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BUSINESS NEWS - House dust mite (HDM) allergy is a well-known and common cause of Allergic Rhinitis (AR) and asthma.
It is an indoor allergen present throughout the year, although some seasonality has been observed in observational studies. HDM are microscopic organisms belonging to the taxonomic class Arachnida.
They live off human skin and are therefore present wherever humans are found. They are typically present at the highest concentrations in our bedrooms, specifically in mattresses and pillows where they tend to nest.
Their presence has no association with hygiene; wherever we as Homo sapiens are, they are likely to be present as well.
An environment with high humidity is particularly beneficial for their survival and multiplication. Coastal areas, and George specifically, with its high humidity, tend to have higher HDM levels in homes.
Many of our residents also struggle with dampness in their houses.
The incidence of allergic sensitisation leading to HDM allergy in patients who are prone to allergies due to familial predisposition is high in George and the surrounding coastal district.
An environment with high humidity is particularly beneficial for their survival and multiplication. Photos: Supplied
Patients relocating from the drier inland areas to George often develop HDM allergies and may become symptomatic with blocked noses, hay fever, recurrent episodes of sinusitis, and worsening asthma after spending some time in the new high-humidity environment.
This often comes as a surprise, as the area is perceived to be a more natural and healthier place to live. While this is true in many respects, it does not necessarily apply to HDM and mould exposure.
HDM allergy may lead to chronic allergic inflammation of the nasal and sinus mucosa and the epithelial lining of the lungs, and it may aggravate atopic dermatitis (AD), also known as eczema. In the case of AD, HDM is more often an aggravating factor in infant and childhood eczema than specific food allergies.
Seasonal exacerbations of AR or asthma in patients with HDM allergy might be due to higher humidity during the summer months, resulting in increased HDM levels in the home. It may also be due to dual sensitisation to both grass pollen and HDM, leading to a higher overall allergen exposure and a greater disease burden.
Allergy testing is advisable for most patients, as effective measures can be taken to reduce HDM exposure.
Two additional reasons for testing include assisting with treatment planning, such as stepping medications up or down as needed, and determining eligibility for Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy (commonly known as desensitisation) to the causative allergen.
At the Allergy and Asthma clinic in Heatherlands, we do allergy testing, assist with treatment planning and offer AIT.
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