When Diwali comes near, every Indian household gets into full cleaning mode. The week leading up to the festival is usually spent sweeping, scrubbing, and dusting every corner of the home. While this ritual is believed to invite prosperity, it can also have some hidden problem, dust mite allergy.If you start sneezing uncontrollably, coughing, or notice a runny nose while cleaning, chances are you are reacting to dust mites. But how serious can this allergy get? Let’s understand.What Is Dust Mite Allergy?Dust mite allergy, also called house dust allergy, happens when your immune system becomes sensitive to the droppings and remains of microscopic dust mites. These tiny, spider-like organisms live in bedding, mattresses, carpets, curtains, and furniture, feeding on dead skin cells shed by humans and pets.According to the Cleveland Clinic, dust mite waste and dead bodies contain certain proteins that act as allergens. While these proteins are harmless to most people, some immune systems mistake them for dangerous invaders and trigger allergic reactions such as sneezing, asthma, itching, or eczema.Can Dust Mite Allergy Trigger More Chronic Diseases?Yes, a dust mite allergy can worsen over time and contribute to chronic conditions. The National Institutes of Health states that long-term exposure can lead to diseases like asthma and chronic sinusitis due to persistent inflammation.Here are some chronic diseases linked to dust mite allergy:Asthma: Dust mite allergens are one of the main causes of asthma and can provoke severe attacks. Ongoing inflammation may make the airways overly sensitive and lead to permanent changes in lung tissue.Chronic sinusitis: Continuous exposure can inflame and swell the nasal passages, resulting in long-term sinus blockage and infections.Atopic dermatitis (Eczema): Though not a chronic disease itself, eczema can be made worse by dust mites, causing persistent irritation.Why it can lead to chronic disease:Chronic inflammation: The immune system’s response to dust mites inflames the nasal passages and lungs. Prolonged exposure keeps this inflammation active, gradually damaging tissues.Increased sensitivity: Constant inflammation heightens sensitivity to smoke, pollution, or dry air, making symptoms more intense.The “atopic march”: This term describes the way allergic conditions can evolve, for example, eczema in childhood developing into asthma or allergic rhinitis later, often linked to dust mite sensitivity.How Can Dust Mite Allergy Affect Your Body?When your body first encounters dust mite proteins, it creates antibodies known as immunoglobulin E (IgE) to attack what it perceives as harmful allergens. On later exposure, your immune system reacts more strongly, releasing chemicals that trigger symptoms such as sneezing, itching, or congestion.How To Treat Dust Mite Allergy: How To Stay SafeThe most effective way to manage a dust mite allergy is by reducing your exposure to dust mites. While it is impossible to remove them completely, minimizing contact helps prevent severe reactions. If symptoms appear, consult a doctor for the right medication. Those with asthma, sinusitis, or other chronic respiratory issues should avoid heavy cleaning during Diwali.Here are some common treatment options available to treat dust-mite allergy. However, please note that you should take these only under the guidance of a medical professional:Antihistamines: Help control sneezing, itching, and watery eyes.Nasal corticosteroid sprays: Reduce inflammation and ease congestion.How To Manage Dust Mites While Cleaning For DiwaliA few steps can help control dust mites while keeping your home festive and clean:Use an air conditioner or dehumidifier to keep humidity in check.Install a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.Choose washable decorations and clean them regularly.Dust using a damp or oiled cloth instead of a dry one.Vacuum frequently with a vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA filter.Declutter your space to reduce dust buildup.Wash curtains and clean upholstered furniture often.If possible, replace carpets with wood, tile, vinyl, or linoleum flooring.
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