starting last week it seemed like whenever I was in my apartment, breathing started to hurt, my nose hurt when I woke up (breathe out of my nose), and I started coughing and sneezing a lot. I don't have allergies but I changed the air filter,etc. I thought maybe cuz the air conditioner was too cold so I raised the temp, then tried turning it off completely, etc. I even lost my voice from all the coughing. I know its my apartment cuz I'm fine outside and went away this weekend and never had any problems. Anyone know what I can do?
2007-04-03 11:11:55 · 5 answers · asked by Sarah 4 in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Allergies
There are a couple of things you could try. First, either have maintenance clean your air conditioner thoroughly, or you should do it--both from the inside and the outside (if possible). Use a bleach-containing cleaner that will kill molds. Many air conditioners contain filters, and you should change that, too (I wasn't sure if you cleaned an air fliter in your air purifier or the air conditioner by your answer). Your air conditioner could have molds in it, or it could be clogged with pollen--either way, it could be affecting your allergies. If neither of these is the issue, it could be that your air conditioner doesn't have a filter and is just sucking pollen into your apartment; in that case, complain to the management and have them install a filter.
If you have a mold allergy, you should also have someone clean your entire bathroom with a bleach-containing cleanser (or if you have to do it, wear a mask). Also clean under your sinks and washtubs, and run the hottest water through all your appliances to kill any molds there.
If you suspect pollen is more likely, have all your furniture and carpets cleaned (vacuumed and shampooed). It could be that the air conditioning is just blowing the pollens around your house, and they are settling on the "plushy" surfaces.
Finally, be sure to wash your sheets in really hot water and dry in hot dryer, and take a shower before bed to get any pollens or other irritants off your body--you'll probably sleep better that way.
Finally, if you don't have an air purifier, get one and change the filter regularly.
2007-04-03 15:54:24 · answer #1 · answered by mnverse2 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Try getting an air filter for the apartment.
Maybe the apartment had been sprayed for bugs when you were out. Something new has apparently been introduced to the air in your apartment. Has your air conditioner been serviced so it could not be the guilty party?
2007-04-03 11:49:41 · answer #2 · answered by ? 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Lots of times, the air is affected by air that comes in through heat vents, electric outlets, etc.
Maybe other dwellers have air that's toxic for you? From their habits? (smoking, did someone get an animal ?--- cat?, dog?, hamster?, pet rat?, [ever hear of the "Hanta Virus", etc.---I'M NOT SAYING ALL RATS HAVE THIS...but it is carried by rats & mice] )...
Some research on other tenants may give you that information; then you could mention it to your landlord (does he care?)...I had a landlord that CARED --- a lot...and if other tenants caused problems for me (or others) by their argueing, smoking, bringing in animals that bothered me, or other stench issues, they were given a warning by the landlord, to cease or move out. Period!
Not all landlords are so accommodating. If yours isn't, and you find out your issue IS being caused by other tenants' habits, AND your landlord is unwilling to help in any way, you might have to move elsewhere (pretty hard to research a new place to learn what the air is like tho' isn't it?)
I guess then, if that's the case, you'll just have to open your windows a lot, or go outside a lot.
Good luck to you.
2007-04-04 06:55:18 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Do you have egress domicile windows in this house. In case of a fireplace, you choose a thank you to get out if the standard course turns into contaminated or blocked. I point out this because of the fact it does ensue. For around $5.00 you ought to purchase a mix temperature/humidity gauge. this gives you a clue approximately whats occurring with the humidity. severe humidity may well be controlled with a dehumidifier. purchase one with a take care of on the suitable factor as this makes them much less complicated to go them around. some have handles on the factor, and it takes 2 palms to go them. i'm thinking, in case you're interior the U.S., if it is even a criminal living. stable success.
2016-11-07 03:44:35 · answer #4 · answered by raffone 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It may be a good idea to test for mold in your apartment.
2007-04-03 11:19:51 · answer #5 · answered by Doctor J 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋