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Alleviating the Problem
Reduce Exposure
Reducing exposure as early as possible in childhood is important in families which have a history of allergic asthma. Studies to understand the connection between allergic disease and asthma have found that there is a correlation between the level of exposure to house dust mite allergen in early childhood and the likelihood of a subsequent development of asthma. That is, the higher the exposure to allergen during early childhood years, the more likely the sensitivity will develop into an asthmatic condition. Therefore, taking steps in reducing household exposure to allergens is recommended for allergic children as early as possible in life.
Bedroom Care
Mite allergic individuals improve when modifications are made in their homes to decrease dust mite allergen levels. Allergy Control barriers have been used in studies to determine the effectiveness of encasing your bed in allergen-impermeable barriers. In the homes of both childhood and adult asthmatics, it was shown that the use of an allergen-impermeable mattress encasing and pillow encasing was associated with a decrease in mite numbers, a decrease in mite allergen, a decrease in symptoms, and a decrease in medication requirements. Improvement was also shown when the bedroom carpet was either treated or removed.
Toy Care
Children are often emotionally attached to their stuffed animal friends. Unfortunately, ordinary stuffed toys can harbor dust mites, causing symptoms for the allergic child. Stuffing material of any type will support dust mite growth and allow the accumulation of dust mite allergen. Stuffed toys must be washed regularly in hot water. It is important for children to enjoy the company and security of their toys. Please be sure to select only toys that have been designed to withstand the rigors of repeated washing.
Air Care
Air filtration may be helpful in removing dust allergen particles which have become airborne as a result of disturbance from housecleaning or children’s play. Smaller allergen particles such as mold and cat dander will remain airborne longer, and air filtration is even more beneficial for these particles. In addition, air filtration can remove other irritants such as smoke and pollutants.
Allergy is the primary cause of asthma. About 90% of children under 10 who have asthma and 50% of adults over 30 with asthma also have allergies.
Page last modified: 01/16/07
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