Is Your House Making You Sick?

Dust Mites

"Most people have dust mites," says Dr. Tierno. "They live off the skin cells that you slough off." The average person sloughs off a million and a half skin cells per hour doing ordinary things like turning over in bed. These creepy-crawly critters can lead to health issues including allergic reactions, dermatitis and respiratory problems.

The best way to ward off dust mites? Frequently vacuum textiles like your mattress, carpets and draperies. In extreme situations, a chemical called benzyl benzoate can be used to kill the dust mites.