Florida Pest Answers
"My allergies and my family’s seem worse at home: could the roaches I’ve seen be causing my symptoms?"
Yes, cockroaches can trigger allergies and worsen asthma when allergens from their droppings, saliva, shed skins, and body parts become airborne.
Common cockroach allergy symptoms include:
- sneezing
- a runny or stuffy nose
- itchy or watery eyes
- coughing or wheezing
- skin irritation
- shortness of breath.
An allergic reaction to cockroaches can occur without touching one. As contaminated dust circulates through a home or commercial building, people may inhale these particles. Children and individuals with asthma can be particularly sensitive, and ongoing exposure may contribute to persistent symptoms.
A healthcare professional can diagnose a cockroach allergy based on your medical history and, when appropriate, skin-prick or blood tests. Treatment may include avoiding the allergen and using medication recommended by a qualified medical provider. Seek urgent medical help for severe breathing difficulties.
Reducing the connection between roaches and allergies requires both cleaning and pest control. Use a HEPA-filtered vacuum, wipe surfaces with a damp cloth, seal food and trash, repair leaks, and close cracks.
If you’re seeing roaches, droppings, or cockroach egg cases, contact a pest control professional. A pest inspection can identify how cockroaches get in, eliminate the roaches and any hidden nests, and apply anti-roach measures to keep them from returning.
