Assessment of the indoor environment in respiratory allergy.

Many types of allergens may be present in the indoor environment and may lead to sensitization and respiratory allergy. Common indoor allergens include dust mites, animal dander, cockroach exposure and molds. Exposure to indoor pollutants, such as tobacco smoke, wood-burning stoves or fireplaces and chemical sprays, can precipitate and exacerbate symptoms. An allergic reaction in the airways caused by natural exposure to allergens has been shown to lead to an increase in inflammatory reaction, increased airway hyperresponsiveness and increased eosinophils in bronchoalveolar lavage. Other research has demonstrated that asthma symptoms correlate with levels of domestic dust mite and cockroach exposure. In the case of dust mites, ending exposure results in symptomatic relief.