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Storage Mites

Storage mites are common in stored food and household dust, causing allergic reactions and asthma symptoms. Reducing humidity, sealing food properly, and improving air filtration can help manage exposure.

🦠 What Are Storage Mites?
Storage mites are microscopic arthropods commonly found in stored grains, pet food, and household dust. These tiny creatures thrive in warm, humid environments and can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

🤔 Why Do I Have an Intolerance to Storage Mites?
Reactions to storage mites may be caused by inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion of mite particles.

• Allergic reactions – Storage mites produce proteins that can trigger sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
• Asthma triggers – Inhaled mite allergens may lead to wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing.
• Skin irritation – Direct contact with mite-infested surfaces may cause rashes or itching.
• Cross-reactivity – Those allergic to dust mites or mold may also react to storage mites.

🛠️ What Can I Do About It?
🧹 Keep storage areas dry – Use dehumidifiers to prevent mite infestations.
🌡️ Store food in airtight containers – Protects pet food, grains, and dry goods from mites.
🛏️ Wash bedding frequently – Use hot water to remove mites from sheets and blankets.
🌀 Vacuum with a HEPA filter – Reduces mite allergens in carpets and furniture.
👨‍⚕️ Consult an allergist – If experiencing severe respiratory symptoms or persistent reactions.

💊 Which Supplements Can Help with Sensitivities?
• Antihistamines – Help reduce sneezing, itching, and allergic responses.
• Nasal sprays – Saline or steroid sprays can ease congestion.
• Quercetin – A natural anti-inflammatory that may help with mite allergies.
• Probiotics – Support immune balance and may help with respiratory health.
• Omega-3 fatty acids – May reduce inflammation and allergic responses.

🌟 Why Might I React to Storage Mites but Not Other Allergens?
• High exposure in food storage – Mites thrive in grains, pet food, and old stored items.
• Airborne allergen particles – Mites spread easily in dust and humidity.
• Cross-reactivity – Sensitivity to dust mites or mold may worsen reactions to storage mites.
• Hidden presence – Unlike visible allergens, mites are microscopic and hard to detect.

📦 Common Exposure Sources
• Stored grains, flour, and pet food
• Pantries, barns, and damp storage areas
• Household dust in carpets and upholstery
• Contaminated animal bedding or feed
• Old books, fabric, and stored clothing

🍃 Alternatives (if tolerated)
• Freshly purchased grains and flour – Avoid long-term storage of food.
• Silica gel or moisture absorbers – Keep storage areas dry and mite-free.
• Hypoallergenic bedding and covers – Reduce mites in sleeping areas.
• HEPA air purifiers – Help filter airborne mite allergens.