Dust mites are microscopic, multi-legged arthropods that cannot be seen by the mere eye, and they're found just about anywhere on our planet. Dust mites look relatively similar to spiders but they're much smaller than most insects. Dust mites exist everywhere…in water, on land, in ice and in any temperature. If inhaled, dust mites may cause nasal infections and disorders.
Dust mites are reported to cause common infections such as sinusitis, throat infection, nasal polyps, ear infection and many other infections to human body. They feed on dead skin and they may even colonize plants for food.
Dust mites are found anywhere in the home… in beds, clothing, furniture, carpets, in foods and even in your car. The greatest exposure to dust mites is in the home… in our beds. Most patients are diagnosed with contracted dust mites from their beddings, kitchen utensils and cars. |
Dust mites are so numerous and beyond elimination, but one can minimize their prevalence by taking certain measures that pertain to good hygiene. This includes keeping your home as dry as possible since dust mites like humid areas.
There are certain measures you may take to lessen the prevalence of dist mites:
- Dust furnishings regularly
- Wash clothes in hot water (50 C) for more than 30 minutes
- Wash bedding in hot water (50 C) for more than 30 minutes
- Vacuum carpets twice a week
- Lower the humidity (below 70%)
- Wash your foods thoroughly before you cook or eat (especially fruits and vegetables)
- Store foods in air tight containers
- Keep utensils in a clean dry place
- Keep your kitchen as clean as possible
Some types of mites are comfortable on dry foods like hay, grain, and products like baking mixes and dry pet food. They like warm temperatures around 80 to 90 degrees F and high humidity. Under these conditions, they can multiply from a couple of mites to several million in just a few days.
Contact with dust mites may result in some of the following conditions:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itchy eyes
- Itchy ears
- A sore throat
Additional topics on allergens:
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