We already know just how disgusting cockroaches are. They bring a wide range of bacteria and leave their fecal matter all over the place. But did you know that cockroaches can also cause breathing problems? I know, shocking! The truth is that this horrible pest can lead to asthma, some cases more severe than others.

Sure, you don’t want to see cockroaches running across the floor while you’re watching the latest episode of The Walking Dead. But having read that last statement, what was once seen as disgusting should scare you. Cockroaches affect your breathing in a negative way!

These pests carry debris with them that can trigger certain allergies and prompt an asthma attack.

What Exactly is Asthma?

In order to understand why these bugs can prompt asthma attacks, we need to understand exactly what it is. The symptoms associated with asthma include wheezing and a tight chest. They are triggered by certain outside stimuli. For instance, smoke can cause one person to experience an asthma attack but be okay to another person. But that same person might not be affected by other allergens. It’s a difficult cycle.

Asthma is just an inflammation of the airways that make it more difficult to breathe. In some cases, it can be fatal if left untreated.

My point is that allergies can make us more prone to asthma attacks and cockroaches can bring these allergens right into your home! Decomposed debris and their fecal matter can trigger devastating asthma attacks because they become airborne and we are breathing them in. In fact, this effect is the same as that caused by dust mites.

There is an even bigger problem here. Killing the cockroach can actually make it worse because some of the pesticides used can trigger these allergies. That’s why asthma sufferers should consult a professional who understands what alternative treatments can be used. The fact is that pesticides are not healthy, but neither is living with a cockroach infestation. It’s a no win scenario.

How to Prevent Cockroaches from Triggering Asthma Attacks

If you are dealing with a cockroach infestation and know that it’s leading to asthma attacks, then you need to get to the root of the problem. Here are some steps you can take to help eliminate the problem safely:

1. Make sure your home is kept clean. Pay close attention to the harder to reach areas behind your stove and refrigerator.
2. Avoid piles of paperwork or magazines since roaches can hide here and then when this paperwork is moved, the allergens become airborne.
3. Regularly dispose of garbage and keep the main can outside.
4. Clean out cupboards so that dust is not allowed to accumulate. This dust is usually contaminated with roach debris.

Sometimes your asthma symptoms might not be obvious until you trigger a full blown attack. You should consult a doctor if you have any doubts about the treatment that an exterminator might plan to use. Cleanliness is the only sure-fire solution though.