What are the symptoms of dust mite allergies?

Dust mite allergies cause inflammation of the nasal passages and may contribute to asthma, which may result in a number of symptoms. The symptoms can very in intensity among individuals and may occur daily or less frequently. However, at any time the asthma symptoms may become severe.

Common symptoms of dust mite allergies

The most common symptoms of dust mite allergies are related to inflammation of the respiratory system and include:

  • Cough
  • Itchy nose, throat or roof of mouth
  • Itchy, red or watery eyes
  • Postnasal drip
  • Runny nose
  • Sneezing
  • Stuffy nose or nasal congestion

If your dust mite allergy contributes to asthma, you may also experience:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Wheezing (whistling sound made with breathing)

Serious symptoms that might indicate a life-threatening condition

In some cases, asthma can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms including:

  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Confusion or loss of consciousness for even a brief moment
  • Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
  • Shortness of breath or rapid breathing (tachypnea)
INTRODUCTION

What are dust mite allergies?

Dust mites are tiny insects that are scientifically known as Dermatophagoides. These insects cause allergic reactions in susceptible humans, resulting in hay fever, asthma and other respiratory symptoms. Dust mite allergy is the most common cause of year-round allergy and asthma in the United States. Millions... Read more about dust mite allergies introduction

CAUSES

What causes dust mite allergies?

Dust mite allergies originate from the dust mites themselves (Dermatophagoides family). Dust mites live and feed on skin cells shed by humans and animals that are present in dust. Dust found in the inner layers of furniture cushions, carpets and bed-linen fibers provides a perfect habitat for dust mites. The mites feed on skin cells and consequently produce waste products. It is the waste from dust mites that causes allergic symptoms in susceptible people. For this reason, dust mite allergies occur most frequently in dust mite–allergic people who inhale these particles frequently. In children, high levels of exposure... Read more about dust mite allergies causes

TREATMENTS

How are dust mite allergies treated?

Treatment of dust mite allergies begins with seeking medical care from your health care provider. To determine whether you are allergic to dust mites, you will be asked questions about your symptoms and when they occur.... Read more about dust mite allergies treatments

Medical Reviewer: All content has been reviewed by board-certified physicians under the direction of Rich Klasco, M.D., FACEP. Last Annual Review Date: May 2, 2011 Copyright: © Copyright 2011 Health Grades, Inc. All rights reserved. May not be reproduced or reprinted without permission from Health Grades, Inc. Use of this information is governed by the HealthGrades User Agreement.

This Article is Filed Under: Allergies and the Immune System, Allergies


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