Dust Allergy

If you have any allergy, or have been told you have an allergy to dustmites, you may actually have an allergy to dustmite faeces.

Sounds awful doesn't it but normally it is the faeces, or dustmite poo, that is causing the reaction.

There are a few ways you can combat this; Clean your sheets and mattress every day. Wash your bed linen frequently and, if possible, vacuum the mattress. Dustmites also like a warm environment to live in so you should also take the duvet of the bed every morning, which will also help to air your mattress.

Replace pillows and duvets on a regular basis, if possible, every two to three months. This may sound expensive but a good nights sleep is well worth the effort and costs involved. There is nothing worse than waking up each morning feeling very tired and 'bunged up'. Its not a good start to the day!

See if your doctor will send you for allergy testing to confirm the allergy is to dustmites. Dustmites appear in everyones bed and they feed off old dead skin. People suffering with dry skin conditions can have particular problems with dustmite allergies.

Replace your mattress every twelve months if possible. The older the mattress, the more dustmites will increase in the environment.

If you follow these measures, you should notice your reactions reducing.

If money matters mean you cannot follow all these measures then replace your pillows to start with and see if this makes a difference. There are also mattress protectors available to create a barrier over the mattress. These alternatives are much cheaper than replacing all your bedding, but remember that the dustmites will continue to live in an old mattress.

Choose wood or hard vinyl floor coverings instead of a carpet.
 
Fit roller blinds that can be easily wiped clean.
 
Clean cushions, soft toys, curtains and upholstered furniture regularly, either by washing or vacuuming.

Wipe surfaces with a damp, clean cloth, as dry dusting can spread the allergens further.

Concentrate your efforts at controlling dust mites in the areas of your home where you spend the most time, IE; the bedroom and living room.