Can Termites Make You Sick? Termite Health Dangers and Pest Issues

Many homeowners dread finding out they have termites. While the damage termites cause to homes is certainly problematic, what about the health effects? Can termites make you sick?

Termite infestations are a serious health risk. Termites can cause or worsen health problems, From allergies to asthma attacks, termites may create or worsen medical issues. Understanding the risks allows you to take precautions and treat infestations before they impact your family’s health.

Health Dangers Related to Termites

As you know termites are primarily attracted to cellulose-based materials like wood, they can cause more than structural damage when present indoors. Health concerns related to termites include:

Skin Conditions

• Allergic Reactions – Some people are sensitive to termite saliva, droppings, or frass. This can cause rashes, itching, hives, and other contact dermatitis symptoms.
• Fungal Infections – Termites spread mold and fungi. Spores from their nests can cause infection when inhaled or making contact with skin.

Asthma

• Droppings and body parts – Microscopic particles become airborne easily, worsening asthma and triggering attacks.
• Allergies – Those with sensitivity may experience asthma flare-ups when exposed.

Respiratory Illnesses

As termites crawl through the spaces in walls and floors, they spread microscopic particles into the living areas. Inhaling these contaminants pose numerous respiratory risks:

• Droppings
• Shed body parts
• Saliva
• Fungal spores
• Bacteria
• Mold

Electrocution

Termite damage involves eating through wood. If they reach electrical wiring, their tunnels can create shorts and fire hazards. Live termites conduct electricity, so contact may result in shocks or electrocution.

Respiratory Problems and Asthma from Termites

Of all the termite-related health impacts, lung issues cause the most concern. Microscopic debris fills termite nests and the tunnels they create. When this matter gets inside the living spaces of a home, occupants breathe in the potentially harmful particles.

Termite droppings, saliva, and body parts easily become airborne. The small size allows them to be inhaled deeply into the lungs. Exposure often causes respiratory irritation and inflammation.

Those with asthma or allergies tend to experience more problems when termites are present. However, even those without sensitivity issues may develop lung inflammation, a health problem that can occur due to the presence of termites in your house. Common symptoms include:

• Wheezing
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Worsened asthma
• Asthma attacks 

Inhaled contaminants also allow fungal infections to develop more readily. Mold spores from termites can lead to mycoses in the lungs.

While termites themselves do not spread serious illness, their droppings allow other germs to thrive. Bacteria, viruses, and parasite eggs may reside in termite nests. Disturbing these areas can aerosolize threats that make inhabitants sick.

Allergies and Contact Dermatitis

For those predisposed to allergies, termites can trigger severe reactions. The saliva, waste materials, and shed exoskeletons cause problems when contact occurs.

Signs involve areas touched by termites or their debris:

• Rashes
• Redness
• Itching
• Hives
• Swelling

In most cases, symptoms which indicate health problems due to the presence of termites, resolve once away from exposure. However, severe responses can be life-threatening without swift medical care.

Even without allergies, termites may lead to skin irritation. Their sharp mandibles sometimes bite humans. The chemicals in their saliva may cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Signs of a termite bite include redness, itching, stinging, and hives where bitten or exposed to termite fluids, which could be harmful to humans.

Fungal infections also stem from termite infestations. Aspergillosis, mycoses, and other mold-related conditions may develop after inhaling or touching spores. This can lead to painful, inflamed rashes.

Other Health Risks Associated with Termites

While asthma and allergies cause the most pressing concerns, researchers link termites with other problems as well:

• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Poor concentration
• Neurological issues

These stem from sensitivity to contaminants and chemicals from termites, such as traces of heavy metals. Those spending time in infested areas tend to experience such symptoms more often. The exact mechanisms require further studies for confirmation, though.

In rare cases, a bite may have venom effects. This is typically mild localized pain. But multiple stings could result in a toxic reaction.

Structural weaknesses also raise safety issues. Termite damage leaves homes more vulnerable to break-ins, leaks, mold, and collapse. Inhabitants then face higher injury risks from slips, falls, crumbling infrastructure, weather damage, and electrocution.

Preventing Termite Health Issues

Avoiding termite infestation remains key to preventing related sickness. But when pests invade your home, swift action protects wellness. Measures to reduce health risks include:

Professional Pest Control and Termite Treatment

At the first sign of termites, contact pest control experts. Treatment stops further nest expansion. Removing colonies eliminates sources of allergens and infection.

Follow all preparation guidelines before service. This ensures technicians access nest locations. Cooperate fully during the process as well.

Many modern pesticides used are relatively low in toxicity for humans. Still, evacuate as recommended during application. Ventilate properly afterwards.

Schedule follow-up appointments if needed to ensure elimination. Renew contracts to prevent future swarms. Maintain vigilance even after successful eradication.

Reducing Pest Infestations

While termites need wood cellulose to thrive, reducing other bugs limits food supply. Bacteria, fungi, and nesting insects lure termites.

Implement household hygiene habits like:

• Fix plumbing leaks
• Ventilate moisture
• Clean countertops
• Take out trash
• Clear clutter

These discourage pests that termites feed on behind walls. Routine inspections also help spot issues early.

Asthma and Allergy Precautions

Use HEPA air filters to capture allergens and particles from termites. Wear protective face masks when doing infested area inspections or cleaning.

Keep asthma and allergy medication on hand. Follow treatment plans carefully. Adjust as needed with guidance from your doctor.

What to Do If You Have a Termite Problem

Finding termites can incite panic, especially if family members have asthma or allergies. But smart action reduces risks. Key steps include:

Recognizing Signs of Infestation

Look for these common indicators:

• Swarms during spring
• Discarded wings
• Mud tunnels
• Wood that sounds hollow when tapped
• Sagging doors or floors
• Piles of tiny pellets

Contact pest control immediately at suspicion. Acting fast better protects home and health.

Getting Tested for Termite Allergies

If skin issues or breathing problems develop, seek medical testing. Identifying specific allergies allows proper treatment and prevention.

Keep a symptom journal noting possible connections to termite exposure. Share this history with your doctor. Record reactions over time as well for comparison.

Working with a Pest Control Professional

Choosing a reliable local company ensures proper termite elimination. Check reviews, licenses, experience, techniques, and satisfaction guarantees when deciding.

Communicate openly with technicians before, during, and after service. Point out signs of infestation. Follow all preparation guidelines. Ask questions about methods, safety, timeline, and recurrence prevention.

In Conclusion

Termites can jeopardize wellness in numerous ways, especially respiratory health and allergies. But through proactive pest control, infestations remain manageable before creating sickness. Stay alert for signs and contact experts promptly when discovered. Addressing termite issues quickly reduces risks that can make you sick. Protect home and health by stopping invasions before they spread.

Key Points to Remember

• Termites spread allergens and infection sources.
• Droppings and debris easily become airborne.
• Inhaling termite matter poses respiratory risks.
• Allergies may develop or worsen with exposure.
• Look for signs like wings, tunnels, wood damage and pellets.
• Professional treatment eliminates termite threats.
• Follow tips to reduce infestations for health protection.