High pollen counts were recorded in many parts of the country this year, spelling trouble for American allergy sufferers
San Francisco, CA : According to COIT, a leading supplier of specialty cleaning and disaster restoration services, high pollen counts were recorded in many parts of the country this year, spelling trouble for American allergy sufferers. For some, the problem persisted through fall and is still a risk as winter progresses. Pollen often finds its way into homes, where it can get trapped in draperies, blinds, and other window treatments. As a result, COIT, which is headquartered in San Francisco, recommends that families with allergy-sensitive individuals address indoor allergens to protect family members.
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), most people use the term “hay fever” to describe allergic reactions to all plants that produce pollen, although 75 percent of Americans who are allergic to pollen-producing plants are allergic to ragweed. Allergy symptoms include eye irritation and puffiness; a runny or stuffy nose; sneezing; and an inflamed, itchy nose and throat. Severe allergy sufferers can experience asthma attacks, chronic sinusitis, headaches, and impaired sleep.
“Pollen allergies are no joke, and people often wonder why their symptoms linger after allergy season has officially ended,” Bob Kearn, President and CEO of COIT, said. “What they don’t realize is that pollen can enter the indoor environment through open doors and windows, on clothing and pets, and even on footwear. Once inside, it can cling to carpeting and furniture, as well as to the folds in draperies, blinds, and window treatments.”
The AAFA notes that ragweed pollen, which is almost exclusively responsible for fall allergy symptoms, has been measured 400 miles out to sea and up to two miles up in the atmosphere. “It’s not a surprise that such an efficient traveler can wind up in your draperies,” Kearn said.
COIT was founded in 1950 as a single dry cleaning business, and drapery cleaning is the company’s signature service. In addition to removing persistent pollens, professional drapery cleanings remove dust, smoke, odors and soil.
COIT recently announced that in 2012 it will complete installation of GreenEarth® Dry Cleaning machines in all of its company-owned stores in the U.S. making its drapery cleaning process more eco-friendly. “COIT cares about the affect of the indoor environment on allergy sufferers and the health of the outdoor environment,” Kearn explained.
With more than 60 years of industry experience in the U.S., Canada and Thailand, COIT is a leading supplier of carpet, upholstery and drapery cleaning services. The company also provides tile & grout cleaning, air duct cleaning, and 24-hour emergency restoration services. COIT's impeccable reputation offers customers the peace of mind that comes from knowing every job will be done right the first time.
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