What is dust mite allergy?

Dust mite allergy is an allergic reaction to the tiny insects that are found at home. The bugs are relatives of ticks and spiders and are so tiny, measuring between 0.2 and 0.3 millimetres, that they cannot be seen by the naked eye.

Dust mites thrive in warm, humid environments and eat the skin cells which humans naturally shed. They are most commonly found in bedding, upholstered furniture and carpeting and are present in most homes. Dust mites are the most common trigger of allergies and asthma. Signs of a reaction to dust mites are similar to hay fever.

What are the symptoms of dust mite allergy?

Allergic reactions to dust mites are usually respiratory and cause inflammation of the nasal passages. The main symptoms of allergy to dust mites include:

• sneezing
• nasal congestion
• a runny nose
• inflammation and itching of the eyes
• itchy throat and cough
• skin rashes, such as eczema or hives
• coughing
• postnasal drip

Those affected by allergies to dust mites may suffer one or several symptoms at any time of year as it is not a seasonal allergy. Some patients have mild symptoms while others experience them more persistently and severely.

Who is more likely to suffer from dust mite allergy?

Although anyone can suffer from dust mite allergy, people with asthma are more likely to experience allergic symptoms or a worsening of their asthma. People with a family history of allergies are also more likely to suffer from dust mite allergy.

Is dust mite allergy related to asthma?

People who suffer from asthma are more likely to be affected by dust mite allergy and may experience a worsening of their asthma symptoms as a result. This may present as:

• difficulty breathing
• tightness or pain in the chest
• whistling or wheezing when breathing out
• chronic cough or wheezing
• problems with sleeping caused by the worsening of symptoms

What are the triggers of dust mite allergy?

People who suffer from dust mite allergy can have their symptoms triggered by:

• dust mites
• cockroaches
• mould
• pollen
• pet hair, fur, feathers

Can dust mite allergy be prevented?

The only thing that can be done to prevent the symptoms of a dust mite allergy is to limit the amount of these insects in the home. Although dust mites are commonly found almost everywhere, the following measures can help to reduce their number and improve allergic symptoms:

• choosing wooden floors over carpet
• fit roller blinds instead of curtains
• use leather or plastic furniture over upholstered
• clean cushions, curtains and bedding regularly by washing at a high-temperature
• use allergy-proof covers on bedding
• vacuum regularly
• wipe surfaces with a damp clean cloth

How is dust mite allergy diagnosed?

If you suspect you may have an allergy to dust mites, you can ask your doctor to conduct an allergy test. They may use a skin prick test or a specific IgE blood test to determine if you have an allergy to dust mites.

Skin prick tests are most often carried out on the forearm but is sometimes performed on the upper back. The doctor will prick a small dust mite extract on to the area of skin and will observe any reaction that takes place. After around fifteen minutes, the area may become red, raised and itchy if a dust mite allergy is present.

Alternatively, blood testing can be performed to look for the presence of Immunoglobin E (IgE) antibodies. When an allergy is present, the body reacts to the allergen by excessively producing these antibodies to try to fight it. This triggers the release of certain chemicals which cause the allergic reaction. If this type of antibody can be identified within the blood sample, it is highly likely that a dust mite allergy is present.

How is dust mite allergy treated?

There is no present cure for dust mite allergy but the symptoms can be well controlled with medication. Dust mite allergy treatment can include

• antihistamine tablets
• leukotriene antagonists
• nasal corticosteroids or cromolyn sodium nose spray
• eye drops
• asthma inhalers

If your symptoms of dust mite allergy are very severe, you should see a specialist allergist to discuss a treatment plan. Immunotherapy (an allergy shot) is used to develop the tolerance of an allergen and may help to significantly reduce symptoms in some people. The treatment involves regular injections or oral tablets over the course of a few years.

Can dust mite allergy be cured?

Although there is no cure for dust mite allergy, it is possible to manage the symptoms effectively with treatment. Taking steps to avoid the triggers of the symptoms of dust mite allergy, such as vacuuming regularly and washing bed sheets regularly, can also help.

What type of doctor treats dust mite allergy?

Specialist allergists diagnose and treat dust mite allergy.