What is dust mite allergy?
Mites are small arachnid insects that live in the habitat of dust and moisture. They cannot be seen with the naked eye, as they measure between 0.2 and 0.5 millimeters, and normally live indoors: mattresses, carpets, pillows or stuffed animals are some of their favorite places to live, and they have a phobia of light. They feed on human and animal skin scales.
Dust mite allergy involves an allergic reaction of the immune system to these insects, so that the body acts in reaction to the allergen, causing allergy symptoms. It affects many people and can occur throughout the year, as it is not a seasonal allergen like pollen.
Symptoms of dust mite allergy
Allergic reactions to dust mites are usually respiratory. The main symptoms of dust mite allergy are:
- Sneezing
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Eye inflammation and itching
- Itchy throat and coughing
- Wheezing
- Utricaria
- Ear discomfort
The dust mite allergy sufferer may experience one or more symptoms.
Cause of dust mite allergy
The symptoms are caused by exposure to the allergen in question, as with all allergies. Allergy can appear at any time in life, and it is believed that in many cases there may be a genetic or hereditary component to its occurrence.
Can dust mite allergy be prevented?
It is not possible to prevent the onset of an allergy. The only thing that can be done is to prevent the symptoms of the allergy by avoiding exposure to dust mites. This is achieved by conditioning and ventilating the environment properly, avoiding humidity and dust accumulation and washing carpets and blankets often.
Treatment of dust mite allergy
Treatment for dust mite allergy is usually based on drugs, as prescribed by the allergist. Avoidance of the allergen is very important, but depending on the degree of allergy involvement you may need medications to relieve symptoms, such as decongestants, antihistamines, nose sprays or eye drops.
In cases of allergy where the allergy sufferer cannot avoid exposure to the allergen, he or she may need treatment with vaccines, which involves injecting a small amount of the allergen into the body, which gradually increases, so that the sufferer becomes accustomed to it and no longer reacts with allergy symptoms.