Triggers Inhalant Allergens   - Animal Allergens   - House Dust Mites   - Cockroaches   - Molds   - Pollens Occupational Exposure Irritants   - Tobacco   - Pollution Variable Factors   - Exercise   - Pregnancy   - Menstrual Cycle   - Stress/Emotions   - Weather Changes Other Factors   - Food Additives   - Reflux   - Medications   - Sinusitis   - Viral Infections

For a version suitable for printing, click here. Dust Mites A multitude of particles comprise the dust within a typical home. Among those particles exists a microscopic insect, called the dust mite. Adult dust mites have eight legs and like other arachnids, mites can cause allergic reactions in humans. Dust mites feed off the dead skin cells that humans shed regularly. Dust mites are typically 250 to 300 microns long, which measures smaller than .012 inches. Their small size and translucent bodies make dust mites impossible to see with the naked eye. These resilient creatures prefer warm climates between 72 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and they thrive in moist environments where the humidity levels stay between 75 and 80 percent. Dust mites will die if the humidity drops below 40 or 50 percent. Dust mites are NOT an indication of an unsanitary home. They can be found in even the cleanest of homes. Because dust mites eat skin flakes, they usually gather in fabrics, mattresses, children’s stuffed toys, pillows, and any place where a person may sit or lay for long periods of time. Home owners can reduce the affect of dust mites in a home by using mattress and pillow covers; cleaning upholstered surfaces, clothing, towels and other household fabrics regularly; monitoring the home’s humidity; and vacuuming regularly with a good quality vacuum. Unlike pets, which contribute dander and fur; or mold which generates spores; dust mite allergies stem from the mite’s fecal pellets. If you or a loved one come in contact with the dust mite allergen, then an allergic response might occur, resulting in: itchy, watery eyes, coughing, sneezing, wheezing, and/or dry itchy skin. If your allergy symptoms seem severe or unavoidable, please contact an allergy specialist to set up a consultation. Forward to Cockroaches » « Back to Animal Allergens ^ Back to Top

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