Hi, dustmites/sleeping issues

[Elizabeth]

Hi, my name is Elizabeth and I've probably been allergic to dust mites and cats my entire life that caused me severe seasonal allergies (completely knocked out for a week, sick for at least another week). Around the age of 25 I decided to get myself an allergy test -- yes, of course I had allergies. I got about halfway through allergy shots when I lost my insurance a couple years ago and couldn't afford the shots anymore. I think they might have been helping -- at least I don't remember being this miserable. But on to my main problem.

I can't even begin to sleep without taking two or three Benedryl every night, I also take 24-hour Zyrtec twice a day, and I also use Astelin at bedtime. Since I started getting shots a few years ago I did everything the doctor told me -- mattress protector, pillow protector, no carpets, HEPA vacuum. The only thing I have not tried is an air purifier, which is next on my list. But since I have been doing all this and am still miserable, I decided to take off the mattress protector since it makes me sweat profusely and feels like sleeping in a ziplock bag. Well, I don't feel any worse, and at least now I'm physically comfortable.

Of course I still wake up irritated, can't sleep or stay asleep if I don't have my Benedryl. Only it seems like it's taking more Benedryl to do the same job. I'm going to try and see if I can get a better health plan that might cover physician/allergy visits and hopefully start my shots up again.

Anyways, I was just hoping there was someone else in the same situation. Anything that works that maybe I don't know about (I've been thinking about acupuncture). I would just really, really like to be able to sleep again without feeling miserable.

[AllergyGuy]

Elizabeth, I don't have the same issues as you, but I thought I'd jump in and say hello. I hope your symptoms subside.

[catlady]

Elizabeth, you could try a cotton mattress cover (no vinyl). They're woven tightly to keep mites out. You could also try saline lavage, wherein you rinse out your nose with saline solution to get rid of allergens. I saw both on allergycontrol.com. Before I paid an acupuncturist, I would go see my primary care doctor. And I would honestly be scared to take the dosages of antihistamines you're describing! A book I read recently (the Asthma Sourcebook by Francis V. Adams MD) said Benadryl can depress your breathing. I wish you the best and hope you feel better soon.

[JD Carson]

Hi Elizabeth,

We covered our bed and pillows with covers just like catlady was talking about. We got ours from the an allergy store in florida. They really helped and are comfortable and are drug free. We also got some stuff we add to the laundry when we do the sheets. Think it's called demite or nomite.

[Joe]

Good Evening,

My name is Joe and I just may have the answer to your problem. I was in the same boat you are in, 16 years ago. I could explain what could help but it would be easier to check out this web site. www.jdenvironmental.net

I have been in the business of Indoor Air Quality for 16 years and I am also a Certified Mold Inspector. I also took just about every pill on the market for my allergies plus I had HEPA filters in every room and still suffered.

Just to give you hope, I have not taken one pill in the last 16 years and have only been sick one time. My contact info is on the web site. Make sure to let me know that you are from this site when you call or contact me through an e mail.

All the best!

Joe

[panda]

Hi- We suffer from allergies here, too! We have encased the mattress, pillows and take allergy meds daily. You mentioned that you use a Hepa Vacuum - What do you use? I am looking into hepa filters, bags and possibly a new vacuum- maybe a Miele.
thanks

[AllergyGuy]

Miele, Nilfisk, Nikro, Goodway, make very good hepa vacuums. A lot of vacuum manufacturers state they sell hepa vacs because they have a hepa filter. But, quality vacuums have a good seal around the filter, pre-filter, and a motor that is designed to take the load.

I can tell you, if you have the ability to put in a central vac system in your home, I think it's the best solution. It allows you to place the vac in an area outside the living space (garage) and vent it outside.

[allerjulie]

Elizabeth,

You should definitely start by allergy-proofing your bedroom. The key to living with allergies is keeping your environment as clean as possible.

[SneezyKate]

I am in a very similar situation you are. I don't have any ideas, I can sympathise though. *hug*

I actually am going to try some of the ideas others posted here...thanks!

[BaileyT]

All of the above are very good ideas and can help, but you should really try to cut back on the pills, of course you're going to have to take more benedryl to do the same job, you are totally used to it now, that's how people get addicted to drugs, and even though it's otc they're all horrible and full of drugs! Have you checked into any homeopathic treatment options? All you and your doctors are doing is giving you all sorts of drugs and meds that aren't working, (maybe even making things worse!) look into natural treatment options and maybe consult and homeopathic or holistic doctor...Good luck and hopefully something helps!