Tips for allergy sufferers

By MiNDFOOD

Tips for allergy sufferers
Tips for keeping allergy irritants out of the home.

Dust mites are found in most human habitats and are one of the most common triggers of allergies globally.

Symptoms include:

  • Asthma
  • Atopic eczema
  • Allergic rhinitis.

New Zealand appears to have a bigger problem with house dust mites than many other countries. This is because dust mites thrive in the temperate and humid climate, and particularly in damp homes.

Dust mites can cause havoc for allergy sufferers. They live in our homes, in the carpet and mattresses, and their droppings (which contain allergenic proteins) can trigger asthma and other allergic conditions.

Here are some handy tips to help keep down dust mite numbers in the home.

  • You can get rid of dust mites by placing items like toys in a plastic bag, freezing them for two days and letting them thaw naturally – this will kill the dust mites as they cannot survive the cold.
  • Vacuum mattresses regularly to pick up skin cells and dust mite faeces. Dyson’s vacuum cleaners are all approved by the Asthma Foundation and their unique cyclone technology means they have no loss of suction.
  • Reduce dust mites by washing sheets, pillows and duvets regularly – a 60 degree wash will kill adult mites. Pillows get heavier due to the number of dust mites (and their faeces). Washing them every six to 12 months, or replacing them will help.
  • Leaving beds unmade, pulling covers back to air out the mattress can help cool the temperature of the bed, preventing dust mites from breeding so quickly.
  • Remove shoes before entering the house. Otherwise you will be walking in nasty chemicals, pollen, dirt and dust straight into your home.

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