Are Allergy Shots the Only Remedy for My Child's Reaction to Dust?

Home is intended to be a haven, but for children who are allergic to dust, it can be a source of discomfort. 

Children with dust allergies often have the most issues indoors at home or in someone else’s home. Dust allergy symptoms tend to worsen during or after vacuuming or sweeping. That’s because cleaning can stir up dust particles, making them easier to inhale.

Dust mites are the most common cause of dust allergies. These microscopic organisms are invisible to the naked eye. They feed on dead skin cells shed from people and pets as well as moisture in the air. 

Adults and children who are allergic to dust experience symptoms year-round. Dust mite allergies can cause asthma and eczema flare-ups as well.

If your child has dust allergies, various treatment options can help bring relief. While allergy shots may be an option, it isn’t the only choice. It’s wise to meet with allergy specialist Dr. Ulrike Ziegner of Riviera Allergy Medical Center here in Redondo Beach, California. 

After confirming a dust allergy, Dr. Ziegner recommends an individualized treatment strategy to help manage the allergies so your child feels better. 

Managing dust allergies

Dr. Ziegner works to find an effective solution for your child’s dust allergies. Here are some of the ways we approach managing dust allergies. 

Corticosteroids

Nasal steroids are available as a nasal spray. These medications can reduce inflammation and control dust allergy symptoms. Fluticasone (Flonase®), mometasone (Nasonex®), triamcinolone, and (Nasacort® Allergy 24HR) are among these medications.

Leukotriene modifiers

Leukotriene modifiers block certain immune system molecules. The leukotriene modifier montelukast (Singulair®), which comes in dissolvable tablet form, is available by prescription. 

Nasal irrigation

Nasal irrigation is beneficial for children with dust allergies. It involves irrigating the sinuses with a prepared saline solution. Irrigation can rinse away dust and other allergens, which may reduce their symptoms.

If you're making your own saline solution, use contaminant-free water that has been distilled or otherwise sterilized. 

Xolair

In some children, dust mites trigger asthma symptoms. If this is the cause, Dr. Ziegner may recommend trying Xolair® to help manage your child’s symptoms.

Xolair is a prescription injection she typically gives every 2-4 weeks. It binds to and blocks IgE in the bloodstream, which is an antibody the immune system produces in response to allergens.

Immunotherapy

Allergy shots are a form of immunotherapy that "trains" your immune system to react less to allergens like dust. 

Once- or twice-weekly shots expose your child to very small amounts of the allergen that is causing the reaction, in this case, dust mite proteins. 

The dose gradually increases over several months, and the immune system becomes less sensitive to dust mites. For 3-5 years, maintenance shots or pills are often required every four weeks.

Untreated allergies can have a significant impact on your child. From causing grumpiness to interfering with sleep, uncontrolled allergies can prevent your child from thriving. 

Rely on our expert allergy team to help you find the right treatment for your child’s dust allergy. Their well-being is our top priority. To get started, give our team a call to schedule a visit with Dr. Ziegner or book online.