Allergy Relief Blog

Dr. Redding on Weather.com and Home Allergies

theblog@achooallergy.com — Fri, 18 May 2012 09:32:29 +0000

Back in April of this year, we interviewed local allergist Dr. David Redding. Recently he was featured in a couple videos on the Weather Channel. In these, he goes over some in-home tips on how to reduce allergens. From using pillow covers and a high quality HVAC filter to vacuuming your mattress, Dr. Redding highlights areas throughout the home, hidden allergens that can reside in these places and how to reduce or eliminate them.

To read our April interview with Dr. Redding.

For more Weather.com videos.

Asthma Study to Focus of Possible Effects of Fracking

theblog@achooallergy.com — Wed, 16 May 2012 14:09:11 +0000

While the debate over the environmental effects of hydraulic fracturing continues, there is now a concentrated interest in studying the possible health effects of living in communities where "fracking" takes place. Communities in western and northern Pennsylvania offer a unique opportunity to start initial studies on the health effects of fracking.

Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, is a process of extracting natural gas by fracturing shale formation deep in the earth. Wells are drilled into shale or sand formations followed by explosives to begin breaking and perforating the rock. After this, a high pressure mix of sand, massive amounts of water and a proprietary formula of chemicals are pumped into the rock formation to widen the fractures and release gas trapped in the rock.

The health and environmental impact of this method of gas extraction is still unknown. Studies require funding, years to study/test, and in regard to health, a significant population on which to base a study. So while fracking has been going on in places like Colorado for nearly a decade any air quality research study data won't be available for another three years (in part because that study only began less than a year ago), and to date there have been no large studies with regard to the impact on health. In Pennsylvania though, this may soon be changing.

In more rural areas like western Pennsylvania and Eastern Ohio, gas operations are quickly becoming the major source of ground level ozone, a pollutant that often forms around gas wells. However, since fracking has been going on for only five years in this area, and local doctors and clinics have ten years of medical data, there is the unique ability to glean before and after statistics about visits to the hospital and asthma as it relates to local air quality (measured by the EPA).

Ground level ozone comes from many sources but is the result of blending air pollution and heat. Those in urban areas know this haze well, as it is a major byproduct of vehicle emissions and industrial pollution.

Though the funding for this asthma related study is still being drawn together, David Carey, associate chief researcher at the Geisinger Health System has long term goals. The immediate research will focus on asthma and respiratory issues, but the long term goal is to study the effects on incidences of diabetes and cancer.

Though there is a history of over a decade of fracking in the U.S., there is yet to be any significant studies done about the effects of this on health, and in 2005 Congress voted to EXCLUDE fracking from falling under the jurisdiction of the Safe Drinking Water Act. Due to the current structure of laws regarding this method of extracting natural gas, residents who live near fracking wells still have no idea what chemicals are being put into the air or the full extent of what is being injected into the ground beneath their property. In states like Ohio alone, to date over 70 fracking wells have been drilled with more than 2000 expected to be sunk over the next three years.

For more information on this study.

Having grown up on a family farm in the rural tri-state area (Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia panhandle), I have my thoughts on fracking - both, the potential environmental and health consequences and the economic benefit for a region that is typified by burnt out coal towns and strip mining. What are yours?

Food Allergies a Disability in the Workplace?

theblog@achooallergy.com — Tue, 15 May 2012 12:28:26 +0000

While I do not claim to be an expert in the areas of allergies, asthma and MCS, I do have some measure of confidence in my ability to speak and write on these issues. Though following news in regard to these topics is a relatively recent development for me (off and on for almost two years), I was surprised when a recent article in Forbes online suggested that employers accommodate food allergy sufferers in the same way they would accommodate "any other disability."

The article dealt with how employers and coworkers might want to consider possible reasons why a fellow coworker or employee may seem to anti-social around lunch or after work. Sure, some people might seem like social hermits, but there may be a good reason for it.

If a coworker has a severe peanut allergy, having a few beers at the local pub or going to a steakhouse where peanuts shells are hucked on the floor after work might be something he passes on. Even eating lunch the break room, where other people may spill or leave certain food contaminants behind, may pose a problem with severe allergy sufferers. And it would certainly ruffle some feathers in the office is a birthday cake was bought for an employee and then she didn't eat any (unbeknownst to everyone that she has a severe food allergy and doesn't to afford the risk in eating it). So rather than admit something that some might consider embarrassing, they politely decline.

Much like we suggest with children in school, awareness if often the largest issue. So in workplaces, particularly as employers, it's important to identify anyone with food allergies, not only to discuss any sort of emergency response plan that may be necessary but also how to best deal with it in the workplace setting.

Back to the disability part of this article, after some digging, it seems a little hazy as to whether or not food allergies are a disability. The language that is often cited under the Rehabilitation Act is intentionally broad, as to be inclusive. Generally it forbids organizations and employers from excluding or denying individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to receive program benefits and services. Then, it goes on to define individuals with disabilities as those who have physical or mental impairment of major life activities, like walking, caring for yourself, breathing, speaking, seeing, hearing, etc. The subsequent amendment to the American with Disabilities Act of 2008 broadened the definition of disability even more.

So, an argument could be made that asthma and even severe allergies could be defined as a disability. Think of it like this. Asthma can severely impinge upon a person's ability to breathe, so much so that asthma attacks can be fatal. It is also true that anaphylactic shock brought on by severe food allergies can be fatal. So for these two groups, major life activities (eating and breathing) can be severely limited.

Does this mean that someone severely allergic to shellfish can apply for a disability benefit through the federal government? Well, it is a free country, but unless your situation is particularly acute, debilitating, or hard to control even with medication, you might be better served just helping to raise awareness in your workspace.

Work with your employer and coworkers to help create a better work environment that is more accommodating of severe food allergies or asthmatics. Maybe this means not having peanuts or tree nuts in the break room or limiting heavy fragrance/perfume at work. Ultimately, it's about creating a work environment that is healthy and safe for all, and that begins with awareness.

For full text of the Forbes article.

Studies Support 'Hygiene Hypothesis' on Allergies

theblog@achooallergy.com — Thu, 10 May 2012 16:38:25 +0000

As the prevalence of asthma and allergies continues to climb in most Western societies, the causes of these chronic conditions are still not known. Though, with a collection of news stories, research pieces, and press releases coming in over the last couple weeks, the 'Hygiene Hypothesis' on allergies is only looking stronger. Of these, the most prominent were studies that examined Finnish children and another that took a look at Amish children in Indiana and the link between growing up in more "natural environments" and a predisposition for allergies and asthma.

In the Finnish study, 14-18 year olds were tested to compare how many and what kinds of bacteria, particularly gammaproteobacteria, could be found in and on their bodies. This data, when compared to the type of environment they grew up in, showed that children who had grown up and lived in more natural environments (read, less urban; more trees, less asphalt), showed a greater diversity of these tiny bacteria in their skin. They were also LESS likely to suffer from allergies.

Though the second study was very general in nature, in comparing Amish farm children with Swiss farm children and Swiss children who did not live on farms, they found that children not on farms had the highest rates of asthma and allergen sensitivity. Swiss children on farms had lower rates of asthma but the same sensitivities to allergies; and Amish children on farms had the lowest rates of asthma and sensitivities to allergies.

While neither study is a smoking gun, solidly proving the Hygiene Hypothesis, both lend at least some measure of support to the idea that the more sanitized the environment we grow up in, the more likely our immune systems are going to go haywire around harmless substances, like pollen, pet dander and dust.

As someone who grew up in a very rural part of Ohio, my siblings and I have experiences that fit this theory. Having spent much of my childhood on our family farm, playing in the woods, or chasing chickens, there are few instances outside of school where any of my sibling and I were "clean." My father literally nicknamed my one brother, "Dirt". To this day, none of us three older boys have any problems with allergies or asthma, despite a family history of the latter.

While surely it is anecdotal, my two youngest siblings both suffered from asthma. Between us three elder boys and the younger two, there is nearly a 13 year gap. My youngest brother and sister did not grow up as we had. The amount of time they spent inside as children was inconceivable for us older three. In the summer, it was fairly common for the doors to the house to be locked. And why not? We had eaten breakfast or lunch. We lived off a dirt road and generally saw two vehicles pass by every day. We had a spigot outside, and air conditioning isn't cheap when you have three kids running in and out all day long.

So while the two youngest children in my family enjoyed the convenience of air conditioning, Playstation and Wii, the dirt, germs, and farm life likely served our immune systems better.... which I think is only fair considering the hundreds of rows of carrots, corn, potatoes, and peppers in our family garden that three older boys weeded throughout our childhood. To date, the youngest two siblings pulled weeds out of exactly zero rows of crops in the garden.

Abstract of the Finnish Biodiversity & Allergies Study.

Indiana Study of Amish and Asthma & Allergies.

May Allergy Bedding Sale - 10% Off!

theblog@achooallergy.com — Fri, 4 May 2012 14:51:53 +0000

From now until the end of May, take 10% Off all allergy bedding products. Simply use coupon code "bedding10" at check-out to save!*

From our signature brand, Allergy Armor to organic and memory foam products, all bedding is on sale.

Sleep better and dust mite free with an Allergy Armor or Memory Foam Pillow - both come standard with our premium dust mite barrier fabric - Allergy Armor Ultra. Eliminate the chemicals found in traditional bedding by upgrading to organic cotton sheets or a natural latex mattress. Regardless of your particular bedding need, we have a wide selection, and the best part is, all of it is on sale!

And while you're here, don't forget to check out our On Sale section where you can find great Mother's Day deals on Dyson vacuum cleaners and our Clearance page where open box items offer like-new products at almost half the regular price. Act soon because prices on allergy relief products in these two sections are only while supplies last.

*Bedding sale ends May 31st. Some exclusions may apply.

FDA Approves Dymista - New Nasal Spray

theblog@achooallergy.com — Thu, 3 May 2012 07:33:34 +0000

On May 1st, the FDA approved a new seasonal allergy nasal spray, Dymista, for use in the U.S. Manufactured by Swedish pharmaceutical company Meda, Dymista is for children over the age of 12 and adults. It will be available by prescription only. As a treatment for seasonal allergic rhinitis, this new hay fever drug is a "combination drug", meaning it combines both azelastine hydrochloride and fluticasone propionate.

Azelastine hydrochloride is an antihistamine currently being used to treat rhinitis and seasonal conjuctivitis and is the active ingredient in Asteplin and Astepro, both products in the Meda line of allergy products. Fluticasone propionate is an anti-inflammatory found in Flonase.

Dymista is expected to roll out in the U.S. in the latter part of 2012. It claims better efficacy than drugs that contain either of the active ingredients alone. In clinical trials, there were no instances of nasal ulceration or septal perforation (reported side effects of some nasal corticosteroids). In three double blind trials conducted by the FDA, Dymista was shown to be an effective treatment for seasonal allergic rhinitis. Click here for a full transcript of the FDA clinical trial results for Dymista.

Meda, Sweden's largest publicly traded pharma company, is based in Solna, and sells products in 120 countries. As one of the 50 largest pharmaceutical companies worldwide, Meda's sales exceed $1.6 billion annually.

Follow these links for more information on seasonal allergies or to see non-pharmaceutical allergy control products.

Warmer Temps Jumpstart Summer Ozone

theblog@achooallergy.com — Tue, 1 May 2012 11:15:13 +0000

With near record breaking temperatures in many parts of the country, poor air quality warnings are getting an early start to the season. As the mercury rises during the summer months, the combination of the heat and air pollution leads to air quality warnings in metro and suburban areas throughout the US. Though this is usually seen later in the year, early heat is exacerbating ground level ozone warnings sooner.

There are two basic types of ozone. Ozone found in the upper atmosphere acts as a protective shield against solar particles and certain emissions from the sun. Ground level ozone, on the other hand, is a powerful lung irritant that forms when heat combines with air pollution from vehicles and industrial emissions. It disproportionately effects the elderly, children, asthmatics, and other people who suffer from respiratory issues like COPD. For those effected, ground level ozone can cause coughing, wheezing, varying degrees of difficult breathing and pain in the chest.

The best way to handle ground level ozone is to reduce exposure as much as possible. As a few helpful ways to reduce exposure to ozone,

Check local news and weather reports for daily air quality index ratings
Avoid areas of high traffic and congestion
Stay indoors during peak hours, with safer times being in the mornings and evenings
Close your windows, and to keep cool use an air conditioner
Avoid excercising outdoors

By following just a few simple suggestions you can reduce your exposure to ozone, breathe easier, and hopefully enjoy your summers a little more. For instances when you do have trouble breathing or are experiencing pain while breathing, seek medical attention immediately.

Don't Miss Last Days of Super Spring Sale!

theblog@achooallergy.com — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:54:18 +0000

Just a reminder, this weekend is the last few days to take advantage of our Super Spring Sale! Enjoy 10% off your order and free shipping on many products as well as all orders over $150. Simply shop, enter "spring10" in the coupon code box during checkout and enjoy!*

Take 10% off of nearly everyone in our warehouse like our exclusive Allergy Armor bedding (blankets, pillows, mattress covers, and pillow covers) or some of our best air purifiers, dehumidifiers and steam cleaners.

With spring pollen in the air, join the thousands of customers who are enjoying the spring breeze without the allergic reactions by using one of the best window filters available. Or just stock up one personal care products and green cleaners. Regardless of what you use, take advantage of this Spring Sale before it's too late!

* Some Exclusions Apply. See our Coupon and Sales page for more details.

Mask FAQ Video - Two Things to Remember

theblog@achooallergy.com — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 16:58:20 +0000

The majority of our FAQ's often come from the Allergy Mask section of our site. Masks are a very personal item and often purchased for specific reasons. When choosing a mask there are two primary factors when making a base decision to narrow your choices. The FAQ video below highlights these two major criteria when selecting the mask that is right for you.

New Legislation on EpiPens & Anaphylaxis in Schools

theblog@achooallergy.com — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:57:15 +0000

For parents of children with food allergies, having and EpiPen/auto-injector on hand is almost second nature. With severe food allergies the risk of anaphylactic shock after exposure to the offending food allergen makes having and EpiPen nearby and easily accessible a necessity. Schools are generally responsive to the needs of children with food allergies, but laws governing the handling of EpiPens and food allergies are different from state to state. On Thursday, VA Governor Bob McDonnell is set to sign a bill that would require Virginia school to carry auto-injectors and train staff on their use.

Shortly after the death of a 7-year-old in VA in January, legislation was put forth that would require schools to stock EpiPens and train staffers on their use. Similar laws have been passed in Illinois and Georgia.

In November, Senators Dick Durbin and Mark Kirk introduced legislation that would provide incentives for schools across the nation to provide access to and stock auto-injectors in schools. While most states allows students to self-administer epinephrine, nearly twenty-five of all anaphylaxis cases in schools involve students with no prior history of food allergies. Laws like this and those passed at the state level aim to remedy that.

Auto-injectors administer a measured dose of epinephrine, an effective countermeasure to anaphylactic shock. Most often EpiPens are associated with those who have severe food allergies, but they are effective for anyone suffering from a severe allergy that can cause anaphylaxis.

While it often takes a tragedy before meaningful and lasting action is taken, this does not have to be the case. On a personal level, take control of potential life-threatening allergies and keep you local school informed. On a larger level, working with food and other allergy networks and advocacy groups (like those listed in our Allergy Resource section on this page) can not only spread awareness but ultimately influence legislation and enact minor but critical changes.

Don't Fight Your Air Purifier

theblog@achooallergy.com — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 15:37:16 +0000

With pollen levels reaching records highs very early in the year, it's a good time to take another look at controlling your indoor air quality (IAQ). While we always advise using a quality air purifier, particularly in your bedroom, cleaning the air can be much easier when you eliminate or reduce the actual causes of poor indoor air quality. Here's a quick list of IAQ problem areas and how to reduce the pollutants created by each.

Cleaners and Pesticides - Be aware that when you use chemical cleaners or bug sprays, that unintended byproduct can often be dirtier indoor air. Fumes from these often times harsh or toxic chemicals can quickly reduce indoor air quality. Limit their use or use more natural alternatives when possible.
Smoking - Ok, this is a bit of a no-brainer. Smoking indoors not only pollutes the air, but the chemicals in tobacco smoke can cling to drapes, furniture and walls for years to come. If you're not going to quit, at least smoke outdoors, or if inside, limit it to a specific room where you have a decent exhaust system or filtration system installed.
Furnace Filters - Furnace filters should be replaced every three months. If you have washable furnace filters please clean them regularly. Dirty or clogged furnace filters not only harm your blowers motor but they ineffective in controlling your indoor air quality.
Exhaust Fans - You primarily need these in your kitchen and bathroom. Why? Often it is the kitchen (burnt food and cleaners) and bathroom (harsh cleaners) where indoor air quality can be at its worst. Exhausts fans help remove noxious odor and chemical fumes, so if you have them, use them!
Maintain Your Heating/Cooling System - Not only can keeping this equipment running well cut your energy costs, but when it comes to IAQ, think of your heating and cooling system as the heart and lungs of your home. The central unit pushes and pulls air through the ducts throughout your home. Ensuring this is working properly ensures that air circulates properly and is filtered through your HVAC filter. Dust, dirt, allergens and other debris can settle in the vents and airways, and keeping them clean can not only improve IAQ but also keep the system running longer .

While this is not meant to be comprehensive, what it should do is highlight a few ways in which indoor air quality can be improved with some forethought and a little effort. So don't fight against your room air purifier and limit the sources of dirty indoor air.

New "On Sale" Section at AchooAllergy.com

theblog@achooallergy.com — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 15:34:01 +0000

From time to time we have an overstock of certain products here at Achoo. There are other times when we simply have short term savings that we want to pass directly on to you, our valuable customers. In the past we would run a single sale on a particular item or category, but we recently opened a new section of the website where you can always find some of our best deals.

The new On Sale section of our website now showcases some of the best allergy relief products currently being discounted. From bedding and personal care to humidity control and indoor air quality products, visit the On Sale section to find a "down and dirty" list of everything at AchooAllergy that is currently discounted.

Unlike our Clearance page, all items listed here are new - no open box, returned, demo or showroom models. And while our Clearance items save you 35% or more, our new On Sale items start around 10% off and only get better from there! Just remember, products will vary as we make special purchases to drive down cost and pass savings directly on to you! So check back often as prices and quantities are limited.

Study Raises Concerns about Traditional Chinese Medicine

theblog@achooallergy.com — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 16:33:03 +0000

For centuries, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has used a variety of herbs and extracts as well as practices like massage and acupuncture, to treat a wide variety of health issues. And while TCM largely lacks Western research to prove its effectiveness, it still enjoys a wide following across the globe.

Previously, we've discussed the potential benefits of FAHF-2, one of very few Chinese herbal remedies that was actually cleared for human trails to test efficacy in curing allergies. Here, we are focusing more on OTC herbal supplements and how a recent study raises some serious questions about the efficacy, safety and even legality of some of these herbs.

In a piece recently published in the Genetics section of the Public Library of Science, highlights some potential problems with the ingredients found in many of these herbs. By deep sequencing the DNA found in Chinese herb samples, scientists found derivatives of endangered plants and animals as well as some linked to toxic plants and heavy metals.

Using this new methodology, researchers are able to trace the substances found in the herbs to their organic origins. Identified using this type of DNA sequencing were the Asiatic black bear and Saiga antelope (both endangered species) as well to the plant generas Ephedra and Asarum. Ephedra containing substances were banned in the United States since 2004, and some species of Asarum contain a known carcinogen.

While the testing was not meant to cast a negative light on Chinese herbs, what it did was highlight a few things. First, the source of some of these herbs is somewhat dubious. Given the increase in the TCM market over the last several years, the use of endangered species or toxic plants is troubling on several fronts.

Secondly, the study did highlight problems with labeling, mainly in the form of missing ingredients or misrepresented ingredients (something claiming to be pure Antelope but tested out to show the presence of goat and sheep DNA). Another important instance of this was in regards to undeclared tree nut derivatives in some samples. Both of these can have potentially severe allergic and even religious consequences.

Ultimately there is a long history of benefit with the use of Chinese herbs, but this recent study shows that there is great room for improvement when it comes to the regulating and ensuring the safety of Chinese herbs. So for many, allergy sufferers and non-allergy sufferers alike, their can be benefit to Chinese herbs, but take caution when using or purchasing.

10% Off Your Order Spring Sale

theblog@achooallergy.com — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 13:34:09 +0000

Kick your seasonal allergies and save now by taking advantage of our Spring Sale! From now until the end of April, save 10% on all purchases* at AchooAllergy.com. From our exclusive brand of allergy bedding to personal care products, home appliances and everything in between, enjoy special savings as you shop!

Breathe better when you purchase a HEPA Air Purifier for your home.
Sleep sounder with our exclusive Allergy Armor bedding.
Prepare for the hot humid months of summer with a home dehumidifier.

These are just some of the ways you can save! Use coupon code "spring10" at checkout.

*Some exclusions apply. See our Promotions page for further details.

Nailed - Toxic-Trio Found in "Trio-Free" Nail Products

theblog@achooallergy.com — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 15:37:01 +0000

Some time ago, we mentioned the "toxic-trio" (toulene, dibutyl phthalate (DBP), and formaldehyde) in relation to nail salons and nail care. In response to increasing awareness and in advance of upcoming regulations governing the toxic chemicals used in nail polish, many manufacturers began selling nail products free of these three chemicals.... or so we thought.

The California Department of Toxic Substance Control (DTSC), released a summary of findings in which random samples of off-the-shelf nail products were tested and found to contain one or more of the toxic trio chemicals. What's more, many of the nail products containing these chemicals had labeling that specifically claimed they were free of the them.

Using EPA testing methods designed to characterize hazardous waste, DTSC labs screened a total of 25 products purchased directly from the shelves of consumer retail outlets. Of the samples, 12 claimed to be free of at least one of the toxic trio chemical while 7 claimed to be free of all three. When tested, five of those seven claiming to be "three-free" failed to substantiate this claim. Ten of twelve products claiming to be "toulene-free" actually contained toulene.

With Safer Consumer Products regulations going into effect in California later this year, these test results shed some light on not only compliance but also marketing and inconsistent labeling of these products. Unfortunately, it seems that even products that are labeled to be free of these toxic chemicals fail to live up to their claims.

The entirety of the findings and list of products tested can be found here (FYI, it's a slow loading PDF from the ca.gov website).

Choosing Wisely - Tips for Allergies & Asthma Treatment

theblog@achooallergy.com — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000

In an effort to reduce waste and needless testing in healthcare, "Choose Wisely" is a public health initiative recently launched by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Using "top five" lists, the "Choose Wisely" series presents some of the most over used and least helpful medical tests and procedures found in the healthcare field. As the first in this series, "Five Things Physicians and Patients Should Question" was released late last weekend and focuses on the areas of asthma, allergies and other immune system disorders.

From this initial list, the top two items were to avoid using IgG or battery of IgE tests as the primary basis for diagnosing an allergy, and to stop prescribing antibiotics for uncomplicated acute rhinosinusitis. These two things touch issues we've highlighted in recent months.

Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and Immunoglobulin E (IgE) tests alone are not accurate in determining an allergy, and overreliance on these tests can often lead to false positives. They are convenient, easy, and give you answers, but unfortunately, those answers aren't always accurate. Instead of general testing, the "Choose Wisely" top-five suggests a doctor take into account the patients history and physical exam records, then administer a specific IgE test based on these factors. Combined, these three pieces form a more complete picture of the puzzle and can dramatically reduce the occurrence of false positives in allergy testing.

Over prescription of antibiotics for sinusitis is something we touched recently with this post. For quite some time it has been the theory that not only are they ineffective in most cases, but overuse, in general, in directly leading to their ineffectiveness against modern germs. Most acute sinus infections are viral in nature, and like we learned in high school biology, antibiotics are ineffective against viruses. Additionally, most viral sinus infections run their course in a couple weeks.

In all, there are five recommendations put forth that deal with allergies, asthma or immune disorders. You can find the full list here. We encourage anyone who suffers from allergies, asthma or related disorder to take a look and see if any apply to you. Then the next time you visit your allergist, ENT or doctor, discuss them and see if there are ways to curb certain tests or treatments which may not offer much benefit.

Dust Mop Assembly, Miele Kits and Neb Cups - FAQ's Answered

theblog@achooallergy.com — Fri, 6 Apr 2012 19:34:56 +0000

In our continual effort to help you find relief from allergies, asthma, and MCS as well as to maintain a healthier home, we've started a series of FAQ videos. Each month hundreds of people submit "Frequently Asked Questions" to our site. The majority of those are answered within 24 hours with many of those being posted back to the site to help others.

However, some questions are best answered by showing you as opposed to writing. While you still will receive answers via email to all submitted questions, starting this week we're going to take a few of those FAQ's and answer them in a short video. This week, I'd like to thank Hermione, Maryann and Christine for their submissions.

Insect Train Keeps Rolling Along - Bedbugs

theblog@achooallergy.com — Wed, 4 Apr 2012 14:10:51 +0000

Going along with the idea that this year is likely to be a veritable "Insectapalooza," Atlanta based pest control company, Orkin, recently released its top 50 cities for bed bugs. Unlike most other top 50 lists, this one isn't much cause for celebration - unless you're not on it. Unfortunately for local residents, Atlanta is movin' on up!

Sitting at number 21, Atlanta moved up 24 spots from last years rankings. Now much of this may be due in large part to the Hartsfield Jackson Airport, but with so many people moving through the city daily, the number is only likely to climb.

Bedbugs spread easily by hitching rides in luggage and in clothing as people move about and travel. Once they settle in a home, whether your bedroom or a hotel room, they can be very difficult to eradicate.

Since these little vampires only come out at night and feed on blood, their bites are generally noticeable, as are spots or smears on bedding and bedroom furniture. When traveling to areas where bedbugs are a problem, remember to inspect your surroundings before unpacking. Keep you luggage elevated up off of the ground and on a luggage rack. Bag clothing and luggage before returning home, and toss clothes in the washer (use hot water) or in the dryer (on high for 15 minutes) to kill any potential bedbugs.

Other noteables on the list: Cincinnati (1), Chicago (2), Detroit (3), Devner (4), Los Angeles (5), New York (9), Boston (14), Charlotte (33).

Other factors for the increased rankings are increased public awareness (making it easier to indentify the actual problem) and an actual increase in the overall bedbug population in the city. Rankings are based upon the number of treatments Orkin performed from January to December of 2011. For more on the rankings, visit Orkin.

Bugs, Bugs, and More Bugs!

theblog@achooallergy.com — Tue, 3 Apr 2012 12:44:45 +0000

By now, allergy sufferers are feeling the full effects of very mild winter and early year, summerlike conditions. Sneezy, runny noses, itchy and watery eyes are abundant in homes, schools and offices across the U.S. Beyond allergies, there's another issue we alluded to a couple months ago - insects.

February saw repeated record high temperatures across the nation, and with this coming hot on the heels of a warmer, wet winter for much of the country, conditions are ideal for insects to flourish. But aside from ants invading your pantry and carpenter bees feasting on your deck, there are some specific pest problems to look for and hopefully prevent.

Bed Bugs - The warmer temperatures can actually reduce the amount of time it takes for a bed bug egg to hatch, from 1-2 weeks to a little as 6 days. Warmer temps also mean more people are out and about, traveling and potentially picking up these little vampire hitchhikers (bed bugs) and bringing them home.

The best thing you can do is remain vigilant. Bag and store luggage and clothing outside until it can be unpacked and inspected. Wash clothing in hot water to kill any bed bugs that may be hiding in your clothing. While staying at hotels or motels, do a quick inspection of the room prior to unpacking, paying attention to tell-tale signs of bedbugs (small dark spot which can be bedbug droppings and blood spots on the mattress, sheets or furniture). If you find something, report it and look for a new place to stay.

For more information on bed bug prevention.

Ticks and Fleas - Nearly all insects love warm, humid conditions, and ticks and fleas are no exception. Not only do these little blood suckers bite, but ticks can carry a variety of diseases. Before coming in after being outside, check yourself for ticks. Pay particular attention to your pets. They can very easily pick up ticks and fleas. Regular bathing and brushing are two very easy ways to prevent and detect and possible tick or flea problems your pet may have.

For ridding your pet of fleas, try natural flea repellent pet shampoo or for getting rid of fleas in the carpet or furniture, try Dust Mite and Flea Control.

Mosquitoes - Like ticks and bedbugs, mosquitoes also feed on your blood and can transmit disease and viruses. While some areas spray insecticides to mosquito populations down, this can release harmful toxins into the air and water. Around the home, be sure to drain containers or anywhere water can puddle and become the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. And when looking for a suitable repellent, look for cintronella and other citrus extracts in the ingredients. Both are powerful, natural insect repellents.

Chances are good that it's going to be a very buggy summer, but this doesn't mean it has to ruin your time outdoors. With some very basic precautions you can enjoy the sun and outdoors with less worry about ticks, fleas, bed bugs or mosquitoes.

Danby Dehumidifiers, Now in Stock

theblog@achooallergy.com — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 14:48:02 +0000

Since spring came early, we all fully expect summer to come early too! In anticipation of a hot and humid summer, our Danby dehumidifiers have arrived!

Consistently a top rated model by consumer ratings agencies, the Danby 70 pint is by far our most popular dehumidifier. Not only is the water removal impressive, the auto-restart, timer, and direct drain option are all valuable features that provide convenience without needless expense.

During the warm, humid summer months, the indoor humidity levels can soar. Even with a central air conditioner running, the temperature can be cool yet the humidity high. To keep humidity levels low enough to prevent dust mite and mold growth, a room dehumidifier is a handy solution.

With the included hose and direct drain option, they are a convenient way to lower the humidity level in your basement without having to empty a condensate tank. Overall, they are one of the easiest ways to prevent mold from growing in your home. Currently only the 70 pint models are in stock, but 50 pints dehumidifiers will be arriving soon!

In addition to Danby's, we offer a wide selection of dehumidifiers to fit nearly any space in your home, from a small cupboard to industrial warehouses!

Shop Dehumidifiers or Check out the Danby 70 pint dehumidifier.