Several people exhibit allergic reactions not only with spring’s pollens and household dust but also with bird feathers and feather by-products. Down is a type of material derived from down feathers of certain bird species that is commonly used as an efficient insulator for comforters, quilts, pillows, beddings and other furniture.

Mechanism of the allergic reaction

Some bird species have very fine down feathers that would disintegrate emitting powder granules known as feather dust. The feather dust is incredibly lightweight and remains airborne. Once inhaled, this dust could start an allergic reaction to some sensitive people.

Down is one of the causes of allergic rhinitis, thus the symptoms of pollen, dust, and cockroach allergy are quite similar. But unlike pollens which are widespread every spring or summer season, the symptoms of feather/down allergy lingers all throughout the year. Sneezing is commonly experienced as the allergen causes irritation in the mucosal linings of the nose accompanied by an increased mucus production brought about by the release of histamine. Other symptoms include:

• rashes, and itchiness of the area in contact, especially the face (for feather pillows)
• postnasal drip
• itchy, red, watery eyes
• coughing
• difficulty of breathing

What your Doctor can do for you

Feather allergies may accompany other forms of allergies depending on the type of materials that you are using. Feather pillows can harbor dust mite and molds, thus it is very necessary to consult an allergist to determine the specific cause and possible prevention plans. The allergy is usually verified by a skin test and physical evaluation. Management focuses mostly with the symptoms. Antihistamines and nasal decongestants offer relief from nasal symptoms, and itchy eyes and skin. However, the best way to improve the allergy is the avoidance of the causative agent.

What you can do

Since we spend most of our time at home in the bedroom, we can consider this as the best place to “allergy-proof”.

• Because of their structure, down is most likely to poke out through holes of pillow cases sending off allergens in the air that susceptible people will most likely breathe. Hence, it’s best to avoid using furniture and equipment stuffed with feathers. There are plenty of alternatives such as allergy-proof encasing.
• Bust the dust. Avoid using feather dusters as they tend to spread the dust around. Instead, dust with a damp cloth or never dust by yourself at all.
• If you own birds, cleaning around the cage is a must to remove feather particles. Some feather dust might get caught in curtains and carpets, so it’s best to use a vacuum.
• Improve your ventilation by using an air filter to keep the air clean and dust free—always check and change them as necessary.

Ironically, for people who also have dust mite allergy, according to a recent study comparing synthetic, foam, and feather pillows, the type of pillow that causes lesser problems are made from feather. If you tend to have severe allergic reactions with both agents, consult your allergist for any alternatives.