Could Dust Mites be Triggering Your Allergies or Asthma?

Cinnaminson, NJ, July 1, 2013
 
Lurking in ordinary house dust is one of the most common causes of allergies. Dust mites can be found in most homes and a single gram of house dust may have hundreds or even thousands of dust mites in it.
 
Dust mites are tiny eight-legged creatures that feed on human skin scales that people shed as well as animal dander, fungi, bacteria and pollen. Because they absorb water from the air and their environment and do not drink water, they thrive in warm and humid environments.
 
“Although dust mites do not bite people, their body parts and waste can cause allergic reactions and trigger asthma in sensitive individuals,” reported Jason Dobranic, Ph.D., Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Children’s exposure to dust mites is believed to be an important factor in causing asthma in children who have not previously exhibited asthma symptoms. EMSL provides the testing supplies and analysis to allow people to quickly and easily determine if dust mites are a potential health concern in their homes,” he continued.
 
Dust mites are often present in mattresses, pillows, carpets, upholstered furniture, bedcovers, clothes, stuffed toys, and fabric and fabric-covered items. Fortunately, there are actions people can take to minimize exposure to dust mites, they include the following:
 

• Keep the humidity level indoors below 50% if possible.
• Keep dust levels to a minimum.
• Wash bedding in hot water once a week and dry it completely.
• Replace feather pillows with synthetic ones.
• Use dust proof covers on pillows and mattresses.
• Vacuum carpets and furniture every week with a vacuum with a high efficiency filter.
• Choose stuffed toys that can be washed in hot water and dry them completely before a child plays with them.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical

(1) 1-800-220-3675

jfrasca@emsl.com