Dust allergies are among the most common allergic disorders. Dust is made up of tiny particles that include pollen, mold, fabric fibers and dander. A person who is allergic to any of these allergens may experience symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose and itchy, watery eyes, when exposed to dust. Dust can also trigger symptoms in people with asthma.

Tiny organisms called dust mites are the source of many dust allergies. These eight-legged, microscopic creatures live in dust, and their feces are a powerful allergen for many people. Dust mites feed off the dead skin shed by people and can be major household irritants, particularly in bedrooms.

There are several steps that individuals can take to reduce their household exposure to dust and dust mites. However, those with moderate to severe allergies may need medications or allergy shots (immunotherapy) to keep symptoms at bay.