Allergies to Duck Down

Duck down allergies are usually caused by dust rather than the feathers themselves.

People who suffer from severe allergies may feel like they are allergic to everything. One of the things that often triggers allergy attacks is duck down feathers. Bedding made from duck feathers often causes allergy sufferers to become stuffy and itchy. Knowing what causes these symptoms and how to prevent them will go a long way towards helping the allergic person sleep better at night.

Causes

According to American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI), duck down allergies are usually not caused by the duck feathers themselves. The feathers act as an allergy catalyst, because their airy shape and construction traps dust and dust mites. The presence of a high level of dust is usually what triggers the allergy attack. Few people are actually allergic to the down feathers themselves.

Types

There are two main allergic reactions to duck down feathers. The first reaction is known as conjunctivitis, which is noticed by watery, itchy and red eyes. Conjunctivitis is a hyper sensitivity to contaminants in the air. The second type of allergic reaction to duck down feathers is known as rhinitis. Rhinitis is a form of nasal allergy, and appears as a stuffy or runny nose.

Symptoms

Generally someone allergic to the dust inside down feathers will show the same or similar symptoms. Symptoms may include itchy and watery eyes or redness around the eyes. The person's nose may become stuffy, or it may even start to run. Sneezing is a possibility because of the stuffy nose which can get tickled. The body may try to eliminate the dust by sneezing.

Prevention/Solution

There are several ways to prevent allergies to duck feathers and the dust inside the feathers. Generally switching to a synthetic down, made from petroleum products, is enough to stop the symptoms. Purchasing a tighter weave of down bedding and fabrics may also help, according to Kohls.com. There are also dust and dust mite covers sold to protect allergy suffers from the presence of dust. These dust covers should be washed once a week in hot water to prevent contamination of dust.

Warning

According to AAAAI, dust covers for bedding may not be an effective barrier against dust allergies. It may be best to use alternative forms of bedding, such as latex or bedding made from synthetic materials to prevent symptoms. Washing bedding once a week in hot water will also help reduce allergy symptoms. Be aware that some people are also allergic to latex.

References

• AAAAI: Ocular Allergies
• AAAAI: Rhinitis Allergies
• Kohls: Down Bedding