How to Improve Dust Allergies

Dust allergies are common, and symptoms tend to mimic the common cold. Typical signs of dust allergies include sneezing, a runny nose and wheezing. Although there's no way to eliminate dust from your home completely, there are techniques to minimize or treat allergy symptoms.

Things You'll Need

• Medication
• Air purifier
• Dehumidifier

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Instructions

• 1

  Control allergy symptoms with medication. Medications intended to treat allergy symptoms such as antihistamines and decongestants may improve your condition. Take an over-the-counter medication or talk to your doctor about a prescription allergy medication. Use medications only as instructed.

• 2

  Eliminate dust from household surfaces. Use a household cleaner once or twice a week to remove dust and allergens from household surfaces such as tables, baseboards, window sills, blinds, picture frames and ceiling fans.

• 3

  Keep carpeting free of dust. Vacuum household carpet once or twice a week to remove dust. In the case of severe dust allergies, consider removing carpet and replacing with tile, vinyl or hardwood floors.

• 4

  Maintain a dust-free mattress. Dust commonly collects on mattresses. Apply a dust-proof cover over mattresses and pillows to prevent an allergic reaction while sleeping.

• 5

  Frequently wash bedding. Wash bed sheets, pillow cases and comforters weekly to mitigate dust allergies.

• 6

  Get an air purifier. Remove airborne dust with an air purifier. Purchase a portable air purifier to position on a table, and regularly replace your heater and air conditioner filters to minimize household dust.

• 7

  Purchase a dehumidifier. Dust mites grow or thrive in humid atmospheres. Position a dehumidifier in your home and basement to reduce household humidity and slow dust mite growth.