Causes and risk factors
As the name suggests dust mite allergy is caused due to dust mite. Dust mites are tiny creatures which are commonly seen in house. They are commonly seen on carpets, furniture’s, bedding of the house. They release certain protein as waste products; people who have dust mite allergy are actually sensitive to these proteins which are dropped as waste products by the mite. Exposure to contaminated bedding and clothing are the most common for spread of infection. As like all other allergies it is an autoimmune reaction of the body. Allergic reaction occurs as a result of the adverse reaction by the immune system. When the protein comes in contact with the body the body considers it as a harmful substance and produces antibodies which cause an inflammatory response leading to appearance of signs and symptoms.
Clinical presentation:
A person who is allergic to dust mite can present with complaints of red eruptions (Urticaria) and itching on the area of contact. The person can also come up with symptoms of respiratory affection like running of nose, running of eyes, cough, and wheezes. Irritation of mouth and possible swelling is also a common complaint seen. Difficulties in breathing, Tightness of chest are other complaints seen. Most of the times the symptoms are mild, however in severe cases and in long run it can lead to development of asthmatic attacks in an individual. It can also lead to chronic eczema, otitis media and disturbed sleep leading to fatigue.
Investigations:
Diagnosis can be done on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patients and the physical examination carried out by the doctor. Routine blood test and allergy test can be recommended by the consultant.
Treatment:
For relieving the discomfort anti allergic medications are advised. Anti histamines and steroids have found to be effective. Measures to prevent the dust mite needs to be implemented. Hygienic condition must be maintained. Regular cleaning of the carpets, furniture’s and washing of the bedding and clothes along with proper ventilation should be done.
Other modes of treatment:
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating the complaints. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in combating the sufferings.
