House dust mites are microscopic creatures that live in bedding, soft furnishings, and carpets and feed on shed skin flakes. Allergy is caused not by the mites themselves but by proteins in their droppings. Because they are present indoors all year, symptoms tend to be perennial rather than seasonal, with sneezing, a runny or congested nose, post-nasal drip, and itchy, watery eyes. Many people notice symptoms are worse in the morning, in the bedroom, or when vacuuming or making the bed.
Dust mite allergy commonly overlaps with asthma and eczema, and exposure can trigger wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness in people who are prone to asthma. Identifying dust mites as a trigger is helpful because targeted measures can reduce symptoms.
Useful steps include using allergen-proof covers on mattresses and pillows, washing bedding regularly at a hot wash, reducing clutter and soft toys in the bedroom, keeping humidity lower, and vacuuming with a filtered cleaner. Medicines such as antihistamines and steroid nasal sprays can ease symptoms. If symptoms are persistent or you also have asthma, see a doctor who can confirm the trigger with testing and discuss longer-term options.