Can Dust Mites Trigger an Asthma Flare-Up?
Restless nights. Sneezing fits. Tightness in your chest. These symptoms are common when dust mites are present. If you’re feeling unwell within your own home, this allergen may be to blame. While they may be small but mighty, they are not impossible to defeat. Our board-certified allergy and asthma specialists have tips to help you live comfortably
What are dust mites?
Dust mites are tiny, spider-like organisms that thrive in warm, humid environments (temperatures between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity levels between 70 and 80%), and cling to bedding, upholstery, carpets and curtains. They feed on dead skin cells and are invisible to the naked eye. While they don’t bite or transmit disease, their waste and remains can cause allergic reactions.
How do dust mites affect people with asthma?
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), dust mites are a top indoor trigger for allergy and asthma symptoms. For people with asthma—especially allergic asthma—dust mite exposure can inflame airways, triggering or worsening asthma symptoms.
Other common flare-up symptoms include:
- Increased coughing, especially at night
- Wheezing or whistling when breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Tightness or pressure in the chest
- Poor sleep due to breathing issues
If these symptoms worsen indoors or after cleaning, you should consider allergy testing. A board-certified allergist can perform an allergy skin test to identify the true cause of your symptoms.
How can you manage dust mite exposure at home?
While you can’t completely eliminate dust mites, there are ways to reduce exposure and minimize asthma and allergy flare-ups. Try these effective management strategies:
- Use dust-mite-proof mattress and pillow covers.
- Wash bedding in hot water weekly.
- Clean carpets and upholstery regularly with a HEPA-filter vacuum.
- Reduce indoor humidity levels below 50% with a dehumidifier.
- Use HEPA air purifiers to filter dust and allergens from the air.
- Avoid wall-to-wall carpeting in bedrooms (if possible).
Sometimes, environmental changes aren’t enough to keep your symptoms under control. If you’re experiencing frequent or worsening asthma symptoms, especially indoors, it may be time to see a board-certified allergist. Proper testing and diagnosis can pinpoint your triggers and lead to more effective treatment.
Your allergist may recommend these strategies for your personalized allergy treatment plan.
- Daily asthma medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids
- Antihistamines or decongestants to manage allergic responses
- Nasal sprays to relieve nasal inflammation
- Allergy shots (immunotherapy) for long-term relief
With the right plan, most people can significantly reduce symptoms and lead a full, active life.
Ready to breathe easier?
Home should be a haven, not a source of headaches. Schedule an appointment with our board-certified allergy and asthma specialists to find your path to relief.
About Family Allergy & Asthma
Founded in 1979, Family Allergy & Asthma’s practice network of allergy and asthma specialists provides high-quality, reliable and lasting allergy relief throughout Arkansas, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Tennessee, and includes affiliates Allergy & Asthma Specialists (AAS), Asthma and Allergy Associates of Florida (AAAF) and Arkansas Allergy and Asthma Clinic (AAAC). For more information, visit www.familyallergy.com, and follow Family Allergy & Asthma on Facebook, Instagram and X.
