Many allergy sufferers report runny and stuffy nose, sneezing, and itchy/watery eyes after exposure to house dust. Also, asthma patients may get shortness of breath, wheezing and cough from exposure.
The most common allergens in house dust come from dust mites. These little critters actually belong to the arachnid family, which also includes spiders, chiggers and ticks. Dust mites produce potent allergens, but fortunately, through avoidance measures, allergy medicines and allergy shots, dust mite allergies and asthma can usually be controlled.
Dust allergy itself is not an indicator of a dirty home. Even if the house is very clean and tidy, dust mite allergic patients can still get sick even from minimal dust exposure.
Dust mites thrive in warm and humid environments, like North Augusta, most of the year. They grow best in temperatures around 70 degrees and relative humidity of 75 percent.
One way to kill dust mites is to keep the humidity level below 50 percent in the home, but this can be very difficult in our humid Carolina summers.
Dust mite allergen is present in the body and the feces of the mites. These allergenic particles are found primarily in carpeting, pillows, mattresses and upholstered furniture. Mites eat skin and dander particles, but they don't usually live on humans or bite humans.
There are some simple measures that are effective in reducing dust mite exposure. Encase mattresses and pillows in "mite-proof" covers. Wash everything on the bed in 128 degree water once per week. Those items that cannot be washed in such hot temperatures (such as a favorite stuffed toy or blanket) can be placed in the freezer upon awakening and removed for use at bedtime. Other more laborious and expensive measures include removal of carpeting and upholstered furniture.
Dust mite avoidance is helpful for allergy patients, but usually does not provide full relief. Allergy medications provide the next level of relief, but even these pills, sprays and eye drops leave many patients still frustrated with bothersome symptoms. The definitive therapy for dust mite allergy and asthma is allergy shots, also known as allergen immunotherapy. Allergy shots are the most effective therapy to prevent symptoms, may prevent the progression to asthma and can lead to a complete cure of the allergic disease. For more information, contact your local, friendly allergist.
Dr. Matthew Clark is the owner of Covenant Family Allergy on Knox Avenue.
