Alleviating Dust Mite Allergies

By Author: Dave Davies
Total Articles: 31
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Your home could play host to hundreds of thousands, even millions, of tiny little bugs called dust mites. The dust mite is related to a spider, and so tiny that you couldn't see them. They love to live in warm humid environments. They feed off dead skin cells. They could be in your carpet, your furniture, even your bed.

To most people, these little bugs are harmless. Some, however, become allergic, by breathing in the 'dust' that dust mites leave behind. This can cause wheezing, sneezing, watery eyes or just general allergic reactions. If you experience indoor allergy like symptoms, especially after laying down in bed for an extended period of time, you could be allergic to dust mites. If you think you do, you can talk to your doctor about getting a skin test. The test will let you know if you are allergic to dust mites or something else.

There are a few things you could do to alleviate allergies due to dust mites. You could get rid of the mites that infest your home. There are also allergy shots and medications you can get to help with your symptoms. Different techniques work with different people, and can help ...
... alleviate dust mite allergies.

Getting Rid Of Dust Mites in Your Home

Dust mites can exist everywhere. Usually in areas like carpet or cloth. They like to feed off of the dead skin cells that your body sheds. The most common location for dust mites, and usually the most common problem area, is your bed. For every ounce of dust, there could be 30,000 dust mites.

Since the bed is usually the most common place for dust mites and it seems to be the main problem, this is probably the main focus for many in limiting dust mites. You can't really expect to kill them all off and keep them away, but you can limit your contact with them in your home.

Dust mite covers are designed to not let dust mites get through the material. You can get one for your bed and some for your pillows. While you can't eliminate all dust mites, a dust mite cover will trap dust mites in your bed and in your pillow.

You should also wash your bedding regularly, in very hot water. Washing your bedding regularly will help get rid of the dust mites and the dust left behind. Adding bleach to the laundry will help clean it too. (Remember to use color safe bleach when bleaching colored fabrics.)

Massive Home Changes to Get Rid Of Dust Mites

If simply using the right type of covers on your bed isn't enough, there are other ways to get rid of the majority of your dust mites. One of the most common recommendations is to purchase a dehumidifier. These devises get rid of the humidity in rooms.

Dust mites love warm and humid areas. By getting rid of the humidity, you deter mites. Keeping the humidity level at 50% or below will help a lot. Just remember to clean the dehumidifier as instructed.

Another way to get rid of mites is to get rid of the stuff that they are attracted to. Get rid of most of your carpeting, or cloth-covered places where mites like to be. Of course, if you love your carpeting, you could always be sure to clean it properly. Many vacuums are labeled if they are able to get rid of dust mites. Look for vacuums with a HEPA filter.

You can also shampoo your carpet clean once in a while. Just remember to thoroughly dry out the carpet as required. Leaving it somewhat moist will only re-attract more mites. There are also some powders that have pesticides in it to help get rid of mites.

When it comes down to it, the best way to limit the dust mites in your home is to set up a routine and keep your house clean. You can eliminate the work by getting rid of carpets, or simply work around it using specialized cleaners.

Medications That Help With Dust Mite Allergies

If you suffer from dust mite allergies, there are some medications that will help you feel better. Avoiding places in your home where dust mites remain, and cleaning up areas where they frequent is the best way to handle dust mite allergies. However, if you still need some relief, there are medications that can be prescribed, or you can buy over the counter.

A good over the counter solution to allergies are the popular name brands that you can get in any supermarket or pharmacy. These medications include Benadryl and Claritin. There are also decongestants or nasal sprays that can be added as a combination. Make sure you talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you begin taking medications regularly. Check with your doctor if your symptoms continue, or get worse, with treatment, or if you experience any unusual side effects.

Prescription medications are available for those with severe symptoms. You may have seen commercials for Zyrtec or Clarinex on television, medications that are long acting antihistamines. There are also nasal sprays and other products available to help relieve your symptoms.

If you have severe allergic reactions, you might consider getting an injection from the doctor. Allergy injections can help reduce your sensitivity to dust mites and other allergens. These are also called immunotherapy. What happens is you're given an injection once or twice a week to reach the right dosage, and then once that is achieved, you'll get allergy shots every four weeks.

Remember that while you can't get rid of all dust mites, and that some medications might relieve some symptoms, doing a combination might make all the difference. Many people with dust mite allergies live symptom free, or nearly free, lives using different techniques. There are discussion groups online to help discuss ideas and alternatives to treatment and prevention. These groups can also relate how different medications or solutions worked with them. If you know you suffer from allergies, or think you do, contact your doctor to discuss options.
Allergycontrol.com has been providing expert advice about everything you need to know about improving life indoors since 1983. Visit them online to purchase an air purifier, allergy bedding or humidity gauge.