Allergens 101

Cockroach

Periplaneta americana

Cockroach allergies are caused by their saliva, feces, eggs, and dead skin, which can form into dust particles that are inhaled. They are present in many indoor urban locations including restaurants, hospitals, nursing homes, households, and hotels where they feed on discarded human food.

How it Works

Common symptoms

  • Hay fever

    A runny nose, stuffiness, and sneezing are very common

  • Eye allergies

    Itchy, watery, or red eyes are very common

  • Asthma

    Coughing, wheezing, chest congestion, chest tightness and shortness of breath

Where are cockroaches found?

There are approximately 4,000 cockroach species across the world, but only a small minority are found within households. The American cockroach is the most abundant species and is found in tropical climates while the German cockroach is found in temperate climates.

Bottle

Recommended solutions

Pest management will help reduce and/or prevent symptoms. It involves reducing food sources for mice, eliminating them from the home, and preventing them from regaining access. If you would like to prevent your allergies from progressing or are looking for long-term relief, talk to your doctor about allergy immunotherapy or find out if you are eligible for NectarRx Allergy Treatment.

  • Clear away and/or store food appropriately

  • Take out the garbage often

  • Consider contacting a professional exterminator

  • Clean and remove pet food bowls

  • Repair cracks or holes in the home

  • Use Benadryl, Claritin, or Zyrtec as needed

  • Treat with allergen immunotherapy