Dust Allergy

Allergy to house dust is an important cause of allergic symptoms.

Decreasing ones exposure to house dust can decrease or eliminate these symptoms. These instructions will tell you how.

What can be-done to control dust mites?

Scientific studies of dust-allergic patients have shown that taking steps to minimize dust mite exposure in the bedroom leads to a decrease in allergic symptoms and a decrease in medication requirements. Emphasis is placed on the bedroom, since people spend one third or more of each 24 hours there, and because it is the room with the greatest number of dust mites. The mattress, box spring and pillows should be encased in zippered, dust-proof covers. Other important dust control Measures are noted below.

What is house dust?

Although there are many components in house dust which people may be allergic, the most important is the dust mite. This is a microscopic, insect-like creature which is found in homes. It lives primarily in mattresses, carpets and upholstered furniture, and,thrives in humid and warm conditions. Its diet consists of scales from human skin. Waste product particles produced by these mites are the main substances in house dust to which allergic people react. Each Mite produces about 20 of these waste particles every day. These particles continue to cause allergic symptoms even after the mite which has produced them has died.

Where do dust mites live?

The greatest source of dust mite exposure in the home is the bedroom mattress. They are also present in pillows, blankets and upholstered furniture. These provide the needed conditions of warmth, humidity and food. Female mites can lay 25 to 50 eggs, with a new generation produced every 3 weeks.

• Encase pillows in zippered, dust-proof covers or wash pillows in hot water every two weeks.
• Encase the mattress and box spring in zippered dust-proof encasings. (If there is more than one bed in the room, all should be encased.)
• Remove all carpeting. If this is not possible, Allergy Controlä Solution may be applied periodically to inactivate dust allergy causing particles.
• Avoid heavy curtains and venetian blinds. Use window shades Instead. If curtains are used, launder them frequently.
• Substitute wooden or plastic furniture for upholstered furniture.
• Wash blankets in hot water every two weeks. Avoid wool and down blankets. Comforters can be encased in zippered dust-proof covers.
• "H.E.P.A." air cleaners can remove airborne dust particles. Inexpensive table top models are not effective.
• Air conditioners can prevent the high heat and humidity which stimulate mite growth. Special filters can be added to help trap the airborne allergens. Use a dehumidifier in damp basements.
• Cover hot air vents with filters, or close the vents and other dust collectors.
• Avoid wall pennants, macrame hangings and other dust collectors.
• Clean drawers and closets with a damp cloth. Wear a face mask when making the bed and doing housecleaning.
• If using a humidifier in the winter, avoid over-humidification. Mites grow best at 75-80% relative humidity and can not live at under 50% humidity. The ideal relative humidity is 40-50%. Use a humidity gauge to monitor levels.
• Keep all clothing in a closet, with the door shut.

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