Dander from your dog. Frying eggs and bacon for breakfast. Mold spores from a humid bathroom. Indoor sources of air pollution abound, and they can trigger symptoms in many people living with systemic mastocytosis (SM). Thankfully, air purifiers offer an easy and affordable way to avoid airborne environmental triggers and breath a little easier. Read on to learn how to make the most out of your air purifier.
How does an air purifier help avoid SM symptom flare ups?
Poor indoor air quality can trigger symptom episodes in people living with SM. There are many sources of indoor air pollution: the air inside our homes often has particles from dust, pollen, mold, pet dander, smoke, strong perfumes and airborne chemicals. In people with SM, these particles trigger allergic reactions that lead to symptoms such flushing, hives, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, nausea, brain fog, fatigue, light-headedness and headaches, among others.
Read more about SM signs and symptoms
A HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) standard air purifier can remove 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, dander and odors from the air. Air purifiers work by drawing in air from a room, and then collecting that air’s pollutants with a filter. The filters in non-HEPA air purifiers may let smaller particles through, meaning they won’t clean the air as thoroughly.
Tips for using an air purifier
Choosing the right air purifier, running it correctly and keeping it maintained can make a major difference in the amount of air pollutants in your home. Here are some points to consider:
- Make sure your air purifier is HEPA accredited.
- Keep air purifiers running continuously for best results. If you only run them when you notice the air quality is poor, it will already be too late to prevent symptoms.
- Ensure good coverage of living areas and bedrooms by placing several air purifiers throughout your home. If you own just one, placing it in the bedroom is usually recommended.
- Don’t hide air purifiers behind furniture or put them in corners; to work their best, they need to be able to draw air in freely.
- Keep the windows closed.
- Replace the air filter regularly. Different types of air purifiers have different recommendations: some filters may need to be changed every three months, while others may be every 12. Check your machine’s instruction manual for guidance.
- Clean the pre-filter screen (and anywhere else dust builds up) monthly to help the machine work its best.
Stopping indoor air pollutants at the source
As well as using an air purifier, consider what you can do to remove any potential toxins from your home to avoid triggering mast cell activity.
- Keep your home clutter-free and dust-free by keeping it clean. Consider hiring a cleaner to help, and give them clear guidelines on minimizing air pollutants.
- Choose fragrance-free beauty products, soaps, detergents and cleaning agents. Hypoallergenic or natural products are recommended.
- Ensure you have good ventilation in your living areas. Install a ceiling fan or an air conditioner.
- Select natural fibers for your bedding, home decoration, curtains, couch and cushions.
- Keep air humidity low to avoid the possibility of mold.
- Keep windows closed, especially on peak air pollution days. Keep track of pollen levels in your area with Pollen.com.
Building good habits will give you added control over your home environment, keeping you safe and helping you live better with SM.
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