Fighting Winter Allergies Part 2: Dust Mites

Many people have allergies in the spring and fall, but some kick in during the winter months. Last week we talked about mold spores that cause allergic reactions during the wet winter season, especially here in California. Today we will discuss another common allergen which can worsen in the winter, especially when our homes are sealed up to keep the heat in: dust mites.

Dust mites and what they leave behind are one of the most common allergens and can be found in all climates. They live on dead skin and other organic matter in our homes. Symptoms of dust mite allergies include:

• Itchiness
• Sneezing, especially on waking up or 10 or more times
• Inflamed or infected eczema
• Watery or red eyes
• Runny nose
• Clogging in the lungs

What can you do to reduce dust mite allergies?

• Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter
• Wash bed linens and pajamas in hot water to kill mites
• Keep carpets and rugs out of bedrooms
• Use dust mite barrier covers on pillows and mattresses

If someone in your family has an allergy to dust mites, it might be time to treat your home with heat to kill them before sealing up the house for the winter. Alliance Environmental Group uses ThermaPureHeat to kill dust mites and the heat process is accompanied by HEPA vacuuming and air scrubbers to remove any airborne and dust residing allergens. Contact us for help with dust mite allergies!

Wendy Stackhouse is the Online Community Manager and Blogger for Alliance Environmental Group and AirTek Indoor Air Solutions. We welcome your comments! For more news and tips or to ask questions of our experts, Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter! For updates on indoor air challenges, Like us at AirTek on Facebook!