Dust mite allergy is common. Good news: NHS help is free at the point of use. You can get tests, treatment, and support. In England, you may pay a prescription charge; in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, prescriptions are free.
What the NHS can do for free
- GP appointment to check symptoms and triggers.
- Referral to ENT or Dermatology (and often an Allergy Clinic).
- Allergy testing: skin prick or blood (specific IgE).
- Medicines: stronger antihistamines, steroid nasal spray, eye drops, steroid cream (for skin), and combo nasal sprays.
- Immunotherapy: injections (SCIT) or tablets under the tongue (SLIT) for house dust mites when symptoms stay bad.
Note: NHS care is free. Prescription charges may apply in England. Check if you’re exempt or use a PPC.
Step‑by‑step: How to get NHS help now
- Book a GP appointment. Say your symptoms are worse at home or in bed (blocked nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, wheeze, skin flare).
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Ask for referral. Request a referral to ENT or Dermatology. From there, you can be referred to an Allergist/Allergy Clinic. You can also ask for medication for a temporary releif such as inhaler, steroid spray and steroid cream.
- Testing. At the clinic, expect a skin prick test or a specific IgE blood test to confirm house dust mite allergy.
- Get your plan. You may get steroid nasal spray, antihistamine, eye drops, and if skin is sore, a steroid cream. Use daily as told.
- If still bad, ask about immunotherapy. You may be offered SLIT (a daily tablet) or SCIT (allergy injections) for dust mites.
- Follow‑up. Track sleep, school/work impact, and asthma symptoms. Share this with your GP/specialist.
Tip: Bring a short symptom diary and photos of any skin flares. It helps your referral.
What tests will you get?
Skin prick test
Tiny drops of allergen on the skin. A small itch bump means you may be allergic.
Specific IgE blood test
A blood sample checks for dust mite IgE. Helpful if skin tests are not possible.
NHS treatments you may be offered
- Steroid nasal spray (daily control).
- Antihistamine tablets (non‑drowsy options).
- Eye drops for itchy, watery eyes.
- Steroid creams for eczema flares.
- Combination nasal sprays if symptoms are tough.
Cost: The consultation is free. In England a small fee per prescription item may apply; it’s free in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
If symptoms stay bad: Immunotherapy on the NHS
SLIT (tablet) for house dust mites may be offered if you have moderate to severe, ongoing symptoms and standard medicines do not control things. SCIT (injections) may be used in some centres. These target the cause and can give long‑term relief when taken as advised.
Simple home fixes (work with NHS care)
- Anti dust mite bedding: fit a dust mite mattress cover, pillow covers, and a duvet encasement.
- Wash bedding at 60 °C weekly.
- HEPA vacuum and air purifier for dust mites for the bedroom.
- Lower damp: keep bedroom humidity under 50% (a dehumidifier helps).
- Use a dust mite spray on soft furnishings as directed.
These steps reduce the allergen at home. They support your NHS treatment plan.
Quick checklist for your GP visit
- List your symptoms and when they’re worse (in bed, mornings).
- Note any asthma or eczema.
- Ask for ENT/Dermatology referral and onward Allergy Clinic.
- Ask for skin prick or specific IgE blood test.
- Discuss steroid nasal spray, antihistamines, eye drops, steroid cream.
- If still bad, ask about immunotherapy (SLIT/SCIT) for house dust mites.
FAQs
Is it really free?
GP visits, referrals, and tests are free on the NHS. In England, you may pay a small fee per prescription item. Prescriptions are free in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
How long will it take?
Waiting times vary by area. Use home steps now while you wait.
Will home products replace NHS care?
No. They help reduce dust mites. Use them with your NHS plan for best results.
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