Are You Dust Mite Sensitive ? Here Are A Few Ways to Prevent Allergic Reactions.
The allergic reactions are mostly caused by the dust mites. Dust mites are found everywhere. Sensitive people are allergic to the dust mites. Dust is not a non parasitic antigen and hence not responsible for allergic reactions.
The bodies of the dust mites decompose and waste products from them are produced. They launch the proteins in the surroundings. Antibodies are the proteins in our blood and are used by our immune system to identify the foreign particles like bacteria and virus. Antibodies are also called IgE (immunoglobulin E). The IgE increases the release of histamines. Itching and watering of eyes (conjunctivitis), running nose (allergic rhinitis or hay fever) are few allergy symptoms which arise due to the histamines.
Melting of snow and rains increases the humidity in the air. The population of the dust mites rises during the winter and they perish, when the humidity level is less than 50%.
Proper prevention can help in reducing the dust mite sensitivity. The few precautions can be taken to avoid the allergy.
Cleaning at regular intervals can reduce the number of dust mites. Woolen beddings may be comfortable, but they hold major number of dust mites. The bed spreads and sheets should be washed with warm water every week. Hypo-allergenic bed sheets and freeze dry beds can help people with this allergy. Alternatively, synthetic bed sheets can help the sensitive people.
Children having a family history of allergy may be more prone to dust mites. Warm water can be used to clean their pillow covers. Soft toys washable with hot water may be given to the children.
Dust mites are weighty and they do not remain in the air for a long period. Vaccum Cleaners with a good HEPA filter may be used to clean the house. Special dusters and mops that collect the dust within them are available in the markets. A mask used during the dusting process is of great help. It is advisable to enter the room after an hour. This allows the dust to settle down.
Wood or artificial flooring may be used as they can be cleaned easily. They hold less dust than the carpet floorings. Shutters made of wood or plastic and louvers are easy to maintain.
Medication is the best way to cure allergy symptoms. Medicines are to be taken as prescribed by the doctor. Overdoses of medicine can have an adverse effect on the patient’s health. Antihistamines such Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Claritin (loratadine) and nasal sprays like Nasonex may provide relief to the patient.
Bronchodilator helps in opening the bronchial tube. This allergy treatment is helpful to patients suffering from asthma like wheezing and constant cough. Consulting the doctor before taking medicines is very important. Even corticosteroids or a combination of it can be taken.
Immunotherapy is mostly used in extreme cases. It is a long term allergy treatment and should be carried as per the doctor’s advice. In this process allergy injections having the extracts of dust mites are used. They help in desensitizing the patients.
