Larry Magid: Smart dehumidifiers help control dust mites
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Larry Magid: Smart dehumidifiers help control dust mites
"Dust mites are microscopic spider-related creatures that feed on dead human skin cells and thrive in warm, humid settings. Dust mite allergies are primarily triggered by allergenic proteins found in the mites' fecal particles, which become airborne and are inhaled, causing nasal and respiratory symptoms."
"Dust mites thrive above 60 percent humidity, reproducing quickly and increasing allergen levels. Once humidity drops below 50 percent, reproduction slows. Below 45 percent, populations decline sharply, and sustained levels under 35 to 40 percent make survival difficult for them."
"Approximately 20 million people in the United States have a dust mite allergy. A 2023 study found that 5 to 30 percent of the general population show sensitivity on skin tests. People with asthma are far more likely to be affected."
Dust mites are microscopic creatures that feed on dead human skin cells and thrive in warm, humid environments. They trigger allergies through allergenic proteins in their fecal particles that become airborne and cause nasal and respiratory symptoms. Approximately 20 million Americans have dust mite allergies, with 5 to 30 percent of the general population showing sensitivity. Dust mites reproduce rapidly above 60 percent humidity, slow reproduction below 50 percent, and populations decline sharply below 45 percent. The American Lung Association recommends maintaining humidity below 50 percent, using allergen-proof covers, washing bedding weekly in hot water, and removing upholstered furniture and clutter where dust mites collect.
Read at The Mercury News
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