Allergy to Dust: Methods of Eradication
Individuals sensitized to antigens of house dust mites in the house, who may have asthma, allergic rhinitis or atopic eczema should avoid, if possible, contact with the feces of the mites found in their mattresses. However, to prevent this contact is very difficult and uncertain and controversial effects.
Methods of eradication
Simple aspiration of the mattress is a measure of benefits ineffective or very short term. Waterproof covers or plastic covers for mattresses, considered as a measure of some efficacy, have the disadvantage that they are uncomfortable, although they have developed models that seek comfort.In a Norwegian study published in the journal “Allergy” (June 2002) were found mite feces in 40% of the samples from foam mattresses without cover insulation and in 26% of foam mattresses coated. Only in 12% of spring mattresses mite feces were detected.
That is, according to this study, the risk of finding mite feces is four times higher in foam mattresses compared with spring mattresses, and eight times higher for the foam mattresses without protective cover.
Although previous studies in Australia had obtained results contrary, it is said for the foam mattresses, the Norwegian authors conclude that replacing the foam rubber mattresses spring mattresses would be beneficial for patients sensitized to mites, and could be part of the usual preventive measures.
In a study conducted in the U.S. and published in Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol, in its issue of June 2002, concluded that weekly washing of bedding in hot water with four hours of pre-washed, using a mixture of detergents and bleach, kills most mite Dermatophagoides farinae and, depending on the brand of detergent, moderate amounts of D. pteronyssinus.
In conclusion, the methods and strategies to reduce the number of dust mites in the house are still controversial in regard to the cost-effectiveness.
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