non-stop for almost a month now.
Beliefnet released a report on research done by pediatric asthma specialist, Dr. Nathan Rabinovitch. Dr. Rabinovitch analyzed the effectiveness of air cleaners for children with asthma, but they can also help people suffering from allergies to airborn substances.
The study found a 60% drop in the airborne particles when a portable air cleaner and a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter were used. They recommend using true HEPA filters found in both portable cleaners and vacuum cleaners, and they warn not to be fooled by the term "HEPA-Like."
I recommend visiting the site because they also give other warnings as what not to purchase because they are not effective. I just replaced our filter on the vacuum and I can notice a difference. Anyone else having problems?
Hi, Workerette -- I couldn't find that article on Beliefnet. Do you have a direct link?
I have two kids with asthma, and both have been "goopy" for the past few weeks. Because we had a mild winter (I'm in New Jersey) and and early, mild spring, allergies are particularly bad this year. I can't leave the house without Visine AC, and my allergies are typically mild to nonexistent!
Our peds. pulmonologist (who's like my best girlfriend ever, these days!)never recommended HEPA air filtration, but I can't see how it could hurt. What we've always been told to do is to wash all bedding weekly in *hot* water, vacuum frequently (with or without HEPA) and, if possible, avoid carpeting. We take her advice pretty seriously --I think we'd have fabric-free furniture if we could -- but life without upholstery may not work for everyone!
Posted by: Aimee | May 5, 2006 7:53 AM | Permalink to Comment