Dust mite allergy: What is it?

Dust mite allergy is an allergic reaction caused by the presence of small insects, invisible to the naked eye, called mites, which live mainly in domestic environments. These micro-organisms, members of the arachnid family, feed on dead human skin cells, often found in dust. Dust mite allergy is a common pathology affecting a large number of people, particularly in developed countries, where living conditions favor their proliferation.

Dust mites: What are they?

Dust mites are tiny creatures, generally invisible to the naked eye, measuring between 0.1 and 0.5 millimeters. They are mainly found in house dust and in places where they find a warm, humid environment. Mites don't bite, but their excrement and body debris, when inhaled or in contact with the skin, can provoke an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.

In particular, they live in mattresses, pillows, carpets, curtains and upholstered furniture, where moisture and warmth create ideal conditions for their development. It is estimated that one gram of house dust can contain several thousand dust mites. The periods most conducive to their multiplication are autumn and winter, when indoor heating creates a warmer, drier atmosphere, and windows are closed.

Symptoms of dust mite allergy

Symptoms of dust mite allergy are generally respiratory and cutaneous. In sensitive individuals, inhalation of dust containing mite debris can cause symptoms similar to those of asthma or allergic rhinitis. Main symptoms include :

Allergic rhinitis: Runny nose, frequent sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy nose, eyes and throat.

Asthma: Coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing, especially at night or upon awakening.

Allergic conjunctivitis: Red, itchy, watery eyes.
Eczema: Skin lesions in the form of redness, itching and dry patches.

In the most severe cases, dust mite allergy can aggravate asthma symptoms, leading to severe attacks. People already suffering from asthma or other respiratory conditions, such as chronic bronchitis, may be particularly vulnerable.

Why are some people allergic to dust mites?

Dust mite allergy results from an abnormal immune response to proteins contained in dust mite debris, such as their droppings. An allergic person's immune system regards these proteins as dangerous substances and attacks them excessively, leading to inflammation of the respiratory tract or skin. This response is mediated by cells called mast cells, which release histamine, a chemical responsible for many allergic symptoms.

Some people are more likely to develop an allergy to house dust mites due to genetic factors. If a family member suffers from allergies (asthma, rhinitis, eczema), there is an increased risk that other family members will also be allergic to dust mites. Furthermore, early exposure to allergens such as dust mites can increase the risk of developing allergies over time, especially in children.

Diagnosis of dust mite allergy

Diagnosis of dust mite allergy is generally based on examination of the patient's symptoms and allergological testing. Skin testing is one of the most common methods: small quantities of allergen are applied to the skin and the reaction observed. If a reddening or bump appears, this indicates an allergic reaction. A blood test may also be carried out to measure the level of mite-specific IgE antibodies, in order to confirm the allergy.

Treatment of dust mite allergy

Although dust mite allergy cannot be cured, several treatments are available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life for allergy sufferers. These treatments include :

Antihistamines: Drugs that block histamine, a chemical responsible for the allergic reaction, and relieve the symptoms of rhinitis and conjunctivitis.

Nasal or inhaled corticosteroids: Used to reduce inflammation of the respiratory tract, particularly for people suffering from allergic rhinitis or asthma.

Allergenic immunotherapy (desensitization): A treatment involving the gradual administration of small quantities of allergens to habituate the immune system and reduce sensitivity to house dust mites. This treatment can take several months or even years.

Bronchodilators: Used to treat the respiratory symptoms of asthma, by relaxing the muscles around the airways.

In addition to these medical treatments, it is essential to take preventive measures to limit exposure to dust mites.

Preventing dust mite allergy

The key to preventing dust mite allergy is to reduce the number of dust mites in the home environment. Here are a few tips to limit exposure:

Air rooms regularly: Open windows every day to allow moisture and allergens to escape.

Use anti-dust mite covers: Wrap mattresses, pillows and comforters in special covers, preventing dust mites from developing.
Wash bedding regularly: Wash sheets, pillowcases and blankets at a temperature above 60°C to kill dust mites.

Use an air purifier: Using an air purifier with a minimum CADR of 100 for a bedroom, and a HEPA H13 filter, will help keep dust mites out of the air and discomfort allergy sufferers.

Use DEMITE for comforters: The benzyl Benzoate contained in DEMITE will help prolong the supression of dust mites in your comforter, and you'll only need to wash your comforter once a month for good effectiveness in resolving symptoms (dust mites will infest your comforter less quickly).

Reduce humidity: Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to keep humidity levels below 50%.

Avoid carpets and rugs: Prefer tiled or parquet floors, which are easier to clean.

By combining these preventive measures with appropriate medical treatment, it is possible to effectively control dust mite allergy and improve the quality of life of those affected.

Conclusion

Dust mite allergy is a common but often underestimated condition which can have a significant impact on the daily lives of those affected. By understanding the causes, symptoms and means of prevention of this allergy, it becomes possible to reduce the risks and improve the comfort of allergy sufferers. Proper management, combined with vigilance in the home environment, can greatly reduce the effects of this allergy and enable those affected to lead a more serene life.