The discussion revolves around managing dust mite allergies, with participants sharing personal experiences and strategies for alleviating symptoms. The scope includes practical advice on bedding, cleaning routines, and potential treatments.
Participants generally agree on the importance of using protective covers and maintaining cleanliness to manage dust mite allergies. However, there are differing opinions on the necessity of replacing mattresses and the effectiveness of various treatments, indicating that multiple competing views remain.
Some participants express uncertainty about the long-term effects of certain medications and the best practices for managing allergies, indicating a need for further exploration of these topics.
Individuals dealing with dust mite allergies, those seeking practical advice on allergy management, and anyone interested in personal experiences related to allergy treatments may find this discussion beneficial.
With regard to Benadryl (whose active ingrediant is diphenhydramine HCl), I've seen some studies linking it to Alzheimer's or dementia. This link (http://www.alz.org/professionals_and_researchers_behavioral_symptoms_pr.asp) contains the following information.lisab said:Yep, it's a big issue for me too. Here's what I suggest.
Assume the mattress you're using is a thriving ecosystem full of mites because if you haven't been using a mattress cover, it most certainly is. If you can afford it, get a new mattress.
Whether or not you can get a new mattress, you need to start using a mattress cover - one that will block mites. This is critical!
Wash your sheets weekly in hot water, if possible. Wash the mattress cover in hot water about once a month.
Get a new pillow every few months. They are very cheap at places like Target - think I paid $6 for my last one. Use a pillow cover - it's different from a pillow case (this is tough for me, I can't find one I really like, but you might have better luck).
I have to take antihistamines every night or I'll get hives. Generic Benadryl works great and it's cheap. Bonus: it makes you sleepy.
I don't know the full story on diphenhydramine as yet, but I'm trying to err on the cautious side until I know more.Physicians also recommend that individuals with dementia avoid over-the-counter sleep remedies. The active ingredient in many of these preparations is diphenhydramine (Benadryl®), an antihistamine that tends to make people feel drowsy. Diphenhydramine further suppresses the activity of one of the main brain cell messenger chemicals whose activity is reduced by Alzheimer’s disease.
Examples of over-the-counter sleep aids containing diphenhydramine that should be avoided include:
•Compoz®, Nytol®, Sominex® and Unisom®
•diphenhydramine is also an ingredient in many “nighttime” or “PM” versions of popular pain relievers and cold and sinus remedies (Mark44: such as Excedrin PM and others)