Show
MenuA dust allergy (or dust mite allergy) is an
allergic reaction to tiny bugs that live in the dust in your house. About 20 million Americans are allergic to these bugs. When you're one of these people, you may feel as if you have an endless cold or even
asthma. Dust mites are related to ticks and spiders. But they’re too small to see with the naked eye. They eat your dead skin cells in dust
and in places like your bedding, furniture, and carpet. Medication can help, and you can take simple steps to keep the dust mites away. Dust allergy symptoms are similar to those of
pollen allergies: Allergies happen when your immune system reacts to something like
pollen or, in this case, dust mites. When your immune system sees something as harmful, it causes inflammation. That’s why allergies give you symptoms like
sneezing and a runny nose, similar to what you might get if you had a cold. If symptoms get really severe or last a long time, they can lead to asthma. You’re more likely to have a dust allergy if you:
Dust Allergy DiagnosisIf your doctor thinks you might have a dust allergy, they will:
Over-the-counter or prescription allergy drugs can help control your symptoms. Other treatments include:
Talk to your doctor about which treatment is best for you. Dust Allergy PreventionThe best strategy is to limit your contact with dust and dust mites. To get rid of dust mites in your home, keep their living habits in mind. They prefer temperatures of about 70 F or higher and humidity of 70% to 80%. They can't survive in colder, drier places. In the U.S., dust mite allergies peak in July and August, when dust mite populations are high because of warm weather. Dust mites like to eat dead skin from pets and humans. You probably shed enough skin a day to feed a million dust mites. Flakes of dead skin in carpeting, beds, and furniture are like tasty snacks for them. To get rid of dust and dead skin, start in the bedroom. Large numbers of dust mites can gather in mattresses, bedding, and upholstered furniture. Wear a mask while cleaning, too. Bedroom dust-busting tips
Around the house
Keep air clean and dry
How long does it take for dust allergy to go away?They typically last for about 3 to 7 days. By then the worst is over, but you may feel stuffed up for a week or more” (Felson, 2020). The difference is the length of time for symptoms to dissipate. Dust allergy symptoms last as long as you're around dust.
What is the fastest way to cure dust allergy?Lifestyle and home remedies. Use allergen-proof bed covers. Keep your mattress and pillows in dustproof or allergen-blocking covers. ... . Wash bedding weekly. ... . Keep humidity low. ... . Choose bedding wisely. ... . Buy washable stuffed toys. ... . Remove dust. ... . Vacuum regularly. ... . Cut clutter.. What does dust allergy feel like?A mild case of dust mite allergy may cause an occasional runny nose, watery eyes and sneezing. In severe cases, the condition may be ongoing (chronic), resulting in persistent sneezing, cough, congestion, facial pressure, an eczema flare-up or severe asthma attack.
How do you recover from dust allergies?After a dust allergy is identified, your allergist will recommend one or more of the following treatments:. Medications.. Allergy shots (subcutaneous immunotherapy ). Tablets (oral immunotherapy). Changes to your household routine.. |