It’s summer in New York. You’re ready to hit opera in the park, SummerStage, maybe even get out of the city for some beach time. Instead you’re in bed—again—with a sinus infection that just won’t seem to quit—again. All right, so you’ll cope with the watery eyes, facial pressure, and post-nasal drip. But the antibiotics don’t seem to be touching the problem, not really, and it gets worse when you go back to bed. Is it sinusitis or dust mites?
We hate to break it to you, but you might have a dust mite allergy.
Dust mites are microscopic insects, invisible to the human eye, that subsist primarily on the dead skin cells (or “dander”) of humans and pets. This dander tends to collect in places that people and pets sleep and lounge, and especially places that tend to stay warm and moist. Mattresses, sheets, carpets—all of these tend to be breeding grounds for dust mites.
Somewhere between 18 and 30% of the population is allergic to these mites, and the concentration of mites is high enough in up to 50% of households to cause reactions even in people who aren’t allergic. Dust mites can cause rhinitis, asthma attacks, and nasal polyps, and symptoms of a dust mite allergy can mimic sinusitis. Also, dust mites love the humidity, so they’re certainly doing well this summer!
The best way to protect yourself from dust mites is with a dust-mite impervious cover for your mattress. But, naturally, if your problem isn’t mites, this won’t help too much. If you’re feeling sick, stuffy, or drippy, give us a call today to talk about options for sinus surgery in NYC. A sinus doctor at NY Sinus Center can help get you back on your feet, and enjoying the summer sun.
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