Dust Mite Allergy Hives

Dust mites are microscopic and cannot be seen by the naked eye. These bugs feed on dead cells live in places like mattresses, carpets, curtains, sofas, pillows, upholstery etc. Dust mite feces and bodies contain a protein which is the trigger to dust mite allergy that can cause hives. When people who are susceptible to dust mite allergy come in contact with this protein, they get allergic reactions which could lead to hives.

Hives are a form of skin rash which appear red and swollen in certain areas of the skin. They resemble insect bites. A person with hives may experience itching as well. Hives can be of any size and shape and appear on any part of the body.

Symptoms of Dust Mite Allergy Hives:

• Skin rash or hives
• Runny nose
• Wheezing
• Watery eyes
• Sneezing

Prevention of Dust Mite Allergy hives:

The best way to treat dust mite allergy and hives is to prevent it from occurring. A person suffering from dust mite allergy must not be exposed to dust or keep it to minimum in order to avoid hives. Although dust mites exist everywhere, one can still take measures to keep it at bay. Below are some measures that can be followed to reduce dust mites in your home:

• You can control the dust mite allergens that cause hives, by using hypoallergenic mattress covers.
• These days dust mite covers are available in the market, you can encase your bedding in these covers.
• Wash your bedding and upholstery at least once a week in hot water.
• Clean your sofas, upholstery, curtains, cushions etc regularly with a vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA filter.

Treatment of Dust Mite Allergy Hives:

• There are several over the counter oral antihistamines that can relieve discomfort and reduce hives on the body caused by dust mites.
• Also one can use topical analgesics or steroid creams that can help reduce hives - its redness and swelling.
• One can use anti-itch lotion to reduce itching of hives caused due to dust mites.

But one must consult a doctor before using these antihistamines or analgesics on children because some of these drugs are not appropriate for children.

Natural treatments for dust mite allergy hives:

There some home remedies that can treat hives, some of them are mentioned below-

• Add half a cup of baking soda or oatmeal in a tub of lukewarm water and bathe with this water. This will soothe itching.
• Apply cool compress in affect areas and it will help reduce the discomfort caused by hives.

In most cases hives are harmless and will persist as long as the person is in contact with the allergen. But in some cases this condition may aggravate and can cause swelling on the tongue, lips, face and throat. Please contact your doctor immediately in such condition.