Washington Post: If indoor allergies are bringing you down, you might want to look at your flooring

The Washington Post spoke with UC allergist-immunologist Jonathan Bernstein, MD, for a story about a Haymarket, Virginia, couple looking to re-floor rooms in their home, but worry about allergic reactions that might result with the use of hardwood. Generally considered better than carpet, hardwood can be problematic for the environmentally intolerant because it can release harmful chemicals into the air, explained Bernstein, a professor in the UC College of Medicine. “Between the off-gassing of volatile organic compounds such as formaldehyde from the wood, as well as varnishes and sealants, you can experience the same problems with hardwood flooring as with carpet,” Bernstein told the Washington Post. 

These emissions can cause congestion, increased mucus, coughing, wheezing and other symptoms, such as those plaguing homeowner, Donald Coney. Experts disagree about how long VOC emissions take to dissipate. Some say most chemicals leach out of a product within 14 days; others believe it can take five to 10 years, if not longer. “Still, the flooring may not be the problem. It could be mold, poor ventilation, cleaning products, furniture or other irritants,” Bernstein told the Washington Post.

Read the full article in the Washington Post.

Learn more about the latest research from Jonathan Bernstein, MD.

Featured image of Jonathan Bernstein, MD, was taken by Colleen Kelley/UC Creative + Brand.