Dust Allergy Treatment Clinic in Rockville, MD

People who are allergic to dust are actually allergic to dust mites, which are tiny insects related to spiders and ticks that live in dust. They’re so small they can only be seen under a microscope, but they live in most homes, especially in items like carpets, furniture, curtains, and bedding. Dust mites eat skin cells shed by people and animals and absorb water from the humidity in the air. The mites don’t bite people, but when they die, their bodies decay and turn to dust, and this, together with their feces, has proteins in it that can cause someone to have an allergic reaction.

Normally, the job of the immune system is to recognize foreign substances like viruses or bacteria that may make body cells behave differently. The immune system is designed to recognize threats and take action to kill or eliminate them. It also remembers substances by creating antibodies that will recognize the threat if it ever comes back. An allergic reaction is what happens when a substance that isn’t actually harmful– pollen, pet dander, or dust mite remains – enters the body and the immune system mistakenly recognizes it as a threat. Your immune system starts to release chemicals called histamines to fight the allergen, which it does by causing runny noses, watery eyes, sneezing, or coughing. Your immune system also develops antibodies to always recognize the threat in the future, so anytime you are exposed, your immune system will be ready to quickly release histamines again to get the allergen out.

People who are allergic to dust mites usually have the following symptoms:

• Sneezing and itchy nose
• Runny nose
• Watery, itchy eyes
• Itching in the throat or inside of the mouth
• Cough
• Pain and pressure in the face
• Dark circles or swelling under the eyes (allergic shiners)
• Breathing difficulty
• Tightness or pain in the chest
• A whistling or wheezing sound when exhaling
• Flare-ups of conditions like asthma and eczema

Treating dust allergies involves a combination of methods aimed at reducing symptoms and minimizing exposure to dust allergens. The first line of treatment typically involves allergy medications. Antihistamines are commonly prescribed to block the effects of histamine, a chemical released during an allergic reaction. They help alleviate symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Nasal corticosteroids may also be recommended to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and relieve congestion.

Decongestants can be used for short-term relief from nasal congestion, while leukotriene modifiers help reduce inflammation in the airways. For more severe cases, immunotherapy may be an option. This therapy involves regular exposure to small amounts of allergens to help the immune system become less sensitive to dust mites and other allergens. Immunotherapy can provide long-term relief by gradually decreasing the severity of allergic reactions over time.

Along with medication, environmental control is crucial in managing dust allergies. Since dust mites are a primary trigger, reducing exposure to them can significantly improve symptoms. Cleaning and dusting regularly, especially in areas where dust accumulates, such as carpets, bedding, and upholstered furniture, is essential. Using dust-mite-proof covers on pillows and mattresses can help reduce exposure while sleeping. Additionally, maintaining low humidity levels in the home, as dust mites thrive in humid environments, can help prevent dust accumulation. Air purifiers with HEPA filters can also be useful in filtering dust and other allergens from the air. At Physicians Now Urgent Care in Rockville, MD, Dr. Chinedum Olisemeka, DO, provides personalized treatment plans for dust allergies, combining medications and environmental management strategies to help alleviate symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Dust allergies can be diagnosed using several methods to identify specific allergens and determine the best treatment approach. One of the most common methods is the skin prick test, which involves applying small amounts of potential allergens, including dust mites, to the skin. If you’re allergic, a small raised bump will appear at the test site. This test is fast, and results are typically available within 15 to 20 minutes, making it a convenient option for many patients.

Another diagnostic method is the blood test, also known as the specific IgE test. This test measures the amount of allergen-specific antibodies in your blood. While it may take a bit longer to receive results, it is an excellent alternative for individuals who cannot undergo skin testing due to conditions like eczema or heightened skin sensitivity. The blood test is also useful in cases where skin testing may not provide clear results. Both tests are highly effective in diagnosing dust allergies and determining the exact allergens triggering your symptoms.

At Physicians Now Urgent Care, Dr. Chinedum Olisemeka, DO, offers comprehensive allergy testing to accurately identify dust allergies and guide treatment. Using state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, Dr. Olisemeka ensures a thorough assessment of your symptoms, whether they are mild or severe. Based on your test results, a personalized treatment plan will be developed to help alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Whether you are experiencing seasonal or year-round allergies, our clinic is here to provide you with effective care tailored to your specific needs.

Severe dust allergies can significantly affect your health and quality of life. Dust allergies are often triggered by dust mites, microscopic organisms that live in common household items like bedding, carpets, and furniture. For individuals who are severely allergic, exposure to dust can lead to intense symptoms such as frequent sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, runny nose, and even difficulty breathing. In some cases, dust allergies can exacerbate asthma or lead to other respiratory issues, such as sinus infections or chronic congestion.

For those with severe dust allergies, symptoms may worsen with increased exposure, and they may experience more intense reactions like wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness. These symptoms can interfere with daily activities, making it challenging to function normally. The severity of the allergy often depends on individual sensitivity to dust mites or other allergens in the environment. Even a small amount of dust can trigger a response, and symptoms may last longer than in individuals with less severe allergies.

At Physicians Now Urgent Care in Rockville, MD, we are dedicated to helping patients manage severe dust allergies with effective treatment plans. By offering comprehensive allergy testing, personalized care, and symptom management, we work with you to reduce exposure to dust allergens and alleviate symptoms. If you’re struggling with severe dust allergies, contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey to better respiratory health.

Dr. Chinedum Olisemeka, DO, is dedicated to providing personalized care for patients suffering from dust allergies. With his extensive experience and expertise, he takes the time to thoroughly assess each patient’s symptoms and medical history to create a customized treatment plan. Dr. Olisemeka uses the latest diagnostic tools to identify specific allergens, ensuring a precise and effective approach to treatment. Whether you’re dealing with mild symptoms or more severe reactions, his comprehensive care helps address both immediate discomfort and long-term management strategies.

Patients choose Dr. Olisemeka for his compassionate approach and commitment to patient well-being. He understands the impact that dust allergies can have on daily life and strives to offer relief through both medical treatments and lifestyle adjustments. By focusing on each individual’s unique needs, Dr. Olisemeka ensures that every patient receives the best care possible. If you’re struggling with dust allergies, trust Dr. Olisemeka at Physicians Now Urgent Care to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Contact us today for more information. Our urgent care is conveniently located at 15215 Shady Grove Rd., Suite 100, Rockville, MD 20850. We serve patients from Rockville MD, Travilah MD, Lone Oak MD, Colesville Park MD, Redland MD, Darnestown MD, Anscroft MD, and Wheaton-Glenmont MD.