Dust Mite Allergy

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional may suspect a dust mite allergy based on your symptoms and your answers to questions about your home environment. To confirm the diagnosis, a lighted tool may be used to examine the inside of your nose. If you’re allergic to dust mites or other airborne allergens, the nasal lining may appear swollen or discolored.

Common tests used to diagnose dust mite allergy include:

Allergy skin test – Tiny amounts of allergens, including dust mites, are scratched onto the skin of your forearm or upper back. After about 15 minutes, the skin is checked for red, itchy bumps that signal an allergic reaction. Mild itching or redness may occur but usually fades within 30 minutes.
Allergy blood test – This test measures specific antibodies to dust mite allergens. It’s often used when a skin test isn’t possible due to skin conditions or medications that could affect results.

Treatment

The first step in managing a dust mite allergy is to reduce exposure to dust mites. Although it’s impossible to remove them entirely, minimizing contact can ease symptoms. Medications may also help manage allergic reactions.

Common allergy medicines include:

Antihistamines to relieve sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Options include fexofenadine, loratadine, and cetirizine. Prescription nasal sprays such as azelastine or olopatadine may also help.
Corticosteroid nasal sprays to reduce inflammation and control symptoms. Over-the-counter options include fluticasone, mometasone, triamcinolone, and ciclesonide.
Decongestants to reduce nasal swelling and improve breathing. However, they should be used cautiously, especially by people with high blood pressure or heart conditions.
Leukotriene modifiers such as montelukast may help in some cases but can cause side effects like headache or mood changes.

Other therapies include:

Immunotherapy (allergy shots or tablets) to train the immune system to tolerate dust mite allergens. This long-term treatment involves gradually increasing doses of the allergen over several months, followed by maintenance therapy for several years.
Nasal irrigation using a neti pot or squeeze bottle filled with a sterile saline solution to rinse mucus and allergens from the nasal passages.

Self Care

To minimize dust mite exposure in your home:

Use allergen-proof covers on mattresses, pillows, and box springs.
Wash bedding weekly in hot water (at least 130°F or 54.4°C) or dry it on high heat.
Keep indoor humidity below 50% using an air conditioner or dehumidifier.
Choose washable bedding and stuffed toys, and wash them often.
Clean with a damp mop or rag to trap dust instead of spreading it.
Vacuum regularly using a vacuum with a HEPA filter or double-layered bag.
Remove clutter and replace carpeting with tile, wood, or vinyl if possible.
Install high-efficiency filters (MERV 11 or 12) in your HVAC system and change them every three months.

Preparing for Your Appointment

To get the most from your appointment:

Write down your symptoms and when they occur.
Note any family history of allergies or asthma.
List all medications, vitamins, or supplements you take.
Ask whether you should stop any medications before testing.
Prepare questions such as:
- What is causing my symptoms?
- Do I need allergy testing or specialist care?
- What treatments and home changes will help most?

What to Expect from Your Doctor

Your healthcare professional may ask:

When did your symptoms begin?
Are they worse in certain rooms or times of year?
Do you have pets or indoor dampness?
Have you noticed improvement with cleaning or air conditioning?
Do you also have asthma symptoms?

What You Can Do in the Meantime

While waiting for diagnosis or treatment:

Keep your bedroom free from clutter and dust.
Wash bedding in hot water weekly.
Use allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers.
Maintain good ventilation and reduce humidity.

Taking these steps early can help reduce symptoms and improve comfort even before starting medical treatment.

Overview