Disclaimer [ENGLISH]
Disclaimer: This material is for educational purposes only. You, the reader, assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it. It is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, nor does it replace the advice or counsel of a doctor or health care professional. Reference to a specific commercial product or service does not imply endorsement or recommendation of that product or service by CPCMG.
What is dust/dust mite allergy?
- A sensitivity to substances in the waste particles and body fragments of house dust mites.
- Dust mites are tiny (only 1/4-1/3millimeter long) creatures that live in pillows, mattresses, blankets, carpets and other soft materials.
- Dust mites might be the most common trigger of year-round allergies and allergic asthma.
- Having dust mites DOES NOT mean that your house is not clean.
What are the symptoms of dust/dust mite allergy?
- Stuffy, runny, or itchy nose.
- Itchy, red, or watery eyes.
- Sneezing.
- Cough, trouble breathing. Asthma exacerbation.
- Itchy skin. Eczema flare-up.
- Click here to learn more about allergic rhinitis.
How is dust mite allergy diagnosed?
- Your child’s healthcare provider will ask you questions about your child’s symptoms and exposures and perform a physical exam.
- If your child’s doctor suspects an allergy to dust mite, they might refer your child to an allergy specialist. The specialist might suggest a skin or blood test to check for this allergy.
How can I prevent symptoms from dust mite allergy?
- Encase pillows, mattress, and box spring in “allergen-impermeable” or “dust-proof” covers.
- Use washable bedding. Wash all bedding in hot water (at least 130°F) every week.
- If possible, replace the carpet in your child’s bedroom with a hard, wipeable flooring material.
- Use washable throw rugs and wash them every 2 weeks in hot water.
- Vacuum all carpet at least once per week, preferably with a HEPA-grade vacuum cleaner.
- Remove other non-washable items from your child’s bedroom. This includes stuffed animals, throw pillows, upholstered furniture, and curtains.
- Keep the humidity in your home below 50%.
- Allergy symptoms often worsen during or immediately after vacuuming, sweeping, and dusting. The process of cleaning can stir up dust particles, making them easier to inhale. CERTIFIED filter vacuum cleaners can help to keep mites and mite waste from getting back into the air.
How is dust mite allergy treated?
- Treatment is focused on minimizing symptoms.
- Common treatments include:
- Oral antihistamines like loratadine and cetirizine.
- Nasal steroid spray
- If your child’s symptoms are not adequately controlled, the allergy specialist might recommend “allergy shots” or immunotherapy.
When to call your doctor:
- Your child has fever with their allergy symptoms.
- Your child is having difficulty breathing.
- Your child is getting worse.
- You have other questions or concerns.
This publication was adapted from information from information from American Academy of Pediatrics Patient Education Handouts, American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, and the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
Reviewed by: AR, D.O. | 11/2023