| Wednesday, June 28, 2000 |
For allergy and asthma sufferers, the expression “don't let the bed bugs bite” has taken on an entirely new meaning with the release of findings from a study conducted by scientists at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) in collaboration with investigators at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Harvard University and Westat Inc. According to the First National Allergen Survey, some 44 million American homes have bedding with dust mite allergen concentrations that exceed two micrograms per gram of dust, a level that has been associated with the development of allergies, and an estimated 22 million American homes have dust mite allergen concentrations that exceed 10 micrograms per gram of dust — a level that may trigger asthma symptoms in asthmatics. “In recent years, mounting evidence has suggested that dust mites and their waste particles can trigger allergy and asthma symptoms in dust-allergic individuals,” said Linda Whiteley, director of operations for Allergy Free, a leader in the allergy-avoidance product market. “This study shows us that Americans may not be doing all they can to control their environments, which may be especially important if someone who already suffers from allergies or asthma lives in the house.” Dust mites, the microscopic spiders found in house dust that thrive in warm, moist environments, are one of the most common triggers of allergy and asthma symptoms in the home — especially in bedrooms where mattresses, bedding and carpet create havens for them. Although invisible to the naked eye, these tiny pests can create big irritations for dust-allergy sufferers. “One hundred thousand dust mites may be present in only one gram of dust,” said Whiteley. “Although a home may appear clean and tidy, dust mites hide in carpet, mattresses, bed coverings, upholstered furniture and window coverings, and particulates can be spread throughout a home via the air conditioner.” To combat dust mites in bedrooms and other areas in the home, Whiteley suggests the following: * Wash bedding weekly in water that is at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit or use laundry detergent specifically engineered to remove dust mites. * Remove stuffed animals and decorative pillows — unless they can be washed — from the home as well as anything stored beneath beds in bedrooms. * Use a residential air filter designed to remove allergens in the home. * Encase mattresses in covers — preferably ones that are permeable to air and vapor, but not dust mites — taping the length of the zipper. Putting pillows in encasings also will help prevent mold from forming on it from perspiration as well as keep dust mites out. * Use window coverings made of plastic or washable fabric for easy cleaning. * Buy a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA or ULPA filtration system or use a central vacuum system to help reduce the amount of dust and allergens stirred up by vacuuming. A person with allergies should avoid vacuuming or wear a dust mask. * Use a vent filtration kit that reduces the number of allergens flowing through the home. By taking a few simple steps to battle dust mites in their homes, allergy and asthma sufferers may get some relief, Whiteley said. For more information about Allergy Free, call 1-800-ALLERGY or visit www.allergy-free.com.
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