Synthetic bedding can ''make asthma worse''
10/08/2009
By Michael Ewing
People suffering from asthma can make their condition worse through the use of synthetic bedding, according to a recent study.
The research, carried out by Otago University, found that such bed linen is more likely to contain higher levels of fungi-related beta glucans - non-allergenic components which are largely found in house dust which can make respiratory conditions worse.
Lead investigator Rob Siebers and his team looked into 178 samples, including 35 floors, 35 mattresses, 35 duvets and 73 pillows, finding that older mattresses were more likely to make things worse for those with the respiratory condition, highlighting the importance of regularly buying a new bed.
He said of the test: "There have already been a number of international studies that show synthetic bedding is associated with more asthma symptoms compared to feather bedding."
According to Asthma UK, there are 5.4 million people in the UK whose lives are affected by asthma.
