What's Living in Your Mattress? |
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 Dust mites!Dust mites causes a real concern for many Australians and have been associated with dermatological and respiratory allergies in humans such as asthma, hay fever and eczema. Most recent studies shows that as much as 30% of the Australian population have allergic reactions to dust mites and their body secretions. It is through good hygiene that we can reduce their numbers and too the symptoms of allergic reaction to dust mites.
What are they?They are microscopic animals that thrive in a warm and humid environment where there’s plenty of food and areas to hide. As we sleep, we lose about 1 litre of body moisture every night. This provides the perfect breeding nest in the mattress for dust mites and bacteria. Furthermore, humans continuously shed dead skin cells and while asleep, the flakes of dead skin collect in the sheets, doonas and mattress. Dust mites feed on these flakes of dead human skin and multiply because of the abundant food source. Common hiding spots? They can be found living and breeding in your mattresses, blankets, doonas, pillows, shag-pile or long-fibred carpets, upholstered furniture and even soft toys.
What problems do they cause?Dust mites can trigger respiratory or dermatological conditions such as asthma, hay fever and eczema. Because your mattress can’t be washed it is more than likely that you have a flourishing colony of dust mites in your mattress, and if left unprotected, its inhabitants and dust can cause various allergies.
The allergic reactionIt is incorrectly assumed that the bite of dust mites is what causes the allergic reaction in humans. However, contrary to what we believe, dust mites do not bite. It is the physical contact we have with their remains, bodily secretions and faeces, that contain certain protein, which can trigger an allergic reaction in some people. The symptoms of allergic reaction to dust mites can include: Wheezing, Coughing, Breathlessness, A tight feeling in the chest, Runny nose, Itchy nose/eyes/skin, Watery eyes, Morning congestion, Skin rashes
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