Dust Mite Allergy Guide | SRQ Allergy & Asthma

1. What Are Dust Mites?

Dust mites are microscopic insects (approximately 0.4 mm) that live in household dust. They are invisible to the naked eye and thrive in warm, humid environments.

Key Facts:

Diet: They feed on dead skin cells shed by humans and pets
The Allergy: Mites do not bite or burrow. Allergic reactions are triggered by their fecal particles and body fragments
Common Hiding Spots: Bedding, upholstered furniture, carpets/rugs, curtains, stuffed toys, and air vents

2. Symptoms

Symptoms can occur year-round but are often worse at night or in the early morning while in bed.

Nasal & Eye Symptoms:

Sneezing, cough, or postnasal drip
Runny or stuffy nose
Itchy, red, watery eyes
Itchy nose, mouth, or throat

Asthma-Related Symptoms:

Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness
Wheezing (whistling sound)
Trouble sleeping due to breathing issues

3. Diagnosis

Your healthcare provider may use the following to confirm the allergy:

Skin Prick Test:

A small amount of allergen is scratched onto the skin
If allergic, a raised red bump appears within 15-20 minutes
Results are immediate

Blood Test (Specific IgE):

Measures antibodies to dust mites
Useful for patients with skin conditions or those taking specific medications

4. Treatment Options

Option A: Environmental Control (First-Line Treatment)

Reducing exposure is the foundation of treatment. While you cannot eliminate all mites, you can significantly reduce them.

Priority: The Bedroom

Allergen-Proof Covers: Encase mattresses, pillows, and box springs in zippered, tightly woven covers
Washing: Wash bedding weekly in HOT water (at least 130°F / 54°C)
Flooring: Replace carpets with hard flooring. If carpets remain, vacuum weekly with a HEPA filter vacuum
Humidity: Keep humidity below 50% using a dehumidifier or A/C
Declutter: Remove curtains, upholstered furniture, and stuffed animals

Whole House Measures

Filters: Install HEPA filters (MERV 11-12) in your furnace/AC and change every 3 months
Vacuuming: Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter

Option B: Medications (Symptom Control)

Medication Type	Function
Antihistamines	Relieve sneezing, itching, and runny nose
Nasal Corticosteroids	Most effective type; reduces inflammation
Leukotriene Modifiers	Block immune system chemicals
Decongestants	Shrink swollen nasal tissues to relieve stuffiness
Cromolyn Sodium	Prevents release of allergy-causing chemicals

Option C: Immunotherapy (Long-Term Treatment)

Recommended if medications fail or to prevent asthma progression.

Allergy Shots (SCIT): Weekly injections followed by monthly maintenance for 3-5 years
Allergy Tablets (SLIT): Daily tablets placed under the tongue (e.g., ODACTRA®)

Option D: Complementary Therapies

Saline Nasal Irrigation: Flush allergens using distilled or boiled water
Saline Sprays: Moisturize nasal passages

✓ Bedroom Dust Mite Control Checklist

Print this list and check off items as you complete them.

Purchase allergen-proof covers for mattress, pillows, and box springs

Wash all bedding weekly in 130°F (54°C) water

Remove or minimize carpeting (or vacuum weekly with HEPA filter)

Replace curtains with washable blinds or roll-down shades

Remove stuffed animals from the bed (or wash weekly in hot water)

Purchase and install a dehumidifier to keep humidity <50%

Buy a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels

Set up a weekly damp-dusting schedule for all bedroom surfaces

Purchase a HEPA filter vacuum or bags for your current vacuum

Install HEPA filters in furnace/A/C (MERV 11-12 rating)

Remove upholstered furniture from the bedroom if possible

Minimize decorative pillows, knickknacks, and dust collectors

💡 Important Reminders

It Takes Time: Controls may take 2-4 weeks to show effect
Consistency is Key: Weekly cleaning is vital
Cleanliness ≠ Mite-Free: Mites exist even in clean homes

⚠️ When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

Symptoms are not controlled with environmental measures
Medications cause bothersome side effects
You experience asthma symptoms (wheezing, chest tightness)
Symptoms interfere with sleep, work, or school
You develop sinus infections from persistent allergies

Medical Disclaimer: This handout is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting treatment.