Dust Mite Allergy
Dust mite allergy is an immune system reaction to proteins found in the bodies and waste of dust mites, which are the primary allergens in household dust. This allergy can cause respiratory and dermatological symptoms and often persists year-round, especially in individuals with other allergic conditions or asthma.
Causes of Dust Mite Allergy
The allergy develops due to sensitization to allergens produced by dust mites.
- Dust mites are microscopic arachnids that live in bedding, mattresses, carpets, upholstered furniture, and other fabric surfaces.
- They feed on dead human skin cells and thrive in warm, humid environments.
- Contact with these allergens causes the immune system to overreact, leading to an allergic response.
Allergic Reaction Development
Upon repeated inhalation of dust mite allergens, the immune system produces specific IgE antibodies that treat these proteins as a “threat.”
This triggers the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators, resulting in swollen mucous membranes, airway and eye irritation, increased mucus production, and bronchospasm.
This can manifest as allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, asthma, or a flare-up of atopic dermatitis.
Diagnosing Sensitivity to Dust Mite Allergens
Diagnosis includes an evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and specific tests to determine sensitization.
Common methods include skin prick tests (applying a small amount of allergen to the skin to observe the reaction) or blood tests to measure specific IgE antibody levels.
Based on these results, a doctor identifies the cause of symptoms and rules out other conditions.
Treatment of Dust Mite Allergy
- Treatment involves a combination of allergen avoidance and medication. Antihistamines help reduce sneezing, itching, and a runny nose.
- Nasal corticosteroid sprays can decrease inflammation in the nasal passages.
- In more severe cases, allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) may be used to gradually desensitize the immune system to dust mite allergens.
Prevention of Dust Mite Allergy
- Daily wet cleaning.
- Vacuuming with HEPA-filter vacuum cleaners.
- Avoiding down and feather bedding.
- Using an air humidifier (optimal humidity is 40–50%).
- Regular airing of rooms.
- Using allergen-proof covers for mattresses and pillows.
- Weekly washing of bedding at temperatures ≥60 °C.
- Systematic cleaning of carpets, furniture, and other dust-collecting surfaces.
- Choosing easy-to-clean blinds or rollers instead of heavy curtains.
- Opting for hypoallergenic clothing.
- Installing window screens to minimize outdoor dust entry.
- Avoiding the accumulation of dust collectors like soft toys and decorative items.
- Replacing mattresses and pillows that are more than 5–7 years old.
If a dust mite allergy is identified, it is vital to limit contact with the allergen alongside medical treatment.
When cleaning, individuals with this allergy should wear protective gloves and a mask.
Especially when moving furniture to clean hard-to-reach areas.
Allergist doctors at AirDOC who specialize in the treatment of allergy to house dust mites
The specialists of the clinic specialize in the treatment of allergy to house dust mites, conduct research, attend international conferences, practices and training, in order to bring modern and effective methods of allergy treatment to Ukraine.
Prices
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Allergist
Consultation
Comprehensive consultation by a specialist of the highest category
1 500 uah
Comprehensive consultation of a leading specialist, candidate of medical sciences
1 700 uah
Comprehensive consultation of an expert, doctor of medical sciences, professor
2 400 uah
Allergological consultation (with the participation of a professor / leading specialist / specialist)
3 900 uah
Consultation before ASIT
600 uah
Online consultation
Comprehensive consultation with a doctor of the highest category
1 500 uah
Comprehensive consultation of a leading specialist, candidate of medical sciences
1 700 uah
Comprehensive consultation of an expert, doctor of medical sciences, professor
2 4000 uah
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