Dust Mite Allergy

dustmite-allergy

What is Dust Mite Allergy?

Dust mite allergy is an allergic condition that occurs as a reaction to the dust mite allergens that commonly live-in household dust. It is also known as house dust allergy. It is sensitization and an allergic reaction to the droppings of the dust mites.

A mild case of dust mite allergy may cause an occasional runny nose, watery eyes and sneezing. In severe cases, the condition may be ongoing (chronic), resulting in persistent sneezing, cough, congestion, facial pressure, an eczema flare-up or severe asthma attack.

  • Runny nose
  • Watery eyes
  • Cough
  • Sneezing
  • Postnasal drip
  • Chest tightness or pain
  • Facial pressure and pain
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Wheezing

Dust mites eat organic matter such as skin cells people have shed, and rather than drinking water, they absorb water from humidity in the atmosphere. Dust also contains the faces and decaying bodies of dust mites, and it's the proteins present in this dust mite "debris" that are the culprit in dust mite allergy.

  • Having a family history of allergies. You're more likely to develop a sensitivity to dust mites if several members of your family have allergies.
  • Exposure to dust mites. Being exposed to high levels of dust mites, especially early in life, increases your risk.
  • Being a child or a young adult.
  • Wash bedding weekly.
  • Keep humidity low.
  • Choose bedding wisely.
  • Buy washable stuffed toys.
  • Remove dust.
  • Vacuum regularly.
  • Cut clutter.
  • Use allergen-proof bed covers. Keep your mattress and pillows in dustproof or allergen-blocking covers.

How is it diagnosed?

How is it diagnosed?

Items that cannot be washed should be placed in a tumble dryer on high heat for at least 15 minutes weekly. Another method for killing dust mites is to place the non-washable item in a plastic bag and freeze it for 24 hours. This does not remove allergens, but it will kill the mites.

How is it treated?

Treatment for acute myeloid leukemia is vital. It varies with the patient and stage of the disease. Treatment options include

  • Use allergen-proof bed covers. Keep your mattress and pillows in dustproof or allergen-blocking covers.
  • Wash bedding weekly.
  • Keep humidity low.
  • Choose bedding wisely.
  • Buy washable stuffed toys.
  • Remove dust.
  • Vacuum regularly.
  • Cut clutter.

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