Allergies are nothing to sneeze at. In fact, common household and environmental allergies can cause loss of production, loss of money, and can make you feel just plain crummy. The bottom line when it comes to allergies is that this world is filled with potential allergens and if you are a person who suffers from the effects, running from them won't do you much good. Instead, say "Gesundheit!" and attack the problem head on!

Allergies can be tested by a simple skin test administered by a physician to see what irritants will cause a slight localized reaction. Allergies can manifest as hay fever, watery eyes, itching, hives, swelling, and even if severe enough, asthma. The key here is prevention and control. Here are a few tips to keep the “Gesundheits” to a minimum in your presence so you can carry on in your hectic daily life when dealing with environmental allergies.

Remove old carpet and replace with hard wood floors or new carpet.

Carpeting and rugs are prime habitats for dust mites and pet dander which are major contributors to household allergies. By replacing old carpets, you are getting rid of years of dust mites and droppings.

Vacuum twice per week, deep clean twice a year.

It has been clinically proven in many studies that vacuuming your carpets and rugs with a good HEPA filter Vacuum such as Miele vacuum cleaners. Meile vacuum cleaners are a good choice for this task because they will reduce your levels of dust mites significantly. It is also a good idea to have your floors steam cleaned once per year to get the deep dirt, dust, and other allergens out.

Do your laundry.

Wash your bed linens each week in hot water and cover with Allergen proof slipcovers. Companies are becoming more aware of the health hazards associated with dust mites and dander and are making products to be anti-allergenic to be used as covers for mattresses and pillows.

Keep pets off of furniture.

The family pet should be not allowed on furniture. This allows the dander which is basically dust mite food, to really infest mattresses and furniture. Shampoos made for dander control may be another option.

Keep yourself cool.

Dust mites love humid, warm, moist conditions. Running a room dehumidifier is a good idea to keep the humidity down and the dust mites at bay. Air cleaners are another good bet for keeping a smoke and pollen free home.

Change your filters.

Change your duct work filters monthly and use a Hepa grade filter. Home air purifiers can also help to make sure the air pumped through your home is as clean as it can be.

Living with allergies can be difficult at times but with the use of Miele vacuum cleaners in addition to these simple tips, the only “Gesundheit!” that will be heard is the one you give the person next to you.