Dust Mite Allergy Treatment: Signs, Symptoms and Diagnosis, Prevention Relief

The key signs of a dust mite allergy often appear on your body. If you experience skin irritation, itchy or watery eyes, or breathing difficulties—especially in the morning or after being in bed—you may be reacting to dust mites. Read on to learn more!

Signs of Dust Mites in Your Home

Dust mites are too small to see (0.2mm) and look like an 8-legged arachnid. The most common places to find dust mites are soft fabrics such as mattresses, pillows, bedding, duvets, sofas, carpets, and curtains.

What Actually Causes a Dust Mite Allergy?

You are allergic to the proteins from a dust mite, primarily their faeces. When these proteins come into contact with your skin, face, and airways, your immune system reacts, causing your symptoms.

The Most Common Dust Mite Allergy Symptoms

1. Skin Allergy Symptoms

• Itchy skin

• Red rashes and scratch marks

• Hives

How to Get Fast Relief for Allergy Skin Rashes:

• Cut fingernails short and wash under nails with hot soapy water.

• Take a cold shower to soothe irritation.

• Take an antihistamine.

• Wear long-sleeve cotton shirts to bed.

• Use moisturizing cream to block dust mites; steroid creams can improve healing.

2. Nose, Throat, and Sinus Symptoms

• Mucus dripping down the throat (post-nasal drip)

• Runny or blocked nose

• Coughing

• Chronic rhinitis and sinusitis

• Facial sinus pressure

• Asthma and difficulty breathing

• An audible whistling or wheezing sound when exhaling

How to Clear Your Nose and Airways:

• Wear a dust mask when moving dusty items, such as changing bedding.

• Use an antihistamine nasal spray.

• Take an oral antihistamine.

• Take a hot, steamy shower.

• Use a Neti Pot to flush sinuses.

• Follow 6 Steps to get rid of dust mites

3. Eye Allergy Symptoms (Allergic Conjunctivitis)

• Often touching the eyes or skin near the eyes

• Red, watery eyes

• Waking up with crust in the eyes

• Swollen, blue, or darker-than-normal skin under the eyes ("allergic shiners")

• Blurred vision, especially in the morning

How to Stop Itchy, Watery Allergy Eyes:

• Use antihistamine eye drops.

• Wear an eye mask to bed to prevent nighttime rubbing.

• Wash your face and eyes immediately upon waking.

• Follow 6 Steps to get rid of dust mites

4. Mental Health and Fatigue Symptoms

• Feeling constantly tired despite sleeping

• Struggling to concentrate during the day

• Needing to nap frequently

• Relationship issues and reduced confidence due to chronic symptoms

Mental Health Relief:

• Join Dust Mite Treatment Community!
• Follow 6 Steps to get rid of dust mites

5. Baby and Child Dust Mite Allergy Symptoms

• Often rubbing or touching their nose

• Red patches on the skin, even in places they cannot easily reach

Child Dust Mite Allergy Relief:

• Ensure the baby's crib is fully dust mite protected.

• Wash their bedding frequently at 60 degrees.

• Follow 6 Steps to get rid of dust mites

6 Steps: How To Get Rid of Dust Mites

Research shows that doing just one step is not enough. You need a comprehensive approach to effectively reduce your dust allergy symptoms.

Step 1: Encase Your Mattress, Pillow, and Duvet

1. Encase your Mattress / Pillow / Duvet In encasements:Dust mites inside the encasement will die due to starvation, dust mites outside the encasements are unable to hide. Duvet is optional as it will reduce breathability - alternative is to wash the duvet every 2-4 weeks. The 

2. Dust Mites Have Nowhere to Hide: The dust mites outside the encasements are forced to stay in your bedsheets

3. Washing your bedding every week at 60 degrees: The dust mites that are outside your encasements will die from this temperature

• Encase your bed: Dust mites inside the encasement will die due to starvation; dust mites outside are unable to hide.

• Remove hiding spots: Mites outside the encasements are forced to stay in your bedsheets.

• Wash weekly: Wash your bedding every week at 60 degrees to kill the exposed mites.

Signs of a Good Dust Mite Encasement:

• Waterproof Zip & Material: If there are holes or gaps, mites will sneak in.

• Easy to Clean: Should be washable at 60 degrees, vacuumable, or freezable.

• Two Layers: Must be waterproof on the inside for protection, and breathable on the outside for cooling comfort. (Tencel / Eucalyptus Silk is the optimal choice for moisture-wicking and hypoallergenic properties).

Click Here to See the Best Bedding for Dust Mite Allergy

Step 2 - Get Rid of Dust Mites In Carpet

Carpets are the largest fabric in the home, making them the ultimate breeding ground. Dust mites struggle to thrive on hard materials.

• Replace carpet with hard surfaces like wood or tiles. The fewer gaps, the better.

• If you cannot remove the carpet, vacuum weekly with a HEPA filter.

• Spray a eucalyptus-based dust mite solution weekly to act as a repellent.

• Consider using a steam cleaner for maximum eradication.

• If you are unable to replace the carpet
• Weekly vacuum the carpet

• Weekly spray dust mite solution as this will act as a repellant (click here for our eucalyptus based spray)

• Consider buying a steam cleaner for maximum results

Step 3: Reduce Bedroom Humidity

Set Humidity to Below 50%: Dust mites will start to die of dehydration once humidity is below 50%. This makes it an ultra effective method of reducing dust mites in the entire room.

Picking The Best Dehumidifier for Dust Mite Allergy

A dehumidifier is the easiest way to reduce humidity in the home here are the top 3 features you should be looking at to solve your dust mite allergy:

1. Humidity sensor that activates whenever humidity drops below 50%. We recommend setting the sensor to 40%, as humidity levels tend to be higher further away from the device.
2. Dust Filter to make sure the air coming out doesn't spread dust
3. Quiet Operation so you can keep the dehumidifier running all night. If Humidity rises to above 50% for 2 hours the mites will rehydrate, making it pointless.

Tips On Reducing Dust Mite Humidity Level

Humidity must be below 50% 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: If dust mites are exposed to humidity of above 50% for 2 hours they will rehydrate making the dehumidifier pointless

Do not dry laundry inside: dry items outside or in a drying machine

Fold blanket when you wake up: fold your blanket at the end of the bed to release any trapped damp air when you wake up.

Step 4 - Use a Air Purifier for Dust Removal

 

An air purifier removes dust particles from the air: reducing the number of allergens that your skin / nose, mouth and eyes are exposed to. 

Key Features to Look For:

HEPA High Efficiency Particulate Air: filters trap 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, like dust and allergens, improving air quality for allergy sufferers and medical environments. A standard filter will not capture all dust allergens

Quiet Operation: Ensures effectiveness even when left on at night, without disturbing your sleep.

Using Your Air Purifier Tips:

Continuous Operation: Run the air purifier 24/7 to keep dust mite allergens in check.

Night Mode: If you find the sound bothersome at night, select an air purifier with a reduced-volume night mode.

Dehumidifier or Air Purifier For Dust Mite Allergy?

If you're unsure whether to invest in a dehumidifier or an air purifier for managing your dust mite allergy, start with a dehumidifier. By reducing humidity levels, a dehumidifier can lower the overall dust mite population throughout your room, including on floors, fabrics, bedding, and even in the air. This holistic approach makes it an excellent first step in allergy management.

Read the advantages and disadvantages of both devices here

Step 5 - Remove Fabrics - Dust Mites in Carpet

• Remove Fabric Bed Frames: Opt for wood or metal frames instead.
• Remove Rugs and Mats: Try to get used to hard floors, or if necessary, wash them weekly.
• Remove Fabric Sofas: Use leather sofas instead.
• Remove Curtains: Replace them with metal or wood blinds.
• Remove Fabric Cushions: Choose leather cushions.
• Remove Fabric Toys: Use hard toys or wash fabric toys regularly by placing them in a laundry bag and washing at 60 degrees.
• Remove Old Wallpaper: Switch to painted walls.
• Remove Pets from the Bedroom: Allow them access to other rooms instead.
• Plain Walls are best: Avoid old wall paper that may hide mould and dust mites

Step 6 - Clean and Freeze Dust Mites Removal

Thank You: for taking the time to read! As a lifelong allergy sufferer, my lifelong mission is to:

"Empower everyone with dust mite allergies to understand and control their condition"

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Dust Mite Allergy Tips

Comprehensive Approach: Research has shown doing one step is not enough to effectively reduce your dust mite allergy. you need to do as many of these steps as possible to notice a significant reduction in your dust allergy symptoms

Why You Should Not Make Your Bed

@dustmitetreatment You Have Been Lied To 👀 ♬ original sound - DustMiteTreatment

Is this Dust Mite Item a Scam? Check out our reviews:

Why Tencel / Eucalyptus Silk is the best material for dust mite allergy sufferers: The optimal bedding choice for individuals with dust mite allergies is advanced Tencel, derived from Eucalyptus trees as it is:

1. Moisture Wicking: reducing humidity helps to get rid of dust mites
2. Super Soft and Comfortable: this reduces skin rashes and comfort
3. Hypoallergenic: Less likely to cause allergy symptoms

Our recommended Tencel Bedding is here

Remember CREVT

Top 6 Foods To Eat With Dust Mite Allergy

Why Dust Mite Allergy Sufferers Should Avoid Certain Foods

Although dust mite allergies are mainly caused by exposure to dust mites rather than food, what you eat is critical for those with a dust mite allergy because:

• Dust allergy sufferers are 4 times more likely to have another allergy: Individuals with dust mite allergies are more likely to experience additional allergies, including food sensitivities. 
• Your diet affects your dust allergy immune response: The foods you consume significantly influence your immune system's function and overall health.

Poor Diet: Can weaken your immune system, potentially increasing allergic symptoms.

Nutritious Diet: On the other hand, a nutritious diet can bolster your immune response and help reduce the severity of allergic reactions.

1. Avoid Dairy Products

Dairy can increase mucus production, potentially worsening dust mite allergy symptoms like congestion often associated with dust mites. watch out for:

• Milk
• Cheese 
• Yoghurt
• Pre made sauces

How To Avoid Dairy Products

1. Read Labels Carefully: Check ingredient lists for any mention of milk, cream, butter, cheese, whey, casein, or lactose.
2. Choose Dairy Alternatives: Opt for plant-based milk like almond, soy, coconut, or oat milk. Use vegan cheese, yogurt, and ice cream alternatives made from nuts or soy.
3. Cook at Home: Preparing meals at home allows you to control ingredients and avoid dairy.

Anti Dust Mite Bedding and Tools Are The Best Way To Reduce Your Dust Allergy

Changing your diet can massively reduce your dust mite allergy symptoms, however dust mite proofing your home is likely to have a bigger impact.

2. Avoid Processed Foods

These foods frequently contain additives, preservatives, and other chemicals that lack extensive long-term research. Evidence suggests they may trigger or worsen allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

They also often contain common allergens that are likely to trigger an immune reponse

How to Avoid Processed Foods

1. Cook from Scratch: Prepare meals at home using fresh, whole ingredients. This gives you control over what goes into your food.
2. Shop the Perimeter: Supermarkets are usually organized with whole foods like fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy along the perimeter, while processed foods are found in the inner aisles.
3. Read Ingredient Labels: If buying packaged foods, choose items with short ingredient lists and ingredients you recognize. 

3. Avoid Alcohol

A lot of people will have allergic and adverse reactions to alcohol, with one common effect being a weakened skin barrier. This compromised barrier increases your body's exposure to potential allergens, such as dust mites, which can exacerbate conditions like eczema and asthma.

How to Avoid Alcohol

1. Set Clear Goals: Define your reasons for avoiding alcohol and set specific, achievable goals. This will help you stay motivated.
2. Identify Triggers: Recognize situations or emotions that trigger the desire to drink and plan how to avoid or cope with them.
3. Choose Alternatives: Stock up on non-alcoholic drinks like sparkling water, herbal teas, or mocktails, so you have enjoyable options when socializing.

4. Avoid Gluten - Bread, Grains and Beer

Even if you do not have an allergy to gluten, a lot of people will have a sensitivity to it. This can cause increased allergic response, bloating and breathing issues. 

How to Avoid Gluten

1. Educate Yourself: Understand which foods contain gluten. Gluten is found in wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives, so be cautious with products containing these grains.
2. Choose Whole Foods: Focus on eating whole, unprocessed foods such as Meat, fruits, vegetables, which are naturally gluten-free.
3. Opt for Gluten-Free Grains: Substitute wheat products with gluten-free grains like rice, quinoa, corn, millet, buckwheat, and gluten-free oats.

5. Avoid Caffeine 

The most difficult drink to avoid! Some people may experience improvements in their dust mite allergy by cutting out caffeine. Try it for a week and see if your allergic responses decrease. If they do not you can go straight back to drinking your coffee! 

1. Potential Inflammatory Response: Some people experience an inflammatory response to caffeine or dairy, which could exacerbate allergy symptoms like nasal congestion or skin irritation.
2. Stress on the Immune System: Caffeine can cause temporary spikes in stress hormones like cortisol, potentially putting additional stress on your immune system.
3. Sleep Disruption: Caffeine can affect your sleep quality, and poor sleep can weaken the immune system, making it harder for your body to manage allergic reactions effectively.

By limiting caffeine, especially in milky forms, you may help reduce the potential aggravation of allergy symptoms and support better overall health.

6. Avoid Common Food Allergens 

These are the most common food allergens people in the world have, as a dust mite allergy sufferer you are up to 4 times more likely to have an intolerance or allergy to these foods

• Eggs: Egg allergy affects ~0.9% of children globally (~72 million people).
• Peanuts: Peanut allergy impacts ~1.5% of the global population (~120 million people).
• Tree Nuts: Tree nut allergies affect ~1.2% of the global population (~96 million people).
• Shellfish: Around 2% of the global population (~160 million people) are allergic to shellfish.
• Fish: Fish allergy affects ~0.9% globally (~72 million people).
• Soy: Soy allergy affects ~0.4% globally (~32 million people).
• Sesame: Sesame allergy impacts ~0.1% of the global population (~8 million people).
• Sulfites: Sensitivity to sulfites affects ~1% of the global population (~80 million people).

Save this cheat sheet for quick reference

Try The Elimination Diet

If you are suffering with allergy symptoms, you should try the elimination diet. This is when you eliminate most foods from your diet and then slowly introduce them.

This will allow you to directly feel the impact of avoiding common foods that will increase your dust mite allergy symptoms

Elimination Diet Plan

Low-Risk Food Group

• Fruit
• Meat
• Vegetables
• Tea
• Spices

High-Risk Food Group

• Dairy
• High Caffeiene drinks
• Gluten
• Processed Foods
• Alcohol
• Eggs
• Nuts
• Shellfish
• Fish
• Soy
• Sesame
• Sulfites

Important Note:

If you experience negative symptoms after introducing a new food:

1. Identify the trigger food.
2. Remove it from your diet permanently if necessary.

Avoid Storing Food Long Term - Storage Mites

Storage mites are tiny, mites related to the dust mite that feed on stored foods such as flour, grain and seeds. These can be a problem if you buy these products in bulk and do not secure them.

This means not having open bags of flour or grain in your house for more than 2 weeks as this allows time for storage mites to infiltrate and breed. 

 You can read more about storage mites here

 Top 6 Foods To Eat With Dust Mite Allergy

If you're dealing with dust allergies, incorporating certain these 6 foods into your diet may:

• Reduce food allergy symptoms : those with a dust allergy are up to 400% more likely to have another allergy
• Boost your immune system: reducing dust allergy symptoms

What To Eat With Dust Mite Allergy

1. Eat More Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Why Omega-3s Help: They have natural anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce allergy symptoms

Best Sources:

• Seafood: Salmon, mackerel, sardines, and tuna.
• Plant-Based Options: Flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and flaxseed oil.

Easy Ways to Add Them:

• Sprinkle chia seeds or flaxseeds on yogurt or oatmeal.
• Snack on a handful of walnuts.
• Enjoy grilled or baked salmon for dinner.

2. Eat More Vitamin C-Rich Foods

Why Vitamin C Helps: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system and helps reduce the severity of allergic reactions by lowering histamine levels.

Best Sources:

• Oranges, lemons, strawberries, bell peppers, and kiwis.

Easy Ways to Add Them:

• Snack on orange or kiwi slices.
• Add bell peppers to salads, stir-fries, or fajitas.
• Blend strawberries into a smoothie or eat them fresh.

Diet and Changing Your Home Is The Best Way to Reduce Your Dust Allergy

Changing your diet can massively reduce your dust mite allergy symptoms, however dust mite proofing your home is likely to have a bigger impact. Check out our 6-step guide to getting rid of dust mites Here

3. Quercetin-Rich Foods

Why Quercetin Helps: Quercetin is a natural antihistamine and antioxidant that can help stabilize cells that release histamines, reducing allergy symptoms.

Best Sources:

• Apples, onions, kale, broccoli, and berries.

Easy Ways to Add Them:

• Snack on an apple with almond butter.
• Add chopped onions and kale to stir-fries or soups.
• Blend berries into smoothies or enjoy them as a fresh dessert.

4. Eat More Probiotic Foods

Why Probiotics Help: Probiotics support a healthy gut, which is closely linked to a stronger immune system and better allergy management.

Best Sources:

• Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and miso.

Easy Ways to Add Them:

• Enjoy yogurt with fresh fruit and granola.
• Use kefir as a base for smoothies.
• Add sauerkraut or kimchi as a topping for sandwiches or bowls.

5. Eat Organic Raw Honey

Why Raw Honey Helps: Consuming small amounts of local, raw honey may help desensitize your body to local pollen, reducing seasonal allergy symptoms.

avoid buying the cheapest liquid honey as often this has been found to be a sugar syrup. If the honey crysalizes its mre likely to be real honey. 

Best Sources:

• Local organic raw honey.

Easy Ways to Add It:

• Stir a spoonful of honey into tea or warm water with lemon.
• Drizzle honey over toast, oatmeal, or yogurt.
• Use as a natural sweetener in salad dressings or marinades.

6. Eat More Spicy Food

Why Spicy Foods Help: Spicy foods can help clear nasal congestion and improve airflow by thinning mucus, providing relief from allergy-related sinus pressure.

Best Sources:

• Chili peppers, cayenne pepper, wasabi, horseradish, and ginger.

Easy Ways to Add Them:

• Add a dash of cayenne or chili powder to soups or stews.
• Mix ginger or wasabi into salad dressings or dips.
• Incorporate horseradish into sandwiches or as a side condiment.

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