Do Cockroaches Cause Allergies?

Need to get rid of cockroaches? Read on to learn the answers to all of your important questions. Need help? Call our professionals today to get started.

Cockroaches and Allergies

When we think of being allergic to insects, we most often think of being allergic to bee stings or mosquito or ant bites. But cockroaches can also cause reactions in those who are allergic to cockroaches. Cockroach allergies are one of the most common worldwide indoor allergies. You can take a test at your doctor or allergist to find out if you are allergic to cockroaches. 

What Am I Allergic To?

Specific enzymes found in proteins in cockroaches are thought to be the cause of allergic reactions to roaches in humans. These proteins are found in cockroach saliva and feces, which are left behind as cockroaches happily explore your home. As these proteins dry, they become airborne and are easily spread throughout your home getting into your lungs and nasal cavities, and irritating your skin. 

What Are The Symptoms of Cockroach Allergy?

The appearance of cockroach allergy symptoms are much like those of other common allergies such as allergic reactions to dust mites and  seasonal allergies. If you have any of the below symptoms at times during the year when seasonal allergies are said to be low, or when dust mites aren’t present, you might think about the possibility of cockroach allergens in your home. 

Common symptoms of cockroach allergy include:

• coughing
• wheezing
• nasal congestion
• sneezing
• sinus and/or ear infections
• skin rash 
• itchy skin, nose throat or eyes

Cockroaches and Asthma

Cockroach allergens in your home are also known to trigger, aggravate or even cause asthma in adults and children. Children may be more sensitive to cockroach allergies, especially in cities where pest cockroach species are more common and exist in larger numbers. 

Researchers believe that cockroaches may, in fact, be one of the top causes of asthma in children in urban areas. Common asthma symptoms in both adults and children caused by cockroaches include wheezing, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, chest pain and difficulty sleeping due to complications with trouble sleeping. 

What To Do If You Are Allergic To Roaches?

If you think you are suffering from cockroach-related allergies, make sure your house is clear of food particles, spills and open containers that may attract roaches to your home. Cockroaches often come into homes looking for moisture, so make sure you don’t have any leaking pipes and that your bathroom and kitchen are properly ventilated. 

Cockroach infestations are notoriously difficult to eradicate entirely on your own. If you believe you have cockroaches in your home and are having allergic reactions, reach out to a pest control specialist to eliminate your cockroach problem for you. DIY pest control solutions that contain pesticides can often cause allergic reactions similar to cockroach allergy symptoms like skin rashes, itchy eyes, and asthma and breathing problems. Don’t try to tackle this on your own, contact a pest service today.

Find A Pest Specialist For Cockroach Control

If you are concerned about cockroach control for your home, please give us a call or fill out the form on this page. PestControlExperts.com is a team of experts who are highly qualified to provide the best recommendations for you and your home, no matter which part of the United States you live in.