Babies & Dust Allergies

Most dust allergies are actually allergies to dust mite enzymes. Dust mites are present in every home. They eat the dust that comes from skin. Homes that are in dry, temperate climates or at high altitudes tend to have more dust mites than ones in humid, cold climates. The presence of dust mites does not generally depend on house cleanliness. If your baby shows symptoms of allergies, and other allergens are ruled out, there are ways to help reduce dust mites in your home.

Dust Allergy Symptoms

• Dust allergies are often similar to cold symptoms. There are some noticeable differences, however. Colds usually last about ten days. If your baby's symptoms continue or return regularly, she may have allergies. A consistently stuffy or runny nose along with the baby wiping or pushing at it is a common sign. Also, mucus from allergy-affected noses is typically thin, runny and clear, while cold mucus is green or yellow and a bit thicker. Also look for itchy, red and watery eyes with dark or purple circles underneath them, a dry cough and irritated skin or rash.

Ruling Out Other Allergens

• While mold allergies are prevalent during the cold, rainy season, and pet allergies are common, when animals are around, dust allergies tend to affect baby more often in the mornings year round. If you cannot rule out other allergies on your own, a doctor can perform blood tests to identify antibody levels. For infants, however, a skin test is more accurate. Allergy specialists usually perform this test.

Protecting Your Baby's Bedroom

• Though dust mites live in most fabrics and carpets around the home, they are most prevalent in pillows and bedding. Use mattress covers especially made to reduce allergies. They are more tightly woven than most. Also, use blankets instead of thick comforters, and wash bedding in very hot water once a week (about 130 degrees Fahrenheit). Be sure to notify household members the water will be hotter than usual during this time. Remove all stuffed animals from baby's room. If there are a few your baby wants near, wash them once a week in hot water or put them in the freezer to kill dust mites.

Prevention in Other Parts of the House

• Dust, vacuum and wet mop once a week. For severe allergies, high efficiency vacuums that filter even microscopic dust particles are available. Replacing carpet with tile or hardwood floors may help as well. Change air conditioner and furnace filters often, and clean air ducts once a year. Airing out rooms and vacuuming sofas and other upholstery may help as well.

Medication

• For children six months and older, there are many over-the-counter medications available to treat allergies. Consult your doctor before using these and for treatment for babies under six months. There are also shots available for severe allergies along with prescription medication.