READ: 5 Easy Tips For Healthier Lungs
Poor air quality inside the house can be harmful for those living with lung cancer, according to the American Lung Association. Of course, the respiratory system is greatly affected in lung cancer cases. So, any household triggers such as asbestos can increase the frequency – or even pain – of lung cancer symptoms: cough, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, etc.
It’s important to clean your home from top to bottom to improve the quality of air. Here are some things to look for:
Asbestos
Some experts name asbestos as the cause of cancer. It has since been banned from use in certain products, but many old homes may have been built with asbestos-based products. If there is any possibility of asbestos being in your home, be sure to contact a trained professional to inspect the place before doing any remodeling or cleaning. Asbestos becomes airborne once its disturbed by cutting or sanding the walls, floors or other materials.
Cockroaches
These pests produce their own allergens. And, these allergens become airborne when you vacuum the carpet and other fabrics around the house. So, eliminating these ugly creatures can greatly improve the air quality in your home. Try to keep scraps of food off the floor, and from under the refrigerator/stove. Call an exterminator if there is an infestation problem. And, as a last resort, look into removing the carpet which can collect the allergens from these bugs.
READ: Caring For Your Sore Throat During Lung Cancer Treatment
Lead
Manufacturers used to put lead in everything. So, if you live in an older-model home, it’s possible that the paint on the walls may be lead based. If you think there is lead in the paint on your walls, try to paint over the lead-based stuff instead of removing the lead-based paint. If your home is undergoing renovations, be sure to stay out of the house.
Radon
This odorless, colorless gas can build up inside your home. Dangerous levels of radon can lead to death. Radon can be found in the rock and soil surrounding your home. Sealing any cracks in the floors and walls will prevent any radon from seeping into your home. If you suspect that there may be high levels of radon in your house that you can’t control, call a contractor to come inspect and repair your home.