Dust Mites Allergy

Last reviewed by Dr.Mary on August 7th, 2018.

Allergies from dust mites are a reaction to bugs that are very tiny and commonly live in typical house dust. Symptoms or signs of dust mite allergy consist of those which are common to hay fever, for instance sneezing and running nose. A majority of individuals with dust mite allergy also have symptoms of wheezing, asthma as well as breathing difficulties.


Dust mites are related to the spider and are so small they are not able to be seen without using a microscope. Dust mites eat cells of skin and flourish in environments that are humid and warm. In the majority of homes, upholstered furniture, bedding as well as carpeting are perfect environments for these bugs to grow.

Reducing the number of these bugs in the home is the only way to control dust mite allergy. Drugs as well as other treatment might be needed to help with symptoms and to manage any asthma.

Dust Mites Allergy Symptoms

The symptoms of this type allergy are caused by inflammation of the nasal passage and they include:

  • Running nose
  • Sneezing
  • Watery, itchy or red eyes
  • Congestion of nasal passages
  • Itchy throat, nose or roof of mouth
  • Postnasal drip
  • Facial pain and pressure
  • Cough
  • Wakening frequently
  • Blue-colored, swollen skin under the eyes
  • In children, frequent rubbing upward of the nose

If the dust mite allergy causes asthma, an individual can experience:

  • Breathing difficulty
  • Pain or tightness in the chest
  • Problems sleeping due to coughing, shortness of breath or wheezing
  • Coughing and wheezing that worsens with a virus such as flu or cold

Dust mite allergy may range from mild to very severe. A case that is mild may cause watery eyes, occasional running nose, and sneezing. Cases that are severe may cause the condition to be ongoing or chronic and result in stubborn coughing, sneezing, and congestion, pressure of the face or asthma attacks that are severe.

Some symptoms and signs of this allergy, for instance sneezing or running nose are similar to the common cold. But if symptoms continue for more than a week, and are severe – see your physician. Get emergency care if shortness of breath or wheezing worsens quickly or if you experience shortness of breath with activity that is minimal.

Dust Mites Allergy Causes

Allergies happen when the body’s immune system responds to a substance that is foreign for instance pet dander, pollen or dust mites.

The immune system triggers proteins referred to as antibodies. These antibodies protect the body from foreign invaders that would make the individual sick or create an infection. When the person has allergies, the immune system creates antibodies that id’s particular allergen as being harmful, even in cases where it is not. So when the allergen is inhaled or comes into contact with the individual, the immune system triggers an inflammatory response in the lungs and nasal passages. Regular or protracted exposure to any allergen will cause ongoing inflammation that is associated with asthma.

Dust Mites Allergy Treatment

A physician will normally direct an individual to take one of the listed medications to help nasal allergy symptoms:

Antihistamines

These decrease the creation of chemicals from the immune system that becomes active during an allergic reaction. These medications help to relieve sneezing, itching and running nose. Prescription tablets include:

  • Allegra
  • Clarinex
  • Astelin
  • Astepro
  • Patanase
  • Prescription nasal spray

Over the counter oral antihistamine include:

  • Claritin
  • Zyrtec
  • Antihistamine syrups for children

Corticosteroids

These are normally nasal sprays that relieve inflammation and manage the symptoms and signs of hay fever. These medications include:

  • Flonase
  • Nasonex
  • Nasacort
  • Omnaris

Corticosteroid in nasal spray offer lower risk of side effects as well as lower doses of medication as compared to oral corticosteroids.

Decongestants

Help swollen tissues in the nasal passages to shrink and make it better to breathe thru the nose. There are some over the counter tablets for allergy that combine a decongestant with an antihistamine. Decongestants that are oral increase blood pressure therefore should not be used by anyone with high blood pressure that is severe or have cardiovascular problems. This drug can worsen enlarged prostate in men. Speak with your physician to see if you can safely take a decongestant.

Decongestant nasal sprays that are over the counter can reduce allergy symptoms in the short-term but if used too long, there is a rebound effect where the spray will add to the congestion.

Cromolyn sodium

This prevents immune system chemicals to release and can decrease symptoms. This is an over the counter nasal spray and will need to be used several times each day. It is more effective when it is used before symptoms and signs are triggered. This medication has no side effects that are serious.

Leukotriene modifiers

This medication can block the action of some immune system chemicals. This is a prescription called Singulair. Headaches are possible side effects. Less common side effects include cough, abdomen pain, dizziness as well as dental pain.

Dust Mites Allergy Removal

While dust mites cannot be totally eradicated from a home, they can be reduced significantly using the following suggestions:

Use bed covers that are allergen proof

These stop dust mites from escaping or colonizing.

Bedding need washed weekly

All sheets, pillowcases, blankets as well as bedcovers need to be washed in hot water weekly and put in a drier for 20 minutes are more. Freezing items that are non-washable for 24 hours also eliminates dust mites

Low humidity

Humidity should be 30% to 50% in the home. An air conditioner or a dehumidifier can help.

Wisely select bedding

Bedcovers that trap dust need to be avoided.

Buy stuffed toys that are washable

Wash in hot water and dry completely.

Dust removal

Dust with an oiled or damp rag or mop. This prevents dust from being airborne as well as resettling.

Regularly vacuum

Upholstered furniture and carpet needs to be dusted as vacuuming is not good at removing dust mites and their allergens.

Eliminate clutter

Knickknacks, ornaments, magazines, books and newspapers collect dust and dust mites so remove them from the bedroom.

Remove carpeting

If possible, consider replacing any wall to wall bedroom carpeting with linoleum, tile, wood or vinyl flooring – especially in a child with severe allergies bedroom. You should also replace other furnishings, curtains etc. that are dust collectors.

Dust Mites Pictures

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