Are microscopic mites in your bed?

You might not be sleeping alone.

If you live in a humid environment, millions of microscopic dust mites could be sharing your bed. While these tiny mites are harmless to most people, they can trigger allergies and asthma in others.

Dust mites thrive in soft, warm places, like mattresses, pillows and bedding. Unlike bed bugs, they don’t bite or burrow into your skin, but their waste and shed body parts and skin can cause allergic reactions.

Since dust mites are invisible to the naked eye, you won’t see them. However, common signs of their presence include:

• Worsening allergies: Sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes and congestion, especially in the morning.
• Asthma flare-ups: Increased wheezing, difficulty breathing or chest tightness at night.
• Skin irritation: Some people experience itching or eczema-like reactions on their skin.

Dr. Shelley Watters, an allergy and immunology specialist at Aurora Health Care, shares how you can minimize dust mites in your bed. “Reduce dust mites by washing your bedding regularly, using allergen-proof pillowcases and mattress covers, and changing your HEPA filter in your air conditioning unit and vacuum cleaner.”

Dr. Watters also says it’s a good practice to check the humidity in your home. Keep your indoor humidity below 50% by using a dehumidifier and running your air conditioning.

Other dust mite breeding grounds include books, stuffed animals and decorative pillows. Keep these items to a minimum, especially in the bedroom, to help reduce dust mite populations. If you have stuffed animals, wash them in hot water regularly or freeze them for 24 hours to kill any dust mites.

Should you worry?

Unless you live in a dry climate, dust mites are an unavoidable part of life. Luckily, they don’t pose serious health risks.

However, if you have allergies, asthma or sensitive skin conditions, exposure to dust mites can significantly impact your daily comfort. If symptoms persist, consult with an allergist to determine whether dust mites or other allergens are causing your discomfort.

Are you trying to find a doctor? Find one in Illinois or Wisconsin.