House Dust Mite Allergy: Causes, Symptoms and Prevention Tips
If you think a little dust can do no harm, think again! Even something small like dust particles can pose a big problem for our system. In other words, if the dust settles in, so does dust mites. Tiny micro-organisms that feed on house dust, tiny flakes from human skin, and moisture in the air cause one of the most common allergy problems, house dust mite allergy. Dust mites are present throughout the year and people are at constant risk. They are present all around the world in every household. From furniture and bedding to carpets and stuffed toys anything in your house can be home to dust mites. Often thriving in normal room temperatures with up to 70–80% humidity, it’s a bit harder to manage because the person who has dust allergies suffers the most indoors. Although vacuuming, dusting, and sweeping help manage dust mites, it’s also the most probable time you might get house dust mite allergy. The process of cleaning causes the dust particles to be airborne, making them easier to inhale.
Dust mite allergy causes
The dust particles around the house are the most common triggers of dust allergy. They are home to the dust mites but some of the other triggers may include bathroom mold, pet fur, pollen from indoor plants.
Dust allergy symptoms
Dust mite allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe. They may include:
· Runny or itchy nose
· Postnasal drip
· Itchy, watery or red eyes
· Itchy throat
· Cough
· Swollen eyes
· Itchy skin
· Congestion
· Sinus pressure
Allergy prevention and treatment
Allergies cannot be treated but can be managed. Medications available in the market can only help you ease your symptoms and not treat the allergy completely. If these medications do not relieve your symptoms, your doctor might recommend immunotherapy/allergy shots. Allergy shots help in introducing a small amount of allergen into the body over a period of time, making it less allergic to certain substances.
One can also consider home remedies to manage dust allergies. Some of these include:
· Herbal teas with honey to soothe an itchy throat
· Nasal washes (only under doctor’s supervision)
Avoiding contact with the allergen is the best way to manage allergies. But how do you avoid microscopic dust mites potentially living on any number of surfaces in the home? We’ve put together a few tips which might help you limit the exposure and prevent symptoms:
· Use airtight mattress, pillow, couch, and box spring protectors
· Use pillows with synthetic fibers
· Use dehumidifiers or air conditioners to keep the humidity maintained
· If there are any stuffed toys make sure you wash them in hot water regularly
· Wash or change the bedding once a week
· Remove carpet from bedrooms, if possible
· Wear a mask when dusting
· Wash rugs in hot water and let them dry outside
· Mop floors regularly
The best method to get rid of most dust mites is to clean your house regularly. Although it won’t completely remove the dust mites, but it will certainly help in getting rid of a large number of them.
If you’re experiencing any allergy symptoms, it’s best to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis. Workout a management plan and ensure you avoid the allergy triggers for better allergy management.
