October 30, 2002 – Fall is a good time of year for dust mites. Indeed, these microscopic bugs, which are crazy about our skin waste, proliferate in humid conditions. In some people, they cause allergies which, if left unchecked, can lead to asthma and worsen other respiratory allergies and even eczema.
A meta-analysis1 on the effectiveness of chemical and mechanical control methods for dust mites in the treatment of asthmatics (many of whom are allergic to dust mites) has not demonstrated convincing results and suggests evaluating other control methods. Another, more recent study, 2 who tested the effectiveness of dust mite mattress covers (plastic) for children with asthma, came to similar conclusions.
In order to reduce their symptoms and possibly avoid suffering from asthma, allergists recommend that people allergic to dust mites apply the following mechanical control methods as strictly as possible:
- Eeliminate carpets, rugs:
- Have no upholstered furniture or stuffed animals.
- Use mattress and pillow covers (plastic) designed to reduce exposure to these insects.
- Avoid down bedspreads and quilts.
- Only have curtains made of lightweight fabrics.
- Make sure that the humidity level in the house does not exceed 60%.
- Sheets and pillows should also be washed in hot water every week. Finally, for houses equipped with a forced air heating system, it is desirable to cover the air vents with a fabric (of the cheesecloth type).
To fight mites, we can also use acaricides, pesticides having the property of killing these bugs. However, the use of these products has its downside: it can upset people sensitive to chemicals or even cause poisoning.
Finally, since it is almost impossible to remove all dust mites from a home, taking quail egg tablets (quail egg is known for its anti-allergenic properties) can reduce allergy symptoms. .
Stéphane Gagné – PasseportSanté.net
1. Gøtzsche PC, Hammarquist C, Burr M. House dust mite control measures in the management of asthma: meta-analysis. British Medical Journal 1998; 317: 1105-1110. http://bmj.com/cgi/content/full/317/7166/1105
2. Sheikh A, Hurwitz B, Sibbald B, Barnes G, Howe M, Durham S. House dust mite barrier bedding for childhood asthma: randomized placebo controlled trial in primary care. BMC Family Practice 2002 3:12 http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2296/3/12
