If you’re waking up congested, itchy, or with watery eyes, dust mites might be the sneaky culprits. These tiny pests thrive in Texas homes, especially during our humid seasons. Let’s walk through how to spot the signs of a dust mite allergy and what you can do to breathe easier at home.
What Are Dust Mite Allergies?
Dust mites are microscopic insects that feed on dead skin cells and thrive in soft furnishings like mattresses, pillows, and carpets. Their waste particles can trigger allergic reactions that mimic hay fever.
Symptoms of a Dust Mite Allergy
You might be dealing with dust mites if you notice:
- Sneezing or runny nose in the morning
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Postnasal drip
- Persistent coughing
- Facial pressure or nasal congestion
According to the CDC, over 20 million Americans have some sensitivity to dust mites, especially in indoor environments.
How Is It Diagnosed?
To confirm a dust mite allergy, an allergist may run skin-prick tests or blood tests to check your immune response. It’s best to see a board-certified allergy specialist instead of self-diagnosing or relying solely on over-the-counter remedies.
Effective Treatment Options
Here’s what really works:
Daily Prevention
- Wash bedding in hot water (130°F) weekly
- Use allergy-proof covers for mattresses and pillows
- Vacuum with a HEPA filter
- Keep indoor humidity below 50% — Texas A&M AgriLife recommends dehumidifiers for North Texas homes
Medical Treatments
- Over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal sprays
- Prescription allergy medications
- Odactra, an FDA-approved sublingual tablet that helps your immune system tolerate dust mite allergens over time (learn more from AAAAI)
When to Take Action
If your symptoms are getting worse or you’re having trouble managing them, it may be time to make changes at home—or consider if your living situation is part of the problem.
Oh, and if your home’s indoor air quality is beyond fixing, we may be able to help. We buy homes fast in Fort Worth and across DFW. Get a cash offer today or explore how we help homeowners sell fast.
FAQ
Q: Can you completely get rid of dust mites?
A: Not entirely, but you can reduce their numbers significantly with cleaning and humidity control.
Q: Are dust mites worse in Texas?
A: Yes, because our warm, humid climate creates ideal conditions for them to thrive.
Q: Is Odactra safe?
A: It’s FDA-approved and generally well-tolerated, but talk to an allergist before starting it.
Q: Do air purifiers help?
A: Yes, especially models with HEPA filters that capture fine allergen particles.
Q: Should I replace my carpet?
A: If allergies are severe, swapping carpet for hard flooring can make a big difference.
Sources
This article is for informational purposes only and not legal or financial advice.
If you’re dealing with more than just allergies and think it might be time to move, we’d love to talk. Get a cash offer today or call us at 817-381-2181.