What to do with dust and mite allergy? - briefly
Minimize exposure by eliminating carpets, washing bedding weekly in hot water, encasing mattresses and pillows in allergen‑proof covers, and keeping indoor humidity below 50 % with a dehumidifier. Complementary treatment includes nasal corticosteroid sprays and antihistamines prescribed by a medical professional.
What to do with dust and mite allergy? - in detail
Dust mite allergy manifests through nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes, and asthma‑type symptoms when microscopic arthropods and their waste particles become airborne. Confirmation typically involves skin‑prick testing or specific IgE blood assays, which identify sensitization and guide treatment choices.
Effective control relies on reducing exposure in the home environment. Key actions include:
- Encase mattresses, pillows, and duvets in allergen‑tight covers (pore size ≤ 10 µm). Wash bedding weekly in water ≥ 60 °C or use a dryer on high heat for at least 20 minutes.
- Remove carpets, heavy drapes, and upholstered furniture from bedrooms; replace with hard‑floor surfaces and washable curtains.
- Keep indoor relative humidity below 50 % by using dehumidifiers or air‑conditioning. Lower humidity limits mite reproduction.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstery with a HEPA‑filtered cleaner at least twice a week. Clean hard floors with a damp mop, avoiding dry sweeping that can stir particles.
- Wash stuffed toys and soft décor in hot water monthly or freeze them for 24 hours to kill mites.
- Install high‑efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in bedroom and living‑room HVAC systems; replace filters according to manufacturer guidelines.
Pharmacologic management addresses symptoms that persist despite environmental measures:
- Intranasal corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone, mometasone) reduce nasal inflammation when used daily.
- Oral antihistamines (second‑generation agents such as cetirizine or loratadine) alleviate itching and sneezing without causing sedation.
- Leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., montelukast) may help patients with concurrent asthma.
- Short‑acting bronchodilators provide rapid relief for acute bronchospasm.
For individuals with moderate to severe reactions, allergen‑specific immunotherapy offers long‑term disease modification. Subcutaneous injections or sublingual tablets containing standardized dust‑mite extracts are administered over several years, gradually inducing tolerance.
Lifestyle adjustments complement the above strategies:
- Avoid indoor smoking and strong fragrances that exacerbate airway irritation.
- Maintain regular exercise to improve lung capacity; use a mask during outdoor activities in high‑pollen or dusty conditions.
- Monitor symptom patterns with a diary to identify hidden triggers and assess treatment efficacy.
Combining rigorous environmental control, appropriate medication, and, where indicated, immunotherapy provides the most comprehensive approach to managing dust‑mite hypersensitivity. Continuous evaluation and adaptation of these measures ensure sustained symptom reduction and improved quality of life.