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Indika Organics - Organic Bedding and matirials. Full line of Anti Dust mite and bed bug prook fabrics bedding and materials.
House dust mite - Asthma
The house dust mite's partially digested food, and fecal matter, is one of the most significant sources of allergens, implicated in allergic asthma, rhinitis, conjunctivitis and dermatitis. One of the more important proteins responsible for the allergic reaction is DerP1, a protease digestive enzyme found in mite feces. Dust mites bodies, made of chitin, are also allergens.
Recommended measures to control exposure to house dust mites:
Reduce ambient humidity to below 60% (60%RH at 70F, 20C) to inhibit growth, of mites and of Aspergillus
Under sheets and pillowcases, install mattress cover and pillow cover made of impervious material
Do not "make bed" upon rising, but instead let mattress and pillow breathe, and dry out, for several hours
Change sheets, pillowcases, bedspreads regularly. Wash all bedding-related textiles frequently (e.g. fabric-covered headboards, boxspring covers)
Wash pillows regularly, and replace frequently
Wipe off dust on floor surfaces daily, and on other surfaces regularly
Vacuum carpeted areas regularly, with a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner
Beat throw rugs outdoors fequently
Do not sleep in the lower bed of a bunk bed
Strong measures to control exposure to house dust mites:
Replace wall to wall carpet with hard-surface flooring
Place children's plush toys in a freezer for a few hours every day
Sleep in a hammock instead of on a mattress
These methods reduce the level of exposure to house dust mites and their enzymes. No attempt to eradicate them will succeed. Immunotherapy or "allergy shots" have been helpful for sufferers of hay fever and asthma. Steam cleaners may be effective at reducing enzyme allergens since the heat of the steam breaks down (decomposes) the compound.