When we hear the word “pests”, it’s virtually impossible not to think about the household roaches—they’re nocturnal, present in almost all crevices, haunt us with their creepy appearance, and  cause a myriad of illnesses. Allergy to cockroaches, for one, could lead to a dangerous and life-threatening asthma attack.

Mechanism of the allergic reaction

Cockroach allergy is strongly associated with low socioeconomic status, where homes provide a favorable condition for infestation. Cockroach allergen, the trigger for the allergic reaction, comes from the saliva, feces, bodies, debris, and corpses of a cockroach. Initially, upon first contact with the allergen, the person develops antibodies against it. The allergic reaction occurs once a supersensitive person inhales or comes in contact again with the body.

The immune system defends the body by launching an attack against the invading foreign material (cockroach allergen). Mast cells release chemicals that induce an inflammatory reaction in the attempt to expel the invader. Depending on the mode of contact with the allergen, the person may exhibit the following:

• red, itchy skin which may be localized or affecting the entire body
• itchy eyes, nose, and throat
• nasal congestion
• sneezing
• allergic sinusitis
• recurring ear problems
• wheezing, eventually an asthma attack

What Your Doctor Can Do For You

Immediately call for help when you suspect a person suffering from asthma attack. Cockroach-induced asthma usually persists all year round, which is why the doctor will diagnose what is the specific cause of the attack. A careful history and lifestyle evaluation will be done. A skin test could further support the diagnosis.

The allergist can recommend certain antihistamines, nasal sprays and topical steroids to relieve the symptoms, while desensitization therapy (immunotherapy) will help improve the condition and cause less severe attacks in the future.

What You Can Do

The first step to prevent allergy attacks is to get rid of the cockroaches in the house. Pest control experts may initially help, however ongoing control practices are still required in the reduction of the cockroach population. Measure like:

• removal of potential food and water sources
• cleaning of their dwelling places such as under the sink
• vacuum floors and carpets as minute cockroach debris may accumulate on the ground
• seal cockroach entry points
• check faucets and pipes for leakage—a damp area is a favorable living condition for roaches
• regular cleaning of the entire house

Although they are difficult to totally eradicate, a sustained effort is absolutely necessary for cockroach control.