Dust mite allergy - Symptoms
and Causes

House dust mite allergy is the most common cause of year-round allergy symptoms.¹ This allergy has been on the rise in recent years, all due to energy efficient housing, reduced ventilation, increased use of central heating, and widespread use of carpets.² It creates the ideal living environment for house dust mites, which prefer high temperatures and humidity.³ New Zealand, and in particular the North Island, can have a particular problem with dust mites because they thrive in temperatures over 20°C and humidity over 75%.^4,5

Typical symptoms of dust mite allergy are the same as hay fever and pet allergy, such as itchy nose, runny nose, stuffy nose, sneezing, red, itching and watery eyes.¹ Mite allergies are not seasonal.⁷ Dust mite allergy sufferers have symptoms all year round because they are exposed to allergens every day of the year.¹

While it’s impossible to completely avoid dust mites, here are some tips to help reduce the number living in your home:¹

• Treat any dampness and improve the ventilation throughout your house.¹ If the humidity drops below 50%, dust mites will dry out and die.⁸
• If you’re renovating your home, consider alternatives to wall-to-wall carpeting and use vacuums with built-in HEPA filters.¹
• Use anti-mite covers on mattresses, pillows, and beds.¹
• Wash all bedding regularly in warm water.¹
• Bedspreads, decorative pillows, and stuffed animals placed in or on your bed should also be cleaned regularly.⁹

Despite all these prevention and avoidance strategies, it is impossible to avoid all house dust mite allergens. Several treatment options are available, including anti-allergy tablets (such as RAZENE^®), nasal sprays, and eye drops.^1,10 Speak to your pharmacist or doctor if you have symptoms and are unsure about which treatment option will be best for you.