FACTS ABOUT ALLERGIES

The tendency to develop allergies may be inherited. If you have allergic tendencies and are exposed to certain things in your environment (allergens), you may develop allergies to some of those things. Examples of allergy symptoms include itchy eyes, runny nose, asthma, eczema and rash. The allergic response may be immediate or delayed. Allergy testing may be recommended to help identify your allergies.

ALLERGIES TO DUST MITE

The droppings from dust mites (insects too small to be seen with the naked eye) are common causes of allergy symptoms. These insects feed on human skin scales and live in bedding, carpets, stuffed furniture, old clothing and stuffed toys. Dust mites thrive in humid climates and for that reason, humidifiers are NOT recommended for asthmatics.. They don't survive when the humidity is below 50%. If droppings of dust mites are inhaled or come in contact with the skin, they may cause allergy, asthma and/or eczema symptoms.

REDUCING TRIGGERS IN YOUR ENVIRONMENT

Once an allergy has been identified, measures can be taken to decrease or eliminate exposure to the allergen. Reducing allergen concentration in the home, school or workplace can reduce asthma and allergy symptoms. This is called environmental control. Concentrating efforts in the bedroom is especially important, because the bedroom is where people usually spend 1/3 to 1/2 of their time.

S TEPS TO CONTROL DUST MITE ALLERGENS

Sheets and bed coverings chould be washed once per week in hot water (130 degrees F) to kill dust mites.

Enclose the mattress, pillows and boxsprings in zippered dust-proof encasings. Dust-proof encasings have a layer of material that keeps the dust mites inside the encasing. Encasings are usually made of plastic or plastic-like materials. If there is more than one mattress in the bedroom all mattresses should be encased. It is recommended that cloth tape be placed over the encasing zipper.

Avoid upholstered furniture, heavy window drapings and carpets since these can all accumulate dust and are difficult to clean.

Avoid items that collect dust such as books, cardboard boxes and stuffed animals.

OTHER HELPFUL SUGGESTIONS

Remove carpeting from the bedroom. Instead, use area rugs that can be washed.

Use wood, leather or vinyl furniture instead of upholstered furniture in the bedroom.

Avoid window blinds or heavy drapes.

The person with a dust mite allergy should not sweep or be in a room while it is being swept.

Keep the indoor moisture low. The ideal humidity level is 30-40%. Use an air conditioner or dehumidifier in warm climates to decrease the humidity. Clean the dehumidifier regularly.

Humidifiers/vaporizers are not recommended because they will increase humidity in the room and create a favorable environment for dust mites. If you must use a humidifier, clean it regularly to prevent mold growth.

Chemical solutions may be helpful. Acaricides (a chemical that kills dust mites) must be applied regularly to carpeting or upholstered furniture. This solution will not remove any preexisting mite droppings. A tannic acid solution, applied as directed, can help neutralize the allergen in mite droppings.

Speak to your health care provider or an allergist for additional recommendations or for advise on how to implement these recommendations.