Allergy to dust mites: Symptoms, signs, and 11 tips for relief

Who are our invisible roommates? Meet the dust mites
Dust mites are microscopic relatives of spiders and ticks – they have eight legs, but you can only measure them in microns. They live for about three months, females a little longer.
What is most interesting about them? They feed on dead skin cells that we and our pets naturally shed every day. They thrive in warm, humid environments – ideally in mattresses, duvets, upholstered furniture, or carpets. There, they live like royalty.
However, it is not the dust mites themselves that cause allergies, but their feces and decomposing bodies, which commonly settle in household dust. This is why dust mite allergies are often confused with, or even equated to, dust allergies. Dust can irritate anyone's airways, but in more sensitive individuals, it is often contact with dust mites that triggers a typical allergic reaction.

The most common symptoms of dust mite allergies
A dust mite allergy may initially appear to be a common cold, as the symptoms are similar. So how can you tell if you have dust mites in your bed? If sneezing, a runny nose, or itchy eyes persist for more than 10 days, it could be a reaction to dust mites.
Typical symptoms of dust mite allergies in children and adults include:
• repeated sneezing,
• a stuffy nose or runny nose,
• red, watery, or itchy eyes,
• coughing, a scratchy throat, or itching in the mouth and nose,
• pressure in the face, pain in the forehead or at the bridge of the nose,
• frequent rubbing of the nose upwards in children,
• rash with small itchy pimples.
If you also suffer from asthma, more serious symptoms may occur:
• wheezing when breathing out,
• chest tightness,
• shortness of breath and nighttime coughing that wakes you up,
• coughing fits that worsen with a cold.

While a mild case may resemble a common seasonal allergy, untreated dust mite allergy often becomes chronic. This manifests itself not only in frequent sneezing, coughing, and facial pressure, but also in eczema, where the skin is dry, red, and scaly, or in severe asthma attacks.

Causes of dust mite allergies: Why does the body react so strongly?
A dust mite allergy develops when the immune system overreacts to substances that would normally be harmless—in this case, proteins in the feces and bodies of dust mites. Our body perceives them as a threat and triggers a defensive reaction – a runny nose, sneezing, itching, or inflammation in the nose, eyes, and airways.

Who is more susceptible?
In addition to the environment, genetic factors also play a role in the development of dust mite allergies. You are at higher risk if
• you are exposed to allergens in childhood,
• you have a family history of allergies, asthma, or eczema,
• you suffer from hay fever or atopic eczema.

The best treatment for dust mite allergies
Do you suspect you have a dust mite allergy? The first step is to see a doctor. They may refer you to an allergist, who will ask you a series of questions about your lifestyle, symptoms, and family history. This is followed by one of the common diagnostic procedures:
1. Skin test
The allergist applies a minimal amount of the allergen to a small area of skin, usually on the forearm or back. If you have an allergy, a reaction will appear within 15 minutes – pimples similar to pinpricks or itching.
2. Blood test
An alternative is to take a blood sample, to which dust mite allergens are added, and the level of antibodies is measured. An increased amount indicates an allergy.

Medications for dust mite allergies: Tips for quick relief
Treatment for dust mite allergies depends on the severity of the symptoms and often consists of a combination of products that provide quick relief and long-term care. These include:
• Oral antihistamines – relieve itching, sneezing, and runny nose, effective within 30 minutes.
• Nasal antihistamines – in spray form.
• Nasal corticosteroids – very effective, especially for hay fever.
• Leukotriene modifiers – a longer-term solution, effective within 4–6 weeks.
• Decongestants – provide quick relief from a stuffy nose, but are not suitable for long-term use.
• Allergy shots (immunotherapy) – gradually "teach" the immune system to tolerate dust mites. Results appear within 6 to 12 months, but treatment should last 3 to 5 years for maximum effect.
• Sublingual immunotherapy (drops under the tongue) – an alternative to injections. Daily doses of proteins help the body build tolerance. Initial relief may come after 6 months.

How long does a dust mite allergy last?
The good news is that dust mite allergy symptoms usually disappear within a few hours to days if you stop exposing yourself to the allergens. However, with a more severe allergy, the symptoms may persist for longer, especially if you continue to encounter dust mites in your home environment.

Natural treatment for dust mite allergies: What you can try without medication
Don't want to reach for drops, sprays, or tablets right away? Then you'll be happy to know that there are natural ways to relieve the symptoms of dust mite allergies. While they are not a substitute for professional treatment, they can complement it and bring relief – and they are gentle on your body.
1. Nasal rinsing with salt water
This is one of the simplest and most effective methods for flushing allergens from the nasal mucosa. You can buy a ready-made solution or prepare it at home.
How to do it?
Mix
• 250 ml of cooled boiled or distilled water
• 1/4 teaspoon of unrefined salt (sea or rock salt),
• You can also add a pinch of baking soda to soothe the mucous membrane.
Pour the solution into a small nasal rinse pot (available at pharmacies) or spray bottle and rinse both nostrils according to the instructions. Rinse the device thoroughly after each use and allow it to dry freely.
2. Chamomile as a natural remedy
Chamomile is known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. It helps to relax irritated airways and relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, or a runny nose. Try inhalation—the vapors will not only clear your nose, but also pleasantly soothe the nasal mucosa and irritated eyes.
3. Sun and fresh air as allies
Dust mites cannot tolerate direct sunlight. If possible, ventilate your bedroom regularly and let your bedding "bake" in the sun from time to time. Even this small measure will help reduce the number of allergens in your home.
4. Homeopathy: Relief without chemicals
Homeopathic remedies are suitable as a complementary support in managing dust mite allergies, and some people choose them for their gentleness and holistic approach to the body. For example, Blatta orientalis 9–15 C is recommended for allergies to dust mites and mold, especially if there are respiratory problems with impaired coughing.
You should always consult a homeopath about the dosage and selection of a specific preparation. ​

11 simple measures to get rid of dust mite allergies
Dust mites thrive in warm, humid environments with dust and textiles. If you want to repel dust mites and reduce the risk of developing allergies or get rid of their symptoms, try our tips. They are practical, easy to implement, and many of them can be done today.

1. Reduce humidity
Air conditioning or a dehumidifier will help – the ideal humidity is between 30–50%. Dust mites love a damp environment; drier air is not good for them.
2. Use HEPA filters
Whether in a vacuum cleaner or air purifier, high-efficiency (HEPA) filters can capture even microscopic allergen particles.
3. Vacuum regularly – and smartly
Ideally at least twice a week, and if possible with a vacuum cleaner with effective filtration. Dust mites hide deep in carpets and upholstery, and a regular bagged vacuum cleaner is often not enough.
4. Wipe dust with a damp cloth
Damp wiping helps to actually remove dust, rather than just spreading it around the room.
5. Wash curtains at higher temperatures
Fabrics are a paradise for dust mites. Wash them in hot water at least once every 2–3 weeks.
6. Clean carpets and upholstery with steam
Steam helps penetrate deeper into the fibers and destroys allergens that a regular vacuum cleaner cannot capture.
7. Replace carpets with smooth floors
Wood, vinyl, or linoleum are easier to maintain and do not promote dust accumulation.
8. Reduce clutter and dust traps
The fewer decorations, cushions, open shelves, and "cute knick-knacks" you have, the fewer places there are for dust (and dust mites) to settle.
9. Wash stuffed animals in hot water
Wash stuffed toys at a minimum of 60°C to kill dust mites and remove allergens.
10. Use dust-proof covers
Furnish mattresses, pillows, and duvets with zippered covers with a dense structure that prevents dust mites from getting inside and allergens from escaping.
11. Wash bedding at high temperatures
Wash sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress protectors at least once a week at 60°C or higher. Lower temperatures will not kill dust mites. If you wash at lower temperatures, a dryer can help: put dry laundry in the dryer for at least 15 minutes at a temperature above 55°C.

Tip: If your allergy also causes dry skin or eczema, don't forget to protect your skin. Try Dermaguard barrier cream, which helps soothe irritated skin and create a soft protective layer. It is an excellent addition to allergy care as it prevents the penetration of irritants and supports the skin's natural defenses.
You can conveniently order Dermaguard from our e-shop.

It doesn't take much to feel better
Allergies to dust mites can be unpleasant, but the good news is that you have a lot of control over the situation. By adjusting your environment and adopting a few small habits, you can create a place where you can breathe more freely and sleep more peacefully at home.

Sources:
https://www.drbatras.com/dust-allergy-stealing-your-sleep-find-relief-with-homeopathy
https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies/dust-mites
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dust-mites/symptoms-causes/syc-20352173