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Why roach allergies are so scary

Posted On: 04/25/2023

With millions of people suffering from allergy symptoms, roach allergies are not often top of mind when compared to the more common triggers such as dust mites or pollen. A stubborn indoor allergen (a substance that causes an allergic reaction), roaches are difficult to get rid of entirely, even in the cleanest homes. Not just a residential problem, roaches can find their way into offices, restaurants, and in some of the more dangerous cases, schools. If left untreated, they can cause long term health problems and exacerbate already existing conditions such as asthma, the third leading cause of hospitalization among children under the age of 15. Although emphasis should be placed on treating and eliminating live roaches, it is also important to pay close attention to the removal of dead roaches. Over time, the deterioration of their cast skins can create allergens.

For individuals already suffering with respiratory ailments or weak immune systems, or in the case of the elderly or very young, an undetected roach infestation may lead to the development of chronic allergies.

Snapshot- Roach Allergen case study

A good example that showcases just how damaging a roach infestation can be to one’s health is a recent case where a Truly Nolen service expert was able to perform a service that would ultimately reverse the negative effects taking place on a homeowner. Unknown to her, a severe roach problem was the main contributing factor in her steady decline in health. An initial visit to the customer’s home was able to reveal the full extent of this infestation. Plagued with chronic fatigue, respiratory problems and emotional distress, the homeowner suffered greatly. Even at the time of service, she was unable to physically move around and directed the service expert while seated on her couch.

The treatments were performed in various parts of the house, with extra attention paid to areas where roach carcasses existed. The Truly Nolen service expert was genuinely concerned for this woman’s health issues, and went above and beyond to make sure that the current roach infestation was dealt with properly, and that the cast skins were thoroughly removed. After eliminating the roaches from the home, the service expert saw a dramatic improvement several months later on his follow up service with the homeowner. Not only was her chronic tiredness gone, but so were her respiratory problems. Unlike the first visit where she could barely move, the follow up visit revealed a new person whose physical and emotional health was getting better day by day. The health and well-being of your home can never be taken for granted as it can have a great impact on your life.

Since the allergens left behind by roaches can become airborne and contaminate multiple areas, roaches do not even need to be present to wreak havoc on the daily health and well-being of those living in affected surroundings. In the case of the homeowner, roach carcasses found in her home were a major contributing factor in the decline of her health. These dangerous scavengers are vehicles of bacteria, contaminants, and sometimes diseases that are found in their saliva, feces and on their bodies.

The allergens produced by roaches have been shown to cause health concerns, ranging from mild to more severe including:

  • Asthma (mild onset to severe complications)
  • Dermatitis
  • Skin rashes
  • Itching
  • Digestive problems
  • Food poisoning
  • Severe respiratory conditions
  • Intestinal diseases

The most common symptoms of a roach allergy are: wheezing, coughing, skin rashes and shortness of breath. Although these symptoms can be associated with many different ailments, it is important not to discount roach allergens as a potential culprit. As a cautionary measure, seeking professional medical advice is always the safest option in determining the root cause of your allergies.

Attracted to dark, damp areas, roaches gravitate to places that are more prone to moisture, such as pipes and faucets found under your sink. Since roaches tend to live in groups, even if you have only seen one or two, chances are there are many more hiding behind the scenes. If you suspect a roach allergy or roach infestation may be to blame for certain health issues, it is always a good idea to take a few extra steps in safeguarding your space against these stubborn insects:

  1. When entering your home with boxes or bags, always double check to make sure they are roach free before resting them inside.
  2. Keep food containers tightly sealed and away from countertops and avoid leaving spilled food unattended.
  3. Fix and seal any leaking pipes and faucets.
  4. Use lidded garbage containers wherever possible.
  5. Have your space professionally treated to address more serious roach issues.
  6. Visit your doctor if your symptoms become severe.

For more information on allergies, as well as resources for helping to cope with asthma, visit:

Are Roaches Ruining Your Day? Schedule Your Free Inspection Today

Different species of cockroaches respond to different extermination tactics, and a tactic used for one species will not be effective on another. This means you need proper identification of the cockroach, which can be difficult to those not familiar with these insects and you will most likely go through a few methods before being successful or just giving up. A pest control professional can help you identify what type of roach you have and can also help you quickly solve the problem. Contact your local Truly Nolen branch today for a FREE Roach Inspection.

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