March 28 2024

The mite     

This set of recommendations is aimed at reducing patient contact with household dust and allergenic substances it contains. the main ones being those derived from the mites that inhabit it (Dermatophagoides Farinae, and Dermatophagoides Pteronissinus). Therefore, it is important to maintain control, to the extent possible, on the amount of dust inside the housing and also the concentration of dust mites .

Dermatophagoides are living beings that, in addition to food provided by humans in the form of scaly skin and other sources, require three circumstances for an optimal growth

- Suitable temperature. The ideal temperature for mite growth is between 18 and 24ยบ C, so that, asthma caused by dust tends to get worse during spring and autumn in temperate places.

- Oxygen in a sufficient concentration or, what is the same, with an optimum partial pressure, such as the existing at sea level. The more you go up in altitude, the lower the partial pressure of oxygen and the mites development worsen. For this reason, patients with allergy to mites improve during their stay in the mountains, while usually they worse at sea level.

- Humidity Mites need an adequate level of humidity, around 80% relative humidity. For this reason. mite-sensitive patients will improve in rather dry climates.

Home     

Ventilate the house regularly . This reduces the accumulation of moisture and water condensation in poorly ventilated corners. As noted, the humidity is an important factor in the growth of the mite population, although the molds, another member of the household dust, are also an important factor.

Close the air entries from the outside. Seal the cracks, put weatherstripping foam rubber in doors and windows and do not facilitate the formation of jets and air currents which lift the dust deposited and allow it to remain suspended in the air. Remember that dust is more damaging when is suspended in the air of the house, ie, which can penetrate the airways.

Reduce materials that can produce or gather dust, such as wool, cotton, flannel, etc., in upholstery, carpets, curtains and other decorative elements. Avoid rugs and carpets.

Avoid sweeping. In return, it is preferable mopping or vacuuming. For furniture cleaning is recommended to use a damp cloth. You should not perform these tasks in the presence of the child.

Do not use cleaning sprays; the use of products in a pressurized container for any kind of need. volatile or strong smelling products should not be used. Avoid that cooking odors spreading through the rest of the house.

Avoid accumulation of houseplants inside the house, although you may have some, preferably in a remote area from the child's bedroom. Keep the humidity of the plant pot at the lowest possible level

Heating System: If your home does not have central heating, use electric radiators, although you should be aware that it is not recommendable an excessive dryness of the atmosphere.

Avoid adopt pets (dog, cat, rabbit, hamster) that may be detrimental to long term for your child because over time, he may become allergic to them. Fish, for example, can be a substitute for pets more allergenic. The child's doctor, who is who best knows your child and your environment can advise you about this question.

The bedroom     

Avoid accumulation of furniture, toy,s and decorative items. Keep in the room only what is indispensable. If your child has many toys, you should move them to another room.

If it is a shared room with other family members, the same recommendations apply. If you use a bunk, put your child in the highest bed.

Paint the walls (better, with plastic paint) and do not use a decorative paper or carpet. This measure will apply when you have the need to do it again; It is not a measure to be taken immediately.

Ventilate the room daily. Clean it completely every two or three days. Use a vacuum cleaner and damp cloth for cleaning.

Avoid storing woolens or skin in the child's room , even if they are for personal use. Do not store there cleaning utensils.

When you need to renew it, put a foam mattress with foam pillow or acrylic. Wrap the mattress and pillow with synthetic fiber covers, which should be washed every week, Expose to direct sunlight both mattress and pillow for half an hour each week and after that, clean them with a vacuum cleaner.

Use bedding of synthetic fiber, both blankets, and sheets. Change the bedding every two or three days, passing these directly from the clothesline to bed.

Teach your child to change clothes in a different room from the bedroom . It is recommended aerating the stored clothes in the closet before putting on the child,

Personal hygiene: Your child should wear short hair. At least when you change the bedding, the child should take a shower before bedtime.

other measures     

Avoid damp and dust filled places such as basements, cellars, attics, old houses or abandoned.

If you need to move house, choose a facing the sun, without humidity or pollution

If you have a second home for weekends and/or holidays, these same rules apply dust control. Clean this home before the child will reside in it.