For creatures you can’t even see, dust mites can stir up a lot of trouble. About 20 million Americans are allergic to these little bugs. When you’re one of these people, you may feel as if you have an endless cold or even asthma.
Medication can help, and you can also take simple steps to keep the dust mites away.
Symptoms to Watch For:
Dust allergy symptoms are similar to those of pollen allergies:
- Red, itchy, watery eyes
- Runny, itchy, stuffy nose
- Sneezing
What Causes Dust Allergies?
It sounds nasty, but it’s true: One piece of dust can contain pet dander, pieces of dead cockroaches, and mold spores, along with dead skin and dust mites.
Both cockroaches and pet dander are common allergy triggers, too. Cockroach waste, saliva, and body parts are a problem in some homes, particularly in the southern U.S.
How Can I Prevent Symptoms?
The best strategy is to limit your exposure to dust.
Start in the bedroom, where you probably spend the most time. Large numbers of dust mites can gather in mattresses, bedding, and upholstered furniture.
Wear a mask while cleaning, too.
Bedroom Dust-Busting Tips
- Put airtight, plastic dust-mite covers on pillows, mattresses, and box springs.
- Use pillows filled with polyester fibers instead of kapok or feathers.
- Wash bedding in very hot water (over 130 F) once a week. The water needs to be this hot to kill dust mites. Dry the bedding in a hot dryer.
- Wash throw rugs in hot water.
- Vacuum upholstered furniture such as sofas. Wood, leather, plaster, or metal furniture is better for dust allergies.
- Replace drapes with roll-up window shades. If you must have curtains, wash them in hot water each season.
- Get rid of stuffed animals, soft toys, and other dust collectors.
How Are Dust Allergies Treated?
- Over-the-counter or prescription allergy drugs can help control your symptoms.
- Antihistamines relieve itching, sneezing, and watery eyes.
- Decongestants ease or unclog a stuffy nose.
- Nasal steroids reduce swelling in your nose so you can breathe better.