The reason is Dermatophagoides Farinae, or commonly known as dust mites - those tiny bugs that live in linen and pillowcases that feed on your dead skin. Dust mites are actually spiders and an average bed will contain about 100,000 to 10 million of them. 

Your bed is especially inviting to them. Dust mites love warm, humid places and since your bed is an all-you-can-eat buffet, they comfortably settle in and multiply.  Sadly for us, allergy to dust mites can make life miserable. Studies have linked dust mite allergy with seasonal allergy (hay fever). The constant exposure to dust mite might cause chronic inflammation, making sufferers more susceptible when pollen season comes around. 

What is Allergy?

The term allergy is used to describe a response within the body to a substance that is not necessarily harmful. This can lead to a reaction that causes symptoms (itching, wheezing, runny nose and headaches).  Allergy is very common and affects one in four of the population at some point in their lives. Half of those that are affected are children. 

Common allergen include; pollen from plants, house dust mites, moulds, pets, insects like bees and wasps, industrial and household chemicals, latex, medicines, and foods such as milk, eggs, nuts, and fruits. 

An allergic person's immune system sees allergens as a damaging substance and releases an antibody (IgE) to attack the substance. This in turn causes blood cells to release more chemicals (one of which is Histamine), leading to a full-blown allergy. 

What can be done about it?

A new mattress or pillow isn't the answer, since they already come with dust mites living in them. The solution is allergen proof encasement (zippered) made of vinyl or tightly woven fabric that won't allow dust mites or their faeces through. Once the encasement is securely on, there is no need to replace or wash it on a regular basis. Make sure that pillows, mattresses and the box spring are all covered. Washing bed sheets once a week in hot water (more than 55 degree C) is also important. 

Vacuum the entire house once a week to get rid of mites that might be in your carpet. Reducing the amount of carpeting might also be an option.  Allow plenty of ventilation, so open your windows; oxygen is good for you anyway. Remember dust mites prefer humid environments, therefore use air conditioners or dehumidifiers. When it’s too dry the mites shrivel and die. 

If you have pets keep their sleeping place far from your room and let them out of the house as much as possible. Mites can easily hitch a ride in your pet’s fur and feed on your pet’s dead skin as well.