Secrets to fighting dust allergy: from symptoms to treatment

Causes of dust allergy

Dust allergy is a common phenomenon, especially among urban populations. It is important to understand what can cause dust allergy in order to effectively combat it and take preventative measures.

Composition of household dust

Household dust consists of many particles: mites, pet dander, plant pollen, construction dust, office paper dust, book dust, and even cement or concrete dust. Depending on the composition of the dust, different allergic reactions may occur. For example, a child may have an allergy to household dust, while an adult may have an allergy to construction dust.

Individual predisposition to allergy

Each person has their own degree of predisposition to dust allergy. In some, the reaction to dust may manifest only slightly, in the form of mild itching, while in others it may cause a strong allergic reaction with serious symptoms.

Environmental Impact

Environmental quality also affects the development of dust allergy. In cities where pollution levels are high, the likelihood of developing an allergy increases significantly.

Dust allergy symptoms

Dust allergy manifests itself in various symptoms, including respiratory, skin, and general signs.

• The main symptoms of dust allergy include itching, hives, facial swelling, runny nose, sneezing, and difficulty breathing. In some cases, more serious manifestations such as asthma or angioedema may occur.
• Respiratory symptoms of dust allergy may include coughing, difficulty breathing, runny nose, and nasal congestion. Asthma or bronchial obstruction may also be observed in children.
• Skin manifestations of dust allergy may include redness, itching, rash, and skin inflammation. In some cases, the allergy may appear as nail, wood, or library dust on the skin.

Diagnosing dust allergy

To determine a dust allergy, it is necessary to consult an allergist who will diagnose and prescribe appropriate treatment. At the allergist's appointment, dust allergy symptoms, medical history, and possible risk factors are discussed. The doctor also examines the skin, nasopharynx, and lungs to determine the degree of allergy severity.

Allergy tests

Allergy tests include skin tests, used to determine the reaction to various allergens. The doctor may also prescribe a blood test for antibodies to allergens.

Additional investigations

In some cases, additional investigations such as chest X-ray, spirometry, or bronchoscopy may be required for differential diagnosis.

Dust allergy treatment

Dust allergy treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and individual patient characteristics. The allergist prescribes medication, immunotherapy, or alternative methods.

Medication treatment

Medication treatment for dust allergy includes the use of antihistamines, such as tablets (loratadine, cetirizine, fexofenadine, desloratadine, ebastine), which are considered the best for relieving allergy symptoms. In some cases, hormonal agents, such as corticosteroids, may be prescribed to control inflammatory processes and reduce swelling.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy (ASIT) is a method of treating dust allergy in which the patient is administered small doses of allergen to gradually accustom the immune system to it. This helps to reduce sensitivity to dust and decrease the intensity of the allergic reaction.

Alternative treatment methods

Alternative treatment methods for dust allergy include homeopathy, phytotherapy, acupuncture, and other non-traditional approaches. It is important to remember that the choice of treatment method should be individual and agreed upon with an allergist.

Prevention and control of dust allergy

Prevention of dust allergy involves minimizing contact with allergens and creating a comfortable environment at home.

Cleaning and housing maintenance

Regular cleaning of rooms, ventilation, using hypoallergenic materials and textiles will help to reduce the concentration of dust in the home.

Wet cleaning and vacuuming with filters

Wet cleaning and using vacuums with HEPA filters effectively remove dust and allergens from the air, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.

Limiting dust exposure in everyday life

Avoid contact with known allergens, such as construction dust, street dust, or dust at work. You may need to change your lifestyle, especially if dust allergy causes serious complications.

Dust allergy is a serious condition that requires a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment. Proper selection of medication treatment, immunotherapy, or alternative methods, as well as adherence to preventive measures, will help reduce symptom intensity and improve the patient's life. It is important to consult an allergist in a timely manner and follow all their recommendations for achieving the best results in combating dust allergy.