Are There Bugs in My Pillow?

Statistics

• Dust mites and their droppings can account for as much as 10 percent of the weight of your pillow, according to Ohio State University Extension. Aside from being disgusting, this represents a potential allergy trigger if you're sensitive. Since dust mites can be as small as 250 microns in length, you can't see them and must look for signs of their presence.

Signs

• Allergy symptoms can indicate that you have dust mites living within your pillow. The Mayo Clinic lists nasal congestion, sneezing, watery eyes and cough among the signs of dust mites. You may notice these symptoms upon waking due to inhaling dust mite debris throughout the night. Since they often live on other items such as upholstered furniture, carpet, drapery and cloth toys, you may also experience symptoms after coming in contact with these surfaces.

Solutions

• You can totally remove dust mites from your home, according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. By changing your habits, though, you can make your home --- including your pillows --- a less comfortable place for them to live. Removing dust is a major part of reducing the dust mite population within your home. Dust using a damp cloth, mop frequently and vacuum with a machine that has a HEPA filter to trap mites. If possible, replace your carpet with a flooring such as hardwood. Wash your pillows and other bedding items every week in water that reaches at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Cover them with a dust-proof cover.

Other Possibilities

• If you find bites on your face and neck when you wake up, you may have another bug living in your bed. Mites and fleas are two possibilities since both types of bugs bite and commonly live in beds. See a doctor for a diagnosis of the bites.