Did you know that asthma and allergies have the potential to be easily triggered while inside your own home, than anywhere else? It can be a terrifying thought, that some of the most notoriously indestructible pests that feed off hot, humid misery may be in your home with you and setting off allergic reactions. Scary enough, it’s the cockroach.
The cockroach is distinguished by its long whip-like antennae, flat oval bodies, and rapid gait. These insects have been around for millions of years, and as a result, have evolved into some of the most adaptable pests on Earth. It may be hard to believe, however, there are around 4,000 living species of cockroaches around the world, most of which can live almost a full month without food and a maximum of two weeks without water. It’s no wonder that these critters find enjoyment within your warm home. In this article, we are going to discuss some hard truths about cockroaches and how they may be affecting your asthma.
Cockroaches Prefer Warmth And Humidity
As stated above, when there is heat, there are cockroaches. Your warm Flordia home makes for an ideal breeding ground for certain species of cockroach. With plenty of food, warmth, water, and shelter, these critters can remain active all year round.
Similar locations such as the Northern part of India, especially New Delhi, have relatively dry and short winters with a prolonged spell of very hot weather. Sound familiar? Roaches often become accustomed to their environments and learn to adapt rather quickly. This ability for adaptation to new conditions along with their ability for extensive migration have no doubt lead to great success of cockroaches.
Cockroaches Carry Diseases
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation, the cockroach saliva, feces, and shedding body parts can be a trigger for both asthma and allergies. These released allergens act like dust mites, which aggravate symptoms when they are kicked up in the air. Cockroaches also give off a foul odor from fluid they emit via scent glands, along with the regurgitation process during feedings.
As a rule, cockroaches are carriers of disease. The cockroach exoskeleton itself, when crushed can crumble into dust. Thus dust being kicked into the air, it can easily aggravate asthma symptoms. This dust can also contaminate surfaces, utensils, and even food with an indirect transmission. The cockroach exoskeleton carries various types of bacteria, including typhoid, dysentery, and cholera.
While not everyone has allergies or asthma, anyone who may be suffering from wheezing, itchy eyes, and nose, or a scratchy throat should visit their doctor immediately. This is especially true if you do not experience these symptoms outside of your home, or the symptoms recently began. It is recommended to get a consultation with an allergist or immunologist to determine the exact cause of these symptoms. It’s not normal to have these symptoms year round.
Take Control Back
Cockroaches are nocturnal insects. They prefer to live and feed in the dark, which is why we typically don’t see them during the day. So if you do catch sight of a cockroach during the daylight hours, then there is a strong possibility that you have an infestation.
If you have a cockroach problem, don’t hesitate to give our expert staff a call right here at Consolidated Pest Control. Where our professional team will come and assess the situation and discuss your options.
