House Dust Mite Allergy

Our campaign: I Wish I Knew

Our ‘I Wish I Knew’ campaign is shining a light on the importance of recognising the symptoms of house dust mite allergy early and seeking support to control and manage your allergy.

A significant amount of exposure to house dust mite allergens occurs in bed, making avoidance extremely difficult. This often leads to worsening symptoms at night, disrupted sleep, and greater challenges managing daily symptoms. The result can be difficulty concentrating, increased stress, and a negative impact on mental health, turning the home from a place of sanctuary into one where there is no respite.

Many people suffer in silence with symptoms triggered by house dust mite allergy, not recognising the importance of seeking medical support or appropriate treatment at the right time, which can seriously impact their health. When allergic rhinitis goes unrecognised and untreated, it can extend to the lower airways, potentially triggering or worsening asthma. This escalation can lead to severe complications and even emergencies, such as an asthma attack.

Be prepared for the autumn/winter months

Understanding the patterns and trigger points of this allergy allows you to prepare and act early before symptoms take hold. Symptoms tend to worsen during the autumn/winter months, and it is important that you are prepared and begin treatments at least two weeks before symptoms are triggered.

Symptoms of house dust mite allergy

The most common symptoms of a house dust mite allergy include:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Stuffy nose
• Itchy nose, throat or mouth
• Postnasal drip
• Cough
• Red or watery eyes
• Fatigue
• Itchy or worsening eczema
• Asthma symptoms

Symptoms tend to be present year-round and often appear at night, or first thing in the morning.

Treatments for house dust mite allergy

There are many treatments available either over the counter or via your GP to manage the allergic rhinitis symptoms caused by house dust mite:

• Nasal steroid sprays or nasal saline douching
• Long acting, non-sedating antihistamines
• An allergen barrier balm around the edge of each nostril can work to trap the allergen
• If a cough or asthma is a symptom, your GP may prescribe a corticosteroid inhaler.

Desensitisation (immunotherapy) is also a treatment available for those severely affected; this treatment gradually trains the immune system to tolerate specific allergens. This requires initial GP assessment then referral to allergy/immunology specialist.  You can also get this treatment from private allergy services.

Measures can also be taken to reduce house dust mite exposure. Although it is not possible to eliminate them entirely, a thorough and consistent cleaning routine can help manage symptoms. Take a look at our House Dust Mite Factsheet for tips and advice.

Accessing the right treatment at the right time is key to staying in control of your symptoms.

I have tried many different types of pills and sprays over the years, but none took the symptoms away for more than a very short time. To some extent, it’s always on my mind. I can have bad days and sometimes stay in but mostly I try to carry on as normal. – Rosy, living with house dust mite allergy.