House dust mites and eczema
Keeping the house dust mite at bay!
House-dust mites are tiny relatives of spiders and tics, which thrive in warm, damp places and are present in virtually all homes. They are found in greatest numbers in mattresses and bedding, where there is a plentiful supply of their main food source - fragments of human skin. House-dust mites also make their home in carpets, curtains, soft furnishings and even textured wallpapers.
House-dust mites are not themselves allergenic - it is actually their droppings, which cause problems, particularly for people who are affected by asthma and allergic rhinitis. The link between the house-dust mite and atopic eczema is less clear. Tests have shown that the majority of people with eczema have an allergic reaction to dust mites but it is not known what these positive reactions mean. For some people, allergy to dust mites may be a key aggravating factor for their eczema, while for others it may be only one of many factors. It seems likely that as far as asthma is concerned, dust-mite particles in the air are the main problem, while for eczema, contact with dust in beds and furnishings is more likely to be important.
It is impossible to banish house-dust mites from the whole house. However, focusing attention on rooms in which most time is spent such as the bedroom and living room is most likely to achieve positive results. Obviously, cutting down on dust is the key factor since dust harbors dust-mite droppings. This means not just regular cleaning but also doing away with furnishings that attract dust or are difficult to clean thoroughly. The following steps will help to reduce levels of house-dust mite in the house.
- Air the bedroom and living room daily to reduce humidity, making them a less attractive environment for house-dust mites, which prefer warm, damp conditions.
- Consider replacing carpets with tiles or wooden flooring. If you prefer, use rugs and wash them regularly at a temperature of at least 60oC (this will destroy house-dust mites).
- Replace curtains with blinds (preferably vertically slatted ones or roller blinds) or use fabrics that can withstand regular washing.
- If you are considering replacing your vacuum cleaner, it may be worthwhile investing in one which has a high-powered filter.
- Ideally, opt for leather or vinyl sofas and chairs, rather than fabric-covered furniture or fit washable covers. Alternatively vacuum soft furnishings once a week.
- If possible, fit mattresses, pillows and duvets with barrier covers, although these can be expensive. In addition, vacuum mattresses and wash bedding at a temperature of at least 60oC on a weekly basis. Man-made pillows and duvets are easier to wash than those containing feathers and are less likely to harbour house-dust mites.
- It may help to remove unnecessary ornaments or items such as books or to keep these in closed cupboards.
- Soft toys can also harbor house-dust mites. Although children do not like to be parted from favourite toys, they should be washed regularly.
- Regular dusting with a damp cloth can help to keep dust levels down.
- Anti-house-dust mite sprays should be used with caution as they may be irritants themselves. Also, they are expensive and, after use, the room needs to be vacuumed to remove house-dust mite droppings.
House dust mites are not a trigger factor for everyone. As a rule of thumb it makes sense to carry out House dust mite prevention in a way that is proportionate to the severity of your or your child’s eczema.
|
