Dust Mite Allergies

In the home, the most significant contributor to allergies is the common house dust mite. In fact, clinical studies show that allergic sensitivity to the house dust mite is the most common cause of allergy in asthmatics in most parts of the world, affecting some 60 to 85% of patients.

dust mites are found throughout your home and are a leading cause of allergies

Dust mites are microscopic relatives of ticks and spiders that thrive in warm, humid places. They feed primarily on human skin scales (flakes of old dead skin that have been shed). The harmful allergens are actually found in the dust mite's fecal pellets, which due to their small size, easily become airborne and are breathed deep into the lungs. Dust mites thrive in bed mattresses and carpets. The average bedroom can be infested with literally tens of millions of mites. Don't be fooled - even homeowners that practice excellent household cleaning regimen suffer from large dust mite populations. Given the amount of time the average individual spends in bed each day, dust mites account for the allergy misery of millions of Americans daily.

The good news is that dust mites and other airborne allergens in the home such as pollen, pet dander, and various gaseous chemicals, can be effectively controlled through proper air filtration. True medical-grade HEPA filtration is the most effective means of controlling household particulate allergens like dust mites (and their feces), removing 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns in size and larger and approximately 95% of particles down to 0.1 micron. Dust mite feces average 0.3 to 10 microns in size. For many, relief from symptoms can begin as little as 24 hours after the installation of a high quality medical-grade HEPA air cleaner.

In addition to purchasing a quality medical-grade HEPA filter, there are a number of other things you can do to reduce your exposure to dust mite allergens:

• wash your bed sheets in HOT water frequently
• purchase special pillow cases and sheets that are dust mite resistant
• do not let your pets sleep in your bedroom
• use a quality HEPA equipped vacuum cleaner frequently
• remove bedroom carpets and heavy drapes that can trap dander (dust mite food)

Given that your family's health and well being are at stake, the small investment in a quality air cleaner is well worth it.

All models of the Austin Air and Airpura air cleaners incorporate HEPA filtration, and are a good choice for dust mite allergen control, as well as the removal of other particulate contaminants. Choose a model with a large HEPA media surface area for long filter life and best long-term performance. For more information on these brands:

• Austin air cleaners
• Airpura air purifiers

For more information on specific other allergens, click on the links below:

• Pollen (Plants, Weeds, Grasses, & Trees) Allergy
• Mold and Toxic (Black) Mold Allergy
• Pet Dander Allergy (Cats, Dogs, & Other Animals)
• Cigarette / Secondhand Smoke