What Are Cockroaches & How Do They Affect My Asthma?
Cockroaches are insects with 6 legs and 2 pairs of wings that are common throughout the United States, but especially in the South and in crowded cities. Proteins from the cockroaches saliva, droppings, and shed insect body parts can trigger asthma symptoms.
Where Would I Be Likely To Find Cockroaches in My Home?
Cockroaches are attracted to dark, humid and warm places in your home like:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Dining rooms
- Bedrooms
Cockroaches do not like light and will scatter when a light is turned on -- a trick to remember if you are trying to discover the pesky pests hiding places. Cockroaches will feed on many different things like:
- Grease
- Crumbs
- Pet food
- Left out food
- Food cans
Any place where these things accumulate is a potential have for cockroaches.
How Can I Decrease My Cockroach Exposure
Sanitation is the key to prevent cockroaches in your home. These simple tips can go a long way to prevent cockroaches from spreading:
- Empty garbage cans frequently and keep the lid on at all times.
- Keep food out of bedrooms and limit to only certain rooms.
- Do not accumulate empty food and drink cans.
- Do not leave uncovered food out.
- Clean kitchen countertops and floors at least weekly.
- Seal holes and cracks on the exterior of your home that cockroaches can enter.
- Consider poison baits or traps for under stoves and refrigerators.
- If you use insecticide sprays, do not spray where you prepare your food or where you may have children crawling or sleeping.
This video can also help you get rid of cockroaches organically if you are leary about traps and sprays.
Sources:
Consumer Web Information. Accessed April 19, 2009. Cockroaches and Pests U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Consumer Web Information. Accessed April 19, 2009. Cockroach New York City Department of Health and Hygiene
