If you constantly feel tired and have very little energy, you’re probably seeking a solution to this problem. However, you may not realize that certain factors in your home could be contributing to your ongoing tiredness. Let’s explore a few of these factors and see if we can help you identify what might be causing the problem.
Mold
The presence of mold in your home can lead to various health problems. Mold spores circulate through the air, contaminating it and causing allergy-like symptoms such as frequent coughing, sneezing, eye irritation, and sinus issues. Mold tends to thrive in damp, dark areas, such as beneath kitchen counters and near washing machines. Regularly check for leaks and mold growth in areas where water accumulates.
When mold is discovered, use powerful cleaning agents to eradicate it thoroughly. You may also want to call in the pros to clean your home and get rid of the mold completely. Professional cleaning services may be necessary to effectively eliminate mold, as off-the-shelf cleaners may not suffice.
How does mold relate to your constant fatigue? Irritated sinuses and flu-like symptoms can disrupt your sleep, making it difficult to rest soundly through the night. Itchy and irritated sinuses, compounded by mold-induced breathing difficulties, can interfere with your ability to attain deep sleep.
Dust and Allergens
Excessive dust in your home can also aggravate sinus irritation and breathing difficulties. Dust accumulation may block your sinuses, making it difficult for you to breathe properly. Dust particles can impede proper airflow, causing similar symptoms to those triggered by allergens like pollen, pet dander, and pest feces. Ensuring a clean living environment is crucial, especially for individuals sensitive to dust and allergens. For those with allergies, hiring professional cleaning services may be advisable. If you choose to clean your home yourself, use protective gear to minimize exposure to irritants.
Introducing dust and other particles into your sinuses can result in breathing problems and sinus blockages, making it challenging to achieve restful sleep. Even hours after cleaning, the lingering effects of dust exposure can disrupt your sleep, leaving you feeling perpetually tired.
Clutter
A cluttered living space can contribute to feelings of fatigue, albeit indirectly. Clutter serves as a mental distraction, draining your cognitive resources and leaving you feeling mentally exhausted. While some individuals may be more affected by clutter than others, spending time in a disorganized environment can lead to increased mental fatigue.
If you’ve addressed issues like mold and dust, yet still struggle with fatigue, consider evaluating the clutter in your home. Organizing your surroundings and maintaining cleanliness can reduce mental fatigue by minimizing distractions. This is especially important in spaces where you spend a significant amount of time, such as a home office.
When addressing clutter, focus not only on tidying up but also on reducing the overall number of items in each room. By decluttering your living space, you’ll create a more organized environment conducive to relaxation and rejuvenation. This should leave you feeling more energized and well-rested.
Conclusion
Addressing issues like mold, dust, and clutter in your home can help reduce fatigue and improve overall well-being. Making simple adjustments to create a cleaner and more organized living environment can lead to better sleep and increased energy levels.
Article edited and fact checked by our editorial team.
References:
- Hardin BD, Kelman BJ, Saxon A. Adverse human health effects associated with molds in the indoor environment. J Occup Environ Med. 2003 May;45(5):470-8. doi: 10.1097/00043764-200305000-00006. PMID: 12762072.
- Icht M, Zukerman G, Zigdon A, Korn L. There is more to cluttering than meets the eye: The prevalence of cluttering and association with psychological well-being indices in an undergraduate sample. Int J Lang Commun Disord. 2023 Nov-Dec;58(6):2022-2032. doi: 10.1111/1460-6984.12917. Epub 2023 Jun 21. PMID: 37341168.
- Cao H, Liu Z. Clinical significance of dust mite allergens. Mol Biol Rep. 2020 Aug;47(8):6239-6246. doi: 10.1007/s11033-020-05613-1. Epub 2020 Aug 14. PMID: 32803501.