Diwali cleaning is a cherished tradition, but for people with allergies and asthma, it can trigger sneezing, coughing, wheezing and breathlessness. Years of dust in cupboards, lofts, curtains and old boxes, along with strong cleaning chemicals and paint fumes, can set off severe symptoms. Dr. Dipak Viradia, Chest Physician & Intensivist, shares simple precautions to enjoy a clean home without an allergy attack.

Let others do the heavy dusting. If possible, ask family members to clean dusty lofts, cupboards, fans and storerooms, and stay away from the area while it is being cleaned.

Always wear a good mask. If you must clean, wear a well-fitting N95 mask, not just a cloth mask or dupatta. Cover your hair and wear full sleeves to reduce dust contact.

Use a damp cloth, not a dry duster. Dry dusting and sweeping throw dust into the air. Wipe surfaces with a damp cloth and mop floors instead of sweeping. Use a vacuum cleaner if available.

Clean in small parts, not all at once. Spread the work over several days and take breaks. Long hours in dusty rooms increase exposure.

Keep windows open. Good ventilation helps clear dust and chemical fumes. Avoid cleaning in closed rooms.

Be careful with chemicals and paint. Strong cleaners, phenyl, acid, bleach and paint fumes can irritate the airways. Use mild cleaners, never mix chemicals (especially bleach with acid or ammonia), and stay away from freshly painted rooms until the smell clears.

Wash fabrics in hot water. Curtains, bedsheets, cushion covers and carpets collect dust mites. Wash them in hot water and dry them well.

Bathe and change clothes after cleaning to remove dust from your skin and hair.

Don’t skip your medicines. Continue your controller inhaler and allergy medicines as prescribed, and keep your reliever inhaler with you while cleaning.

Know when to stop. If you develop wheezing, chest tightness or breathlessness, stop immediately, move to fresh air and use your reliever inhaler. Seek medical help if symptoms don’t improve.

Dr. Dipak Viradia
Chest Physician & Intensivist | Interventional Pulmonologist & ECMO Specialist
Rudrax Chest Clinic, 301, Solaris Royce, Opp. Old RTO, Athwagate, Ring Road, Surat – 395001
Appointment: +91 75676 19985
Website: www.drdipakviradia.com