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Doug Brennon
Doug Brennon has been in the carpet/flooring industry for 20 years. He has been the corporate store manager for Derailed Commodity for the last 6 years. For more information please call 620-395-2141 or visit www.derailedcommodity.com.
Carpet, Tile & Floor Covering
2012-11-19 10:56:36
Is carpeting still a good choice for those with asthma & allergies?
Q- I have heard all sorts of conflicting information on carpeting as it relates to individuals with severe asthma and allergies. I prefer carpet, but have a recently diagnosed child and I want to make a healthy choice. Can you provide any information on whether carpeting exacerbates symptoms?
A- For some time, many believed that carpeting did indeed cause problems with allergies and asthma. However, recent studies prove the opposite true. Most recently, a 15-year Swedish study found absolutely no link between the use of carpeting and an increase in incidents of asthma and allergy related symptoms. The study showed that when carpet usage in Sweden decreased by 70 percent, allergy reaction in the general population increased by 30 percent! Another study conducted in 18 nations and involving 20,000 participants found a statistical relationship between using carpet in bedrooms and a reduction of symptoms and bronchial responsiveness. While further studies are ongoing to find out exactly why, one belief is that carpeting acts like a filter and traps allergens away from the breathing zone. Carpeting is a safe and comfortable choice for any home and as more studies emerge, may prove to be the top choice for those with allergies. I suggest getting the carpet you love and using a heppa filter vacuum cleaner to remove the pollutants trapped in the carpet. This will help assure that your son or daughter has a comfortable and healthy atmosphere.
 
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