Background
Believe it or not, dust is complex. In addition to particulate matter, house dust contains contains microscopic particles of pollen, mold, fibers from clothing and other fabrics, detergents, and microscopic insects called dust mites. Dust mites, including small fragments of dead mites, are the primary cause of dust allergy and are found in the highest numbers in bedding, mattresses, and box springs. The microscopic mite thrives in dust, especially in warm, humid environments.
Incidence and Prevalence
According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III), 54.3% of individuals aged 6-59 years old had an allergic reaction to at least one of 10 allergens tested. The highest prevalence rates were for dust mite, rye, and ragweed, with about 25% of the population testing positive to each allergen.
Cause and Risk Factors
When airborne allergens such as dust or dust mites enter the body of a person with a sensitized immune system, they trigger antibody production (IgE) in a hypersensitive response. Part of the immune response consists of the release of histamine and other chemicals, frequently causing itching and swelling in affected tissues, mucus production, and in serious cases, hives and rashes, as well as other symptoms. Due to the nature of environmental allergens like dust, most come in contact with the skin or eyes, or are inhaled, thus causing a reaction in these areas.
The key to reducing symptoms is the careful cleaning of all rooms where time is spent. Since people spend the majority of time in their bedrooms, this is a good place to begin the cleaning process. Since mites can grow abundantly in bed, the single most important thing to do is to enclose mattresses, boxsprings, and pillows in vinyl or synthetic coverings.
List of Allergens
House Dust
House Dust Mite
Storage Mite
