Dust and dust mites are common allergens which can make you miserable. The coughing, sneezing, and breathing difficulties can impact your life. Your allergist is an expert at treatment of dust and dust mite allergies, food allergies, and seasonal allergies. Your allergist can help you feel better.

If you have a dust or dust mite allergy, you might experience:

• Sneezing, coughing, and wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Nasal discharge and congestion
• Watery, itchy eyes

There are some important steps you can take at home to help minimize exposure to dust and dust mites. You should:

• Use hypoallergenic sheets and linens
• Wash sheets and linens frequently
• Vacuum frequently, or consider switching to hardwood floors
• Wear a facemask when dusting and cleaning
• Place a humidifier in your bedroom

For moderate to severe dust and dust mite allergy symptoms, it’s best to visit your allergist, who is an expert at treating allergies. Your allergist may recommend:

• Allergy shots
• Sublingual immunotherapy
• Environmental and lifestyle modifications
• Prescription strength antihistamines
• Prescription strength decongestants
• Steroid nasal sprays

Your allergist will begin treatment by testing for allergies, including dust and dust mites. Other common allergens you might be allergic to include:

• Pet hair and pet dander
• Mold and spores
• Flower and plant pollen
• Tree and grass pollen
• Cigarette smoke or perfume

Allergies are often accompanied by asthma, so your allergist may test your lung function to determine if you have asthma. Common treatments for asthma include:

• Short term rescue inhalers
• Long-term asthma management

Remember that asthma and allergies can become a life-threatening event. A severe reaction can cause narrowing of airways, making it difficult to breathe. You should seek out emergency treatment if you:

• Can’t speak due to shortness of breath
• Are turning pale or blue
• Are experiencing chest pain and dizziness due to breathing problems

You don’t have to suffer from allergies and asthma when relief is just a phone call away. To find out more about dust allergy and other common allergies and allergy treatment, talk with your allergist today.