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Allergy Resistant Bedding

People with a dust mite allergy most likely will benefit from allergy resistant bedding. According to Environment, Health and Safety Online, there can be 100,000 to more than 10 million mites in a single mattress. Dust mites are the primary cause of bedding-related allergic reactions, which can cause sneezing, sleeplessness and irritated eyes. Over-the-counter drugs can help with the symptoms, but to alleviate the cause, you should cover your bedding with allergy resistant bedding.

  1. Cause

    • Unseen to the naked eye, dust mites shed and leave waste behind that may cause an allergic reaction in some people. The immune system of a person who is allergic to dust mites recognizes proteins from the mite as a possible threat to the body, according to the Mayo Clinic. It releases various chemicals to fight off the proteins, leading to the common allergic symptoms.

    Effect

    • An allergy resistant bedding cover prevents dust mites from colonizing the mattress. Allergy resistant bedding covers are made from synthetic materials, keeping the mites from finding warmth and moisture (the conditions they thrive in), according to the National Library of Medicine. Covering the mattress, pillows and comforters with an allergy resistant bedding cover also kills any mites already in the bedding.

    Types

    • Various types of allergy resistant bedding covers are available for purchase. A mattress cover comes in every bed size and fits snug around the existing mattress. Covers for pillows are also sold and may provide the most relief, considering they are the closest bedding to a person as she sleeps. Covers for comforters and blankets can be purchased, but may require a slip cover over the allergy cover for comfort.

    Application

    • Most allergy bedding covers slip over the bedding item and zip up with a zipper. The covers do not need to be cleaned often. When cleaning is needed, they can be wiped down with an all-purpose cleaner or hot water.

    Considerations

    • Using allergy resistant bedding will prevent new mites from colonizing on the surface of the items on which the covers are placed but will not prevent mites from colonizing on the sheets used over the top the allergy covers. The National Library of Medicine states that a person should wash all sheets and pillow cases once a week in soapy water over 130 degrees. If the allergy symptoms persist after applying allergy bedding covers, a person may seek the advice of a professional allergist for proper diagnosis.

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