Dust Allergy Treatment

An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system is not functioning properly. Some people are hypersensitive to certain substances (allergens). Although these substances are harmless they can cause severe allergies in some people.

Causes of Dust Allergy

Dust mites are considered to be the main cause of dust allergy. Dust mite is an important component of house dust and many people are found to be allergic to this organism. These microscopic organisms live in humid, warm environment and eat dead skin cells which humans shed every month. When seen under the microscope, they look like spiders.

Symptoms of Dust Allergy

Around 10% of the population have dust mite allergy. These symptoms are indeed very annoying. Symptoms may aggravate while cleaning the house. An allergic reaction from dust particles may cause the following symptoms:

• Runny nose
• Repeated sneezing
• Watery eye
• Hay fever
• Persistent stuffy nose
• Asthma like symptoms such as labored breathing and airway inflammation

Dust Allergy Treatment

Avoiding or minimizing the contact of dust is the best treatment for dust allergy. This is the least expensive and the most effective treatment to follow. There are some simple methods that are helpful to manage dust allergy. By regularly cleaning the house, one can minimize inhaling dust particles. Keeping the environment clean can go a long way in controlling the symptoms of dust allergy. Vacuum your house regularly and weekly wash all the bed covers, pillow cases and blankets in hot water. People who have air conditioners (dehumidifier), can use it to keep the humidity low (between 30 to 50 percent), as dust mites cannot live when the humidity goes below 40 percent. You can use a hygrometer to find out the humidity level in your house. Reduction in indoor humidity will help to decrease the population of dust mites. Covering pillows and mattress with dust proof material is also a good option.

Medication for Dust Allergy

Decongestants and antihistamines, are the 2 main types of allergy medications available. Antihistamines provide considerable relief from inflammation, itchiness, redness and watery eyes. Antihistamines are available in liquid as well as capsule form. Decongestants help to reduce nasal congestion. One can also use nasal sprays rather than oral decongestants. However, they have few side effects, hence, before using these nasal decongestants, it is essential to consult with a well qualified doctor. Steroid medication can also help to decrease inflammation. Steroids recommended for dust allergy patients are used in oral or nasal form. Long term oral usage needs to be carefully monitored, as it can cause potential side effects.

Immunotherapy (Allergy shots)

People suffering from allergic asthma, are advised to use this therapy when medications cannot lessen the symptoms of dust allergy. Immunotherapy does provide relief to these people and may even prevent occurrence of airway inflammation. Allergic shots are administered to decrease the reactions to allergens. Immunotherapy can work wonders for allergies to mold, pollen and dust mites. In this therapy, the doctor injects small doses of allergic substances under your skin. This helps the body to get "accustomed" to this allergen. As a result, the body gradually builds up immunity to these substances that trigger a strong allergic reaction. The resistance of the body against these allergens increases considerably. This means, the body will experience fewer symptoms, when these allergens come in contact in the future. The dosage of allergic substances is increased depending upon the patient's response to the treatment.

Controlling the quality of air and humidity of your house is the ideal way to reduce the symptoms of dust allergy and can bring tremendous improvement in the condition of the patient.