It is important to note that having dust mites in your home is not an indication of a dirty house. They are common in most areas of the world and survive from feeding on dander (dead skin cells) that people and pets shed normally as we go about our daily lives. This is a normal process of life and there is nothing unusual about it. Dust mite allergy symptoms can be particularly bad for those who have asthma or other breathing problems.

Some of the symptoms of dust mite exposure are:

• runny nose
• stuffy nose
• itchy watery eyes
• sneezing
• wheezing
• coughing
• shortness of breath

Dust mite allergy symptoms may become worse with prolonged exposure and may also be dose related, this means that the more dust mite waste and other by-products you are exposed to the worse your allergy symptoms may become. This makes the dust mite control strategies discussed on this site even more important.

Where you will find the highest concentrations of dust mites

• Pillows
• Mattresses
• Carpeting
• Upholstered Furniture

The above areas of your home are the most common places that you will come in contact with dust mite allergens. This is directly related to our lifestyles. We spend a great deal of our time in these areas and as much as 1/3 of our lives are spent in bed. That means these places where dust mites find an abundant supply of food. The longer these items are in our homes the more time dust mite populations and waste have to accumulate.

People who are allergic to dust mites react to proteins in the bodies and feces of the mites. These fecal particles are found in the highest concentrations in pillows, mattresses, carpeting, and upholstered furniture. Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe and sometimes have to be treated medically.

Strategies to relieve dust mite allergy symptoms

• Avoid coming in contact with dust mite allergens
• Use allergy medications to reduce allergy reactions
• You may be able to get shots to help reduce symptoms

The best defence of course is to avoid coming in contact with mites at all. This is pretty difficult to do of course but you can work to control dust mites in your home. This involves using dust mite proof bedding, mattress covers and pillow covers among other things. The prime season for dust mite populations to explode are during summer months when temperature and humidity levels for dust mites are ideal for reproducing and survival.

Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe and sometimes have to be treated medically. You should never assume your allergies are the result of dust mites or other allergens. You should have a professional diagnosis and be fully prepared to manage your allergies properly.