Dust mites are microscopic arthropods that live off dead skin cells that people and animals shed. They are a major cause of airborne, indoor allergies. Dust mites thrive deep inside warm, humid environments such as bedding, carpets, mattresses, and pillows. They reproduce several times in a lifetime and they are difficult to kill or extract from their environments. Dust mites do not bite or carry diseases. Instead, their fecal matter and decaying particles cause allergic reactions to people who are sensitive to them.
Itchy Nose and Eyes
People allergic to dust mites may experience symptoms related to allergic rhinitis or hay fever, including itchy, red or watery eyes, and an itchy, runny or stuffy nose. The roof of the mouth or throat may itch as well. Postnasal drip, facial pressure or pain, or persistent sneezing may also develop with continued exposure to dust mite allergens. A common sign of people with allergies, whether to dust mite or other allergens, is an "allergic shiner" swollen, blue-colored skin under the eyes caused by persistent nasal congestion. An "allergic crease" or line at the bridge of the nose may also be observed in children who frequently rub their itchy noses upward.
Asthma
Dust mite allergy can cause asthma attacks. A person may only have a mild episode of wheezing when exposed to dust mite allergens, or he may have a full blown asthma attack. Symptoms of an acute asthma attack include difficulty breathing, chest tightness or pain, an audible wheezing sound upon exhaling, and a cough.
Itchy Rashes
People may also develop eczema or atopic dermatitis by contact with the dust mite allergens, reports a study examining the role of dust mites on eczema in a 1998 issue of "Allergy." This study demonstrated that inhaling the dust mite allergens resulted in eczema in some patients, particularly those with a history of asthma. Eczema manifests as itchy, red, scaly rashes that become thick and dry over time. Eczema is very irritating so there is a tendency to scratch the rashes, resulting in infected wounds that ooze with fluid.
Member Comments