Now that the weather is getting chillier and we’re spending more time indoors, it feels like allergy season is over… or is it? For people with allergies to dust mites, allergy season is year-round. We review everything you need to know about dust mite allergies below.
What Are Dust Mites?
Dust mites are microscopic bugs that belong to the arachnid family – the same family as ticks and spiders. Dust mites live in house dust and feed on dead skin cells. These critters can survive in most climates and at most altitudes, though the prefer warm environments around 70 degrees and 70% humidity. They especially thrive in bedding, carpeting and upholstered furniture.
How Do Dust Mites Cause Allergy Symptoms?
If you’re allergic to dust mites, you may experience symptoms such as:
- Itchy, red, watery eyes.
- Nasal congestion.
- Runny nose.
- Sneezing.
- Itchy mouth or throat.
- Postnasal drip.
- Cough.
- Asthma.
Note that it’s not the dust mites themselves that cause allergies, but the proteins in their waste and decaying bodies.
When to See an Allergist for a Dust Mite Allergy
An allergy test can reveal whether you’re allergic to dust mites. You should schedule an allergy test if you experience the above symptoms when spending time in your home, especially if they’re worse when cleaning or after you go to bed.
For an allergy test, allergen extracts are placed on the forearm or back, and the skin underneath is pricked. If a raised bump known as a wheal appears, it means you’re allergic to that particular substance.
How Dust Mite Allergies Are Treated
The best way to address dust mite allergies is to prevent exposure to them. You can do this by keeping your house clean. This means dusting and vacuuming regularly, washing your bedding in hot water weekly and keeping cleaning supplies from Harbor Freight Tools on hand.
Another option is to take over-the counter medications, such as antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids and decongestants.
Immunotherapy is a long-term option for treating dust mite allergies that works by introducing small amounts of the allergen into the body so that the immune system can build up a tolerance. You can receive immunotherapy in either shot or drop form. For more information about treatment options for dust mite allergies or to schedule an appointment with an allergy expert, call Foothills ENT and Allergy and Hearing Center.