Dust mites are microscopic arachnids that live in your bedding, carpets and rugs. They feed on human skin scales and droppings from dead skin cells.
Dust mites trigger allergic reactions when in contact with people’s skin or their lungs. As many as one-third of all Americans may have dust mite allergies. This results in a higher risk for asthma, sinusitis and other respiratory problems.
Where these Microscopic Arachnids Reside
Dust mites are microscopic arachnids living in bedding, carpets and rugs. Prevalent around the world, it’s difficult to eliminate dust mites entirely because they don’t require food or water.
These mites feed on dead skin cells that human shed every day. As a result, they especially impact anyone who suffers from allergies or asthma. Because of their diet, dust mites produce an allergen called Der p 1, a cause of allergic reactions when inhaled by humans
They feed on human skin scales and droppings from dead skin cells.
Dust mites are microscopic arachnids that feed on human skin scales, dead skin cells and droppings from dead skin. They live in bedding, carpets and rugs. Dust mites can trigger allergic reactions when their bodies come into contact with people’s skin or inhaled into their lungs.
The most common symptoms of dust mite allergies include:
- sneezing
- itching around the nose, eyes and throat
- coughing
- itchy welts on your arms or legs (hives)
- redness of the skin around your eyes
- swelling around the face; runny nose
- postnasal drip (a feeling like mucus is coming down the back of your throat)
Dust Mites & Allergic Reactions
The body’s immune system reacts to a foreign substance, causing most allergic reactions. When exposed to something that the body considers harmful, it releases chemicals such as histamine and inflammation-causing antibodies. These chemicals cause swelling, redness and itching.
Dust mites live in beds and sofas where they feed on dead skin cells that we shed every day–and this is how they make us sick!
Up to 1/3 of Americans have Dust Mite Allergies
As many as 1/3 of Americans suffer from dust mite allergies. This leads to a higher risk for asthma, sinusitis and other respiratory problems. Dust mites trigger asthma attacks when they release proteins into the air when they’re crushed. Alternatively, they also release proteins when killed by common cleaning methods like vacuums or steam cleaners.
Dust mite allergies may also cause itchy eyes and sneezing; some people experience skin rash as well. Those suffering from such conditions should consider buying an anti-mite mattress protector and also getting tested by a medical professional.
Stop Dust Mite Allergies by Avoiding Contact
The best way to stop dust mite allergies is avoiding contact with them. The first step is using a mattress cover. Such covers keep allergens away from your skin and off your sheets. This reduces the risk of breathing in their protein-rich excrement while you sleep.
Next, wash sheets, bedding and pillows often in hot water (140-150 degrees Fahrenheit). This will kill any dust mites that may have gotten on them during the day or night.
Avoid using down comforters or blankets. Instead, opt for synthetic materials like polyester or cotton blends. These materials are less likely to harbor allergens like dust mites and mold spores than natural fibers such as wool or silk.
Buy Mattress Covers Made of Synthetic Materials
Mattress covers made of synthetic materials, designed specifically to keep out dust mites, also can be breathable and comfortable. Look for hypoallergenic, waterproof options that are easy to clean and work with memory foam or latex mattresses.
You can buy mattress covers made of plastic or vinyl. Plastic offers better durability than vinyl, but it’s less breathable. Therefore with plastic, consumers may need sn extra blanket on top of their bedding, which defeats the point of the cover.
Vinyl has many advantages over plastic:
- It’s softer against your skin
- There are fewer cases reported where people develop allergies after sleeping on them
- They allow air flow through them so they don’t trap heat as much as other types do – making them perfect for hot climates.
Wash Sheets, Bedding and Pillows Often in Hot Water
Wash sheets, bedding and pillows often in hot water (140-150 degrees Fahrenheit). Doing this regularly helps keep dust mites out of the air. Vacuum cleaners also work to clean up dust mites.
Dust mite dander is an allergen that people with asthma or other breathing problems should avoid at all costs. The best way to do this? Wash your sheets weekly! No time for that? Consider purchasing a mattress protector made specifically for people with allergies.
Summing up Dust Mite Allergies
Feeding on human skin scales and droppings from dead skin cells, dust mites are gross, adobemicroscopic arachnids. Their tiny bodies cause allergic reactions when they come into contact with people’s skin or get inhaled into their lungs.
Up to a third of all Americans are believed to be allergic to dust mites. The best way to stop dust mite allergies is avoiding contact with them. Buy mattress covers made of synthetic materials that are designed specifically to keep out dust mites while still being breathable and comfortable.