What does an allergy to dust mites look like? - briefly
Typical signs involve sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy or watery eyes, and a chronic cough; skin may develop eczema‑like rashes or hives. Symptoms often worsen indoors where dust‑mite concentrations are high.
What does an allergy to dust mites look like? - in detail
Dust mite allergy presents as a hypersensitivity reaction to microscopic arthropods that thrive in household fabrics. Exposure to allergen particles triggers immune activation, leading to characteristic clinical patterns.
Nasal involvement includes persistent sneezing, watery discharge, congestion, and itching of the nasal mucosa. Mucosal swelling may cause intermittent obstruction, especially during periods of increased indoor humidity.
Ocular symptoms consist of itching, redness, tearing, and a sensation of foreign body in the eyes. These signs often accompany nasal irritation and may fluctuate with exposure intensity.
Lower‑respiratory manifestations range from mild wheezing and cough to bronchial hyper‑responsiveness and asthma exacerbations. In severe cases, shortness of breath and chest tightness develop after prolonged contact with contaminated bedding or upholstery.
Skin reactions appear as localized erythema, itching, and hives (urticaria) when allergen particles contact the epidermis. Chronic exposure can lead to eczema‑like dermatitis, particularly on the face, neck, and hands.
Long‑term sensitization may contribute to perennial rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, and persistent asthma, with symptoms persisting year‑round rather than being seasonal.
Diagnostic confirmation relies on skin‑prick testing with standardized dust‑mite extracts and measurement of specific IgE antibodies in serum. Positive results, combined with a clear correlation between exposure and symptom onset, establish the diagnosis.
Management strategies include environmental control—regular washing of bedding at ≥60 °C, use of allergen‑impermeable covers, reduction of indoor humidity below 50 %, and removal of upholstered furniture where feasible. Pharmacologic therapy comprises intranasal corticosteroids, antihistamine tablets or nasal sprays, and, for respiratory involvement, inhaled corticosteroids or bronchodilators. Allergen‑specific immunotherapy offers a disease‑modifying option for patients with moderate to severe disease unresponsive to conventional measures.