How can one recognize and treat an allergy to dust mites?
March 16, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by David Rüppel
Dear Doctor,
My name is Guido Halbscheffel and I have been suffering from various symptoms for some time now, which could indicate that I have an allergy to dust mites. These symptoms mainly occur in the morning upon waking up and in the evening before going to bed. I often have a stuffy nose, sneezing fits, and breathing difficulties. Additionally, I suffer from red and itchy eyes. These symptoms are now significantly affecting my daily life and I am concerned that they could worsen.
I have already tried to keep my home free of dust, but the symptoms still occur regularly. Therefore, I would like to learn more about how to recognize and treat an allergy to dust mites. Are there any specific tests to diagnose such an allergy? What treatment options are available to me to relieve my symptoms and to get them under control in the long term? Should I consider taking medications or are there also alternative therapy options?
I am very grateful for your help and hope that you can assist me in alleviating my symptoms and improving my quality of life. Thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Guido Halbscheffel
Dear Mr. Halbscheffel,
Thank you for your detailed description of your symptoms. It does indeed sound like you could be suffering from an allergy to dust mites, as the symptoms you mentioned are typical of this type of allergy.
There are various ways to diagnose an allergy to dust mites. One commonly used test is the prick test, where small amounts of allergens are applied to the skin and the skin's reaction is observed. Another test is a blood test, which detects specific antibodies in the blood that indicate an allergic reaction. Both tests can usually be done by an ear, nose, and throat specialist.
The treatment for an allergy to dust mites primarily aims to relieve symptoms and reduce exposure to allergens. In addition to keeping your home as dust-free as possible, using special covers for mattresses and pillows and regular vacuuming with a HEPA filter can help reduce dust mite exposure.
There are various medication options for treatment. Antihistamines can help relieve symptoms like sneezing and itchy eyes. For more severe symptoms, corticosteroid nasal sprays or eye drops may be used. In some cases, specific immunotherapy (desensitization) may be considered, where the body is slowly exposed to allergens to reduce reactions.
It is important that you see a doctor to have your symptoms evaluated and receive appropriate treatment. Only then can your symptoms be controlled long-term and your quality of life improved.
I hope this information is helpful to you and that you find a suitable therapy soon. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.
Sincerely,
David Rüppel
