Allergies
With nearly 80 degree weather here in Atlanta and everything in bloom, it seems like an excellent time to make sure you are set for this year's spring allergy season. One of the simpliest measures people take to protect themselves is wear an allergy mask.
Masks come in a variety of styles and sizes, and being such a personal item, it can be difficult to find the one that balances all your needs: filtration, breathability, aethestics, and price. Here at Achoo, we focus on filtration and breathability first, then comfort and price.
One big complaint about allergy masks is the look of them, but would you be willing to sacrifice some filtration for style? You may be familiar with some of the masks below, but browse our Andy Warhol-esque selection below and see which you would prefer.
Masks come in a variety of styles and sizes, and being such a personal item, it can be difficult to find the one that balances all your needs: filtration, breathability, aethestics, and price. Here at Achoo, we focus on filtration and breathability first, then comfort and price.
One big complaint about allergy masks is the look of them, but would you be willing to sacrifice some filtration for style? You may be familiar with some of the masks below, but browse our Andy Warhol-esque selection below and see which you would prefer.
- a. Vogmask (Microfiber) - Non-woven microfiber, 3-ply, that offers basic particle filtration, roughly equivalent to the Silk Mask.
- b. Vogmask (Organic Cotton) - Organic cotton, 2-ply, that offers slightly less filtration and the Vogmask microfiber.
- c. ICanBreathe Organic Cotton - This organic cotton face mask uses no latex, dyes, perfumes or plastics. The filtration is similar to the Silk Mask.
- d.Respro Techno - With the European equivalent of N95 filtration and activated carbon, the Techno filters chemicals, smoke and particles.
- e.Respro Aero/Allergy - Like the Techno, the Aero offers N95 equivalent filtration of particles with optional smoke/chemical filtration.
- f. ICanBreathe Silk - Very popular, the Silk is lightweight, easily stored and blocks medium to larger particles, like dust and many pollens, less than N95 filtration.
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The death of a first-grader in Richmond, Virginia highlights the possible unpreparedness of schools to deal with allergy emergencies.
Ammaria Johnson had a peanut allergy. While out at recess, she broke out in hives and began complaining of shortness of breath. Though she was taken to the school clinic, they had nothing they could give her and called 911. Sadly, she didn't make it.
Head of the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network Maria Acebal says of the incident, "When consequences can be life-threatening, then you've got to have schools prepared for an allergic reaction. It's very straightforward. There is no magic to this. It's just proper education, how to recognize it, and how to treat it."
Since 8 percent of American schoolchildren have food allergies, it seems imperative that schools have on-hand the life-saving equipment and medication to treat a food allergy attack. But as Shawn Smith, spokesman for the Chesterfield County school district points out, although there are extensive guidelines for treating students with severe allergies, the parents of the allergic children must provide prescribed medication to the schools, along with a form authorizing the school to administer it if an emergency arises.
In the absence of these, the nurse attempts to make contact with the family in time to obtain and give medication – an outcome that seems unlikely given the speed with which allergic anaphylaxis can cause death.
To me, this whole situation seems like a tragic, bureaucratic gap in addressing the severe consequences of an allergy attack. Yes, health officials must know how to recognize an allergy attack, but it seems like we have to find a way to allow schools to carry and administer epinephrine when an allergic attack is evident and death is imminent.
Ammaria Johnson had a peanut allergy. While out at recess, she broke out in hives and began complaining of shortness of breath. Though she was taken to the school clinic, they had nothing they could give her and called 911. Sadly, she didn't make it.
Head of the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network Maria Acebal says of the incident, "When consequences can be life-threatening, then you've got to have schools prepared for an allergic reaction. It's very straightforward. There is no magic to this. It's just proper education, how to recognize it, and how to treat it."
Since 8 percent of American schoolchildren have food allergies, it seems imperative that schools have on-hand the life-saving equipment and medication to treat a food allergy attack. But as Shawn Smith, spokesman for the Chesterfield County school district points out, although there are extensive guidelines for treating students with severe allergies, the parents of the allergic children must provide prescribed medication to the schools, along with a form authorizing the school to administer it if an emergency arises.
In the absence of these, the nurse attempts to make contact with the family in time to obtain and give medication – an outcome that seems unlikely given the speed with which allergic anaphylaxis can cause death.
To me, this whole situation seems like a tragic, bureaucratic gap in addressing the severe consequences of an allergy attack. Yes, health officials must know how to recognize an allergy attack, but it seems like we have to find a way to allow schools to carry and administer epinephrine when an allergic attack is evident and death is imminent.
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Today in our regular perusal of allergy-related news, we came across Five Surprising Health Hazards on FoxNews.com.In summary, the hazards highlighted were:
- Licorice can lead to heart attacks. The FDA recently came out with a warning that too much black licorice could lead to heart trouble in adults, especially older ones. These heart problems include arrhythmias, and are due to the glycyrrhizin in black licorice, which can cause the body's potassium levels to fall.
- Sugar substitutes can cause diarrhea. Sorbitol can lead to diarrhea and other gastrointestinal issues. Look for it especially in "dietetic" type candies.
- Eye injuries from thrown eggs. Shells from tossed-around eggs can cause blood in the front of the eye, scratches to the cornea, and retinal swelling. Eye injuries reported around Halloween time confirm that this danger is real, not an imagined paranoia.
- Lead contamination. Halloween-themed toys, from candy buckets to fake teeth, that are contaminated with lead can cause to children to ingest unsafe amounts of lead.
- Glow stick "poisoning." Increased incidents of children ingesting the liquid found in glow sticks occur around Halloween. Though the liquid is minimally toxic, poison control facilities should be contacted if this occurs.
Another truly frightening Halloween risk is to those who have food allergies. We wonder if this danger didn't make this list because it's a "known" risk or because, as we fear, lack of awareness of the dangers of food allergies is still the norm. What do you think?
For more on Halloween and allergies, see:
Halloween Asthma Triggers
Food Allergies and Halloween: Staying Safe
Helping Food Allergic Kids Feel "Normal"
Turns out that those who think every allergy season is the worst one ever may actually be right, as explained in CNN.com's Why your allergies are bugging you.
The reason for worsening allergy seasons is two-fold: There's more pollen and it's sticking around for longer. As Estelle Levetin, Ph.D., chairwoman of the aerobiology committee for the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology puts it: "Pollen levels are increasing, pollen seasons are getting longer, and more people are developing allergies."
This year's fall allergies are estimated to last up to 27 days longer than average in some parts of the country.
Here is a summary of the reasons behind these more potent and longer-lasting allergy seasons, which occur both in the spring and the fall:
The reason for worsening allergy seasons is two-fold: There's more pollen and it's sticking around for longer. As Estelle Levetin, Ph.D., chairwoman of the aerobiology committee for the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology puts it: "Pollen levels are increasing, pollen seasons are getting longer, and more people are developing allergies."
This year's fall allergies are estimated to last up to 27 days longer than average in some parts of the country.
Here is a summary of the reasons behind these more potent and longer-lasting allergy seasons, which occur both in the spring and the fall:
- "Spring allergies now start sooner and fall allergies end later, thanks to global warming," says Jeffrey G. Demain, M.D., director of the Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Center of Alaska.
- Carbon-based fuels trap heat over the earth's surface, causing temperatures to rise. This heat prompts an early spring, and delays the first frost – making both seasons longer.
- Increased temperature also heighten the allergenic property of each pollen grain. "There's more allergen now in each grain than there used to be," Demain says.
- Higher temperatures also contribute to more prolific mold, another fall allergy trigger.
My family will be attending a conference in Jacksonville over this Labor Day weekend and staying at the Hyatt Regency there. While looking at the Hyatt website, I came across their offering of hypoallergenic rooms.
Keeping allergen exposure to a minimum while travelling is a problem many allergy sufferers face. Bringing items like portable air purifiers and even your own allergy bedding can help control allergies while staying in a hotel, but these options are not always convenient. An allergy-free room, maintained by the hotel you're staying in, seems like an excellent alternative.
So just what makes these rooms hypoallergenic? According to Hyatt, Respire by Hyatt rooms undergo "an additional six-step process to reduce airborne particles and minimize the presence of potential irritants." These six steps include a one-time shock treatment to minimize irritants, complete disinfection of the air handling unit with application of tea tree oil, hypoallergenic mattress and pillow covers, a medical grade air purifier, vacuuming with units that have "special filters that trap pollen and dust mites," deep cleaning and disinfection of room surfaces to remove allergy triggers, and every surface treated with an application to eliminate bacteria growth.
This all may sound great – and it might be – but we did have a few question marks. Mainly, we wondered about the use of tea tree oil as well as what is being used to disinfect and treat the room surfaces. Of course, minimizing allergens is a plus for allergy and asthma sufferers, but sometimes the "cure" can cause additional problems. For instance, using bleach to deal with mold could trigger respiratory reactions due to noxious fumes.
An article in News4Jax.com, Jax Hotel Offers Allergy-Free Rooms: Hyatt Regency Uses Special Pillowcases, Air Filters, Vacuum Cleaners helps clarify this matter, however, by specifying that the cleaning products used are chemical- and fragrance-free.
But a statement by sales and marketing representative Casper van Eldik Thieme made us wonder about how consistent the effects of these allergy relief efforts are. He describes: "We do this every six months. We go through the whole process and make sure it's clean for the guests. When they are staying here, they know that this room is as fresh and as clean as it was six months ago." Knowing how important it is to maintain a clean environment weekly, even daily, we cringed at the mention of "six months."
The best way to know whether these rooms work is experience. Has anyone stayed in a hypoallergenic or allergy friendly hotel room?
Keeping allergen exposure to a minimum while travelling is a problem many allergy sufferers face. Bringing items like portable air purifiers and even your own allergy bedding can help control allergies while staying in a hotel, but these options are not always convenient. An allergy-free room, maintained by the hotel you're staying in, seems like an excellent alternative.
So just what makes these rooms hypoallergenic? According to Hyatt, Respire by Hyatt rooms undergo "an additional six-step process to reduce airborne particles and minimize the presence of potential irritants." These six steps include a one-time shock treatment to minimize irritants, complete disinfection of the air handling unit with application of tea tree oil, hypoallergenic mattress and pillow covers, a medical grade air purifier, vacuuming with units that have "special filters that trap pollen and dust mites," deep cleaning and disinfection of room surfaces to remove allergy triggers, and every surface treated with an application to eliminate bacteria growth.
This all may sound great – and it might be – but we did have a few question marks. Mainly, we wondered about the use of tea tree oil as well as what is being used to disinfect and treat the room surfaces. Of course, minimizing allergens is a plus for allergy and asthma sufferers, but sometimes the "cure" can cause additional problems. For instance, using bleach to deal with mold could trigger respiratory reactions due to noxious fumes.
An article in News4Jax.com, Jax Hotel Offers Allergy-Free Rooms: Hyatt Regency Uses Special Pillowcases, Air Filters, Vacuum Cleaners helps clarify this matter, however, by specifying that the cleaning products used are chemical- and fragrance-free.
But a statement by sales and marketing representative Casper van Eldik Thieme made us wonder about how consistent the effects of these allergy relief efforts are. He describes: "We do this every six months. We go through the whole process and make sure it's clean for the guests. When they are staying here, they know that this room is as fresh and as clean as it was six months ago." Knowing how important it is to maintain a clean environment weekly, even daily, we cringed at the mention of "six months."
The best way to know whether these rooms work is experience. Has anyone stayed in a hypoallergenic or allergy friendly hotel room?
A question posed in the NYTimes.com Science section highlights the fact that those with food allergies must be on the alert at all times – even in situations that don't involve food.
The question is as follows:
"When I observe student teachers in a school auto shop, there is almost always an engine retrofitted to run on biofuels like used peanut oil. Is it safe for students with a severe peanut allergy to be around it or work on it?"
Fortunately, according to Dr. William Reisacher, ear, nose, and throat specialist and director of the Allergy Center at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell hospital, "The processing of the fuel minimizes or eliminates such a risk." Typical peanut oil used for cooking has all of the peanut protein – the allergenic part of the peanut – filtered out.
However, Dr. Reisacher warns that peanut allergic individuals must be wary of "products that are labeled as organic, cold-pressed, expelled or extruded" because they "may still have enough protein present to cause an allergic reaction in a person who is peanut-allergic."
Back to biofuel, Dr. Reisacher further adds that though passing through an internal combustion engine would most likely degrade any traces of peanut protein that might be present after processing, wearing a barrier mask or respirator would "add an extra layer of safety."
We'd of course recommend the extra layer of safety…
The question is as follows:
"When I observe student teachers in a school auto shop, there is almost always an engine retrofitted to run on biofuels like used peanut oil. Is it safe for students with a severe peanut allergy to be around it or work on it?"
Fortunately, according to Dr. William Reisacher, ear, nose, and throat specialist and director of the Allergy Center at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell hospital, "The processing of the fuel minimizes or eliminates such a risk." Typical peanut oil used for cooking has all of the peanut protein – the allergenic part of the peanut – filtered out.
However, Dr. Reisacher warns that peanut allergic individuals must be wary of "products that are labeled as organic, cold-pressed, expelled or extruded" because they "may still have enough protein present to cause an allergic reaction in a person who is peanut-allergic."
Back to biofuel, Dr. Reisacher further adds that though passing through an internal combustion engine would most likely degrade any traces of peanut protein that might be present after processing, wearing a barrier mask or respirator would "add an extra layer of safety."
We'd of course recommend the extra layer of safety…
The Bay Area Allergy Advisory Board was born of one woman's desire to help her food allergic daughter be safe yet still feel included in typical childhood activities, reports CNN in Making Food-Allergic Kids Feel Included.
Concerned that her peanut and tree nut-allergic daughter, Charlotte, would be exposed to these foods during typical Halloween trick-or-treating, Mireille Schwartz set up a clear wedding tent on their street and hosted a nut-free Halloween party there. That night she lay awake considering other kids' Halloweens decided to do something to help them. She thought, "There had to be a way to keep children safe, and not just safe but enjoying and living vibrant and full lives."
Now the Bay Area Allergy Advisory Board performs services such as matching people who have food allergies to doctors who can provide diagnoses and treatments. The organization even covers costs for these medical expenses and also offers tips for how to both buy and prepare allergy-free foods in a budget-conscious way.
Indeed, caring for food allergic children can require ample amounts of time and money, especially if more than one child has allergies, and even more so if multiple allergies are at play. Many parents take it upon themselves to ensure their children's safety at school functions or other group activities, starting from preschool age. They may attend these activities with them and often cook for class parties to make sure that their children aren't accidentally exposed to allergenic foods.
And the cost of these allergy-free foods is often twice as much as their possibly cross-contaminated counterparts. Add to this the cost of emergency treatment and lost wages – not to mention the emotional toll of anxiety experienced by these families. With such heavy costs incurred by food allergic families, the support provided by agencies like the Bay Area Allergy Advisory Board is a welcome relief.
Concerned that her peanut and tree nut-allergic daughter, Charlotte, would be exposed to these foods during typical Halloween trick-or-treating, Mireille Schwartz set up a clear wedding tent on their street and hosted a nut-free Halloween party there. That night she lay awake considering other kids' Halloweens decided to do something to help them. She thought, "There had to be a way to keep children safe, and not just safe but enjoying and living vibrant and full lives."
Now the Bay Area Allergy Advisory Board performs services such as matching people who have food allergies to doctors who can provide diagnoses and treatments. The organization even covers costs for these medical expenses and also offers tips for how to both buy and prepare allergy-free foods in a budget-conscious way.
Indeed, caring for food allergic children can require ample amounts of time and money, especially if more than one child has allergies, and even more so if multiple allergies are at play. Many parents take it upon themselves to ensure their children's safety at school functions or other group activities, starting from preschool age. They may attend these activities with them and often cook for class parties to make sure that their children aren't accidentally exposed to allergenic foods.
And the cost of these allergy-free foods is often twice as much as their possibly cross-contaminated counterparts. Add to this the cost of emergency treatment and lost wages – not to mention the emotional toll of anxiety experienced by these families. With such heavy costs incurred by food allergic families, the support provided by agencies like the Bay Area Allergy Advisory Board is a welcome relief.
Pet ownership can be one of the most emotionally difficult issues an allergy sufferer has to confront – especially when trying to implement an allergen avoidance routine. For a while the notion of the hypoallergenic or allergy-free dog seemed to provide the perfect solution for allergic individuals who couldn't give up Fido.
But a new study has shot holes in this concept, as NY Times article The Myth of the Allergy-Free Dog elucidates: "The study found that the quantities of dog allergens in homes with supposedly hypoallergenic breeds are no different from those in homes with dogs widely considered non-hypoallergenic."
Scientists are not even sure where the concept of a low-allergy dog originated. It's likely that the myth began with lists of dogs who shed less than others. The American Kennel Club even went so far as to suggest eleven "hypoallergenic canine candidates," including poodles, soft-coated wheaten terriers, schnauzers, and the Portuguese water dog.
It's possible that some dogs shed less fur and therefore leave less dander around allergic individuals' households – but the difference is hardly enough to make a difference in the amount or severity of allergy sufferers' symptoms. In addition, while previous studies have found that amounts of dander vary by individual animal, they do not show consistent variation by breed; in other words, no breeds consistently have less dander than another.
This study is the first to take a look at the actual dispersal of allergens in the home. The sample studied was scientifically selected to be representative of the nation. Results showed no significant difference in levels of dog allergen between "regular" breeds and those thought of as allergy friendly dogs.
The upshot seems to be that if you do end up with a dog that produces less dander – you're lucky. Implementing other measures to reduce exposure to pet dander are your best bet if allergy sufferers and pets share the same space. Allergy relief bedding, air purifiers, avoiding upholstered furniture, vacuuming frequently, and keeping pets out of the bedroom will drastically reduce exposure to pet dander and can help you breathe much better, even with your furry friends.
But a new study has shot holes in this concept, as NY Times article The Myth of the Allergy-Free Dog elucidates: "The study found that the quantities of dog allergens in homes with supposedly hypoallergenic breeds are no different from those in homes with dogs widely considered non-hypoallergenic."
Scientists are not even sure where the concept of a low-allergy dog originated. It's likely that the myth began with lists of dogs who shed less than others. The American Kennel Club even went so far as to suggest eleven "hypoallergenic canine candidates," including poodles, soft-coated wheaten terriers, schnauzers, and the Portuguese water dog.
It's possible that some dogs shed less fur and therefore leave less dander around allergic individuals' households – but the difference is hardly enough to make a difference in the amount or severity of allergy sufferers' symptoms. In addition, while previous studies have found that amounts of dander vary by individual animal, they do not show consistent variation by breed; in other words, no breeds consistently have less dander than another.
This study is the first to take a look at the actual dispersal of allergens in the home. The sample studied was scientifically selected to be representative of the nation. Results showed no significant difference in levels of dog allergen between "regular" breeds and those thought of as allergy friendly dogs.
The upshot seems to be that if you do end up with a dog that produces less dander – you're lucky. Implementing other measures to reduce exposure to pet dander are your best bet if allergy sufferers and pets share the same space. Allergy relief bedding, air purifiers, avoiding upholstered furniture, vacuuming frequently, and keeping pets out of the bedroom will drastically reduce exposure to pet dander and can help you breathe much better, even with your furry friends.
When it comes to eye allergies, the misery of spring allergies can hit those who wear contact lenses especially hard, Medical News Today reports."
Eye allergy symptoms include itchy and watery eyes, which accompany other allergy symptoms like sneezing, coughing, itchy throats. "According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), eye allergies, also called 'allergic conjunctivitis,' are a reaction to indoor and outdoor allergens - pollen, mold, dust mites and pet dander - that get in the eyes and cause inflammation of the tissue that lines the inner eyelid."
Those with contacts have the added problem of their contacts becoming difficult to wear when spring allergies hit. In fact, contact lens wearers experience increased symptoms, mainly due to extended wear time and infrequent lens replacement. To make the spring season more comfortable, staff optometrist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, W. Lee Ball, O.D. recommends:
• Talking to your optometrist about altering your contact cleaning method.
• Possibly switching to single-use contact lenses.
• Reducing lens-wearing time by switching to glasses for part of the day.
• Using eye drops as prescribed by your optometrist.
Another thing to keep in mind if you have spring allergies and wear contacts is that antihistamines may actually make eye allergies worse by reducing tear quality and quantity. Again, talk to your optometrist about solutions like eye drops.
To help prevent eye allergy flare-ups during spring allergy season, follow these additional tips from the AOA:
• Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes.
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
• Wash bed linens and pillowcases in hot water and detergent to reduce allergens.
• Avoid sharing eye makeup. If possible, reduce eye makeup wear entirely.
• Never share contact lenses or contact cases with anyone else.
See also, Eye Allergies and the Naso-Ocular Reflex.
Eye allergy symptoms include itchy and watery eyes, which accompany other allergy symptoms like sneezing, coughing, itchy throats. "According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), eye allergies, also called 'allergic conjunctivitis,' are a reaction to indoor and outdoor allergens - pollen, mold, dust mites and pet dander - that get in the eyes and cause inflammation of the tissue that lines the inner eyelid."
Those with contacts have the added problem of their contacts becoming difficult to wear when spring allergies hit. In fact, contact lens wearers experience increased symptoms, mainly due to extended wear time and infrequent lens replacement. To make the spring season more comfortable, staff optometrist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, W. Lee Ball, O.D. recommends:
• Talking to your optometrist about altering your contact cleaning method.
• Possibly switching to single-use contact lenses.
• Reducing lens-wearing time by switching to glasses for part of the day.
• Using eye drops as prescribed by your optometrist.
Another thing to keep in mind if you have spring allergies and wear contacts is that antihistamines may actually make eye allergies worse by reducing tear quality and quantity. Again, talk to your optometrist about solutions like eye drops.
To help prevent eye allergy flare-ups during spring allergy season, follow these additional tips from the AOA:
• Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes.
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
• Wash bed linens and pillowcases in hot water and detergent to reduce allergens.
• Avoid sharing eye makeup. If possible, reduce eye makeup wear entirely.
• Never share contact lenses or contact cases with anyone else.
See also, Eye Allergies and the Naso-Ocular Reflex.
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Today's hidden allergen spotlight turns on the shower curtain, which can cause problems for allergy sufferers in a couple of ways: through off-gassing, and through the possible presence of mold. Firstly, consider vinyl shower curtains, those clear plastic ones that are probably the most common and probably most often the cheapest kind of shower curtain you can buy. Even if it's not decorative, many people use a clear shower curtain as a liner to keep water from getting on decorative shower curtains. But have you ever noticed the "new plastic" smell when you open up the shower curtain package?
That's off-gassing, and it could trigger multiple chemical sensitivity symptoms, such as headaches, nausea, and vomiting, as well as set off allergies or asthma – most likely without you ever knowing the source. And this off-gassing smell can linger long after the shower curtain is new. In addition, even when the smell is gone, off-gassing continues, polluting your indoor air.
Read more about the dangers of PVC shower curtains in Volatile Vinyl: The New Shower Curtain's Chemical Smell.
At our house, we opt for fabric shower curtain liners, which I honestly like much better – for reasons in addition to the fact that they don't off-gas. For one thing, I think they look nicer. In addition, they are so much easier to wash. You know the soap scum that can build up on clear shower curtains? Almost impossible to get rid of!
I love that I can just toss a fabric shower curtain liner in the wash when I wash my decorative shower curtain. This not only washes away dust that may cling to the fabric, but also takes care of any mold that may begin to grow, not to mention the (invisible-anyway) soap scum. I usually add about half a cup of white vinegar to my shower curtain load of laundry to help disinfect and kill any existing mold naturally and safely.
This is one way I keep allergens at bay and try to keep my home's indoor air – and my family's breathing zone – healthy.
Image courtesy of textbookofbacteriology.com.
We recently had a mother write to us for advice and help with food allergy questions. Recently, she found out that her 3 year-old is allergic to dairy protein (specifically Casein) and nuts. One problem is that milk and cheese are staples of his diet. Also, it is a vegetarian family, so these foods were an important source of protein.
She needs some advice on how to get around offering him dairy products, while meeting nutritional requirements and maintaining the boy’s interest in eating. She has tried rice milk, almond milk, and coconut milk without much success. The parents were advised against using soy milk and other soy products due to estrogen content.
Does anyone have a similar situation? Can you share your experiences with what foods you offer your child that might work? How did you explain to your child why they can’t have regular milk, ice cream, and cheese? Any words of wisdom or advice would be helpful and appreciated. Thanks in advance for your comments and posts.
She needs some advice on how to get around offering him dairy products, while meeting nutritional requirements and maintaining the boy’s interest in eating. She has tried rice milk, almond milk, and coconut milk without much success. The parents were advised against using soy milk and other soy products due to estrogen content.
Does anyone have a similar situation? Can you share your experiences with what foods you offer your child that might work? How did you explain to your child why they can’t have regular milk, ice cream, and cheese? Any words of wisdom or advice would be helpful and appreciated. Thanks in advance for your comments and posts.
It's nearly impossible not to notice that today is Valentine's Day. And with a nod to the occasion that brings so much pink and red and hearts and chocolate our way, it's also a good time to reflect a little on how romance is affected by those with allergies. Truly a condition that affects quality of life in many aspects, allergies of all kinds can impact relationships in the following ways: • Pet allergies can make it miserable to spend time at the home of a significant other. AchooAllergy.com founder Cade McDonald experienced this very thing when he was dating his now wife, who had a cat.
Solutions to this problem include secluding the pet in one room of the home (but not the bedroom!) and keeping the rest of the house extra clean with regular use of a HEPA vacuum cleaner. In addition, for the pet dander that will end up in the house no matter what precautions are taken, an air purifier goes a long way to clear the air of these allergens.
• Sleep disturbed by allergies can have a huge impact on a relationship. Not only is your partner likely to be woken up when you are by fitful sleep, but the lack of sleep can affect mood and therefore behavior and interactions. An air purifier in the bedroom and allergy relief bedding can drastically reduce nighttime allergies and help you and your loved one get the sleep you both need.
• Food allergies are also a major concern for those in relationships with allergic individuals. Taking a food allergic loved one or person of interest on a dinner date could actually be dangerous. If you have food allergies, be sure to be very open and communicative about your allergies; if you are dating someone with food allergies, make sure the lines of communication are open, and always risk too much caution rather than not enough when making decisions about where and what to eat.
And kissing can really be a matter of life and death when combined with food allergies. Read more at When Is a Kiss More than Just a Kiss? Dating with Food Allergies for more information.
• We all want to smell sweet for our honeys, but think twice before spritzing on the perfume if you're going out with someone who has allergies or asthma. And this goes for guys and cologne too! Strong scents, especially synthetic ones, can trigger itchy eyes, runny noses, sneezes, and even asthma attacks in sensitive individuals – and there's nothing less romantic than a a runny nose or a trip to the emergency room. Also keep in mind fragranced aftershave, hairspray, and other beauty products. Contact with sensitive skin can cause eczema, even if the fragrance doesn't cause a problem.
Living with allergies requires education and constant precaution if individuals want to minimize attacks. Loving someone with allergies involves doing this alongside them.
Around this time of year, most of us here in the U.S. don’t give much thought to pollen. For much of the country, trees are dormant and most of the pollinating plants are dead. In certain parts of the country, particularly south Texas and other parts of the Southwest, December is the peak month for juniper (cedar) pollen.
Junipers are dioecious trees, which means they have both male and female trees. During late summer and fall small green conelets will begin to form on each, and after about two to three months these conelets mature. The male trees will release grains of pollen that range in size from about 20 to 30 microns, smaller than pine pollen and easily small enough to become airborne, wreaking havoc for allergy sufferers miles and miles away. Because there are several species of junipers that release pollen at different times throughout the Southwest, the pollen season for these trees can start as early as December and last as late as April.
So for allergy sufferers the winter months can mean not only spending the holidays with family and friends but also dealing with allergic rhinitis. Symptoms are very similar to that of other pollens and can include itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing, nasal blockage, headaches, sore throat and even partial loss of sense of smell. Other related conditions can include loss of sleep, poor concentration, irritability and fatigue. Due to high toxicity, juniper pollens have the tendency to cause severe reactions in those affected.
As with most pollen allergies, one of the best ways to limit reactions is to reduce your exposure. Keeping the doors and windows closed as well as regular replacement of HVAC filters can help keep the pollen out of their inside your home. Regular dusting and vacuuming with a HEPA vacuum cleaner can also help reduce pollen in your home.
If you going out and about, the pollen count is generally heaviest from early to late morning, so if possible try to arrange to be out after noon. This isn’t a possibility for many of us, but even at its heaviest you can greatly reduce your exposure with the use of a good allergy mask. In particular, you want to look for masks that seal well around the face and provide at least N95 (or equivalent) filtration. This means the mask, when properly fitted, will filter out 95% of particle allergens 0.3 microns or larger. For the best filtration, look for N100 or P100 masks. These types of face masks provide full HEPA filtration (99.97% for particles 0.3 microns or larger).
While juniper pollen can be very harmful to those who are sensitive or allergic, there are always a few simple steps that you can take to reduce your exposure and help make the New Year an allergy free one!
At AchooAllergy.com, we frequently discuss the concept of total allergen load. Basically, the theory suggests that once a certain threshold of allergen exposure and other factors is reached (and this is different for various individuals), symptoms appear. A recent article in Medical News Today confirms this theory.
The study, published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, talks about how hay fever during ragweed season is "more miserable for those with dog, cat, or dust mite allergies." This is because year-round allergies "pre-prime" the immune system to react during seasonal allergies. This causes symptoms to hit harder.
Researchers set out to discover why some people with hay fever react more than others when ragweed season begins. Lead author of the study, allergist Anne K. Ellis, MD explains, "People with hay fever react differently when ragweed allergy season arrives. Some start sneezing right away, and others don't, so we wanted to determine what makes certain people develop symptoms more quickly."
The outcome, fully in line with the idea of total allergen load, was, as Dr. Ellis put it: "On average, those who tested positive for cat, dog or dust mite allergies developed symptoms either faster than, or to a greater degree than those who tested negative for those allergies."
This underscores the need for environmental control measures when it comes to allergies and where our products can be most beneficial to allergy and asthma sufferers.
The study, published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, talks about how hay fever during ragweed season is "more miserable for those with dog, cat, or dust mite allergies." This is because year-round allergies "pre-prime" the immune system to react during seasonal allergies. This causes symptoms to hit harder.
Researchers set out to discover why some people with hay fever react more than others when ragweed season begins. Lead author of the study, allergist Anne K. Ellis, MD explains, "People with hay fever react differently when ragweed allergy season arrives. Some start sneezing right away, and others don't, so we wanted to determine what makes certain people develop symptoms more quickly."
The outcome, fully in line with the idea of total allergen load, was, as Dr. Ellis put it: "On average, those who tested positive for cat, dog or dust mite allergies developed symptoms either faster than, or to a greater degree than those who tested negative for those allergies."
This underscores the need for environmental control measures when it comes to allergies and where our products can be most beneficial to allergy and asthma sufferers.
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In Summer Means Barbecues, Picnics and Food Allergies, Medical News Today highlights ways to protect against food allergies while enjoying summer get-togethers. More than 12 million americans suffer from food allergies, the severity of which ranges from irritating, itchy skin rashes to severe, life-threatening anaphylactic reactions.
Allergist James Sublett, MD says, "Food allergies are serious, but with a little preparation, you can still enjoy summer parties. An allergist can help you identify the foods that are causing your symptoms and create a plan to steer clear of problems."
The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) offers the following tips for keeping food allergies at bay during summertime picnics and other festivities:
- Use condiment packs. Large containers can lead to cross-contamination with allergenic foods.
- Pack food separately. Be sure to pack allergenic and non-allergenic foods in separate containers to prevent cross-contamination.
- Use a tablecloth. A tablecloth prevents you and your guests from coming into contact with possibly allergenic foods that were left by previous diners - and it dresses up your gathering too!
- Use separate serving utensils for each food item. Again, this prevents cross-contamination between dishes.
- CARRY MEDICATIONS. Be sure to have an Epipen on hand in case anyone experiences an allergic reaction. A Protectube, Ana-Tote, or Ana-Tote Twin keeps emergency medication protected and handy.
- Serve allergic guests first.Grill the least allergenic foods first, as this will prevent cross-contamination.
- Check cell phone coverage. Make sure you have a way to reach emergency medical services in case somone has a severe allergic reaction
A CNN Health feature 'Summer Colds' May Not Be Just That highlights a condition many of us experience as spring temperatures yield to summer's less forgiving ones. Cold viruses exist all year round, but they are much more common in colder months. A true cold has symptoms lasting up to ten days that include congestion, itchy eyes, scratchy throat, and watery eyes. However, what many consider a cold is actually allergies.
Summer allergies are most likely due to grass and tree pollens and outdoor mold. Doctors say that this spring was particularly bad for allergies, but that pollen counts are subsiding. Dr. Peter Greenspan, a pediatrician at Mass General Hospital for Children in Boston says, "If you tend to get those same symptoms every year around the same time, allergy is the probable cause."
There isn't any kind of short-term cure for allergies or for colds. Both go away, either on their own in the case of colds, or when the offending pollens diminish as the season progresses. To relieve symptoms (for adults), Dr. Alexander Chiu, associate professor of otorhinolaryngology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in Philadelphia recommends saline irrigations through the nose – such as the neti pot – nasal steroid sprays or antihistamines.
Temperature shifts from going between air conditioned indoors and the hot outdoors may also cause the sniffles in sensitive individuals. "But such temperature shifts do not promote cold viruses, so don't blame the air conditioning," Greenspan says. "For allergy sufferers, air conditioning may help alleviate symptoms."
For more on these topics, see Keeping Pollen Exposure to a Minimum and Portable Air Conditioners Help Control Allergies.
As my husband was doing some yard work last week, he came across a couple of yellow jacket nests in our yard. Thankfully, he only got stung once and was subsequently able to safely destroy the nests, but the experience reminded me that summer is a good time to cover some insect allergy information.Don't think that if you are stung once and you're okay, that you're not allergic to insect stings. As the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) explains, "If you are insect-allergic, after the first sting, your body produces antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE). If stung again by the same kind of insect, the venom interacts with this specific IgE antibody, triggering the release of substances that cause an allergic reaction."
Here are some tips from AAAAI about Stinging Insect Allergy:
- Prevent stings by having nests destroyed. If you notice that stinging insects are nearby, remain calm, move away slowly, and avoid wearing brightly colored clothing or scented lotions and perfumes. Also, avoid open-toed shoes and loose-fitting clothing in which insects can become trapped. When cooking outdoors, keep food covered until it will be eaten and clean up spills, so they don't attract the insects later.
- Treat stings by removing the stinger within 30 seconds. Scrape your fingernail across the stung area to remove the stinger and sac. Don't squeeze the area. This will force more venom into your body. To treat local reactions to the sting, raise the affected limb, and apply a cold compress; gently clean the area with soap and water; don't break any blisters that form; apply topical steroid ointments, or take oral anti-histamines to relieve itching; if swelling persists, contact your doctor.
- Always carry an EpiPen if you are allergic. Remember to check expiration dates. Also, remember that epinephrine is a rescue medication only and if you are allergic, you will still need someone to take you to the emergency room.
- Symptoms of an allergic reaction include two or more of the following: itching and hives, swelling in the throat or tongue, difficulty breathing, dizziness, stomach cramps, nausea or diarrhea. If you experience these symptoms, have someone take you to the emergency room immediately.
Medical News Today reports that researchers from SA Pathology and the Children's Research Centre at the University of Adelaide have made a huge breakthrough in the field of allergy testing: a simple blood test that can predict whether newborn babies are at high risk of developing allergies as they grow older.
Immunologist Professor Ferrante, who touts the finding as the "most significant breakthrough in allergy testing for some decades" says, "A protein in the immune cells of newborns appears to hold the answer as to whether a baby will either be protected, or susceptible to the development of allergies later on." Specifically, the protein kinase C zeta is much lower in children at risk of allergies.
The blood test is much more effective than previous indicators of whether a child will develop allergies, such as family history or measuring the antibody IgE. Knowing if newborns are at risk can help parents get a jump start in both keeping the allergies from developing, when possible, and taking measures to reduce allergen exposure.
Along these lines, the researchers are also investigating whether fish oil supplements given to both pregnant women and those who have just given birth can reduce the risks of children developing allergies. Professor Ferrante comments, "There is evidence that the levels of this important protein increase with fish oil supplementation to protect against allergy development."
Immunologist Professor Ferrante, who touts the finding as the "most significant breakthrough in allergy testing for some decades" says, "A protein in the immune cells of newborns appears to hold the answer as to whether a baby will either be protected, or susceptible to the development of allergies later on." Specifically, the protein kinase C zeta is much lower in children at risk of allergies.
The blood test is much more effective than previous indicators of whether a child will develop allergies, such as family history or measuring the antibody IgE. Knowing if newborns are at risk can help parents get a jump start in both keeping the allergies from developing, when possible, and taking measures to reduce allergen exposure.
Along these lines, the researchers are also investigating whether fish oil supplements given to both pregnant women and those who have just given birth can reduce the risks of children developing allergies. Professor Ferrante comments, "There is evidence that the levels of this important protein increase with fish oil supplementation to protect against allergy development."
Olive oil, rich in history and used for a variety of purposes both internally and externally, has long been hailed for its health benefits. Through recent experience with using natural oils as personal care products, I began to realize that they may be optimal choices for allergy sufferers with sensitive skin. I have recently done some reading on the Oil Cleansing Method, which in its most basic form involves using a mixture of extra virgin olive oil and castor oil as a cleanser and moisturizer for the face. I decided to give it a try for myself and have been extremely pleased with the results that were visible after just one use. After washing my face last night, I realized that using this blend of natural ingredients would be ideal for allergy sufferers with sensitive skin.
Today's beauty products are full of chemicals, including preservatives and fragrances that often do a lot more harm than good, whether or not a user reacts to them. Those with sensitive skin or multiple chemical sensitivities who experience redness, irritation, excessive dryness, or other ill effects from chemical-laded beauty or cosmetics products know this all too well.
Allergy-friendly personal care products like Vanicream Skin Cream and Vanicream Lite Lotion are excellent hypo-allergenic, fragrance- and paraben-free choices when it comes to moisturizing. But when it comes to cleansing, the Oil Cleansing Method could be just the thing for allergic individuals.
Thinking more about oil as a natural beauty product, I remembered my daughter's pediatrician recommending the use of both a humidifier and the application of almond oil to relieve some slight eczema that was developing during the cold, dry winter months. This "prescription" worked extremely well, and my daughter's eczema, caught in the very beginning stages, never progressed beyond small dry patches of skin.
Have you had any experience with olive oil or other natural oils used in your personal care regimen? We'd love to hear your stories.
Strangely, even though I've been writing for achoo! ALLERGY for a few years, I don't have allergies - or I didn't until now. (Not having allergies hasn't stopped me from using allergy relief bedding, HEPA vacuum cleaners, and other allergy relief products to keep my family healthy, though; after all, how can you know that "The weight of the average mattress doubles after ten years due to dust mite infestation, and the weight of the average pillow increases 10 percent after one year" and not use allergy relief bedding?).
But now I'm expecting my second child and allergy season has me reeling with non-stop sneezes, itchy and watery eyes, and a constant tickle in my throat. Of course I'd rather not take any medication while expecting, so I'm grateful for products like the neti pot, which cleanses my sinuses of pollen, and my Dyson, which I gushed about last week. An allergy mask is also helpful as we do our spring gardening.
I'm not alone in experiencing an increase in allergies during pregnancy. Dr. Marjorie Greenfield in Allergies in Pregnancy as featured on Dr. Spock.com, explains, "It's not unusual for women who did not previously have allergies to suffer with nasal congestion while pregnant, as the hormones of pregnancy can cause swelling of the nasal passages and increased mucus production. In these cases, symptoms typically are worst in the second trimester and resolve within a few days after childbirth."
So while I don't enjoy allergy symptoms at all, I do have a newfound sympathy for allergy sufferers whose attacks are not pregnancy-related, but year after year, even day after day. But with the relief I've experienced by practicing allergen avoideance, I know there is help, right here on AchooAllergy.com, for all of us.
But now I'm expecting my second child and allergy season has me reeling with non-stop sneezes, itchy and watery eyes, and a constant tickle in my throat. Of course I'd rather not take any medication while expecting, so I'm grateful for products like the neti pot, which cleanses my sinuses of pollen, and my Dyson, which I gushed about last week. An allergy mask is also helpful as we do our spring gardening.
I'm not alone in experiencing an increase in allergies during pregnancy. Dr. Marjorie Greenfield in Allergies in Pregnancy as featured on Dr. Spock.com, explains, "It's not unusual for women who did not previously have allergies to suffer with nasal congestion while pregnant, as the hormones of pregnancy can cause swelling of the nasal passages and increased mucus production. In these cases, symptoms typically are worst in the second trimester and resolve within a few days after childbirth."
So while I don't enjoy allergy symptoms at all, I do have a newfound sympathy for allergy sufferers whose attacks are not pregnancy-related, but year after year, even day after day. But with the relief I've experienced by practicing allergen avoideance, I know there is help, right here on AchooAllergy.com, for all of us.
A small study conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins Children's Center and Duke University has shown that sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) treatments can help milk allergic children overcome their allergies, ScienceDaily reports.
The findings, which were presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, bring us one step closer to the increased acceptance of SLIT in this country. The therapy involves administering increasingly higher doses of the allergenic substance or food under the tongue until the allergic individual's immune system no longer reacts.
Hopkins Children had already done some research on oral immunotherapy, showing that this treatment is successful. The difference between oral and sublingual immunotherapy is that with oral immunotherapy, the patient ingests the milk protein rather than placing it under the tongue, as in the case of SLIT.
So how do the two types of treatment compare? While both methods seem to be effective in treating milk allergies, oral immunotherapy appears to be slightly more effective than SLIT; however, SLIT is done with lower doses of the offending allergen, making this therapy a lower risk for severe allergic reaction to the treatment itself.
Lead investigator of the study, Robert Wood, M.D., director of Allergy and Immunology at Hopkins Children's says, "We are very excited to see that both approaches can achieve significant improvement in children with milk allergies, but we continue to see slightly better tolerance in children on oral immunotherapy. Nonetheless, SLIT emerges as a new, if slightly less powerful, weapon in our arsenal."
Researchers caution that both therapies can lead to violet allergic reactions and that these treatments should always be done under a physician's care. Furthermore, the study was quite small; the research will need to be conducted on larger groups before conclusive results can be drawn.
To read more about SLIT, see Sublingual Immunotherapy Offers Hope of a Cure for Allergies.
The findings, which were presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, bring us one step closer to the increased acceptance of SLIT in this country. The therapy involves administering increasingly higher doses of the allergenic substance or food under the tongue until the allergic individual's immune system no longer reacts.
Hopkins Children had already done some research on oral immunotherapy, showing that this treatment is successful. The difference between oral and sublingual immunotherapy is that with oral immunotherapy, the patient ingests the milk protein rather than placing it under the tongue, as in the case of SLIT.
So how do the two types of treatment compare? While both methods seem to be effective in treating milk allergies, oral immunotherapy appears to be slightly more effective than SLIT; however, SLIT is done with lower doses of the offending allergen, making this therapy a lower risk for severe allergic reaction to the treatment itself.
Lead investigator of the study, Robert Wood, M.D., director of Allergy and Immunology at Hopkins Children's says, "We are very excited to see that both approaches can achieve significant improvement in children with milk allergies, but we continue to see slightly better tolerance in children on oral immunotherapy. Nonetheless, SLIT emerges as a new, if slightly less powerful, weapon in our arsenal."
Researchers caution that both therapies can lead to violet allergic reactions and that these treatments should always be done under a physician's care. Furthermore, the study was quite small; the research will need to be conducted on larger groups before conclusive results can be drawn.
To read more about SLIT, see Sublingual Immunotherapy Offers Hope of a Cure for Allergies.
We may have another piece to the puzzle about why we’re experiencing an increase in the prevalence of allergies. In Recent Studies Link Obesity to Food Allergies, Medical News Today reports on a study that "suggests rising childhood obesity may be promoting the increased occurrence of food allergies which rose by 18 percent from 1997-2007."
According to First Lady Michelle Obama's "Let's Move" Campaign, 32 percent of children or teens – an estimated 25 million – are obese or overweight. The allergy study, which was published in the May 2009 Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, linked obesity with a greater likelihood of developing atopic disease, including eczema. In addition, researchers discovered a 59 percent increase in food sensitization. Researchers stated, "The analysis of continuous Body Mass Index (BMI) with total IgE levels supports the concept that increased weight is associated with increased allergic predisposition."
Founder and CEO of Immuno Laboratories Jeffrey Zavik adds, "The statistics are startling. Testing for food allergies and following a nutritional program based on the diagnostic results could help parents make healthier family choices which is one of the goals of the Let's Move Campaign."
Interestingly, it’s not necessarily being obese that causes food sensitization; rather, as Dr. Mona Morstein, Chair of Nutrition at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, Professor for Gastroenterology at the College, Clinical Supervisor of its outpatient clinic, discusses in her recent article, Obesity Rising to Epic Proportions; Could Food Allergies be Causing Your Weight Problem?", how food allergies could be contributing to obesity. The causal relationship – which is causing which – is not yet clear.
According to First Lady Michelle Obama's "Let's Move" Campaign, 32 percent of children or teens – an estimated 25 million – are obese or overweight. The allergy study, which was published in the May 2009 Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, linked obesity with a greater likelihood of developing atopic disease, including eczema. In addition, researchers discovered a 59 percent increase in food sensitization. Researchers stated, "The analysis of continuous Body Mass Index (BMI) with total IgE levels supports the concept that increased weight is associated with increased allergic predisposition."
Founder and CEO of Immuno Laboratories Jeffrey Zavik adds, "The statistics are startling. Testing for food allergies and following a nutritional program based on the diagnostic results could help parents make healthier family choices which is one of the goals of the Let's Move Campaign."
Interestingly, it’s not necessarily being obese that causes food sensitization; rather, as Dr. Mona Morstein, Chair of Nutrition at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, Professor for Gastroenterology at the College, Clinical Supervisor of its outpatient clinic, discusses in her recent article, Obesity Rising to Epic Proportions; Could Food Allergies be Causing Your Weight Problem?", how food allergies could be contributing to obesity. The causal relationship – which is causing which – is not yet clear.
As the seasons change, you may wonder how different weather conditions affect your allergies. Weather.com offers an illuminating look into the role of weather in your allergy symptoms:
Wind is a big culprit in causing allergies to act up because it distributes pollen and mold. Those who suffer from hay fever or seasonal allergies are particularly affected by the wind because of the plant allergens it disburses throughout the air – as far as many miles.
Rain can be good news for allergy sufferers. While a light rain won't do much to help alleviate allergies, a heavier rain can clear the air of allergens for hours following the downpour. In spring, rains can reduce pollen counts, which is also good news for pollen allergic individuals. However, rains also cause grasses to grow, leading to more grass pollen in the late spring and early summer months. Rain in the fall and winter can also lead to greater amounts of tree pollen in the spring.
Smog, it comes as no surprise, is bad news for those with allergies or asthma. Interestingly, symptoms caused by pollution are not usually felt until one or two days after exposure. Recent research has demonstrated that ozone can cause chronic inflammation of the airways in asthma sufferers. In addition, even if acute symptoms from smog aren't apparent, some scientists believe that exposure to diesel engine exhaust can increase a person's sensitivity to pollen and dust mites.
Cold weather can exacerbate both asthma and eczema symptoms; the cold temperatures can trigger asthma attacks, and drier air can make eczema worse. Fluctuating temperatures, such as those undergone by skin that's exposed to freezing temperatures and then warmed, can also lead to cold-induced hives. The good news about cold weather, however, is that a late freeze can lessen tree pollen counts.
Heat in the form of mild winters can lead to an early spring, which means an early and longer pollen season. Mild winters are also a problem for allergy sufferers because of mold, which thrives when a combination of rain and mild weather increases spore counts. Lastly, a sudden rise in temperature can also trigger asthma attacks.
Wind is a big culprit in causing allergies to act up because it distributes pollen and mold. Those who suffer from hay fever or seasonal allergies are particularly affected by the wind because of the plant allergens it disburses throughout the air – as far as many miles.
Rain can be good news for allergy sufferers. While a light rain won't do much to help alleviate allergies, a heavier rain can clear the air of allergens for hours following the downpour. In spring, rains can reduce pollen counts, which is also good news for pollen allergic individuals. However, rains also cause grasses to grow, leading to more grass pollen in the late spring and early summer months. Rain in the fall and winter can also lead to greater amounts of tree pollen in the spring.
Smog, it comes as no surprise, is bad news for those with allergies or asthma. Interestingly, symptoms caused by pollution are not usually felt until one or two days after exposure. Recent research has demonstrated that ozone can cause chronic inflammation of the airways in asthma sufferers. In addition, even if acute symptoms from smog aren't apparent, some scientists believe that exposure to diesel engine exhaust can increase a person's sensitivity to pollen and dust mites.
Cold weather can exacerbate both asthma and eczema symptoms; the cold temperatures can trigger asthma attacks, and drier air can make eczema worse. Fluctuating temperatures, such as those undergone by skin that's exposed to freezing temperatures and then warmed, can also lead to cold-induced hives. The good news about cold weather, however, is that a late freeze can lessen tree pollen counts.
Heat in the form of mild winters can lead to an early spring, which means an early and longer pollen season. Mild winters are also a problem for allergy sufferers because of mold, which thrives when a combination of rain and mild weather increases spore counts. Lastly, a sudden rise in temperature can also trigger asthma attacks.
We have all heard about how allergies are on the rise, but a new population-based study offers some insight into just how allergies and asthma develop during childhood. As reported by ScienceDaily, researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) have found that 40 percent of nearly 5,000 two-year-olds had at least one allergy-related disorder.
Wheezing, the most common symptom, was reported in 26 percent of the children. However, it’s important to know that not all children who wheeze at the age of two will grow up with asthma. Ingeborg Smidesang, PhD candidate and primary author of the study, says, “One of the challenges here is that we don’t know which wheezers will develop asthma.”
The study is one of the first to demonstrate the scope of allergy-related problems in young children – a situation which parents of allergic children are all too familiar with. Smidesang points out, “If you think about something like moderate atopic eczema, which can involve quite a few doctor’s visits, and a lot of work on the part of the parents, it is quite a big deal.”
Published in an online version of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, the study also found that children may be receiving false positive diagnoses for allergies: One thousand of the 5,000 children in the study, or 21 percent, had been tested for allergies. Of these, about 60 percent had had a positive allergy test. However, the researchers’ sample showed that only 8 percent tested positive. Additionally, boys were more likely than girls to have an allergy-related disorder.
The study is part of a the Prevention of Allergy among Children in Trondheim (PACT), which began in 2000 to attempt to better understand how allergy-related symptoms develop in children as well as how effective various interventions, such as increasing omega-3 fatty acid intake, are.
With more research about allergies in children, we can only hope that one day we will understand not only how to treat them, but maybe even how to keep them from developing in the first place.
Wheezing, the most common symptom, was reported in 26 percent of the children. However, it’s important to know that not all children who wheeze at the age of two will grow up with asthma. Ingeborg Smidesang, PhD candidate and primary author of the study, says, “One of the challenges here is that we don’t know which wheezers will develop asthma.”
The study is one of the first to demonstrate the scope of allergy-related problems in young children – a situation which parents of allergic children are all too familiar with. Smidesang points out, “If you think about something like moderate atopic eczema, which can involve quite a few doctor’s visits, and a lot of work on the part of the parents, it is quite a big deal.”
Published in an online version of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, the study also found that children may be receiving false positive diagnoses for allergies: One thousand of the 5,000 children in the study, or 21 percent, had been tested for allergies. Of these, about 60 percent had had a positive allergy test. However, the researchers’ sample showed that only 8 percent tested positive. Additionally, boys were more likely than girls to have an allergy-related disorder.
The study is part of a the Prevention of Allergy among Children in Trondheim (PACT), which began in 2000 to attempt to better understand how allergy-related symptoms develop in children as well as how effective various interventions, such as increasing omega-3 fatty acid intake, are.
With more research about allergies in children, we can only hope that one day we will understand not only how to treat them, but maybe even how to keep them from developing in the first place.
To those who suffer from allergies and sinus problems, it certainly comes as no surprise that the two are related. Indeed, recent tests conducted by scientists at the Allergy Research Foundation in the Netherlands have revealed that nasal allergies may be involved in some cases of chronic sinus disease, Medical News Today reports. The tests involved exposing patients with chronic sinus disease to allergens and then obtaining repeated images by x-ray or ultrasound. For purposes of comparison, patients with allergies but no history of sinus disease were also studied. Almost all of the patients with sinus disease developed positive nasal responses to the tests, confirming the association between nasal allergy and chronic sinusitis.
Zdenek Pelikan, M.D., Ph.D., lead researcher of the study, writes in an article published in the December issue of Archives of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, "The possible involvement of allergy, and especially of nasal allergy, in some forms of sinus disease has already been reported in the literature … The maxillary sinuses open into the nasal canal through a valve known as the ostium. If mucus membranes in the nasal cavity are swollen, the ostium can become blocked, trapping fluids in the sinus … The confirmation of involvement of nasal allergy in patients with chronic disease of the maxillary sinuses would indicate an additional treatment of the nasal allergy."
The findings of the study underscore the importance of keeping allergen exposure to a minimum, especially for those prone to sinus problems. Using allergy relief bedding, an air purifier, and vacuuming regularly with a HEPA vacuum cleaner go a long way in cutting down on allergies within the home. In addition, using nasal irrigation products such as the SinuPulse Elite Advanced Nasal Irrigation System not only moisturizes sinuses, but also helps wash allergens out of the nasal cavities.
Not long ago, we blogged about coffee allergies which are not always as straightforward as they seem. Some allergic reactions to coffee are often reactions to components of the coffee.
One component that can pose a problem is caffeine. Aside from the well-known and sometimes sought-after effects of caffeine (like keeping you alert), a caffeine allergy or intolerance deserves as much attention for what it is not as for what it is.
Here's what I mean: Caffeine can cause extreme alterations in behavior, including delusions, franticness, and mania. These behavior symptoms can lead to diagnoses of mental disorders like depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, ADD, or bipolar disorder. Properly recognized caffeine allergies could avoid these diagnoses, their attendant treatments, and other consequences.
As AllergyRemedy.org explains, caffeine targets cells and neurons directly causing the body to release large amounts of dopamine, serotonin, and adrenaline, which are responsible for these alterations in behavior and personality. In smaller amounts, these chemicals produce the desired effects of caffeine, but when they are excessive, there is a problem.
Caffeine allergies are also interesting in that the cause of becoming allergic to caffeine is often related to a person consuming too much caffeine. Consuming too much caffeine causes the body to react to even a little amount of ingested caffeine, because of the high levels already present in the body.
Physical symptoms of caffeine allergy include a tingling in the mouth (often the first symptom), difficulty swallowing, itchy skin, chest pain, hyperventilation, heart palpitations, and anaphylaxis.
Remember that many products besides coffee contain caffeine including soft drinks, tea, chocolate, and even lotion!
Spreading awareness about caffeine allergy and how mental illness diagnoses may mask it is the first step in helping caffeine allergic individuals.
One component that can pose a problem is caffeine. Aside from the well-known and sometimes sought-after effects of caffeine (like keeping you alert), a caffeine allergy or intolerance deserves as much attention for what it is not as for what it is.
Here's what I mean: Caffeine can cause extreme alterations in behavior, including delusions, franticness, and mania. These behavior symptoms can lead to diagnoses of mental disorders like depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, ADD, or bipolar disorder. Properly recognized caffeine allergies could avoid these diagnoses, their attendant treatments, and other consequences.
As AllergyRemedy.org explains, caffeine targets cells and neurons directly causing the body to release large amounts of dopamine, serotonin, and adrenaline, which are responsible for these alterations in behavior and personality. In smaller amounts, these chemicals produce the desired effects of caffeine, but when they are excessive, there is a problem.
Caffeine allergies are also interesting in that the cause of becoming allergic to caffeine is often related to a person consuming too much caffeine. Consuming too much caffeine causes the body to react to even a little amount of ingested caffeine, because of the high levels already present in the body.
Physical symptoms of caffeine allergy include a tingling in the mouth (often the first symptom), difficulty swallowing, itchy skin, chest pain, hyperventilation, heart palpitations, and anaphylaxis.
Remember that many products besides coffee contain caffeine including soft drinks, tea, chocolate, and even lotion!
Spreading awareness about caffeine allergy and how mental illness diagnoses may mask it is the first step in helping caffeine allergic individuals.
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When it comes to identifying a tomato allergy, it is important to recognize the difference between a food intolerance and a true food allergy. While a food intolerance produces very real and uncomfortable symptoms, food allergies are much more serious in that they can be fatal.
Like other allergies, a tomato allergy is caused by a histamine reaction to a certain protein, in this case usually one found in the tomato's juice, seeds, or skin. Symptoms include swelling or itching near the mouth, hives, difficulty breathing, or a rash. Diarrhea and vomiting may also occur.
Interestingly, some individuals with a tomato allergy are able to eat cooked or processed tomatoes with no adverse reaction. However, tomato allergic individuals may have trouble with foods related to tomato plants like potatoes, tobacco, and eggplant.
As with any suspected allergy, it is necessary to avoid the food that causes a reaction. For a diagnosis confirmation, visit an allergist.
Like other allergies, a tomato allergy is caused by a histamine reaction to a certain protein, in this case usually one found in the tomato's juice, seeds, or skin. Symptoms include swelling or itching near the mouth, hives, difficulty breathing, or a rash. Diarrhea and vomiting may also occur.
Interestingly, some individuals with a tomato allergy are able to eat cooked or processed tomatoes with no adverse reaction. However, tomato allergic individuals may have trouble with foods related to tomato plants like potatoes, tobacco, and eggplant.
As with any suspected allergy, it is necessary to avoid the food that causes a reaction. For a diagnosis confirmation, visit an allergist.
Medical News Today reports on Japanese scientists who have bred a transgenic rice to fight pollen allergies. The rice is in a new category of genetically modified foods. The first generation of gentically modified crops was designed to withstand insects and fight off weeds. Called "biopharmaceutical" crops, this next generation involves "creating" food with higher levels of vitamins and minerals - or even that contain medicines and vaccines.
This particular transgenic rice plant has been engineered to fight allergies to Japanese cedar pollen--an allergy that affects nearly 20 percent of Japan's population. In tests to see whether the rice is safe for consumption, researchers fed a group of monkeys with the modified rice and another group of monkeys with non-transgenic rice. After 26 weeks, the test monkeys did not show any health problems.
You can find the full report about the genetically modified rice in The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.
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Although many people believe they are allergic to chocolate, true allergies to chocolate - specifically, the cocoa it's made from - are actually rare. In addition, many reactions to chocolate are not true allergies, but are rather intolerances to other ingredients in the chocolate, such as milk, nuts, gluten, corn syrup, dyes, or other additives. Alternately, people may be sensitive to the naturally-occuring chemicals in chocolate like caffeine, theobromine, or phnylethylamine.
Whatever the case may be, common reactions to chocolate in those who are affected include headache, heartburn, skin rashes, and breathing problems. Sensitivity to chocolate ingredients can also trigger asthma attacks.
One reason for the prevalence of reactions to chocolate is that a good part of mainstream chocolate products in the United States contain several additives; it's these that people react to. The purest forms of chocolate contain cocoa liquor, cocoa butter, sugar, maybe vanilla - and nothing else. Mass produced chocolate, on the other hand, is often primarily composed of the additives mentioned above (corn syrup, dyes, etc.).
If an allergist has diagnosed you with an actual cocoa allergy, of course you need to stay away altogether.
Whatever the case may be, common reactions to chocolate in those who are affected include headache, heartburn, skin rashes, and breathing problems. Sensitivity to chocolate ingredients can also trigger asthma attacks.
One reason for the prevalence of reactions to chocolate is that a good part of mainstream chocolate products in the United States contain several additives; it's these that people react to. The purest forms of chocolate contain cocoa liquor, cocoa butter, sugar, maybe vanilla - and nothing else. Mass produced chocolate, on the other hand, is often primarily composed of the additives mentioned above (corn syrup, dyes, etc.).
If an allergist has diagnosed you with an actual cocoa allergy, of course you need to stay away altogether.
The JHU Gazette reports that milk and egg allergies, once considered temporary childhood conditions, are now more persistent and harder to outgrow.New research suggests that milk allergy and egg allergy cases typically continue well into school years and beyond.
The findings show that 20% of studied children outgrew milk allergy by the age of 4; 42% outgrew it by the age of 8; and 95% outgrew it by the age of 16.
For egg allergy, only 4% outgrew the allergy by the age of 4; 37% by the age of 10; and 68% by the age of 16.
"The bad news is that the prognosis for a child with a milk or egg allergy appears to be worse than it was 20 years ago," says lead investigator Robert Wood of Johns Hopkins Children's Center. "Not only do more kids have allergies, but fewer of them outgrow their allergies, and those who do, do so later than before. We may be dealing with a different kind of disease process than we did 20 years ago. Why this is happening, we just don't know."
The study also found that a child's blood levels of milk and egg antibodies (the immune chemicals produced in response to allergens) were reliable predictors of the disease's progression: The higher the level of antibodies, the less likely it was that a child would outgrow the allergy anytime soon.
See the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Solution Guide
A couple of weeks ago, one of the largest truffles unearthed in the past 50 years was dug up in the Italian countryside by Cristiano Savini's truffle-hunting dog Rocco.The truffle was donated to a charity auction held simultaneously in Macau, London and Florence, Italy and fetched $330,000, according to Reuters.
Truffles (not to be confused with chocolate truffles) are highly prized in Italian cuisine for their unique flavor and aroma.
Truffles are a kind of mushroom that grows beneath the ground as opposed to sprouting above ground. Both truffles and mushrooms are the fruiting bodies of fungi and are members of the same family as mold.
People who are allergic to mold may also be predisposed to react to truffles or mushrooms or other foods containing mold, such as certain blue-veined or aged cheeses like Roquefort or Gorgonzola.
Oral allergy syndrome is the more common type of reaction, but anaphylaxis, though rare in the case of mushroom allergies, has also been reported.
To learn more about food allergies, visit the Food Allergy/Anaphylaxis Solution Guide.
WFRV reports that many teens with food allergies are taking dangerous risks. A new survey shows that 54 percent of teens sometimes intentionally eat food they know may harm them, and only 61 percent always carry their Epi-Pen.
Researchers blame peer pressure and lack of education for the frightening findings.
Dr. Stanley Fineman of the Atlanta Allergy & Asthma Clinic says, "My biggest fear [about a particular patient] is that he wouldn't tell someone because he gets embarrassed when he starts breaking out."
About 2 million school-aged kids have food allergies. Children with tree nut allergies and asthma appear to be at the greatest risk for severe or life-threatening injuries.
Food Allergy Restaurant Cards make it easier for many people to deal with their food allergy when dining out.
Researchers blame peer pressure and lack of education for the frightening findings.
Dr. Stanley Fineman of the Atlanta Allergy & Asthma Clinic says, "My biggest fear [about a particular patient] is that he wouldn't tell someone because he gets embarrassed when he starts breaking out."
About 2 million school-aged kids have food allergies. Children with tree nut allergies and asthma appear to be at the greatest risk for severe or life-threatening injuries.
Food Allergy Restaurant Cards make it easier for many people to deal with their food allergy when dining out.
