Guest guest Posted July 30, 2005 Report Share Posted July 30, 2005 Ken, These conditions that the dust mites love, high humidity, along with temp is right in line with the conditions that fungi love. If you do further research, I know I have also read that dust mites feed on fungi. I believe it was droppings that were decomposing. I have the article, but I don't have time to check for it right now. Perhaps the true allergen is the mycotoxins and not dust mites and cockroaches and their droppings like the allergist would like us to believe. With these conditions I would be more concerned with mold growth, since they have a much more serious effect on humans. The key is, keeping the humidity low within the environment. Just some " food " for thought. Dust mites? Cockroaches? Or Mold??? hmmm I know which one I would go with. KC --- In , " kengib . " <jkg4902@h...> wrote: > I found the following comments found at http://www.acaai.org/public/advice/dust.htm<http://www.acaai.org/publ ic/advice/dust.htm> about dust mites quite interesting. What I didn't know is that Dust mites I read are suppose to die when humidity falls below 40-50 per cent. > > Carl, did you know that?? > > I'll have to reprint the article and distribute with my literature about hypoallergenic bed sheets, pillow cases and pillows. > > Gibala > > ================================================= > What are dust mites? > Tiny microscopic creatures called dust mites are an important cause of allergic reactions to house dust. They belong to the family of eight-legged creatures called arachnids. This family also includes spiders, chiggers and ticks. Dust mites are hardy creatures that live well and multiply easily in warm, humid places. They prefer temperatures at or above 70°F with a relative humidity of 75- 80 percent and die when the humidity falls below 40-50 percent. They are rarely found in dry climates. > > As many as 10 percent of the general population and 90 percent of people with allergic asthma are sensitive to dust mites. Recent studies in the United States suggest that at least 45 percent of young people with asthma are allergic to dust mites. > > People who are allergic to dust mites react to proteins in the bodies and feces of the mites. These fecal particles are found in the highest concentrations in pillows, mattresses, carpeting, and upholstered furniture. They float into the air when anyone vacuums, walks on a carpet or disturbs bedding, but settle out of the air once the disturbance is over. Dust mite-allergic people who inhale these particles frequently experience allergy symptoms. In fact, a dust mite allergic patient who sleeps for 8 hours every night spends one third of his life with his nose in direct contact with a pillow loaded with dust mite particles! > > There may be many as 19,000 dust mites in one gram of dust, but usually between 100 to 500 mites live in each gram. (A gram is about the weight of a paper clip.) Each mite produces about 10-20 waste particles per day and lives for 30 days. Egg-laying females can add 25-30 new mites to the population during their lifetime. > > Mites eat particles of skin and dander, so they thrive in places where there are people. Dust mites don't bite, cannot spread diseases and usually do not live on people. They are harmful only to people who become allergic to them. While usual household insecticides have no effect on dust mites, there are ways to reduce exposure to dust mites in the home. > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 30, 2005 Report Share Posted July 30, 2005 Ken, This is old information and somewhat misleading (and potentially dangerous) because dust mites can be harmful to more than just those that are allergic to them. (Hay fever symptoms?) Dust mite exposure is one of the leading triggers of asthma attacks, whether as an allergen or an irritant, which is life threatening for some people. Dust mites eat only human skin. The mites that eat mold are other kinds of mites. Jeff May is the expert on this and I believe I have this right. Dust mites hibernate at low humidity. The last I knew reproductive activity for living organisms, people included, does not occur during prolonged periods of sleep. Only immediately before or after. ;-) If the humidity stays low long enough the dust mites starve, which means they don't wake up. Dead life forms can't reproduce either (excluding ex-wives, ex-husbands and most defense attorneys) but the allergens (like alimony) live on! Kind of their own form of immortality. BTW, the immortality of dogs is longer than dust mites and that of cats is almost near eternity. Must be why I prefer cats. The key is the moisture in the environment where dust mites are located. Humidity refers to the levels of moisture in the air. If the air humidity (relative humidity) is below approximately 50% then it is assumed that the moisture in the couch, bedding, etc -- which is where human skin accumulates while sitting, sleeping and reproducing - - will also be too low for the critters have any fun. However, if the bedding isn't left open to dry, especially if it has the kind of hypoallergenic bedding that doesn't breath well, then the mites don't hibernate, they don't starve, but they do have an ongoing party that results in lots and lots of baby dust mites. And you thought irresponsible teenagers had all the fun! As for your statement that " dust mites are supposed to die when... " I don't think they read that instruction or admonition. They aren't suppose to do anything because they don't have the right kind of brain for intentional behavior. Kind of like teenagers before their hormones stabilize. But unlike teenagers, who do eventually stop their irresponsible behavior as evidenced by our continued survival, dust mites just keep doing what they do and never learn. More like MLM organizations and politicians than teenagers. Hypoallergenic bedding means that the bedding is designed to not be allergenic. It does not mean that it prevents, kills, oxidizes, hydroxilizes or creates other more powerful forms of oxygen ions to stop other allergens. Neither does it make the sky blue. Perhaps you've discovered a whole new market, not for the hypoallergenic bedding, but for your ozone machines. DEATH TO THE DUST MITES! Oh, I almost forgot, it's not the mites. It's their poop that's the problem. (Unlike cats and dogs, but very much like bull*** and irresponsible MLMs.) Check out the research of the dust mite guru, Platts-Mills. Carl Grimes Healthy Habitats LLC ----- > I found the following comments found at > http://www.acaai.org/public/advice/dust.htm<http://www.acaai.org/publi > c/advice/dust.htm> about dust mites quite interesting. What I didn't > know is that Dust mites I read are suppose to die when humidity falls > below 40-50 per cent. > > Carl, did you know that?? > > I'll have to reprint the article and distribute with my literature > about hypoallergenic bed sheets, pillow cases and pillows. > > Gibala > > ================================================= > What are dust mites? > Tiny microscopic creatures called dust mites are an important cause of > allergic reactions to house dust. They belong to the family of > eight-legged creatures called arachnids. This family also includes > spiders, chiggers and ticks. Dust mites are hardy creatures that live > well and multiply easily in warm, humid places. They prefer > temperatures at or above 70°F with a relative humidity of 75-80 > percent and die when the humidity falls below 40-50 percent. They are > rarely found in dry climates. > > As many as 10 percent of the general population and 90 percent of > people with allergic asthma are sensitive to dust mites. Recent > studies in the United States suggest that at least 45 percent of young > people with asthma are allergic to dust mites. > > People who are allergic to dust mites react to proteins in the bodies > and feces of the mites. These fecal particles are found in the highest > concentrations in pillows, mattresses, carpeting, and upholstered > furniture. They float into the air when anyone vacuums, walks on a > carpet or disturbs bedding, but settle out of the air once the > disturbance is over. Dust mite-allergic people who inhale these > particles frequently experience allergy symptoms. In fact, a dust mite > allergic patient who sleeps for 8 hours every night spends one third > of his life with his nose in direct contact with a pillow loaded with > dust mite particles! > > There may be many as 19,000 dust mites in one gram of dust, but > usually between 100 to 500 mites live in each gram. (A gram is about > the weight of a paper clip.) Each mite produces about 10-20 waste > particles per day and lives for 30 days. Egg-laying females can add > 25-30 new mites to the population during their lifetime. > > Mites eat particles of skin and dander, so they thrive in places where > there are people. Dust mites don't bite, cannot spread diseases and > usually do not live on people. They are harmful only to people who > become allergic to them. While usual household insecticides have no > effect on dust mites, there are ways to reduce exposure to dust mites > in the home. > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 30, 2005 Report Share Posted July 30, 2005 Thanks KC for the comments. I haven't been all that familiar with dust mites but know of many with allergies who test positive to mites. My understanding has been that they occur naturally by the millions and can not be avoided. When I read the article which is from the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, I of course took their words as gospel. I was surprised to read that mites die when humidity reduces to less than 40%. If such is a fact than that source of indoor air pollution might be stopped by reducing humidity. My concern with mites is that I'm understanding they make up a good portion of house dust in the form that floats in small particles and gives us the " beautiful " sun beams every morning. I'm referring to the beam of light often seen from a sunny window to the wall across the room. I've been using the sun beam story to illustrate just how dirty household air can be and have been studying ways to clean up the air to the point there no longer are sunbeams " decorating " our homes. Happily it seems I've been able to reduce our household dust to the point we no longer have the sun beam stretching from the bedroom window to the opposite wall in the morning. We now only have a bright room and a bright sun spot on the wall. As mites feed on skin and as a person is suppose to shed 100,000 skin flakes a day that provides about 175,000 skin flakes for mite food per day for a family of three in the home 14 hours. The skin flakes and the resulting mite carcasses once pulverized plus the floating particles of mite feces amount to a good bit of organic " dust " all of which provides food for household mold. While mycotoxins surely can be an allergen their very existence is problematical as they are not easily detected. But dust can be detected... and dust and what it breeds is often a serious allergen. I suspect if dust and humidity can be kept to a healthy minimum we wouldn't have the allergies and sicknesses we do. KC, your comment that mold growth is what is of greater concern is a thought I'd like you to reconsider. I think while mold is a great concern its very existence can depend on dust as well as humidity and temperature. Thus keeping both house dust and humidity to a minimum should, I'm thinking, keep a home from smelling musty and foul. Yes there is mold and there is mold... I'm saying there is structural mold that eats away a house and blossoms with deadly spores and toxins... and then there is simple mustiness which causes my eyes to tear and my lungs to choke up as well as millions of others. And yes all mold is caused by excessive moisture, so controlling the humidity is important. KC, is any part of my thinking off base? Ken ==================================== [] Re: Dust Mites Ken, These conditions that the dust mites love, high humidity, along with temp is right in line with the conditions that fungi love. If you do further research, I know I have also read that dust mites feed on fungi. I believe it was droppings that were decomposing. I have the article, but I don't have time to check for it right now. Perhaps the true allergen is the mycotoxins and not dust mites and cockroaches and their droppings like the allergist would like us to believe. With these conditions I would be more concerned with mold growth, since they have a much more serious effect on humans. The key is, keeping the humidity low within the environment. Just some " food " for thought. Dust mites? Cockroaches? Or Mold??? hmmm I know which one I would go with. KC > I found the following comments found at http://www.acaai.org/public/advice/dust.htm<http://www.acaai.org/public/advice/d\ ust.htm><http://www.acaai.org/publ<http://www.acaai.org/publ> ic/advice/dust.htm> about dust mites quite interesting. What I didn't know is that Dust mites I read are suppose to die when humidity falls below 40-50 per cent. > > Carl, did you know that?? > > I'll have to reprint the article and distribute with my literature about hypoallergenic bed sheets, pillow cases and pillows. > > Gibala > > ================================================= > What are dust mites? > Tiny microscopic creatures called dust mites are an important cause of allergic reactions to house dust. They belong to the family of eight-legged creatures called arachnids. This family also includes spiders, chiggers and ticks. Dust mites are hardy creatures that live well and multiply easily in warm, humid places. They prefer temperatures at or above 70°F with a relative humidity of 75- 80 percent and die when the humidity falls below 40-50 percent. They are rarely found in dry climates. > > As many as 10 percent of the general population and 90 percent of people with allergic asthma are sensitive to dust mites. Recent studies in the United States suggest that at least 45 percent of young people with asthma are allergic to dust mites. > > People who are allergic to dust mites react to proteins in the bodies and feces of the mites. These fecal particles are found in the highest concentrations in pillows, mattresses, carpeting, and upholstered furniture. They float into the air when anyone vacuums, walks on a carpet or disturbs bedding, but settle out of the air once the disturbance is over. Dust mite-allergic people who inhale these particles frequently experience allergy symptoms. In fact, a dust mite allergic patient who sleeps for 8 hours every night spends one third of his life with his nose in direct contact with a pillow loaded with dust mite particles! > > There may be many as 19,000 dust mites in one gram of dust, but usually between 100 to 500 mites live in each gram. (A gram is about the weight of a paper clip.) Each mite produces about 10-20 waste particles per day and lives for 30 days. Egg-laying females can add 25-30 new mites to the population during their lifetime. > > Mites eat particles of skin and dander, so they thrive in places where there are people. Dust mites don't bite, cannot spread diseases and usually do not live on people. They are harmful only to people who become allergic to them. While usual household insecticides have no effect on dust mites, there are ways to reduce exposure to dust mites in the home. > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 31, 2005 Report Share Posted July 31, 2005 In this case, your thinking is close enough for me Ken and the bottom line for all of these allergies is keeping the humidity low. But I still believe that dust mites and cockroaches is more of a smoke screen for what truly might be causing many of the symptoms. Now if you want to get into gram negative, gram positive bacteria that's a whole nother story. The sorry thing about it, is that these go hand and hand. KC > > I found the following comments found at > http://www.acaai.org/public/advice/dust.htm<http://www.acaai.org/publ ic/advice/dust.htm><http://www.acaai.org/publ<http://www.acaai.org/pu bl> > ic/advice/dust.htm> about dust mites quite interesting. What I > didn't know is that Dust mites I read are suppose to die when > humidity falls below 40-50 per cent. > > > > Carl, did you know that?? > > > > I'll have to reprint the article and distribute with my literature > about hypoallergenic bed sheets, pillow cases and pillows. > > > > Gibala > > > > ================================================= > > What are dust mites? > > Tiny microscopic creatures called dust mites are an important > cause of allergic reactions to house dust. They belong to the family > of eight-legged creatures called arachnids. This family also > includes spiders, chiggers and ticks. Dust mites are hardy creatures > that live well and multiply easily in warm, humid places. They > prefer temperatures at or above 70°F with a relative humidity of 75- > 80 percent and die when the humidity falls below 40-50 percent. They > are rarely found in dry climates. > > > > As many as 10 percent of the general population and 90 percent of > people with allergic asthma are sensitive to dust mites. Recent > studies in the United States suggest that at least 45 percent of > young people with asthma are allergic to dust mites. > > > > People who are allergic to dust mites react to proteins in the > bodies and feces of the mites. These fecal particles are found in > the highest concentrations in pillows, mattresses, carpeting, and > upholstered furniture. They float into the air when anyone vacuums, > walks on a carpet or disturbs bedding, but settle out of the air > once the disturbance is over. Dust mite-allergic people who inhale > these particles frequently experience allergy symptoms. In fact, a > dust mite allergic patient who sleeps for 8 hours every night spends > one third of his life with his nose in direct contact with a pillow > loaded with dust mite particles! > > > > There may be many as 19,000 dust mites in one gram of dust, but > usually between 100 to 500 mites live in each gram. (A gram is about > the weight of a paper clip.) Each mite produces about 10-20 waste > particles per day and lives for 30 days. Egg-laying females can add > 25-30 new mites to the population during their lifetime. > > > > Mites eat particles of skin and dander, so they thrive in places > where there are people. Dust mites don't bite, cannot spread > diseases and usually do not live on people. They are harmful only to > people who become allergic to them. While usual household > insecticides have no effect on dust mites, there are ways to reduce > exposure to dust mites in the home. > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 31, 2005 Report Share Posted July 31, 2005 Here's my two cents on topic: Consider the fact that mites may be killed by low humidity, rather than hiberate. The fact that when humidity goes back up, they reappear, may be due to eggs hatching than the mite coming out of hibernation, like fleas. This is idea I'm suggesting, not researched but would seem in line with other insect habits. Dust is primarily made up of human, animal and probably insect skin and hair fragments and clearing air of these is probably due to just general attempts at improving air quality with mold cleanups, humidity control, and improved filtration which results in fewer insects, bacteria, fungi and general attempts at more cleanliness in an attempt to get rid of those things, I'm pretty sure dust mites aren't airbourne, unless they are clinging onto dust that becomes airborne when disturbed. ----- Original Message ----- From: " kengib . " <jkg4902@...> Thanks KC for the comments. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 31, 2005 Report Share Posted July 31, 2005 Ken, you " just mite " consider reading Mold Warriors. Your statement shows that you have absolutely no concept of what mold sufferers are going through. If all that happened was a disagreeable mustiness, lungs choking up and tearing of the eyes - you think we'd be crawling out of our houses complaining that the slightest contact with contaminated possessions is knocking us flat? Your perception of our problems is entirely off base and I'd like to reconsider what we are saying. When we describe being driven into anaphylaxis from unbelievably low levels of exposure - that's exactly what we mean. - > KC, your comment that mold growth is what is of greater concern is a thought I'd like you to reconsider. I think while mold is a great concern its very existence can depend on dust as well as humidity and temperature. Thus keeping both house dust and humidity to a minimum should, I'm thinking, keep a home from smelling musty and foul. Yes there is mold and there is mold... I'm saying there is structural mold that eats away a house and blossoms with deadly spores and toxins... and then there is simple mustiness which causes my eyes to tear and my lungs to choke up as well as millions of others. And yes all mold is caused by excessive moisture, so controlling the humidity is important. > > KC, is any part of my thinking off base? > > Ken Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 31, 2005 Report Share Posted July 31, 2005 Barbara BW, >I'm pretty sure dust mites aren't airbourne, unless > they are clinging onto dust that becomes airborne when disturbed. You are mostly correct. " Dust " and dust mites are not simple. But they can be better understood with some basic concepts of particle size. Dust -- When dust is analyzed by a lab, they can find well over 100 different types of items. Each cubic foot of air can have anywhere form 300,000 to 1,000,000 particles as measured by a particle meter that can only see down to 0.5 microns. The human eye can only see down to 10 microns, at best. It is estimated, because nobody has the instruments yet, that 95-98 percent of all the particles are below 0.5 microns. HEPA filters are rated at 0.3 microns. Now consider the sunbeam effect Ken mentioned. What you are seeing is, by definition, visible particles. Which means they are much larger than 0.5 microns. Actually to be visible under ideal conditions they are at least 10-20 microns. For comparison, human hair is about 100 microns in diameter. Again, the experts differ on just how small visible particles are. Regardless, removing the sunbeam can be accomplished by any cheap filter with a 10 micron pore size in the filter - only slightly better than the typcial vacuum cleaner bag. However, all that stuff between 0.5 and 10 is still there. And that is the size range of most of the allergens and irritants.You need HEPA to get this smaller dust. Although it won't get it all, it is usually sufficient to stop the exposure. So while removing the sunbeam is a start, it is only a very small start and totally inadequate for removing particles that can affect us. Also, HEPA will only remove dust that is in the air that goes through the filter. It won't remove the dust that is coating the floors, fabrics, walls and ceilings. All surfaces, in fact. So if those are heavily loaded - even though still not visible - then the HEPA may actually increase exposure for awhile because the air movement disturbs the settled dust. The surfaces should first be HEPA vacuumed so the HEPA air purifier has a chance to help Dust Mites -- They can be airborne but I usually don't care. Although the carcass can be an irritant, it is the feces that have the protein that triggers the IgE (allergy) response. s Hopkins did some studies about 10 years ago, if I remember correctly, and they concluded that dust mite allergens (feces) are too big and too heavy to become airborne. If they do, they settle out in a few minutes. Have you seen the advertisements for duct cleaning with the picture of the fearsome dust mite? Nasty looking fellow. But they are rarely in forced air ducts because they are too heavy to be transported into it by the moving air. Any that may be blown out the vents typically falls to the floor within a foot or so. It won't be a problem unless the vent is above your head. Cat dander, on the other hand, is much smaller and lighter and can stay airborne forever. THAT is what I would be concerned about everywhere in the house, including the ducts. Assuming I am reactive to cat dander. I'm I not, I can have all the cats I want. Carl Grimes Healthy Habitats LLC Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 31, 2005 Report Share Posted July 31, 2005 Hi All, There is a great deal of misinformation about house dust mites (HDM) out there. Most importantly, mites are NOT everywhere and the problem CAN be solved. HDM are only active above 70% relative humidity (RH); they do dehydrate and die if the air is drier, though eggs and some early nymphs (mites go through several stages before reaching their adult form) can over-winter. There are at least three common species of HDM, depending on latitude. They feed on skin scales (and pet dander, so they can severely infest cushioned pet beds; the allergens then end up in the animal's fur). Other types of mites, that eat only mold spores, are also very common in homes, mostly in crawl spaces and basements. I have found about a dozen different species of these soil mites indoors, but there are hundreds. The droppings of these mites are full of spores (and mycotoxins if that is what they are eating). Wherever I find mold in basements, I find mold-eating mites. The allergen-containing droppings of most mites can become airborne and therefore inhaled, but as has been noted, they do not remain in the air for long. Getting rid of live HDM is a snap. Just treat with steam vapor (this is NOT steam cleaning, with water). Jiffy, Fogacci, De Longhi all make steam vapor machines (SVMs). For a decent SVM you have to spend $300-$400; it's not worth spending over $1,000 that some companies charge, and as far as I know, no one rents them.There are smaller, less expensive machines, but I do not know if they have enough power.(If you are really strapped, I suppose you could use a steam iron for thinner cushions.) Anyone with allergies MUST have mite covers on mattresses and pillows (and avoid the use of ALL feather items on beds). Do not use the newer expensive porous cotton covers. They allow moisture to migrate from our bodies into the mattress, fostering continued colony growth. (And some of the allergens can still get through the cotton, and continue to cause symptoms.) Use the less expensive covers that have cotton, with a solid (not porous) plastic (urethane) backing. If you can't afford even these, go to Budget Rental and buy their mattress protectors for moving (under $5, and in all sizes) and cover every mattress and box spring. Most folks don't like the feel of plastic under the sheets (who can blame them) so use a standard mattress pad over the plastic, but remember that mattress pad must be washed at least every other week. (If you don't like HDM pillow encasings, buy a new pillow and put it in a dryer once a week; do NOT wash pillows to kill mites.) Put quilts in the dryer every other week too. Despite what the manufacturers say, never take a dust mite cover off a mattress, as this recontaminates the entire bedroom with allergens. If you have to wash mattress covers, use a very inexpensive one over the mattress, and a better one over it. The second one can be safely removed for washing. TV room couches and kids desk chairs (especially if used for video games) can be very infested with mites, due to the long hours of exposure to human warmth and moisture. Use leather chairs and futons with mite encasings on the mattresses. (Mites will not colonize thin fabrics, only deeper cushions where they cluster to keep from dehydrating during dry times). Strange places I have found dust mites: around fish tanks (HDM do very nicely living on tropical fish food), soap dishes, bathroom mats and animal beds. The dust in return ducts for hot-air or AC systems can also be hospitable, but not the supplies.) Keeping houses free of dust is essential to minimize all allergens. Good luck. Jeff May " My House is Killing Me " (2001) " The Mold Survival Guide " (2004) " My Office is Killing Me " (coming 2006) -- REPLY TO: Jeff@... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 31, 2005 Report Share Posted July 31, 2005 Jeff, if the mites eat mold spores, wouldn't they be beneficial to a home? This is the first time I've heard of a natural mold predator. Barth TOXIC MOLD SURVEY: www.presenting.net/sbs/sbssurvey.html --- Jjc> Hi All, Jjc> There is a great deal of misinformation about house dust mites (HDM) out there. Most importantly, mites are NOT everywhere and the problem CAN be solved. Jjc> HDM are only active above 70% relative humidity (RH); they do dehydrate and die if the air is drier, though eggs and some early nymphs (mites go through several stages before reaching their Jjc> adult form) can over-winter. Jjc> There are at least three common species of HDM, depending on latitude. They feed on skin scales (and pet dander, so they can severely infest cushioned pet beds; the allergens then end up in the Jjc> animal's fur). Jjc> Other types of mites, that eat only mold spores, are also very common in homes, mostly in crawl spaces and basements. I have found about a dozen different species of these soil mites indoors, Jjc> but there are hundreds. The droppings of these mites are full of spores (and mycotoxins if that is what they are eating). Wherever I find mold in basements, I find mold-eating mites. The Jjc> allergen-containing droppings of most mites can become airborne and therefore inhaled, but as has been noted, they do not remain in the air for long. Jjc> Getting rid of live HDM is a snap. Just treat with steam vapor (this is NOT steam cleaning, with water). Jiffy, Fogacci, De Longhi all make steam vapor machines (SVMs). For a decent SVM you have Jjc> to spend $300-$400; it's not worth spending over $1,000 that some companies charge, and as far as I know, no one rents them.There are smaller, less expensive machines, but I do not know if they Jjc> have enough power.(If you are really strapped, I suppose you could use a steam iron for thinner cushions.) Jjc> Anyone with allergies MUST have mite covers on mattresses and pillows (and avoid the use of ALL feather items on beds). Do not use the newer expensive porous cotton covers. They allow moisture Jjc> to migrate from our bodies into the mattress, fostering continued colony growth. (And some of the allergens can still get through the cotton, and continue to cause symptoms.) Jjc> Use the less expensive covers that have cotton, with a solid (not porous) plastic (urethane) backing. If you can't afford even these, go to Budget Rental and buy their mattress protectors for Jjc> moving (under $5, and in all sizes) and cover every mattress and box spring. Jjc> Most folks don't like the feel of plastic under the sheets (who can blame them) so use a standard mattress pad over the plastic, but remember that mattress pad must be washed at least every Jjc> other week. (If you don't like HDM pillow encasings, buy a new pillow and put it in a dryer once a week; do NOT wash pillows to kill mites.) Put quilts in the dryer every other week too. Jjc> Despite what the manufacturers say, never take a dust mite cover off a mattress, as this recontaminates the entire bedroom with allergens. If you have to wash mattress covers, use a very Jjc> inexpensive one over the mattress, and a better one over it. The second one can be safely removed for washing. Jjc> TV room couches and kids desk chairs (especially if used for video games) can be very infested with mites, due to the long hours of exposure to human warmth and moisture. Use leather chairs and Jjc> futons with mite encasings on the mattresses. (Mites will not colonize thin fabrics, only deeper cushions where they cluster to keep from dehydrating during dry times). Jjc> Strange places I have found dust mites: around fish tanks (HDM do very nicely living on tropical fish food), soap dishes, bathroom mats and animal beds. The dust in return ducts for hot-air or Jjc> AC systems can also be hospitable, but not the supplies.) Jjc> Keeping houses free of dust is essential to minimize all allergens. Jjc> Good luck. Jjc> Jeff May Jjc> " My House is Killing Me " (2001) Jjc> " The Mold Survival Guide " (2004) Jjc> " My Office is Killing Me " (coming 2006) Jjc> -- Jjc> REPLY TO: Jeff@... Jjc> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 31, 2005 Report Share Posted July 31, 2005 Jeff, Thanks for taking the time for your thorough and authoritative response to HDM. I considered only the two primary species (Der. pteronyssinus and farinae) that eat human skin scales. I didn't realize that the other species are significant exposure sources. Thanks for the correction. If the fecal pellets contain the allergens of what they eat, is it correct to say that if a house dust mite eats mold, the mold allergens are in the fecal pellet? If so, then neither death nor digestion is sufficient to stop the potential for reactivity to mold, and one doesn't have to be reactive to HDMs themselves. QUESTION: I do a lot of crawlspace investigations, not because I like them but because they are one of the most common sources of all kinds of exposures. How would I sample for HDM and what lab could analyze the samples? Are the species important or just the presence of ANY of them? Colorado is notorious for NOT having HDM. I participated in a study with s Hopkins when their DACI lab first introduced their allergen sampling protocol and out of 30 houses we found only 2 with even a noticeable trace, much too small to quantify. But now I wonder what the results would be if I sampled our equally notorious subterranian crawlspaces. There are people very reactive to them that have no mold allergies and often the mold levels are very low. But \something\ is affecting them. Could HDM be part of the puzzle? Again, how do I sample and who does the analysis? Carl Grimes Healthy Habitats LLC ----- > Hi All, > > There is a great deal of misinformation about house dust mites (HDM) > out there. Most importantly, mites are NOT everywhere and the problem > CAN be solved. > > HDM are only active above 70% relative humidity (RH); they do > dehydrate and die if the air is drier, though eggs and some early > nymphs (mites go through several stages before reaching their adult > form) can over-winter. > > There are at least three common species of HDM, depending on latitude. > They feed on skin scales (and pet dander, so they can severely infest > cushioned pet beds; the allergens then end up in the animal's fur). > > Other types of mites, that eat only mold spores, are also very common > in homes, mostly in crawl spaces and basements. I have found about a > dozen different species of these soil mites indoors, but there are > hundreds. The droppings of these mites are full of spores (and > mycotoxins if that is what they are eating). Wherever I find mold in > basements, I find mold-eating mites. The allergen-containing droppings > of most mites can become airborne and therefore inhaled, but as has > been noted, they do not remain in the air for long. > > Getting rid of live HDM is a snap. Just treat with steam vapor (this > is NOT steam cleaning, with water). Jiffy, Fogacci, De Longhi all make > steam vapor machines (SVMs). For a decent SVM you have to spend > $300-$400; it's not worth spending over $1,000 that some companies > charge, and as far as I know, no one rents them.There are smaller, > less expensive machines, but I do not know if they have enough > power.(If you are really strapped, I suppose you could use a steam > iron for thinner cushions.) > > Anyone with allergies MUST have mite covers on mattresses and pillows > (and avoid the use of ALL feather items on beds). Do not use the newer > expensive porous cotton covers. They allow moisture to migrate from > our bodies into the mattress, fostering continued colony growth. (And > some of the allergens can still get through the cotton, and continue > to cause symptoms.) > > Use the less expensive covers that have cotton, with a solid (not > porous) plastic (urethane) backing. If you can't afford even these, go > to Budget Rental and buy their mattress protectors for moving (under > $5, and in all sizes) and cover every mattress and box spring. > > Most folks don't like the feel of plastic under the sheets (who can > blame them) so use a standard mattress pad over the plastic, but > remember that mattress pad must be washed at least every other week. > (If you don't like HDM pillow encasings, buy a new pillow and put it > in a dryer once a week; do NOT wash pillows to kill mites.) Put quilts > in the dryer every other week too. > > Despite what the manufacturers say, never take a dust mite cover off a > mattress, as this recontaminates the entire bedroom with allergens. > If you have to wash mattress covers, use a very inexpensive one over > the mattress, and a better one over it. The second one can be safely > removed for washing. > > TV room couches and kids desk chairs (especially if used for video > games) can be very infested with mites, due to the long hours of > exposure to human warmth and moisture. Use leather chairs and futons > with mite encasings on the mattresses. (Mites will not colonize thin > fabrics, only deeper cushions where they cluster to keep from > dehydrating during dry times). > > Strange places I have found dust mites: around fish tanks (HDM do very > nicely living on tropical fish food), soap dishes, bathroom mats and > animal beds. The dust in return ducts for hot-air or AC systems can > also be hospitable, but not the supplies.) > > Keeping houses free of dust is essential to minimize all allergens. > > Good luck. > > Jeff May > " My House is Killing Me " (2001) > " The Mold Survival Guide " (2004) > " My Office is Killing Me " (coming 2006) > > > -- > REPLY TO: Jeff@... > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 31, 2005 Report Share Posted July 31, 2005 Jeff, Would I be assuming correctly that a mattress in an unused bedroom, that hadn't been used for years would be clear of dust mites also? ----- Original Message ----- From: <Jeff@...> > > Getting rid of live HDM is a snap. Just treat with steam vapor (this is > NOT steam cleaning, with water). Jiffy, Fogacci, De Longhi all make steam > vapor machines (SVMs). For a decent SVM you have to spend $300-$400; it's > not worth spending over $1,000 that some companies charge, and as far as I > know, no one rents them.There are smaller, less expensive machines, but I > do not know if they have enough power.(If you are really strapped, I > suppose you could use a steam iron for thinner cushions.) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 31, 2005 Report Share Posted July 31, 2005 Pat, very funny. Mites are major consumers of mold, but their droppings are full of allergens and relatively intact spores. (How about sprinkling some chlordane too!!!) >Jeff, if the mites eat mold spores, wouldn't they be beneficial to a >home? This is the first time I've heard of a natural mold predator. Carl, HDM don't eat too much mold (though you will often find a spore here and there that they have consumed), mostly just high protein foods like skin scales and dander. I believe that is correct for mold eating mites. Very often, I have seen whole walls covered with what appeared to be dark mold, and found by microscopy that most of the stain consisted of mite and other insect droppings, packed with intact-looking spores. If these are re-wet, the spores sometimes germinate. >If the fecal pellets contain the allergens of what they eat, is it >correct to say that if a house dust mite eats mold, the mold >allergens are in the fecal pellet? If so, then neither death nor >digestion is sufficient to stop the potential for reactivity to mold, >and one doesn't have to be reactive to HDMs themselves. >QUESTION: I do a lot of crawlspace investigations, not because I like >them but because they are one of the most common sources of all kinds >of exposures. How would I sample for HDM and what lab could analyze >the samples? Are the species important or just the presence of ANY >of them? If there is mold in a crawl space, there are ALWAYS mold-eating mites. Mold without mites is like a corn field free of corn borers. I do not know of any labs that test for anything other than house dust mites. (DACI uses the chemical ELISA test; few if any labs count droppings by microscopy.) The two dermatophagoides species are the most common; down south and in S. America, Blomia tropicalis is a " popular " HDM, and there is testing (both skin prick for allergy and ELISA for dust samples) for that mite, but I do not know who does it. Certainly, anyone in Florida testing negative for D. farinae and D.pteronyssinus should consider being tested for B. tropicalis. >Colorado is notorious for NOT having HDM. I participated in a study >with s Hopkins when their DACI lab first introduced their >allergen sampling protocol and out of 30 houses we found only 2 with >even a noticeable trace, much too small to quantify. >But now I wonder what the results would be if I sampled our equally >notorious subterranian crawlspaces. There are people very reactive to >them that have no mold allergies and often the mold levels are very >low. But \something\ is affecting them. Could HDM be part of the >puzzle? Again, how do I sample and who does the analysis? Sorry for any confusion. The " fungivorous " mites are soil mites, not really house dust mites (HDM). Some common ones I have found indoors in damp spaces are Glycyphagus, Tarsonemid and Oribatid mites. Booklice also eat spores and can be numerous in crawl spaces.(Like you, I try to stay out of them!) Jeff May May Indoor Air Investigations LLC www.mayindoorair.com www.myhouseiskillingme.com -- REPLY TO: Jeff@... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 1, 2005 Report Share Posted August 1, 2005 Carl, There are hardly any household dust mites in Colorodo??? How about mold? barbb ----- Original Message ----- From: <Jeff@...> > >>Colorado is notorious for NOT having HDM. I participated in a study >>with s Hopkins when their DACI lab first introduced their >>allergen sampling protocol and out of 30 houses we found only 2 with >>even a noticeable trace, much too small to quantify. > >>But now I wonder what the results would be if I sampled our equally >>notorious subterranian crawlspaces. There are people very reactive to >>them that have no mold allergies and often the mold levels are very >>low. But \something\ is affecting them. Could HDM be part of the >>puzzle? Again, how do I sample and who does the analysis? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 1, 2005 Report Share Posted August 1, 2005 Will that constipate them, Jeff? Barth TOXIC MOLD SURVEY: www.presenting.net/sbs/sbssurvey.html --- Jjc> Pat, very funny. Mites are major consumers of mold, but their droppings are full of allergens and relatively intact spores. (How about sprinkling some chlordane too!!!) >>Jeff, if the mites eat mold spores, wouldn't they be beneficial to a >>home? This is the first time I've heard of a natural mold predator. Jjc> Carl, Jjc> HDM don't eat too much mold (though you will often find a spore here and there that they have consumed), mostly just high protein foods like skin scales and dander. I believe that is correct for Jjc> mold eating mites. Very often, I have seen whole walls covered with what appeared to be dark mold, and found by microscopy that most of the stain consisted of mite and other insect droppings, Jjc> packed with intact-looking spores. If these are re-wet, the spores sometimes germinate. >>If the fecal pellets contain the allergens of what they eat, is it >>correct to say that if a house dust mite eats mold, the mold >>allergens are in the fecal pellet? If so, then neither death nor >>digestion is sufficient to stop the potential for reactivity to mold, >>and one doesn't have to be reactive to HDMs themselves. >>QUESTION: I do a lot of crawlspace investigations, not because I like >>them but because they are one of the most common sources of all kinds >>of exposures. How would I sample for HDM and what lab could analyze >>the samples? Are the species important or just the presence of ANY >>of them? Jjc> If there is mold in a crawl space, there are ALWAYS mold-eating mites. Mold without mites is like a corn field free of corn borers. I do not know of any labs that test for anything other than Jjc> house dust mites. (DACI uses the chemical ELISA test; few if any labs count droppings by microscopy.) The two dermatophagoides species are the most common; down south and in S. America, Jjc> Blomia tropicalis is a " popular " HDM, and there is testing (both skin prick for allergy and ELISA for dust samples) for that mite, but I do not know who does it. Certainly, anyone in Florida Jjc> testing negative for D. farinae and D.pteronyssinus should consider being tested for B. tropicalis. >>Colorado is notorious for NOT having HDM. I participated in a study >>with s Hopkins when their DACI lab first introduced their >>allergen sampling protocol and out of 30 houses we found only 2 with >>even a noticeable trace, much too small to quantify. >>But now I wonder what the results would be if I sampled our equally >>notorious subterranian crawlspaces. There are people very reactive to >>them that have no mold allergies and often the mold levels are very >>low. But \something\ is affecting them. Could HDM be part of the >>puzzle? Again, how do I sample and who does the analysis? Jjc> Sorry for any confusion. The " fungivorous " mites are soil mites, not really house dust mites (HDM). Some common ones I have found indoors in damp spaces are Glycyphagus, Tarsonemid and Oribatid Jjc> mites. Booklice also eat spores and can be numerous in crawl spaces.(Like you, I try to stay out of them!) Jjc> Jeff May Jjc> May Indoor Air Investigations LLC Jjc> www.mayindoorair.com Jjc> www.myhouseiskillingme.com Jjc> -- Jjc> REPLY TO: Jeff@... Jjc> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 1, 2005 Report Share Posted August 1, 2005 The vapor cleaners Jeff refers to below says they kill mold and mold spores. At least the 'Vapor Steam Clean' site says that about the Fogacci. http://www.fogacciusa.com/comparisions.htm ----- Original Message ----- From: <Jeff@...> > > Getting rid of live HDM is a snap. Just treat with steam vapor (this is > NOT steam cleaning, with water). Jiffy, Fogacci, De Longhi all make steam > vapor machines (SVMs). For a decent SVM you have to spend $300-$400; it's > not worth spending over $1,000 that some companies charge, and as far as I > know, no one rents them.There are smaller, less expensive machines, but I > do not know if they have enough power.(If you are really strapped, I > suppose you could use a steam iron for thinner cushions.) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 9, 2007 Report Share Posted August 9, 2007 Doug-private------ Congrats! Dust can cause me to cough if I happen to inhale just at the right time, but no asthma--just the cough until I get rid of the dust tickling in my throat! Glad you are able to go through those hymnals. Wish I could be there for you old gospel singing. It makes me miss my Grandfather who loved Stamps/Baxter quartets, and had many of their " singing convention " books. I now have those as my mom gave them to me. My Granddad sang a mean low bass, and my Daddy (his son) sang a beautiful tenor! (I sang soprano, my sister sang alto and my Mom played the piano-----)Sorry if I reminisce a little. Only my mom is living from that group and when we get together as a family, now, we don't sing very often, even though we always have a piano around. uca79iii <bme1979@...> wrote: As a music minister, I have acquired a collection of VERY OLD hymnals and song books given to me by senior adults through the years. Some of these were printed around the turn of the century and the pages are have turned yellow, are VERY, VERY, VERY dusty and are falling apart. For 3 days know, I have been going through all of these books looking for classic gospel songs and hymns for an old fashioned singing I have planned in a few weeks. I am sure the dust mites are TRYING their best to a hay day with my asthma. My asthma has not bothered me one bit. I wonder if it is the xolair? (grin) Doug Group founder On xolair since September 2003 --------------------------------- Pinpoint customers who are looking for what you sell. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 9, 2007 Report Share Posted August 9, 2007 Doug, I had a simular situation. I was on vacation and my sisters home is being renovated and I walked in after the workers went home and the dust smell was there in the air. Guess what I did not go into an asthma attack. I have the same idea as you it is the Xolair. 3 year anniversary in November..... Breathing well even with the high humidity...But will still be a bit careful with the humidity... Sr. Volz, C.R. uca79iii <bme1979@...> wrote: As a music minister, I have acquired a collection of VERY OLD hymnals and song books given to me by senior adults through the years. Some of these were printed around the turn of the century and the pages are have turned yellow, are VERY, VERY, VERY dusty and are falling apart. For 3 days know, I have been going through all of these books looking for classic gospel songs and hymns for an old fashioned singing I have planned in a few weeks. I am sure the dust mites are TRYING their best to a hay day with my asthma. My asthma has not bothered me one bit. I wonder if it is the xolair? (grin) Doug Group founder On xolair since September 2003 --------------------------------- Be a better Heartthrob. Get better relationship answers from someone who knows. Answers - Check it out. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 9, 2007 Report Share Posted August 9, 2007 > > Doug, > I had a simular situation. I was on vacation and my sisters home is being renovated and I walked in after the workers went home and the dust smell was there in the air. Guess what I did not go into an asthma attack. I have the same idea as you it is the Xolair. 3 year anniversary in November..... > > Breathing well even with the high humidity...But will still be a bit careful with the humidity... > Sr. Volz, C.R. > Sr. , Good to hear form you. I am glad that Xolair is giving you great success too Xolair is giving us our lives back! Doug Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 10, 2007 Report Share Posted August 10, 2007 Dear Doug & Group. I KNOW IT IS THE XOLAIR! Congratualtions. We still have to be diligent about exposures as the Xolair binds the free IGE (newly created IGE from your body). So a great big dose of allergen insult to your body & you could have symptoms. Hopefully the amount of Xolair still circulating binds the new stuff & no symptoms! Breathe easy! Pat --------------------------------- Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha! Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at Games. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 10, 2007 Report Share Posted August 10, 2007 We have had such good success with Xolair. I am still painting the downstairs of my house and all the paint fumes, cleaners, dust etc haven't bothered me with my breathing at all. Just a few headaches from the fumes. But my husband decided to cook dinner while I was painting..(which is a bigger miracle than Xolair)and the oil that he was using to fry the chicken got too hot and started smoking. I started coughing and felt my throat closing up so I went outside which wasn't much better since it was 95 degrees. Anyway it didn't last too long. Last time I was around smoking oil I ended up in the emergency room. I was fin once we opened some doors and got some fans to blow the smokiness out and I went right back to painting the stairwell. --- MommaA <mommaa@...> wrote: > Dear Doug & Group. I KNOW IT IS THE XOLAIR! > Congratualtions. We still have to be diligent about > exposures as the Xolair binds the free IGE (newly > created IGE from your body). So a great big dose of > allergen insult to your body & you could have > symptoms. Hopefully the amount of Xolair still > circulating binds the new stuff & no symptoms! > Breathe easy! > > Pat > > > --------------------------------- > Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha! > Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's > economy) at Games. > > [Non-text portions of this message have been > removed] > > ________________________________________________________________________________\ ____ Choose the right car based on your needs. Check out Autos new Car Finder tool. http://autos./carfinder/ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 11, 2007 Report Share Posted August 11, 2007 That's pretty amazing because dust mites are my biggest trigger and they still bother me. In the past, I used to wash my bedding in scalding hot water with bleach on a daily basis and it only worked well enough to give me some minor relief. Today I have to do that about once/week or once/2 weeks but it actually works now. Xolair has really improved my ability to tolerate dust mites but I will still react to the nasty critters when the counts are too high or my shot is wearing off. Glad to hear you are doing so well Doug! ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Thanks , You too Doug Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 18, 2010 Report Share Posted January 18, 2010  Well THANK YOU for this ... I am planning my attack now. I know my house is full. GROSS!! Dust Mites Something different... came across my email...I'm passing along Suzi Dust Mite Invasion It’s not just your imagination -- allergies have been on the rise. Epidemiological data show that your children are likely to have more allergies than you, and their children to have more yet... and this doesn’t just include those who are allergic to peanuts. Dust mites have become a common cause of year-round allergy symptoms, with one study reporting that 51% of children tested positive for dust mite allergies, compared with just 39% of their parents. Dust mites are common -- in fact, nearly ubiquitous. These unwelcome house guests can be found everywhere, they were even detected on the Mir Space Station. Unless your furnishings are brand new, you can be fairly certain that some are living in your mattress, carpet and living room couch. To understand the implications, I consulted world-renowned expert J. Colloff, PhD, author of Dust Mites, a new book that delivers all the dirt on these nasty little creatures -- including where they live, why people are allergic to them and, most important, how to get rid of them. Dust mites cause damage way out of proportion to their microscopic size. At least 100 million people worldwide suffer from sneezing, runny noses, asthma, skin rashes and other reactions to these mighty mites. Relatives of the spider, dust mites thrive in warm, dark and humid conditions, burrowing deep into rugs, upholstered furniture, bedding, mattresses, box springs and stuffed animals. They feed on substances such as the shedded skin of humans and pets and on bacteria and molds -- all common components of house dust. Disgusting Things in Dust In fact, it’s not house dust that most people are allergic to, but rather what dust mites have contributed to it. Specifically, dust mite allergies are immune system reactions to the various dust mite proteins -- including in their feces and in the decaying bodies of dead dust mites. Dr. Colloff explains... For people with hay fever or allergic rhinitis, the immune reaction to dust mites is likely to present as inflammation in their nasal passages, triggering symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, a runny nose, red and watery eyes, itchy nose and roof of the mouth or throat, coughing and facial pressure or pain. If you have asthma, exposure to the mites may produce inflammation and contraction of the airways of your lungs, leading to wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightening. If you are prone to skin rashes, your encounter with dust mites might bring on an inflammatory skin reaction, such as eczema. Declare War on Dust Mites For people with severe allergies, drugs may be essential (especially for people with asthma), but avoiding the mite allergens can prevent symptoms from occurring in the first place. The best strategy is to declare war on house dust and the critters that feast on it. Keep your home clean and dust-free, and do whatever you can to keep humidity low. The most critical room of all is your bedroom. Specifically, focus on your bed, which -- with its mattress, box spring, pillows and cozy quilt or duvet -- provides an ideal nesting place for literally millions of microscopic pests. DeBug Your Bedding Dr. Colloff has developed a "flexible, simple, inexpensive and integrated dust mite control strategy." Depending on how aggressive you want or need to be, Dr. Colloff advises... Encase your bed and its components in microporous (or semipermeable) covers, which discourage dust mites from colonization. This type of bedding -- allergy pillows, pillow covers, mattress covers, duvet covers, etc. -- A more moderate strategy is to strip your bed daily. Also helpful is to open doors and windows to thoroughly air the room. At the very least, consider washing bedding in hot water (at least 130°F) at least once a month. Note: There are allergy-relief laundry soaps/detergents that work in cold water. It’s also great to dry items outdoors, in direct sunlight, which dehydrates and kills dust mites. Floors & Furniture To deal with dust mites in rugs and upholstery, Dr. Colloff recommends... Removing carpeting and rugs from bedrooms -- this is the most aggressive strategy. Vacuuming carpets, upholstered furniture and curtains every week, using a device with a double-layered microfilter bag or a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter. This is a less extreme plan. Regularly steam-cleaning rugs, upholstered furniture and mattresses with equipment that heats water to at least 212°F, to help ensure removal of dust and dust mites. Note: These strategies were adapted from Dr. Colloff’s Dust Mites. A Note of Caution Many people assume that they are allergic to dust mites, observes Dr. Colloff, but this is not always the case. Before you invest significant time and money to control dust mites, see an allergist to make sure you actually are allergic to them. If you are, then take aggressive steps to eliminate them to the greatest extent possible from your home. Source(s): J. Colloff, PhD, senior research scientist, CSIRO Entomology, Canberra, Australia, and author of Dust Mites (CSIRO). Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 19, 2010 Report Share Posted January 19, 2010 Mine too.... Gonna steam clean my carpets and couches with HOT water.My comforter is overdue for a wash too.EewSent from my iPhoneOn Jan 18, 2010, at 5:56 PM, "Kathy" <vanokat@...> wrote:  Well THANK YOU for this ... I am planning my attack now. I know my house is full. GROSS!! Dust Mites Something different... came across my email...I'm passing along Suzi Dust Mite Invasion It’s not just your imagination -- allergies have been on the rise. Epidemiological data show that your children are likely to have more allergies than you, and their children to have more yet... and this doesn’t just include those who are allergic to peanuts. Dust mites have become a common cause of year-round allergy symptoms, with one study reporting that 51% of children tested positive for dust mite allergies, compared with just 39% of their parents. Dust mites are common -- in fact, nearly ubiquitous. These unwelcome house guests can be found everywhere, they were even detected on the Mir Space Station. Unless your furnishings are brand new, you can be fairly certain that some are living in your mattress, carpet and living room couch. To understand the implications, I consulted world-renowned expert J. Colloff, PhD, author of Dust Mites, a new book that delivers all the dirt on these nasty little creatures -- including where they live, why people are allergic to them and, most important, how to get rid of them. Dust mites cause damage way out of proportion to their microscopic size. At least 100 million people worldwide suffer from sneezing, runny noses, asthma, skin rashes and other reactions to these mighty mites. Relatives of the spider, dust mites thrive in warm, dark and humid conditions, burrowing deep into rugs, upholstered furniture, bedding, mattresses, box springs and stuffed animals. They feed on substances such as the shedded skin of humans and pets and on bacteria and molds -- all common components of house dust. Disgusting Things in Dust In fact, it’s not house dust that most people are allergic to, but rather what dust mites have contributed to it. Specifically, dust mite allergies are immune system reactions to the various dust mite proteins -- including in their feces and in the decaying bodies of dead dust mites. Dr. Colloff explains... For people with hay fever or allergic rhinitis, the immune reaction to dust mites is likely to present as inflammation in their nasal passages, triggering symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, a runny nose, red and watery eyes, itchy nose and roof of the mouth or throat, coughing and facial pressure or pain. If you have asthma, exposure to the mites may produce inflammation and contraction of the airways of your lungs, leading to wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightening. If you are prone to skin rashes, your encounter with dust mites might bring on an inflammatory skin reaction, such as eczema. Declare War on Dust Mites For people with severe allergies, drugs may be essential (especially for people with asthma), but avoiding the mite allergens can prevent symptoms from occurring in the first place. The best strategy is to declare war on house dust and the critters that feast on it. Keep your home clean and dust-free, and do whatever you can to keep humidity low. The most critical room of all is your bedroom. Specifically, focus on your bed, which -- with its mattress, box spring, pillows and cozy quilt or duvet -- provides an ideal nesting place for literally millions of microscopic pests. DeBug Your Bedding Dr. Colloff has developed a "flexible, simple, inexpensive and integrated dust mite control strategy." Depending on how aggressive you want or need to be, Dr. Colloff advises... Encase your bed and its components in microporous (or semipermeable) covers, which discourage dust mites from colonization. This type of bedding -- allergy pillows, pillow covers, mattress covers, duvet covers, etc. -- A more moderate strategy is to strip your bed daily. Also helpful is to open doors and windows to thoroughly air the room. At the very least, consider washing bedding in hot water (at least 130°F) at least once a month. Note: There are allergy-relief laundry soaps/detergents that work in cold water. It’s also great to dry items outdoors, in direct sunlight, which dehydrates and kills dust mites. Floors & Furniture To deal with dust mites in rugs and upholstery, Dr. Colloff recommends... Removing carpeting and rugs from bedrooms -- this is the most aggressive strategy. Vacuuming carpets, upholstered furniture and curtains every week, using a device with a double-layered microfilter bag or a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter. This is a less extreme plan. Regularly steam-cleaning rugs, upholstered furniture and mattresses with equipment that heats water to at least 212°F, to help ensure removal of dust and dust mites. Note: These strategies were adapted from Dr. Colloff’s Dust Mites. A Note of Caution Many people assume that they are allergic to dust mites, observes Dr. Colloff, but this is not always the case. Before you invest significant time and money to control dust mites, see an allergist to make sure you actually are allergic to them. If you are, then take aggressive steps to eliminate them to the greatest extent possible from your home. Source(s): J. Colloff, PhD, senior research scientist, CSIRO Entomology, Canberra, Australia, and author of Dust Mites (CSIRO). Reply to sender | Reply to group Messages in this topic (2) MARKETPLACE Going Green: Your resource for green living Switch to: Text-Only, Daily Digest • Unsubscribe • Terms of Use Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 19, 2010 Report Share Posted January 19, 2010 You're both welcome Suzi List Owner health What is a weed? A plant whose virtues have not yet been discovered. From: Candace Podratz <candaceandbrock@...>"health " <health >Sent: Mon, January 18, 2010 6:09:56 PMSubject: Re: Dust Mites Mine too.... Gonna steam clean my carpets and couches with HOT water. My comforter is overdue for a wash too. EewSent from my iPhone On Jan 18, 2010, at 5:56 PM, "Kathy" <vanokat@...> wrote:  Well THANK YOU for this ... I am planning my attack now. I know my house is full. GROSS!! Your email settings: Individual Email|Traditional Change settings via the Web ( ID required) Change settings via email: Switch delivery to Daily Digest | Switch to Fully Featured Visit Your Group | Terms of Use | Unsubscribe Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 19, 2010 Report Share Posted January 19, 2010  So glad we own a carpet cleaning business. Twenty-five years ago, brand new in the biz, our marketing director told us that dust mites crawl up your nose and s*( & !!!! That's what causes a lot of allergies. S Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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