You don't have to let allergies control your life. Different allergies call for different tactics, but there's no reason you can't live a good life without constantly worrying about allergens in your home. Improving indoor air quality can go a long way to controlling your allergies.

Dander and Dust Control

Dust mites and pet dander are prime culprits in indoor allergies. Here are a few steps you can take to improve indoor air quality and reduce your allergies as much as possible:

• Replace carpeting with wood or linoleum (carpets trap dust mites, dander and other allergens).
• Use a dust mop instead of a broom for better dust control.
• Keep windows closed on high pollen count days.
• Regularly "air out" the house to improve indoor air quality.
• Keep pets out of the bedroom.
• Have a family member groom and wash your pet(s) regularly. Don't do it yourself!
• Wash your hands after handling your pet, dusting, dry mopping or vacuuming.
• Install a whole house air purifier. Alternately, use individual air purifiers with HEPA filters - especially in the bedroom.

If you chose to find your pet another home, don't expect immediate allergy relief: It takes six months to clear a home of animal dander.

House Mold and Indoor Air Quality

Mold can grow where we can't see it, but can still cause health problems, even in people who don't have a mold allergy. If you have a leak in your bathroom, under the sink in the kitchen, or in your laundry room: Beware! Your constant sniffling may be due to house mold.

Someone who isn't affected should clean areas with house mold, preferably with detergent. If you have to clean the area yourself, wear gloves and a protective mask. After showering, wipe the shower clean to hinder mold growth. If you have a fan in the bathroom, use it while showering or bathing to lower humidity.

How can you minimize house mold growth?

• Maintain an indoor humidity below 50 percent.
• Use an exhaust fan when cooking, bathing or running the dishwasher. If a window is in the room, open it.
• Insulate exterior walls to prevent condensation on the inside of those walls.
• Repair water leaks immediately.
• Dry areas affected by a leak within 48 hours.

Breathing Easier: Air Purifiers and HEPA Filters

If house mold, dust or animal dander is causing your allergy symptoms, air purifiers can help reduce allergen levels in your home. Your choice of air filters is varied, but generally HEPA filters are the most efficient and effective an improving indoor air quality. A HEPA ( H igh E fficiency P articulate A ir) filter can filter extremely small particles from the environment, including pollen and animal dander. You can also purchase HEPA filters for furnaces, and some vacuum cleaners.