Dallas Allergy

Identification and avoidance of allergens represents the first and most important step in treating allergic disorders. For those who suffer from respiratory allergies (e.g., allergic rhinitis, asthma), avoidance of outdoor allergens such as pollens and molds is very difficult or impossible, as these substances are widely found in the air we all breathe. However, it is possible, by using relatively simple control measures to significantly reduce one’s exposure to allergens in the home environment. The following recommendations are intended to help you identify and eliminate potential sources of allergens in your home.

Dust mites are microscopic members of the spider family that live on the bodies of all normal humans and in household fabrics such as carpets, sofa cushions, pillows and mattresses. These are not the “bed bugs that bite”, but they do live quite happily below the surface of the mattress because when we lie down in our beds we provide them with everything that they like: warmth (from our body heat), humidity (from our perspiration) and food (provided by the skin flakes we shed). Although it is impossible to remove dust mites completely from household fabrics (and new mattresses soon become populated with dust mites), the following control measures will significantly reduce your exposure to dust mites:

1. Encase mattress, box spring and pillows in dust mite proof covers. These may be purchased through various mail order companies or from the linen department at a number of local retail stores. The cost of these products varies depending on the “plushness” of the material, but even the least expensive kind will work well. Make sure that the cover is one that is designed to encase the mattress on both top and bottom and zips around the sides. Recent evidence shows that only woven fabrics are effective because the lower cost, felt-like compressed fabrics allow the dust mites to live within the cover itself.

2. Wash sheets at least once a week to remove dust mite allergy substance.

3. Use cotton/polyester blankets and wash them at least twice a month. Do not use wool or down comforters and avoid using hand-made family heirlooms – these will be ruined with washing.

4. Remove stuffed animals from the bed. If there is one stuffed animal that your child (or the child within you) absolutely cannot live without, it should be washed regularly with the blankets. A five hour “arctic vacation” in a plastic bag in the freezer will kill the dust mites.

5. Keep ” brick-a-brack” and other dust collectors to a minimum in decorating bedroom.

6. Vacuum carpets with a standard vacuum cleaner (rated to 5 microns) two to three times a week. Wear filter mask while running vacuum, or remain out of house until the “dust settles” (30 minutes).

7. Keep indoor relative humidity at or below 50%. Dust mites thrive at higher humidity levels. For this reason, we do not recommend the use of humidifiers or vaporizers in the bedroom (no matter what your pediatrician or grandmother told you!).

8. If you are planning to move, redecorate or you just won the million dollar lottery, consider removing carpets and installing a hard surface floor such as wood, tile or linoleum flooring. If your finances are limited, concentrate on the bedroom and family/TV room.

Avoiding dust mites is the best way to minimize symptoms and medication requirements for people who are sensitive to dust mites. Unfortunately, the scientific data regarding the value and effectiveness of dust mite avoidance measures do not allow us to make definitive recommendations. We have analyzed the available information and make the following recommendations: