Dust Mites & Itchy Skin

Dust mites are commonly found throughout households all over the world. They are responsible for a variety of allergic reactions, including red, irritated and itchy skin. Although they cause allergic reactions, they do not carry any diseases.

Identification

• Dust mites are microscopic bugs that are typically 250 to 300 microns in length, and a 10X magnification is needed to detect them. They have translucent bodies, which makes them even more difficult to see. When seen under a microscope, they have eight hairy legs and have longer hair extending from their bodies.

Cause of Skin Problems

• Dust mites do not bite humans or pets, they only feed on their skin cells and scales. Their fecal matter can cause itchy, red and irritated skin. According to the American College of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology, about 10 percent of Americans have allergic reactions to dust mites.

Other Common Symptoms

• Dust mites can cause hay fever, watering eyes, runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, facial pressure and pain, postnasal drip and swollen blue-colored skin under the eyes.

Common Locations

• Dust mites prefer warm and moisture rich environments. Mattresses can house anywhere from 100,000 to 10 million mites. Other common locations are carpeting, upholstery, pillows, couches and pet bedding.

Prevention/Solution

• Washing bedding, pillows, upholstery and couch covers in very hot water kills dust mites. Also keeping household humidity below 40 percent and 70 degrees will minimize mite accumulation. Clean households with good ventilation tend to have fewer dust mites.