Signs And Symptoms Of Dust
Mite Allergies
What are the symptoms of dust mite
allergies? This can be difficult to answer as dust mite allergies often
mimic the symptoms of other allergies. In general, however, repeated
exposure to dust mites and their waste products can result in a variety of
symptoms affecting the upper and lower respiratory system, eyes and skin.
While specific allergic reactions can vary from individual to individual and
depending on the time of year, all of them can be chronic and often
debilitating. That’s because exposure to dust mites is usually prolonged and
persistent, as they tend to multiply rapidly and infest areas where people
spend a lot of time, such as couches and beds.
When the upper respiratory system, consisting of the nasal passages and
sinuses, is affected this can cause a number of symptoms including runny
nose, sneezing, clogged sinuses and sinus headache. This type of response
usually occurs within minutes of initial exposure and can lead to other
symptoms that occur hours later, such as fatigue and irritability.
Lower respiratory symptoms affect the lungs and bronchial tubes. The most
common of these reactions is asthma, a tightening and narrowing of the
bronchial passages. The symptoms of asthma attack include wheezing, coughing
and difficulty breathing. Asthma attacks can be sudden and severe or chronic
and longer lasting, depending on the length of time that a person is exposed
to an allergen.
When asking what are the symptoms of dust mite allergies, one of the most
common answers is itchy, irritated eyes. This condition, known as
conjunctivitis, results when the protein contained in dust mite waste
affects the sensitive mucus membranes of the eyes. Resulting symptoms can
include redness, puffiness, itching and burning.
Aside from the eyes and respiratory system, dust mites can also cause
allergic reaction on the skin. Often, exposure to mites and their waste will
cause inflammation known as “hives”. These are raised, red welts that may
itch severely. Many people who experience nasal or bronchial allergy
symptoms will also be susceptible to developing hives.
A more tenuous connection exists between dust mite allergies and eczema.
Eczema is a skin condition characterized by patches of very red, itchy skin
that often become weepy. Eczema can be chronic and often occurs in
individuals with a history of asthma and nasal allergy. There are many other
factors that can cause eczema, however, including temperature changes and
other allergens.
There is no doubt that dust mites are one of the major causes of allergies
and, because they are so small, it can be almost impossible to identify and
stop an infestation. Unfortunately, one of the best indicators of a dust
mite problem is the presence of allergy symptoms such as runny nose,
coughing, sneezing and itching. If you’re regularly experiencing any of
these, the chances are good that you’re sharing your home with dust mites.
Wishing you the best of health
The Allergy Store
