Renting Or Buying? It Could Affect Your Allergies

To rent or to buy?

The answer could make a difference for your allergies.

A new study in the journal Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology shows that people who rent their homes are less likely to make the proper indoor modifications to help their allergy symptoms, compared with people who actually own their homes.

"Allergy season lasts all year long for people who suffer from common household allergens," Dr. James Sublett, M.D., chair of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Indoor Environment Committee, said in a statement. "When environmental changes aren't made indoors, the home becomes a breeding ground for symptoms, rather than a place to escape allergens."

In the study, researchers offered 60 study participants with allergies 18 recommendations that they could enact to decrease allergens in their homes. Out of those 18 recommendations, the volunteers said that they would be willing to actually do 14 of them. Some of the recommendations that they were more likely to enact included washing bedding in hot water, decreasing indoor humidity and cleaning mold, while the recommendations they were less likely to enact included getting an air purifier, getting rid of carpet and putting covers on upholstered furniture.

The researchers found that 91.3 percent of homeowners made at least one of the recommended changes to decrease allergens, while just 63.6 percent of renters made at least one change.

A previous study in the Indoor Air Journal suggested that improperly maintained air conditioning systems -- particularly humidification systems in poor condition and dirty cooling coils and drain pans -- can increase the risk for a number of health conditions, including headaches and problems with the upper respiratory system, eyes, skin and concentration.

For some tips on naturally relieving allergies, click through the slideshow: