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 | Avoidance of house dust mites (HDMs) is the first approach to the treatment of allergies caused by this allergen. Typical avoidance measures include frequent washing of bedding in hot water, regular vacuuming, and covering pillows and mattresses with dust mite covers (or dust mite casings) that are impermeable to HDMs. These dust mite covers act to trap HDMs inside the pillow and mattress, where they accumulate, away from the person with a HDM allergy. Dust mite covers are available at many retail outlets, as well as online stores, at a substantial cost. Most allergists, including myself, have recommended dust mite covers for years to people allergic to dust mites. However, recent studies have questioned the benefits of dust mite covers. Find out if you should invest in dust mite covers if you are trying to prevent or treat allergies caused by HDMs. |
| Do Dust Mite Covers Work?
Allergic diseases, such as allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis and asthma, are becoming more common over the past 50 years. Allergic rhinitis now affects up to 30% of the population, especially children and young adults. Atopic dermatitis, often the first manifestation of allergic disease, can affect up to 30% of young children and 10% of adults in certain parts of the world. Asthma is becoming more common as well, and affects 8% to 12% of the population. The most common allergic trigger worldwide for these various conditions is the house dust mite (HDM), which causes allergy in 30% of people with various allergic conditions.
| All About Dust Mites
These creatures, present in many homes, are a major cause of year-round indoor allergies. Prevention of exposure to these allergens is usually at least partially successful. Dust mites are microscopic creatures that live in our bedding, pillows and mattresses and eat human dead skin flakes and synthetic materials. Many people can be allergic to dust mite droppings. Luckily, dust mite allergens are typically not airborne; these allergens are heavy and fall to the bed, floor and furniture.
| Learn About Allergy Prevention
The ultimate goal of allergy treatment is preventing the symptoms from occurring in the first place. This usually includes learning how to avoid the allergen, whether it be pets, foods, insects or even certain chemicals. Preventing the development of allergies, asthma and food allergies in young children also is possible.
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