What should be done for an allergy to house dust and mites? - briefly
Minimize exposure with allergen‑impermeable covers, frequent washing of bedding in hot water, removal of carpets, and keeping indoor humidity below 50 %; treat symptoms using antihistamines or intranasal corticosteroids and, if needed, pursue allergen immunotherapy under medical supervision.
What should be done for an allergy to house dust and mites? - in detail
Allergic reactions to indoor dust and microscopic mites can be controlled through a combination of environmental modifications, pharmacological therapy, and, when appropriate, immunotherapy. Reducing exposure is the first priority. Remove carpets, replace them with hard flooring, and wash bedding weekly in water hotter than 60 °C. Encase mattresses and pillows in allergen‑impermeable covers. Keep indoor humidity below 50 % by using dehumidifiers or ventilation to inhibit mite proliferation. Vacuum with a high‑efficiency particulate‑air (HEPA) filter and clean surfaces with a damp cloth to avoid dispersing particles.
Pharmacologic relief targets symptoms. Antihistamines (second‑generation agents such as cetirizine or loratadine) provide rapid relief of sneezing, itching, and rhinorrhea. Intranasal corticosteroids (fluticasone, mometasone) reduce mucosal inflammation and are effective for persistent nasal congestion. For bronchial involvement, inhaled corticosteroids combined with long‑acting β2‑agonists control asthma exacerbations. Leukotriene receptor antagonists (montelukast) may be added for patients with both rhinitis and asthma.
When avoidance and medication fail to achieve satisfactory control, allergen‑specific immunotherapy offers a disease‑modifying option. Subcutaneous injections or sublingual tablets containing dust‑mite extracts gradually desensitize the immune system, decreasing symptom severity and medication dependence over a 3‑ to 5‑year course.
Adjunct measures support overall management. Regular physical activity improves respiratory function. Smoking cessation eliminates an additional irritant. Nutritional balance, particularly adequate omega‑3 fatty acids, may modulate inflammatory responses. Patients should receive education on proper inhaler technique, medication adherence, and periodic re‑evaluation by an allergist or pulmonologist to adjust therapy based on symptom trends and test results.