“There are two different ways that mattresses can contribute to allergies,” explains an allergist Angola Mehrotra, MD. “You could be allergic to dust mites or even mold, mildew or pet dander that can build up in a mattress. Or you might react to the materials the mattress is made of.”
Allergy specialist Maurice Ngat, MDHe agrees that while some people are allergic to the mattress material itself, allergens can build up over time. “Mattresses usually cause allergies when allergens from the air get trapped inside them,” says Najat. So, if you’re experiencing a fresh reaction to an old mattress, it might be time for a fresh start.
While allergic reactions vary from person to person, there are a few common allergens to look for in a mattress.
Dust mites:Dust mites are microscopic mites that live in house dust and live on dead human skin. “Some people are allergic to their faeces,” Najat explains.
Allergens: latex It is a common buoyancy support material and its antimicrobial and sustainable properties. Unfortunately, some people are allergic to latex, which can make these mattresses unsuitable for sleeping. “Latex is a growing allergen that can cause reactions such as hives, rashes and difficulty breathing and may be more severe than reactions caused by dust mites,” says Mehrotra. Wool is another common material found in natural mattresses and can be a problem for people with an allergy aversion.
Mold, mildew or pet dander: Mold and mildew can collect in a mattress, especially in warmer climates. On the other hand, pet dander is a problem if you are allergic to pets and sleep somewhere with pets.
Synthetics and VOCs: Synthetic materials are particularly harmful to people with asthma, but they can also irritate the skin. “People with asthma may also react to VOCs, or VOCs, which can give off gases from certain mattresses,” Mehrotra adds. “It could help find mattresses with lower emissions and less exposure to VOCs.”
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