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Cures for Dust Mite Allergies

Dust mites live off dead human skin cells present in dust. The waste and dead body of the dust mite remains in dust, and this protein is what can trigger an allergic reaction. Dust mite allergies can cause sneezing, itchy eyes, coughing, runny nose, congestion and other symptoms similar to a cold. People who suffer from asthma might find their symptoms worsen because of dust mite allergies. Skin and blood tests can confirm your allergy.

  1. Medications

    • Over-the-counter and prescription medications can relieve dust mite allergy symptoms. Antihistamines can relieve sneezing and runny nose. Costecosteroids such as those found in nasal sprays also relieve these symptoms.

      Decongestants help clear blocked and swollen nasal passages. If dust mites aggravate your asthma, your doctor might prescribe an inhaler or daily medication to help you breathe better and avoid attacks. Cromolyn sodium nasal sprays can be found over the counter and might provide relief for irritated nasal passages. Rinsing your nasal passages with saltwater also might help; you can find saline nasal sprays over the counter or create your own.

    Immunotherapy

    • If you find over-the-counter and prescription medications do not relieve your symptoms, try immunotherapy, or allergy shots. Immunotherapy exposes your body to small amounts of the allergen, increasing the dosage over time until your body becomes immune to it. Talk with your doctor or allergist about this treatment, which can last for several years.

    Allergen Blockers

    • There are several items on the market that prevent dust mites from laying their eggs on your bedding, according to MayoClinic.com. Bed covers and pillowcases made of allergen-proof materials might help reduce the number of dust mites in your home and provide relief from your symptoms. Many cleaning sprays intended to remove dust from your home also contain ingredients that remove dust and dust mites more efficiently and are designed to block allergens.

    Reducing Dust Mites

    • Though it is impossible to completely rid your home of dust mites, it is possible to reduce their numbers---and therefore your symptoms. Keep your home as clean and dust-free as possible. Vacuum your home regularly, and use vacuum attachments to vacuum furniture and mattresses.

      If your allergies are severe, consider removing carpeting entirely. Dust your home often, but avoid using a dry duster as this can spread dust rather than get rid of it. MayoClinic.com recommends washing bedding weekly in hot water, or at least at a high heat setting in your dryer to kill dust mites. Wash stuffed animals and other toys that collect dust. Dust mites thrive in humid climates, so use a dehumidifier.

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