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Common Side Effects of Dust Mites

author image Emily DeSerio
Emily DeSerio has been a freelance writer since November 2009. DeSerio works in the mental health field as a clinical social worker. She began her higher level education at the University of South Florida (USF) with a B.A. in English and went on to complete a Master of Social Work degree at USF as well.
Common Side Effects of Dust Mites
Dust mites live in carpets.

According to the National Library of Medicine, dust mites are small insects, related to the spider, that live in humid, warm places such as in bedding, upholstered furniture and carpet. Not everyone is allergic to dust mites, but for people who are, the common side effects include itchy eyes, nasal complications, facial pressure, asthmatic reactions and dizziness, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. The states that a dust mite allergy is a reaction of the immune system that attempts to fight off dust mite byproducts. An allergist can confirm that you have a dust mite allergy and will recommend the best treatments.

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According to, breathing in dust mites can lead to dizziness. This can be a result of excessive fluid in the ears or pressure from inflamed sinuses. Someone who experiences severe dizziness should consult a medical doctor, as it could be a sign of a more serious condition.

Nasal Complication

When the body has an allergic reaction, it causes inflammation in the sinus cavity, according to the Dust mite side effects can include nasal discharge, sneezing, postnasal drip and congestion. The swollen sinus cavity places pressure on surrounding parts of the body, such as the upper teeth and the inner ear. Pressure placed on the inner ear can lead to physical imbalance and dizziness. Postnasal drip can lead the development of postnasal drip, which can cause a chronic cough.

Asthmatic Reactions

The National Library of Medicine states that a common side effect of dust mites is asthmatic reactions such as wheezing, tightness of the chest and difficulty breathing. When someone experiences an asthma attack, a common result is dizziness because of the lack of oxygen getting to the brain. A person with allergy-induced asthma resulting from dust mites should talk with her allergist about allergy shots.

Facial Pressure

Facial pressure pain is the result of inflammation in the sinus cavity, according to the The eyes, cheekbones and forehead may be sensitive to touch. The facial pressure can make a person feel tired and lethargic. If facial pressure develops along with facial swelling, medical attention is needed.

Eye Irritation

According to the, a dust mite allergy causes eye irritation. Because of elevated levels of histamine in the bloodstream, the eyes can become watery, red and extremely itchy. In extreme cases, the eyes can become swollen, developing a black and blue appearance. This condition is more common in young children. Antihistamine eye drops are used to help to alleviate eye irritation side effects from dust mites.

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