In the world of allergies, dust mites just might be king of the indoor allergens. Most people with indoor allergies are allergic to dust mites. Although dust is generally considered the culprit, the major component of dust is actually dust mite bodies both alive and the dead shells as well as dust mite droppings.These mites are microscopic insects that thrive in moist dark places and live off the flakes of dead skin that human beings leave behind. For some reason these little mites cause a big reaction in allergy prone people. Even just vacuuming up the living room can give a person with dust mite allergies a severe reaction.
 
Symptoms

If you have indoor allergies and are allergic to dust mites you will probably have the usual symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Your allergy symptoms will generally mimic a cold with; watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, coughing and similar symptoms. Unlike a cold, the symptoms will not go away in a week, but will remain with you forever. In addition, if your allergies are more severe you could get asthma or asthmatic bronchitis. Some people with reactions to dust mites will experience an overwhelming sleepiness after vacuuming because of the quantity of allergens they inhale. The best way around this problem is to use vacuums with HEPA filters and shower right after vacuuming.

Avoidance

The largest concentration of dust mites are generally found in the bed room. Mattresses, sheets and pillows seem to be their favorite places to hide. They also hang out in sofas, sofa cushions and blankets, as well as carpets. In order to cut down on exposure try covering mattresses and pillows with mite proof covers. Wash all sheets and blankets in hot water if possible. Airing bedding out in the sun helps as well. Keep the humidity below 50% using dehumidifiers helps reduce mite populations. Taking out carpeting and installing hardwood floors helps as well. Interestingly enough, not making your bed immediately after getting up can help as well. Leaving the bed unmade allows the bedding to air out and dry out after sleeping this keeps the environment less dust mite friendly.

After doing what you can to reduce the exposure to dust mites it may become necessary to seek medical treatment for severe symptoms. There are numerous over the counter allergy medications for the treatment of indoor allergies. If those don’t work well for you then it is a good idea to discuss the issue with a medical professional. There are also numerous alternative treatments for the allergies. It’s always a good idea to research your allergy problems and take active control of your medical needs. Just because you have allergies to dust mites doesn’t mean you have to suffer, there is help available.