House dust mites – how to recognise them and what kills them?

House dust mites are microscopic organisms that can cause annoying allergy symptoms. Many of us are unaware that they are present in almost every home and that they can have a significant impact on our health. If you have ever wondered how to recognise a dust mite allergy and how to effectively fight them, this article is for you. We have prepared a compendium of knowledge about dust mites, their habits and ways to minimise their presence in our homes, as well as the most effective treatment methods.

What is a house dust mite?

House dust mites are microscopic organisms belonging to the arachnid family. Despite their tiny size, they can be a source of serious health problems, especially for people suffering from allergies. Dust mites feed on dead human and animal skin cells that can be found in house dust. They are commonly found in human living environments, especially in places where dust accumulates, such as carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture and bedding.

The best living environment for house dust mites is humid and warm, making homes an ideal place for them to breed. Due to their microscopic size, they are invisible to the naked eye, making them difficult to identify and eliminate. As a major source of allergens, dust mites can cause a range of allergic symptoms, which is why it is important to understand what they are and how to minimise their presence in our homes.

Typical symptoms of dust mite allergy

An allergy to house dust mites can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms. It is important to be aware of these symptoms so that you can recognise an allergic reaction quickly and take appropriate action. The typical symptoms of a dust mite allergy include a variety of symptoms that can affect both the respiratory tract and the skin. The most common symptoms of an allergy are

• sneezing – persistent and recurring sneezing attacks are one of the most common symptoms of a dust mite allergy,
• coughing – a dry cough that worsens especially at night or in the morning can indicate hypersensitivity to these microscopic organisms,
• shortness of breath and wheezing – these symptoms may suggest that the allergic reaction has also affected the bronchi,
• redness and tearing of the eyes – often associated with conjunctival irritation, which is a reaction to contact with mite allergens,
• Runny nose – a watery or chronic runny nose that interferes with daily life
• Itching and skin irritation – in some cases, the allergy manifests itself as itchy skin and eczema.

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How to diagnose a dust mite allergy?

To confirm an allergy to these microscopic organisms, it is worth consulting an allergist, who will carry out the appropriate allergy tests. A visit to a specialist allows for a comprehensive assessment of the state of health. Among the available diagnostic methods, we distinguish several basic techniques:

• skin prick tests – the direct application of allergens to the patient’s skin allows for a quick diagnosis of an allergic reaction,
• blood tests – the analysis of the level of specific IgE antibodies in the blood, which indicate an allergy to house dust mites,
• elimination tests – these involve temporarily removing potential allergens from the environment and observing changes in symptoms.

The role of diagnostics should not be underestimated, as an incorrectly diagnosed allergy can lead to chronic health problems.

Effective ways to reduce allergens at home

Effectively reducing allergens at home is a step towards minimising the impact of house dust mites on our health. Regular cleaning and vacuuming are basic practices that can significantly reduce the amount of allergens in our environment. Here are some proven tips to help in this fight.

• Regular vacuuming – use vacuum cleaners equipped with HEPA filters, which effectively trap allergens. Remember to vacuum at least twice a week, especially in places where dust collects the most, such as carpets and upholstered furniture.
• Wash bed linen frequently – washing at high temperatures (above 60°C) is an effective way to eliminate dust mites from bed linen and pillowcases.
• Use air filters – modern air purifiers with HEPA filters can significantly improve indoor air quality by reducing the amount of allergens present.
• Lower humidity – keeping the humidity below 50% will help to limit the growth of dust mites, which prefer humid environments.
• Minimise dust traps – limit the number of items that collect dust, such as excess decorations, stuffed toys or thick curtains.

Keeping the house clean through regular cleaning and the use of appropriate technologies allows for effective control of the level of allergens, bringing relief to allergy sufferers.

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Hypoallergenic materials

In the fight against house dust mite allergens, hypoallergenic materials play an invaluable role. These are special products developed to minimise contact with allergens, helping to protect the most allergy-prone household surfaces. Among these materials, bed linen and mattress covers are important, as they form a barrier to microscopic intruders, thus providing a healthier sleeping environment. Thanks to the use of densely woven fabrics, dust mites and their allergens do not penetrate the surface of the mattress or pillows, which significantly reduces the risk of allergy symptoms.

When choosing hypoallergenic materials, it is worth paying attention to several aspects:

• antibacterial and anti-allergic properties – materials should be made of fabrics that do not promote the growth of mites,
• ease of cleaning – the ability to frequently wash covers and bedding at high temperatures,
• breathable materials – they ensure proper air circulation, which helps keep humidity low,
• durability and comfort – hypoallergenic materials should not only be effective but also comfortable in everyday use.

The role of humidity in the fight against dust mites

Dust mites prefer warm and humid environments, which encourages their reproduction. In order to effectively minimise their population, it is necessary to manage humidity in homes. The ideal humidity level to limit the growth of these microscopic organisms is below 50%. Humidity can be controlled in various ways, such as by regularly airing rooms to improve air circulation or by using dehumidifiers to effectively remove excess moisture from living spaces.

In places where humidity cannot be reduced by natural methods, specialised devices can help. Humidifiers with humidity control allow you to maintain the right level of humidity, which is especially important in winter, when indoor air often becomes too dry.

Pharmacotherapy for the treatment of allergies

Anti-allergy medication is commonly used to relieve symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes, thus improving the daily functioning of allergy sufferers. One of the most commonly used types of allergy medication is antihistamines, which work by blocking histamine receptors, effectively reducing allergy symptoms. They are available in both oral and topical forms, allowing the therapy to be tailored to the individual needs of the patient.

In addition, glucocorticosteroids are often recommended as part of the pharmacotherapy, as they reduce the inflammation caused by allergens, which is particularly beneficial in the case of troublesome respiratory symptoms. These medications can be used both in inhaled and intranasal form, which allows for precise targeting of the allergen’s site of action. It is also worth emphasising the role of allergen immunotherapy, which is one of the few methods that allows for a long-term reduction in the body’s sensitivity to allergens. Thanks to it, it is possible not only to alleviate the symptoms, but also to prevent recurrence of house dust mite allergy, which contributes to improving the quality of life of patients.

Allergen immunotherapy – is it effective?

Allergen immunotherapy, also known as desensitisation, is a treatment method that aims to increase the body’s tolerance to allergens such as house dust mites. The process involves regularly administering gradually increasing doses of the allergen to the patient, which helps to reduce the immune system’s reaction to allergens in the future.

Allergy immunotherapy can be administered as a subcutaneous injection or as a drop/spray under the tongue, making it a flexible solution for people with different treatment preferences. After several years of therapy, many patients experience a significant reduction in allergy symptoms or their complete disappearance, allowing them to enjoy a better quality of life without the burden of allergic symptoms.

The effectiveness of allergen immunotherapy in treating house dust mite allergies has been confirmed in numerous clinical studies, which show that it can bring long-lasting benefits. Here are some of the most important aspects to consider when choosing this form of treatment:

• long-term effectiveness – patients who undergo immunotherapy often experience a reduced reaction to dust mites for many years,
• safety of the treatment – it is well tolerated by most patients, and any side effects are usually mild,
• Individualised therapy – the dosage and treatment plan are tailored to the patient’s needs, which increases the effectiveness of the therapy.
• Preventing the progression of allergies – desensitisation can prevent the development of new allergies and asthma.

The benefits of professional cleaning

There are many advantages to hiring professional cleaning companies to clean your home and remove dust mites. One of the main advantages of professional cleaning is the use of advanced technologies and specialised cleaning products that effectively eliminate house dust mites. This ensures that even hard-to-reach areas such as carpets and upholstered furniture are cleaned thoroughly. Cleaning companies have the experience and expertise to clean effectively and minimise allergens in the home.

Professional cleaning includes a number of activities that are difficult to carry out on your own:

• using industrial vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters, which effectively trap dust mites,
• deep disinfection of surfaces, which limits the spread of allergens,
• the use of specialised anti-allergy preparations that are safe for household members and pets,
• cleaning and washing at high temperatures, which kills dust mites present in fabrics.

Hiring professional cleaning companies therefore ensures a comprehensive approach to cleanliness, which translates into better air quality at home and a reduction in allergy symptoms. Professional companies also offer regular visits, so we can keep our home free of mites for longer, which is crucial in the fight against allergies.