One in five Australians will have House Dust Mite (HDM) allergy in their lifetime. (ASCIA 2019). I am one of those, having suffered from HDM allergy for much of my life. I have had to learn how to understand the importance of avoiding my triggers. I have had days where reactions have interred with my life and others days when my immune system has been strong and life is bliss. Working with a Naturopath, Immunologist and Respiratory Specialist I am finding ways to manage and live with HDM allergy.
HDM are so microscopic that 50 mites can fit on the tip of one pin! They are too small for the human eye to see, making them hard to eradicate. Contrary to what some think, they can not bite you or spread disease; skin irritation from HDM is caused by allergic reaction.
About one million HDM can feast on our daily skin cells, they do not drink, but absorb moisture from the air; therefore, they thrive in summer months. Keeping the relative humidity (RH) between 45-55% is important as it will reduce the moisture content inside. You can test with your home using a hygrometer.
Dust mite Immunotherapy or “desensitisation” is available in Australia; this is a slow process to build up the tolerance to dust mites and make the patient less allergic. (MAAIC 2021). This is a usually undertaken with an Immunologist or Ears Nose Throat specialist.
Symptoms:
· Asthma / wheezing
· Eczema
· Itchy eyes & nose
· Sneezing
· Dry cough
· Runny / blocked nose
(Bijlmsa N. 2018).
Some personal changes I have made to reduce HDM in my life include: removing all carpet from my home, keeping my bedroom window slightly open to increase ventilation, if I am in a dusty environment I keep a spare pair of socks in my bag to wear to protect the skin on my feet, under my bed is clear of clutter and I use a robot vacuum with a HEPA filter to reduce daily dust levels.
Preventative measures:
· Wash bed linen weekly in water over 55%
· Dry linen in sun
· Air bed out each day to allow any perspiration etc. to dry; do this by pulling top bedding down for at least 30 minutes upon rising
· Wash blankets, doonas, pillows every season
· Purchase new pillows every 12 months
· Use Dust Mite covers on mattress and pillows (see ‘Recommendations’ below)
· Do not keep soft toys on beds, if at all
· Avoid carpets, especially in bedroom, wooden floorboards are preferred
· Vacuum once a week with a HEPA filter. Go out afterwards to allow any airborne dust to settle
· Use a damp microfibre cloth to maintain surface dust within the home, dry with a cloth afterwards
· De-clutter! Dust gathers in clutter, and it is much easier to clean a clear space
Recommendation:
· Dust Mite bedding protection: AllergEnd
· Literature: Healthy Home Healthy Family by Nicole Bijlmsa
· Washing machine: Top loader: LG WTG1034WF. This a 10kg that connects to the hot tap, it goes to 54°C / Front loader: LG WXLC-1116B. I prefer to use a top loader to reduce the chances of mould growth ( see blog post: www. To read more).
· Vacuum with HEPA Filter: Dyson V15 Detect Absolute Extra
Microfibre Mop: Spray Handle - Mix & Match Click Range with microfibre attachment.
