A study released in this month's issue of the Journal of Leukocyte Biology suggests that some instances of asthma may be related to what could be classified as an allergic response to bacteria.
The allergic response, though not fully understood, is often fairly simple. When protein allergens like pollen, dander or dust mites enter airways and bind to IgE (Immunoglobulin E) receptors, mast cells release histamines which cause the swelling and inflammation. These are often what are behind the sneezing, congestion, and watery eyes.
For this study, researchers introduced Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common infection causing bacteria, in to mice. In response to this foreign bacteria in the lungs, white blood cells produced very high levels of histamine.
While histamine production in the lungs is not uncommon (histamines cause the most common symptom of asthma - inflammation) what is most significant is that it was produced by white blood cells, NOT the mast cells that produce histamines in allergic responses.
This study further complicates the blurry line between allergic and asthmatic responses, by showing that a common bacteria can cause white blood cells to exhibit allergen response-like traits. Ultimately, studies like this not only shed more light on the processes underlying these responses but can also lead a better understanding of how the body can combat allergies and asthma.
Tags: allergy research, histamines, asthma research
We have two cats and a dog, and I do what I know to do in order to keep pet dander around the house to a minimum. I try to keep the animals out of bedrooms, I have a leather couch, I have minimal drapery, and I vacuum frequently with my Dyson. But I'm sure I'm not as motivated to keep pet dander under control as I would be if any of my household were allergic to cats or dogs.
When allergic guests come to my house, however, I become all too aware of how pervasive pet dander can be, and how hard it is to actually get rid of.
Last night, some dear friends from California arrived for a visit, and we had them over for dinner. The husband of the family is quite allergic to cats. I dusted and cleaned the floors one last time at the last minute before they came, and we gave him some homeopathic drops that are supposed help forestall an allergy attack. And of course we locked the cats in a room while he was here.
He seemed to be okay, at least for a while. But by the end of the evening, though it took our asking for him to tell us, he was definitely feeling the effects of his cat allergy. As a hostess, it's an awful feeling to know that your guests are uncomfortable in your home though of course, the person we should feel sorriest for is the allergic one!
We always keep allergy medicine (as well as those homeopathic drops) on hand for when pet allergic guests come to our house. But sometimes it's not enough. What do you do in addition to your regular environmental control to help allergy sufferers feel at home in your home?
Tags: pet dander, pet allergy, cat allergy, dog allergy
The toxic trio comprises three extremely toxic chemicals that, until recently, were found in almost all nail polishes: formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate, or DBP. As the article describes:
"Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen and can also cause eye, throat, nose and skin irritation. DBP is a known reproductive and developmental toxin, while toluene is a possible reproductive and developmental toxin and can also cause headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. All of these chemicals can be absorbed into the body through the nail bed."
In 2006 and 2007, the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics exerted enough pressure on the nail polish industry to prompt some companies, such as OPI, Sally Hansen, and Orly, to phase out all or some of the toxic trio chemicals.
The European Union went so far as to ban DBP, but the United States does not restrict its usage in beauty products. As with so many matters , particularly related to chemicals contained in everyday household items, we cannot count on government agencies and certainly not production companies to keep us safe from toxic products; rather, consumers must educate themselves and check labels.
Check out the Environmental Working Group's Cosmetics Database for a comprehensive database of personal products and their toxicity ratings.
Tags: nail polish chemicals, the toxic trio, environmental working group, cosmetics database, safe cosmetics
With winter fully upon us, the flu season is in full swing. From children to the elderly, the flu is keeping millions of people away from school, out of work and in the house. Worse for specific groups, the flu is responsible for tens of thousands of deaths annually in the U.S. While the flu virus itself is found in multiple variations and mutations, two of the easiest ways to avoid it are two of the most simple things you can do each day.
First, wash your hands. Unfortunately for most people, hand washing is something that happens only a few times per day. However, if there is one thing that is true about all variations of the flu virus, it is that the flu virus is resilient. Washing your hands may not kill it, but it removes the virus and other germs you encounter every day from door knobs, water fountain spigots, desks and other surfaces we commonly touch.
Secondly, wear a mask. Look specifically for something that is at least N95 rated. This is the minimum recommended by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) to protect against the influenza virus.
Masks come in a variety of styles and sizes with different filtration options, but something as simple as a basic N95 mask can put a barrier between you and illness. While there is still some stigma associated with wearing a mask in public, this in minor when compared to some of the virulent strains of the flu that are out there. You only need read the second paragraph of this CNN article to highlight this point.
Additionally, for the elderly, the very young and for those who are at risk of flu complications, it is recommended to get an annual flu shot. While this does not guarantee you will not contract the flu, it does reduce your risk. To find your nearest location to obtain a flu vaccination visit the Flu.gov website.
By taking a few simple steps and making minor changes to your hygiene regimen, you can do yourself a big favor and increase your chances of keeping the flu away during the holiday season.
We've talked before about the positive effect of some particular nutrients on preventing and relieving allergy symptoms. For instance, omega-3, whether taken as a supplement or through foods, helps a great deal in diminishing eczema symptoms and even allergy symptoms in general. Making sure to get enough vitamin D also helps allergy problems.
Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, can also ease allergies. Specifically, as DigitalNaturopath.com describes, allergy sufferers who take pantothenic acid supplements before bed often find that their nasal stuffiness clears and they aren't awakened by excess mucus, stuffiness, or other allergy symptoms during the night. It should be noted, however, that taking too much of the supplement can induce nasal dryness.
Livestrong.com also discusses pantothenic acid in relation to allergies, and describes the nutrient's effect on allergies as follows:
"Pantothenic acid is needed to make coenzyme-A, which is necessary for certain chemical reactions to generate energy from carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Coenzyme-A is also used during the production of cholesterol, hemoglobin, brain chemicals and hormones, especially from the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands, which sit atop the kidneys, are particularly relevant to allergic reactions because they secrete the hormones during an immune response, such as cortisone. Cortisone is the primary hormone in preventing the release of histamine and allergic symptoms. According to "Biochemical, Physiological and Molecular Aspects of Human Nutrition," the single most important nutrient for adrenal gland function is pantothenic acid; insufficient levels of pantothenic acid reduce the necessary amounts of cortisone from being secreted."
Interestingly, there is a possibility that pantothenic acid deficiency could be involved in allergies. Dosages for supplementation fall between 100mg and 500mg. Or, you can get pantothenic acid in food rich in the nutrient, including organ meats, fatty fish, shellfish, yeast, egg yolks, avocado, spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, and dairy products. Treating allergies with pantothenic acid would be a good topic to discuss with your allergist.
We've previously discussed factors that influence the development of allergies and asthma in children. For instance, children born by c-sections and aren't exposed to as much bacteria during their birth are more likely to develop allergies. Those whose mothers take probiotics during pregnancy are less likely to develop allergies. In addition, children who are exposed to dogs are less likely to develop eczema.
Science Daily's Few Allergies in Unstressed Babies, Swedish Researchers Find covers a recent study from Karolinska Institutet in Sweden. The study sheds light on an additional factor that affects allergy development: cortisol levels in infants. Published in the December paper issue of the Journal of Allergy and Immunology, the study shows that infants with low levels of the hormone cortisol in their saliva develop fewer allergies than other infants.
As Dr. Fredrik Stenius of the Department of Clinical Research and Education at Stockholm South General Hospital says, "Psychosocial factors and the stress hormone cortisol are associated with allergic diseases. Our study found that children with low salivary cortisol levels as infants have a lower prevalence of allergies during the first two years of life, compared to other children."
Such information adds to the growing body of research that attempts to answer the question of why allergic disease is on the rise, and hopefully will contribute to new ways of looking at how to address the issue.
Tags: cortisol levels and allergies, stress and allergies, allergy development
For the second time this year, neti pots have been linked to tragic fatalities via the contraction of Naegleria fowleri , the brain-eating amoeba. While this raises alarms over the use of neti pots to relieve congestion and allergy symptoms, the neti pot itself is NOT the problem. Indeed, there is something in the water.
Naegleria fowleri is typically found in warm, freshwater sources and is most often contracted while swimming in lakes, ponds and rivers. Contraction is more common in the American South and Southwest as these areas typically have large bodies of fresh water that remain warm throughout the year. Though the occurrence of contraction is extremely rare, due to the terminal nature of the microbe, reported incidences are often very high profile.
In the most recent instance, a Louisiana woman contracted the Naegleria fowleri after rinsing her nose with tap water. Though chlorination kills most organisms like this, it is not 100% effective. This is believed to be the case twice this year in Louisiana, and currently the CDC is assisting the Louisiana Department of Health in investigating the source of the microbe.
Nearly all types of neti pots recommend using distilled water. Using sterile or distilled water, or even water that is boiled then cooled to room temperature, is safe and effective. And for as much as we would like to believe that the water we consume, cook and bathe with is safe, unfortunately, this is not always the case.
Despite these instances, neti pots remain one of the most effective ways to relieve congestion and rinse away allergens without the use of medication. However, when using a neti pot, please follow the instructions as listed by the manufacturer and remain safe while relieving allergy symptoms.
Tags: neti pots, naegleria fowleri, amoeba, tap water, distilled water
Deciding to implement allergen avoidance routines makes a huge difference in many allergy sufferers' lives. Certain measures are no-brainers: using allergy relief bedding, keeping pets out of the bedroom, putting air purifiers in bedrooms, and using a HEPA vacuum cleaner. However, other environmental control measures require careful, weighed consideration so that the measures themselves don't become issues.
The holiday season makes these difficult-to-navigate issues especially apparent. Below are some allergy conundrums that come up this time of year:
What kind of Christmas tree? Recently, we discussed the presence of lead on artificial Christmas trees. No amount of lead exposure is safe for children or animals, and lead often ends up in household dust. Furthermore, artificial trees tend to harbor dust and other allergens. For these reasons, choosing a real tree seems like the best option.
However, some individuals are allergic to fresh trees. CNN highlights this point in On Comet, on Cupid, on Donner and Wheezy?, which describes how those allergic to pine trees experience itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, and even a skin rash if there's contact with a pine tree.
Fragrance Overload Everyone knows that holiday decorations can be an onslaught for all the senses. Strong artificial fragrances often hit you in the face when walking into department stores or craft stores, to mention a couple. For some, these smells might evoke the holiday spirit, but to allergy sufferers and those with chemical sensitivities, these scents are a powerful symptom trigger.
One allergic woman, Kimberly Burton, who is quoted in the CNN article, describes the effect of these fragrance-laced decorations: "Unfortunately, it makes me dread holiday decorations coming out - and also forces me to get much of my shopping done well before the holidays are even here." Ms. Burton must avoid malls between September and February, when all the scents has been aired out.
Humidify But Carefully Since the heater can make indoor air exceptionally dry, many people use humidifiers during cold winter months. Allergy sufferers definitely should use humidifiers because dry nasal and respiratory passages can lead to or worsen allergy symptoms.
But not gauging humidity levels properly can lead to additional problems: Humidity levels over 50 percent can lead to mold growth, which is unhealthy for everyone, but particularly allergy sufferers. If your unit has a built-in hygrometer, use it, and if it doesn't, be sure to have a separate hygrometer on hand to keep humidity at optimum levels.
Tags: artificial fragrances and allergies, Christmas trees and allergies, humidifier, humidity gauge, hygrometer
It's that time of year when it seems that you or someone you know is sick all the time. With many of winter's common sicknesses having similar symptoms, it's often hard to know what the sickness is.
You definitely want to prevent the spread of the flu, especially, and colds as well, so it's important to know how to identify the difference between the flu, colds, and allergies. Because you can show up at the Christmas party if you know it's allergies, but you don't want to risk being a "typhoid Mary" and getting everyone else sick if you have something contagious.
In Is it a Cold, the Flu, or Something Else? Fox News Health offers some very handy tips for telling the flu (both seasonal and swine), colds, and allergies apart. Below is a summary of their advice:
Seasonal flu symptoms. The key symptom that shows up with the flu is a fever that comes on suddenly. Chest discomfort, aches and pains, and exhaustion are also clues. Populations who are at particular risk from the flu, such as the elderly, pregnant women, and the chronically ill, should be extra vigilant about knowing if what they have is the flu.
Swine flu or H1N1 symptoms. What makes these flu strains different from the regular seasonal flu is the accompanying symptoms of nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. These symptoms make it especially important to stay hydrated.
Cold symptoms. Often, the identifying feature of a cold is nasal congestion. Noticeably absent when you have a cold are the body aches and high fever characteristic of the flu.
Allergy symptoms. While allergies can cause several of the above symptoms (minus fevers), itching tends to be a symptom unique to allergies. While spring or fall tend to bring on the most allergy trouble, the buildup of indoor allergens in winter can trigger allergies.
Winter is a time when allergens tend to build up in record amounts in your home. People and pets spend more time indoors, and homes are sealed tight against the elements. In addition, forced air heating systems make nasal and respiratory passages particularly susceptible to allergy symptoms and complications like sinus infections.
This is why allergy sufferers must pay special attention to their cleaning routines during winter months. Getting rid of the excess of dust mite allergen, mold spores, pet dander and other allergens that tend to build up during this time of year can prevent excessive winter allergy attacks.
Vacuuming is a mainstay of any cleaning regimen, and of course of an allergy avoidance cleaning routine. Following are some vacuuming tips to help you get the most benefit from the time you spend cleaning:
Vacuum top to bottom. Using your machine to dust prevents you from stirring up dust into your breathing zone. Use attachments to dust items like blinds and bookshelves. Starting at the "top" of a room ensures that dust that the vacuum doesn't catch will get cleaned up as you move to the bottom of the room. Vacuum in several directions. As tempting as it may be to form straight horizontal lines in your carpet, save this for the end. Vacuuming in varied directions ensures that the carpet pile is moved around enough to suck up the maximum amount of dirt and allergens. Vacuum in short, slow strokes. Don't push and pull the vacuum fast. Instead, use slow strokes so that the suction spends time over each area of your carpet. Short strokes rather than long ones accomplish the same objective. Invest in a quality HEPA vacuum cleaner that you enjoy using. If enjoying vacuuming is a stretch, just consider making vacuuming as little of a pain as possible so that you are more likely to do it as often as possible. Features like the Dyson ball make twisting and turning as you vacuum a breeze. Miele vacuums actually purify the air as well as the best air purifiers while you vacuum, and the new line of mid-range machines make these Cadillacs of vacuum cleaners more affordable than ever.
The Soft Landing Safe Living Guide's article, Top 5 Ways to Avoid Lead this Christmas, expands on the topic of Christmas lights lead exposure risks, which we talked about on Monday.
Although it is not as prevalent as it once was, lead can still be found in many items and products, including many children's toys, such as trick-or-treat pumpkin buckets. Further, lead can be found in an array of other objects around the home especially around the holidays, as summarized below:
Real Christmas trees do not pose any lead danger, as most PVC-made fake trees do. Keep in mind that fake trees can also harbor other allergens, such as dust.
Find and use RoHS compliant, lead-safe Christmas lights. Remember that even if the flame retardant chemicals found on electrical cords are rarely handled (or put into mouths, as may be the case with children), the chemicals, including lead, contaminate dust in the home.
Opt out of cheap jewelry and PVC plastic toys for stocking stuffers or other gifts. Questionable products are consistently found to contain lead. Check out HealthyToys.org and the Center for Environmental Health for a database of information about lead in toys.
Beware of leaded crystal glassware, and make sure that ceramic and China dishes have been tested by the manufacturer for heavy metals.
When making holiday art projects with the kids, make sure to use non-toxic, lead free paints (especially finger paints).
Avoiding lead is important because it is a probable carcinogen and a neurotoxin that can cause learning disorders, brain damage, nerve damage, growth problems, digestion problems, and hearing loss. Note that there is no safe level of lead exposure, and the risks are greatest for young children as well as pregnant women.
Tags: lead danger, christmas and lead, lead christmas lights, lead in toys, fake christmas tree lead
When I saw this photo on Pinterest (which I've blogged about before), I cringed. Knowing that Christmas lights are often rife with lead, which is used both to insulate the wiring and as a flame retardant, seeing a child handling Christmas lights and putting them in his mouth, was off-putting to say the least. (And this isn't to mention the other dangers that come to my mind, at least, such as electrical and strangulation hazards )
I did see one "pinner," as Pinterest users are often called, comment about the lead hazard. She also points out that, to her credit, the original photographer added a warning to her site, stating that she didn't know about the lead danger at the time the photograph was taken. Sadly, many people will not see these comments and the photo is extremely popular, having already spawned many, many imitations.
In any case, this scenario is a good reminder of why it's important to be aggressive in obtaining information about health hazards, especially when it comes to your children. Many don't know that electronics, including phones, and even keys are lead hazards, and it's not unusual to find babies handling or chewing on cell phones or bunches of keys.
In an age where chemical exposure is ubiquitous and often completely uncontrollable, we must be as aware as possible about the dangers we can limit and we must spread the word.
I've expressed the fact that I love Dyson vacuum cleaners on this blog before. My Dyson DC24 is going strong and I still get a thrill out of how much and how well it picks up.
But now I have a problem. I want the new Dyson DC35 Digital Slim Vacuum Cleaner, which we just started carrying. It's a cordless, rechargeable vacuum cleaner, but what makes it different besides Dyson's Root Cyclone technology, which never loses suction is its detachable long-reach wand. The vacuum also comes with a motorized brush tool for cleaning carpeted areas, floors, stairs, and more. Essentially, the Dyson Digital Slim is a handheld and a stick vacuum in one, with the option to use a long-reach tool.
This Digital Slim Dyson is absolutely perfect for quick clean-ups in hard-to-reach nooks and crannies. I love the thought of pulling this small vacuum out of the pantry to clean up the crumbs in the kitchen every night, or to take out to the car to get rid of all the dog hair and Cheerios.
Ohhhh, I really want one. Is it weird to want a vacuum cleaner for your birthday? I better send my husband this post. =)
In other Dyson news, we're also selling the latest Dyson Animal model, the Dyson DC41 Animal. With its improved, patented radial Root Cyclone technology and additional suction in the brushroll, this is Dyson's most powerful vacuum to date.
As temperatures continue to drop, you may find yourself reaching for warmer clothes among them wool sweaters. Many people claim they are "allergic to wool," but a true wool allergy is rare. Below are some quick facts that should help clarify wool allergies:
A true allergic response to wool involves the same inflammatory immune system response that occurs with other allergies. More often, so-called wool allergies are actually sensitivities to the rough fibers of the wool. Those with atopic dermatitis, eczema, or sensitive skin in general should avoid wearing wool directly against the skin if they find the fiber irritating. Sometimes, an allergic reaction is not due to the wool fiber itself, but to the chemicals used to process and treat the wool. Try organic wool in this case. Lanolin is the source for many wool allergies. People who are allergic to lanolin will also react to lotions and other personal care products that contain lanolin. Reactions to wool can also be caused by other allergens that are contained in the wool, such as pet dander. Try wearing another layer between your skin and the wool clothing. If the sensitivity goes away, you have a sensitivity, not an allergy and you found a way to continue using wool to stay warm!
We've discussed the hygiene hypothesis before: the theory, simply stated, that posits that the cleaner we become as a society, the more we're prone to react to "invaders" that aren't actually threats to our bodies specifically allergens.
This cleanliness to the point that it actually hurts us is at play in the case of the overuse of antibiotics, which wipe out not only harmful bacteria, but also the helpful or "good" bacteria as well. As the ABC News article puts it, "Sure, the pills can wipe out bad bacteria. But they also kill the good stuff. On top of fueling a rise in antibiotic-resistant superbugs, they could be permanently changing the gut environment a feat some experts fear might be making us fat."
Dr. Martin Blaser of New York University Langone Medical Center studies the effects of antibiotics on Helicobacter pylori, the very bacteria mentioned by Dr. Sharon in the Allergy Consumer Report this month. This bacterium lives without harming most individuals, but does cause ulcers in some. Doctors treat with antibiotics frequently and this changes the way the stomach works.
Specifically, "antibiotics for H. pylori trick the body into eating more by disrupting hunger hormone levels. Indeed, mice given antibiotics get fatter than their untreated counterparts despite having the same diet."
As we've discussed in the past, these kinds of changes in gut bacteria may also contribute to the rise in asthma, allergies, and related conditions. Avoiding antibiotics unless absolutely necessary and taking probiotics supplements (especially when antibiotics are taken but even if they aren't) are two ways to avoid the problems caused by not enough good bacteria.
Tags: antibiotics, probiotics, hygiene hypothesis, good bacteria, obesity and antibiotics
One thing that has consistently set Miele apart from other vacuum cleaner brands is the push to innovate and introduce new and improved products. As we say farewell to the Miele S4 canister vacuums cleaners, the new Miele S6 canisters have arrived.
Priced between the S2 and S5 lines of Miele canister vacs, the Miele S6 models consist of several compact, durable canister vacuum cleaners that present a new design, several style changes, and some noticeable improvements over the previous mid range models.
To start, the Miele S6 canisters all have sealed systems, and for allergy or asthma sufferers this is critical in removing as much particle allergen from the air in your home as possible. Lighter than the S4s, the S6 vacuum canisters all weigh less than 10 lbs.
When equipped with a HEPA filter, the Miele S6 vacuums offer 12 layers of filtration, and with a redesigned motor, these Miele vacuum cleaners are the quietest of all.
At 33 total feet, the operating radius is in line with S5 models, 3.5 ft. longer than S2 canisters. The cord rewind is now a single-touch switch. Instead of having to apply constant pressure until the entirety of the cord is rewound, one touch of the rewind switch it all it takes.
As the signature model in this line, the Miele Red Velvet (pictured) features a unique velvet finish on the body of the canister and polished aluminum accents. In all, the Miele S6 vacuum cleaners present a variety of features and design changes but still provide the consistent cleaning results that have made the brand so popular.
Tags: Miele vacuums, Miele canister vacuums, new Miele vacuums
Especially around fall and winter holidays, it's hard not to want to add that special touch to your home with fragrance. And if company is coming, you always want to get that lingering pet or fish dinner odor out of the air.
The problem is that commercial home deodorizing and fragrance products are laden with toxic chemicals that aren't healthy for anyone and that can set off asthma, allergies, and multiple chemical sensitivities in individuals prone to these conditions.
Rather than spraying, plugging in, or lighting odor-neutralizing or scented home fragrance products, try the following natural alternatives.
To eliminate odor naturally:
Sprinkle baking soda in pet litter boxes. Sprinkle baking soda onto carpets about fifteen minutes before vacuuming. Pour white vinegar or lemon juice into the garbage disposal before running it. Or freeze these liquids into ice cubes and toss them into the disposal before running it. Put an opened box of baking soda in the fridge. Place bowls of white vinegar in odor-afflicted rooms. Use the AllerAir Tub O' Carbon Odor Buster in bathrooms or near litter boxes to absorb odors naturally. Try EcoDiscoveries AirZyme Air and Fabric Deodorizer as a safer alternative to mainstream deodorizing sprays.
To add fragrance to your home naturally:
Soak some cotton balls in vanilla extract and put them in a small bowl in the fridge or in inconspicuous places around the house to add subtle fragrance. Boil some cinnamon sticks in some water on the stove. Sprinkle some cinnamon and sugar on a baking sheet and put in a warm oven to infuse your home with the holiday scent of baked goods. Start a new family tradition by making orange pomanders, which will fill your home with a citrusy sweet, natural, holiday fragrance.
I'm in Cambridge visiting my sister who's in graduate school at Harvard. This is my first "real" time being in the Boston area (I can't really count the three-hour stop I made here almost a decade ago) and I'm enjoying this Europe-like city very much.
One thing you can't help noticing here is the vast quantities of brick, which is used in sidewalks and in many of the buildings, both inside and out. And since my sister's dream loft (as in the one she wished she lived in, but doesn't) includes exposed brick on the interior, she points out this architectural detail whenever we encounter it.
What does all this have to do with allergies, you might wonder? Brick, beautiful and interesting as it is, is not a good design option for those with allergies. One reason is that the uneven surface of bricks collects allergens like dust mite allergen - and brick is not easy to clean. In addition, because brick is porous, it can be a breeding ground for bacteria and mildew, also not healthy for allergy and asthma sufferers, or anyone, for that matter.
If you find yourself living or working with interior brick, just realize that it could be an allergen source. Take steps to mitigate the effect the brick may have on your allergies by vacuuming the wall regularly and looking into a sealant to keep mildew and bacteria from growing. As always, knowledge is power and education is the first step to better health.
Tags: brick walls and allergies, mildew and brick, dust and brick
Fall is in full swing and with it autumn allergies. The prelude to winter allergy woes, fall allergies are one of the worst seasons for those who suffer from allergic conditions. Ragweed pollen and mold can be especially prolific at this time of year, setting off the sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, and general allergy malaise we know all too well.
In addition to the fundamental repertoire of allergy avoidance products such as air purifiers, allergy bedding, and a HEPA vacuum cleaner, specific allergies or allergy seasons call for particular allergy relief products.
Following are two allergy relief products that every allergy sufferer should have on hand in order to minimize fall allergy symptoms:
Window filters: Opening windows is excellent for letting fresh air circulate throughout homes that have been shut up against summer heat. But don't let in pollen along with that cool fall air! Window filters allow for circulation without the introduction of allergens into the home.
Masks: When taking care of fall yard work, masks are an absolute must for allergy sufferers. The combination of fallen rotting leaves and the dampness caused by rain creates mold and mildew that can trigger an onslaught of allergy symptoms. Wear a mask while raking and doing other outdoor chores to prevent mold exposure and the problems it causes.
Chemical exposure is all around us. Whether we are inhaling fumes from furniture or shower curtains, or ingesting food with preservatives or BPA content, toxic chemicals enter our bodies in various ways and not without effect. Tests have found chemicals known to be carcinogenic or hormone-disruptive in our bodies and the repercussions are only just beginning to be understood.
Personal care products like shampoos, lotions, soaps, facial cleansers, and even toothpaste and nail polish are one significant source of possible chemical exposure. Without much regulation as to what can be included in these products, chemical exposure adds up quickly when you consider how many of these products are sprayed or slathered on daily.
The safest thing seems to be to minimize our exposure where possible by making less toxic choices. Personal care products are an excellent place to start since the chemicals in these items are either inhaled or absorbed into our skin every day. For those who suffer from allergies or multiple chemical sensitivity, making natural choices is even more of a necessity; choosing products with no preservatives, such as parabens, or fragrances often makes the difference between an unpleasant allergic reaction and none.
Self-education about which ingredients to look for and diligent label-reading (which we encourage) is important, but is there an easier way to choose personal care products that don't introduce a medley of toxic chemicals into our bodies?
The Environmental Working Group provides a valuable resource for exactly this. Their Skin Deep Cosmetics Database is a guide of more than 69,000 products rated according to toxicity levels. Users can search by product type, by specific product, by brand, by ingredients, and more. Results give an overall score as well as a breakdown of chemical components and their dangers.
For more on personal care products, chemical exposure, and natural alternatives, check out the following:
My husband and I have to make a decision soon about whether we prefer a gas range or an electric range in our new home. Honestly, I like glass cook tops because they are much easier to clean. But I know the pros diehard gas range cite in favor of non-electric stoves and ovens (more control of the heat, faster heat, etc.).
An almost offhand remark made by our builder cinched my decision, however. He mentioned that gas ranges produce more "combustible material." This of course affects indoor air quality. Since our home will be certified green, it is incredibly tightly sealed. This is great for conserving energy and keeping heating and cooling costs low. But a tightly sealed home also means that any indoor air pollution has that much greater of an effect on the home's inhabitants.
Regardless of how tightly your home is sealed, however, it's important to be aware of combustion sources in the home because combustion pollutes indoor air and can even pose a deadly hazard, as in the case of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Be extra careful when using unvented, fuel-burning space heaters. Avoid these kinds of heaters if possible. If you must use them, open a door from the room where the heater is being used, and crack a window as well. Follow manufacturer's directions carefully, especially regarding fuel and adjustment. A persistently yellow-tipped flame indicates improper adjustment and increased pollutant emissions.
Make sure gas ranges have exhaust fans over them and use them. Exhaust fans should vent outdoors. Also be sure the burners are properly adjusted. Again, a yellow-tipped flame indicates increased pollutants stemming from maladjustment. Flame tips should be blue.
Ensure that the flue is open when using your gas fireplace.
Use extreme caution when using wood-burning stoves. Choose new stoves that are correctly sized and that meet EPA emissions standards. Be certain that doors on old stoves are tight-fitting. Only use aged or cured wood. Pressure treated wood should never be burned indoors because of the chemicals used to treat it.
Have central air handling systems, including chimneys, flues, and furnaces, inspected every year and repair as necessary. "Blocked, leaking, or damaged chimneys or flues release harmful combustion gases and particles and even fatal concentrations of carbon monoxide." In addition, the EPA recommends changing furnace filters every month or two when the units are in use. Even new furnaces need maintenance, as they too can corrode and leak combustion gases including carbon monoxide.
Image courtesy of: gas flame: flickr by stevendepolo.
Tags: combustion sources, carbon monoxide poisoning, yellow-tipped flame, gas vs electric range, indoor air pollution
The more you know about the dangers of the toxic chemicals that are all around us, the more you do your best to avoid them. Simple lifestyle changes like swapping Windex for a homemade vinegar solution to clean glass and major decisions like choosing to purchase a natural foam mattress instead of a typical one filled with poisonous flame retardants are all affected by a desire to minimize exposure to noxious fumes.
But what happens when indoor air pollution "attacks"? What can you do when you know the air you're breathing is toxic but there's nothing you can do to stop the pollution? Here's what I mean: Last Friday, a maintenance man came to our apartment to fix a leaking A/C unit. (I hate to even think about the mildew that must be forming in the pipes, not to mention the patch of carpet that has been perpetually damp. Good thing we're moving next month.)
Part of what the worker did involved using some kind of spray adhesive, which I wasn't warned about beforehand. The fumes were instantly overwhelming to the point where I could taste them in my mouth. I scooped up the children from their lunches and whisked them outside while my husband ran around opening windows and turning on fans to increase ventilation and fresh air circulation.
We went out for a while so the fumes could subside. Another thing I hate to think about is how the chemical probably settled onto furniture and carpeting, but I don't know what I can do about that. Do you have experience dodging unexpected indoor air pollution? What's your way of escaping it or alleviating the problem?
(Allergy friends, this sudden fleeing from our home caused my usual Friday blog post to go clear out of my head. I'm sorry, and 'til next time!)
In today's blog, we bring you a summary of tips from RealSimple.com about how to prevent bed bugs:
"Prevention is key." Bed bug extermination can cost upwards of $1200 and the physical and emotional toll the process exacts can be costly as well. Prevention is not only obviously desirable, but easily attainable. Bedbug-proof bedding, such as mattress covers and box spring covers, laundering your clothes, and the hiring of pest interceptors to advise on bed bug infestation prevention are all recommended. Early detection of a problem also saves money, so becoming educated about how to prevent and spot bed bug problems is an integral component of prevention.
Inspect your hotel room. As much as even just thinking about the possibility of bed bugs in your hotel room might give you the heebie-jeebies, it's important to take the time to inspect for them when you're staying at a hotel no matter how nice the establishment. Pull back the sheets to look for signs of bedbugs on the mattress and box spring, and also inspect the headboard.
Don't bring bed bugs into your home. After a "suspicious" hotel stay, where you may have encountered bedbugs (and for sure if you know you did): unpack your suitcase outside of your living area (like in a garage or outside); put all clothes through a hot wash or dry cycle to kill bedbugs; disinfect your suitcase with no-pest strips.
Recognize bedbug bites. Bites are often the first sign of a bed bug infestation. But what do bedbug bites look like? They look like mosquito bites but typically come in clusters of at least three. In addition, they tend to affect areas of the body that are exposed while sleeping, like arms, the neck, face, and shoulders.
Call a professional bedbug exterminator. The key word here is professional. While you're waiting for the professional's visit, do what you can at home, including steam cleaning and vacuuming the mattress. Be sure to empty the vacuum cleaner outside the home. DO NOT use over-the-counter pesticides, which can make the problem worse. Bedbugs that aren't killed by the pesticide sense the chemical and flee, thereby spreading the infestation to other areas of the home.
Don't panic. Horrifying as it would be to confront a bedbug infestation in your own home, RealSimple.com reports that only about 10 percent of cases are considered severe enough to require disposing of all furniture and cleaning each item of clothing. As a rule of them, the article indicates, it's safe to only consider your case severe if you actually see the bedbugs walking around your home. Yikes.
The recent listeria outbreak makes it clear that being allergic to a food is not the only reason ordinary food might pose a severe health hazard.
Below is a summary of food safety tips from the Centers for Disease control, as highlighted in CNN's How to Keep Your Food Safe:
Clean. Wash hands thoroughly before cooking. Also wash anything used for cooking, including utensils, cookware, counters, cutting boards, and tableware. Be sure especially to wash hands after touching raw meat or produce and in between handling different types of food.
Separate. Keep uncooked food away from food that could be carrying harmful bacteria. Use separate cutting boards for different foods or wash the cutting boards thoroughly between items. Also separate utensils used for cutting or serving.
Cook. Cook food to at least a temperature of 140 degrees. Note that the "danger zone" in which germs thrive is between 40 degrees and 140 degrees. Check food's internal temperature with a thermometer, taking care not to contaminate food with the thermometer. When you're keeping food warm, make sure the internal temperature doesn't drop below 140 degrees.
Chill. Chill leftovers quickly, and in general, keep foods cold. Use a thermometer to make sure your refrigerator temperature is 40 degrees or below. Your freezer should be 0 degrees or below. Thaw frozen foods in the refrigerator, not at room temperature.
I often go TheSoftLanding.com to research safe, non-toxic products for my children. Especially when it comes to plastic items, navigating what's safe and what could contain hormone-disrupting or neurotoxic chemicals is particularly difficult; it helps to have a guide for helping me choose safe products. In fact, I'd say what AchooAllergy.com is as an allergy resource, the Soft Landing is for non-toxic children's products.
As you can easily imagine, both an allergy friendly home and a non-toxic home involve maintaining a home environment that's healthy and green. Often, concerns regarding these two arenas overlap, as when we discussed vinyl in Hidden Allergens: Shower Curtains, a topic which The Soft Landing also highlighted when it linked to Center for Health, Environment, and Justice article Eww. What's that Stench? Volatile Vinyl.
A recent Soft Landing blog entry, Top Ten Ways to Bust Toxic Dust Bunnies, points out that in addition to triggering allergies, dust is one of the "most significant sources of childhood exposure to toxic substances."
Children are especially susceptible to the toxicity dangers of dust because:
They are still developing.
They breathe in more air than adults and also mouth-breathe more often.
They have a higher heart rate and thus absorb chemicals into their tissues faster.
They have a greater surface area, so dermal absorption is greater.
The Soft Landing lists the following recommendations many of which should be familiar to AchooAllergy.com readers for minimizing toxic dust bunnies:
Keeping indoor air quality healthy requires knowledge about what products in your home might compromise indoor air quality and there are many.
One of the most pervasive chemicals that pollutes indoor air is formaldehyde. Formaldehyde exposure can lead to asthma and cancer, as well as cause short-term symptoms like eye, nose, and throat irritation; wheezing and coughing; fatigue; and skin rash. The chemical is found in everything from your dry cleaned clothing to those new dining chairs you just brought home.
Bedding, particularly "wrinkle-free" products. For alternatives, check out our organic bedding selection.
Kids' hard plastic dishwear, particularly those made from melamine resin.
Air fresheners.
Another formaldehyde source that's often difficult to control is pressed wood products used in the construction of the home itself, in other components of the home like cabinetry or flooring, and in furniture.
Last week we reported on the death of a local Atlanta teen who, though habitually vigilant about his peanut allergy, experienced a fatal allergy attack.
Today in CNN.com article Deaths are a reminder of food allergy dangers, Sloane Miller, MFA, MSW, LMSW, who is an author, food allergy advocate, and life coach, highlights the importance of allergy sufferers having a food action plan: "The untimely, tragic and preventable deaths last week of two young men in Georgia highlight the seriousness of food allergies and the need for people with food allergies to have an Emergency Allergy Action Plan."
Routinely counseling people with food allergies about how to live happy yet safe lives, Ms. Miller is an authority on Emergency Allergy Action Plans. She offers the following three points on what it means to take your food allergies seriously:
Understanding what you are allergic to and relying on a medical team including a board certified allergist that understands food allergies.
Creating an emergency allergy action plan with an allergist that includes always carrying your emergency medication, including an autoinjector of epinephrine.
Creating a robust support network of friends family teachers colleagues who can assist in an emergency.
A few years ago, we here at AchooAllergy.com had the pleasure of interviewing Ms. Sloane. 'Allergic Girl' Sloane Miller on Living Well with Food Allergies discusses Ms. Miller's personal history with allergies, her experience becoming a life coach, and some of her top tips for helping others with food allergies eat out and travel safely.
Henry Ford Hospital researchers "found that babies who have indoor prenatal pet exposure have a pattern of lower levels of the antibody Immunoglobulin E, or IgE, between birth and age 2. IgE is linked to the development of allergies and asthma." In addition, delivery through the birth canal and European, Middle Eastern, or Asian descent accounted for lower IgE levels than cesarian birth or African American descent.
The results of the study are published online at The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. Key findings of the study, which is believed to be the first of its kind, are as follows:
Indoor prenatal pet exposure accounted for a 28 percent lower IgE levels during infancy, as compared to infants with no such exposure. Among infants with indoor prenatal pet exposure, IgE levels were 16 percent lower in infants who had been delivered vaginally, as compared to those delivered by cesarian section. Babies who had indoor prenatal pet exposure and were of European, Middle Eastern, or Asian descent had IgE levels 33 percent lower when compared to African American infants, who had levels only 10 percent lower.
Christine Cole Johnson, Ph.D., MPH, chair of Henry Ford's Department of Public Health Sciences and senior author of the study summarizes the findings: "We believe having a broad, diverse exposure to a wide array of microbacteria at home and during the birthing process influences the development of a child's immune system." Furthermore, Dr. Johnson says the findings support the hygiene hypothesis.
In fact, this rise in MRSA has altered the list of the most common reasons that children are administered to the hospital, according to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Severe skin infections are now the seventh most common reason for childhood hospitalization, up from 13th in 2010. Indeed hospital admissions for severe skin infections like MRSA have more than doubled between 2000 and 2009.
"In 2009, the rate of skin infections among children that required hospitalization climbed to 9.4 cases per 10,000 children, up from about 4.5 cases per 10,000 in the year 2000. Over all, about 71,900 children spent time in the hospital in 2009 because of severe skin infections," describes the Times article.
While most cases of MRSA occur in hospitals or nursing homes, 10 to 15 percent of cases occur among the community, particularly those who are prone to cuts and scrapes, such as athletes and children in general. As Dr. Patrick S. Romano, professor of medicine and pediatrics at the University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, puts it, "People think of MRSA as a hospital bug, but its not just a hospital bug anymore. Its a community bug."
So how can you tell if your child (or you) has MRSA? Dr. Romano advises, "If your child develops a painful boil, especially on the buttocks, dont wait for it to go away by itself or try to drain it at home. Go see your childs doctor."
The article also further elucidates: "Infections caused by MRSA often resemble a pimple, boil or spider bite but quickly worsen into an abscess or pus-filled blister or sore. Patients who have sores that wont heal or are filled with pus should see a doctor and ask to be tested for staph infection."
Indoor air quality affects everyone's health, but the repercussions of poor indoor air quality can be especially pronounced in individuals with asthma and allergies. While we may think of our homes as a haven from outdoor pollution like that from car exhaust and the like, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that indoor air can be up to ten times more polluted than outdoor air, particularly when it comes to volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
According to the EPA, "VOCs are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids. VOCs include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects."
Sources of VOCs in the home are numerous and varied, including varnishes, paints, cosmetics like nail polish, cleaning supplies, furnishings, permanent markers, adhesives, building materials, and printers, to name a few. Many VOCs that pollute indoor air are also brought into the home from outside sources. These include pesticides tracked in on shoes and dry cleaning chemicals brought into the home when clothing, linens, or drapery is dry cleaned.
In a growing body of instances, the EPA has been stepping into regulate some of these chemicals that can affect indoor air quality. Most recently, the EPA has issued restrictions on a popular dry cleaning chemical, perchloroethylene, commonly known as perc. According to the Wall Street Journal in The New Dirt on Dry Cleaners, "Many dry cleaners will be required to find new solvents to replace a widely used cleaning agent called perchloroethylene, or perc, by 2020."
The chemical has been used in dry cleaning since the 1930s, and over 80 percent of dry cleaning establishments rely on it. But the EPA has classified perc as a "toxic air pollutant and potential human carcinogen."
On its own Chemical Fact Sheet on perc, the EPA describes the possible effects of human exposure to perc:
"Breathing PERC for short periods of time can adversely affect the human nervous system. Effects range from dizziness, fatigue, headaches and sweating to incoordination and unconsciousness. Contact with PERC liquid or vapor irritates the skin, the eyes, the nose, and the throat. These effects are not likely to occur at levels of PERC that are normally found in the environment.
"Breathing perchloroethylene over longer periods of time can cause liver and kidney damage in humans. Workers exposed repeatedly to large amounts of PERC in air can also experience memory loss and confusion. Laboratory studies show that PERC causes kidney and liver damage and cancer in animals exposed repeatedly by inhalation and by mouth. Repeat exposure to large amounts of PERC in air may likewise cause cancer in humans."
Tune in Monday to learn about what allergy and asthma sufferers can do to limit their exposure to toxic dry cleaning chemicals.
Formaldehyde, only recently officially declared as a carcinogen, has long been considered a health risk. Formaldehyde can trigger asthma and exacerbate symptoms of chemical sensitivity, including itchy eyes, sore throats, nosebleeds, and more. Even if symptoms are not apparent, formaldehyde can still lead to long-term effects, including cancers.
A pervasive chemical, formaldehyde exposure can occur through many daily life scenarios. For instance, the chemical is used in particle board products and plywood, which is used in many furniture items; in cosmetics such as nail polish; in dry cleaning chemicals; and in mattresses and other bedding products, to name a few.
Allergic and asthmatic individuals, as well as those with multiple chemical sensitivity should definitely avoid exposure to formaldehyde-containing products as much as possible. Even individuals without reactions to the chemical should seriously consider minimizing exposure.
While formaldehyde exposure occurs seemingly anywhere and everywhere, certain professions carry with them a particular formaldehyde-exposure risk. Hair stylists and embalmers can be particularly affected by the chemical.
A case in point: "The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration warned in April that a hair-care product, Brazilian Blowout Acai Professional Smoothing Solution, contained unacceptable levels of formaldehyde, and salon workers have reported headaches, nosebleeds, burning eyes, vomiting and asthma attacks after using the product and other hair-straighteners," according to the NY Times.
Furthermore, "Studies of workers like embalmers exposed to high levels of formaldehyde have found increased incidences of myeloid leukemia and rare cancers of the nasal passages and upper mouth."
However Despite Risk, Embalmers Still Embrace Preservative discusses how many funeral workers persist in using formaldehyde as the embalming fluid of choice, pointing out that other choices simply don't work as well.
While measures to protect workers from exposure have improved over time, including updated ventilation and wearing protective gear, time will tell if these safety precautions are enough to forestall the increased cancer risk these formaldehyde-handling service workers face.
The article highlights the effect of pollution from delivery trucks in New York City's Garment District. One bike rider, the head dispatcher for Quik Trak Messenger Service, describes the effect of the exhaust: "I remember having to wash my face three or four times a day. There's nothing but tar and smoke on your face."
But invisible effects of inhaling such pollution can be much more dangerous. In fact, a recent Canadian study found that "cyclists in Ottawa, Ontario, had heart irregularities in the hours after their exposure to a variety of air pollutants on busy roads."
Scientists from Health Canada, Environment Canada, and the University of Ottawa wrote in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, "Our findings suggest that short-term exposure to traffic may have a significant impact on cardiac autonomic function in healthy adults."
Interestingly, the scientists do not suggest that cyclists drive instead of bike; rather, they recommend that bike riders choose to ride in less trafficked areas.
Although researchers are not sure exactly how air pollution alters cardiac function, one thought is that pollution particles cause inflammation. This inflammation, in turn, impairs the body's ability to carry out automatic functions, including heart functions.
Proximity to tailpipes and exhaust causes the most problems. Near the tailpipe, exhaust particles are small enough that they are able to lodge deep in the lungs. This can trigger heart attacks and hospitalizations from lung diseases, including asthma.
Furthermore, these tiny particles can cross the blood-brain barrier, posing a potential hazard to the nervous system. If riders are farther away from the tailpipe, these particles lump together and are not able to lodge as deeply in the lungs.
To sum up, if you cycle where cars are, your best bet to avoid the health hazards associated with air pollution is to ride as far away from busy roads as possible. Remember, even a few feet can make a significant difference in your health.
Tags: air pollution, asthma, bike riding and asthma, air pollution and asthma
Getting to the bottom of why allergies are on the rise involves consideration of several theories. One major theory is the hygiene hypothesis, which basically posits that our bodies are becoming more susceptible to harmless "invaders" including allergens like dust mite allergen, pollen, and pet dander because our immune systems no longer have to work to attack stronger germs.
Think, for instance, of the farmer's child who spends hours among animals and even around dirt much more than an urban child whose mother chases him with hand sanitizer all the time and stocks the house with antibacterial products.
A recent Parenting magazine article featured on CNN.com, Why you should love germs, discusses this very issue. It's better, in many cases, to let germs help boost your child's immune system:
" overall, when it comes to germs, most people have it backward: With relatively few exceptions, they are good for our kids.
"Keeping things clean is smart, but going crazy using antibacterial hand soaps, buying antibacterial kids' toys and other products and overusing antibiotic medications is actually killing off the microbes that can help strengthen the immune system."
In fact, the article goes on to suggest that parents give their children foods that actually help promote the good bacteria, which helps regulate our immune systems and keeps us healthy. Such foods include yogurt, pickles, dark chocolate, and feta cheese.
In addition, parents should not insist on antibiotics when the doctor says they aren't necessary; antibiotics kill beneficial bacteria as well as infection-causing bacteria. If antibiotics are needed, children over six months old can be given probiotics to help restore a healthy balance of good bacteria to their immune systems.
Yesterday, in quick succession, I explored, joined, and became addicted to Pinterest, a "virtual pinboard," which lets users "organize and share all the beautiful things [they] find on the web."
This morning I did a search for the term allergy and came up with this page, which holds, in pictures, people's thoughts on, and sometimes remedies for, allergies. This gorgeous salad caught my eye:
What does it have to do with allergies, you ask? As Chiot's Run describes, this salad contains many ingredients that are thought to help with allergies, as discussed in How to Treat Allergies with Herbs, Foods, and Supplements. This salad includes local pollen (from the flowers), local honey, the quercitin in the chives and garlic, and the vitamin C from the violets and the grapefruit.
What a delicious and beautiful way to take some sniffles out of your day!
Last Friday in Are You a Mosquito Favorite? we explored what makes certain individuals especially attractive to mosquitoes. Today, as promised, we're going to look into ways to keeping mosquitoes away and preventing bites without chemicals.
Below are some natural mosquito deterrents, courtesy of WebMD:
Soybean oil-based repellants protect from mosquitoes for about one and a half hours.
Other oils, including citronella, cedar, peppermint, lemongrass, and geranium provide only minimal protection that's quite short-lived.
Oil of lemon eucalyptus repellants are available under the brand name Repel, and are endorsed by the Centers for Disease Control. Safe for children over age 3, lemon eucalyptus oil provides the same protection as low concentrations of DEET.
Thiamin (vitamin B1) is also used as a mosquito repellant, and can be worn as a skin patch or taken internally. The science to back this up dates back to a study done in the 1960s, which demonstrated that thiamin produces a skin odor that female mosquitoes don't like.
Mosquito traps eliminate the need to spray or stick anything on your body at all. Traps emit something that mosquitoes find attractive, such as heat or carbon dioxide, and then kill or trap them. These traps are particularly useful near mosquito breeding grounds, where they are effective at driving mosquito populations down.
Insect repellant clothing is infused with the chemical insecticide permethrin. Used by military personnel for years, the clothing is now being promoted as a must for people who spend a lot of time outdoors. (We wonder about the effects of this in terms of being absorbed into your skin, however, and may not categorize this method as "natural.")
Eliminate mosquito breeding grounds near your home. These essentially means addressing any areas that accumulate standing water, including clogged gutters, the crevices of plastic toys, rain barrels without screen covers, and bird baths, to name a few.
Tags: chemical free mosquito repellent, mosquito trap, natural mosquito repellent
I went outside this morning for a little quiet time before the day got rolling but it didn't last long. When I noticed how many mosquitoes were landing on me I headed straight back inside.
Fortunately, I've never been one of those people who is too bothered by mosquitoes. Wondering just what makes a person more likely to be bitten and to react to mosquito bites, I found the following facts presented in WebMD's Are You a Mosquito Magnet? quite helpful:
Mosquitoes do have "favorites." Jerry Butler, PhD, professor emeritus at the University of Florida tells us, "One in 10 people are highly attractive to mosquitoes."
Only female mosquitoes bite. They need human blood in order to develop their eggs.
Genetics account for 85 percent of whether mosquitoes find us delectable.
Elements of our body chemistry on the skin's surface can also attract mosquitoes. These include higher concentrations of steroids or cholesterol. But the connection is not as straightforward as you might think; those with more cholesterol on their skin may not have higher cholesterol levels, but rather be more efficient at processing it, leaving a greater amount of byproducts on their skin.
Certain body acids, such as uric acid, also lure mosquitoes.
Movement and carbon dioxide also attract mosquitoes. This is why those who are exercising outdoors tend to receive more bites.
Tune in Monday for tips on how to protect yourself from mosquitoes!
A conversation recently encountered on JK-Forum.com, "The Ultimate Jeep JK Wrangler Bulletin Board," reveals yet again just how much allergies affect quality of life.
Below are some choice quotes from a comment thread entitled "Being a Jeeper with Seasonal Allergies is Just Plain Cruel," which highlights how avid "Jeepers," as they're called, suffer the effects of allergies as they enjoy one of their favorite activities - riding in their open-air jeeps and how they deal with their allergy symptoms:
WhiskyPirate complains: "First real stretch of good weather in my area so top and doors are off... But HOLY CRAP I want to pull my eyes from their sockets right now I'm getting hit so hard! No way am I buttoning her up though! I've waited all winter for topless, doorless weather so I'm pushing through... Only the toughest of guys drive with a box of tissues right?"
ECHO commiserates: "I feel your pain, spent three days in the hospital last week, because of asthma that turned into bronchitis."
JKnewb joins the conversation: "I'm right there with you. Pollen kills me every spring. I load up on vitamins and allergy meds just so I don't have to second guess taking the doors off."
JKmudslinger09: "Same here! The pollen is killing me. I sneeze so much I have to pull over because I can't see. Any suggestions on allergy medicine?"
Pollen allergies are not the only problem, as told by Brashanic: "I am allergic to bees. I've been stung twice in three weeks since ive taken the top and doors off."
Scouter4life shares the more permanent route he's taken: "As a long time allergy sufferer who got to the point of taking Claritin, Zyrtec and Nasonex each day just to manage, I finally went to see the allergist. I'll be starting on the custom serum shots in about a week. My son had allergies really bad too, but started on the shots and has had very few issues since, and then they are very mild."
We just moved to Tallahassee, FL, and while I haven't verified this fact, it sure seems hotter and more humid than "Hotlanta"! We are temporarily living in an apartment, and with unpacking, setting up (and rearranging) furniture, and at least one window at every time of the day that lets in sunlight we sure are feeling the heat.
Thankfully, our unpacking to date has revealed our Danby dehumidifier, which my husband promptly placed in a strategic corner of our living room. I could tell the difference almost right away: The drier the room became, the more comfortable we felt and the temperature was the same.
Of course, we don't want the air to get too dry. With Danby's built-in humidity meter, keeping ideal humidity levels is a cinch. We simply set the level to 45 percent and let it do its thing.
We used our unit mostly in the basement in our house in Atlanta, but we are enjoying the difference it makes in our day-to-day lives in our living area here. Even our dog chooses to sleep next to it!
The FoxNews article, Pesticides on Playing Fields, discusses the effects of pesticides on playing fields used by children.
Because spring and summer sporting activities are often more crowded than other times of year, pesticides used on playing fields pose an even greater risk because of increased exposure. However, no amount of exposure should go unnoticed.
Exposure occurs when lawn care products are inhaled and picked up by skin, clothing, and shoes. The fact that the chemicals are applied outdoors does little to reduce their effect: "Chemical lawn treatments can linger for many days before the weather and sun begin to dilute their potency." In addition, with packed schedules, less time goes by between application of lawn care products and children's sporting events.
These chemicals are highly toxic. Remember that they are designed to kill living things like weeds, bugs, and fungus and poison is poison. According to Beyond Pesticides, "of the 30 commonly used lawn pesticides, 19 are linked with cancer or carcinogenicity, 13 are linked with birth defects, 21 with reproductive effects, 26 with liver or kidney damage, 15 with neurotoxicity and 11 with disruption of the endocrine (hormonal system)."
In addition, many lawn care products specifically warn on their own labels that they can trigger allergy and asthma attacks.
A Centers for Disease Control (CDC) study found pesticide residue in the bodies of 15 percent of tested children ages 3 to 7. Alarmingly, broken-down products used in organophosphate pesticides were detected in over 98 percent of children tested.
Herbicide 2, 4-D, among others, can be extremely toxic, even at low doses, and may increase cancer risk and lead to neurological and reproductive problems. When brought indoors on clothing or shoes, 2, 4-D can remain in carpets for up to an entire year.
So what can be done about exposure to these pervasive chemicals? There are safer lawn treatment options available, many of which are cost effective. In addition, FoxNews offers the following tips in the article:
When arriving home after practice or a game, make sure children remove clothes promptly.
Wash sporting clothes separately, and promptly.
Wash hands immediately, and shower as soon as possible.
Familiarize yourself with pesticide laws in your area. See Beyond Pesticides.
Join with other parents and bring your concerns to your local officials and petition them to adopt a pesticide-free sports fields program. Municipalities and school districts have the ability to implement their own policies on pesticide use.
Tags: pesticides and allergies, pesticides and asthma, pesticide laws
A "super-toxic" strain of E. coli that broke out in Europe has killed 18 people, sickened more than 1,600, and spread to more than 10 European countries. Raw tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce are believed to be the carriers of the E. coli, but researchers have been unable to definitively pinpoint the source.
The outbreak is already considered the third-largest in recent world history. Frighteningly, about 500 victims have developed potentially deadly kidney complications. In addition, the strain may be a new one. According to the Huffington Post article E. Coli Outbreak Caused By New Strain: WHO.
"Chinese and German scientists analyzed the DNA of the E. coli bacteria and determined that the outbreak was caused by "an entirely new, super-toxic" strain that contains several antibiotic-resistant genes, according to a statement from the Shenzhen, China-based laboratory BGI. It said the strain appeared to be a combination of two types of E. coli."
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that to avoid transmission of the disease, people should wash their hands well and frequently, keep raw meat separate from other foods, and thoroughly cook their food. Washing fruits and vegetables, especially if eaten raw, is also important. Peeling raw fruits and vegetables, if possible, can also go a long way in preventing sickness.
While the number of new cases is slowing down, secondary transmission could prolong the outbreak. One of the main causes of secondary transmission is sloppy bathroom habits such as failure to wash hands in children.
Staying allergy free is ultimately about keeping you and your family healthy. So when I saw Fox News's recent piece on the Germiest Places in Your House, I considered it perfect news to share with our allergic readers. Without further ado, here is a list of the places in your home that you should take extra precaution to keep clean:
Faucets in both the kitchen and bathrooms are ridden with bacteria. In fact, a 2008 study conducted by the Hygiene Council found that 52 percent of kitchen faucets harbor E. coli. In fact, your bathroom faucet, surprisingly, is usually dirtier than the toilet.
The kitchen sink has 100,000 times more bacteria than the bathroom.
Refrigerator door handles, according to a University of Virginia study, hold cold germs 40 percent of the time.
Not surprisingly, cold sufferers often leave their germs behind on the remote control, where infectious germs can survive for up to two days.
Salt and pepper shakers, though we may not think of them as germ-transmitters, are among the most handled items in the home.
The cordless phone is another germ hotspot hosting about 25,000 microbes per square inch.
Don't forget to give those light switches a good clean also. They're frequently touched, and can pass on many germs and therefore sicknesses.
Tags: Germs, cold germs, germ hotspots, home cleaning
We live in Atlanta in a home with a basement, so we experience our fair share of humidity inside our house. A couple years ago, we invested in a Danby dehumidifier, and we couldn't be happier with it. Here are a few reasons why I love our Danby dehumidifier:
Digital controls make setting humidity levels a breeze. The remote control makes it even easier.
The built-in humidity guage makes setting humidity levels simple enough that even I can do it. Additionally, with just a glance, we can see what current humidity levels are in the room.
Lightweight units make the dehumidifier portable. It's easy for us to move it to our top floor when we need to supplement our air conditioning. Then, it's easy to take it back down to the basement for continual dehumidification.
50 pint capacity and optional drainage hose makes for easy maintenance, while the unit is running.
Two fan speeds give us a choice between highest power levels and quiet operation.
Every time we use it, I'm impressed with the Danby dehumidifier's performance. With a 20 percent savings through the end of May, now is a great time to get a unit of your own.
Children and adults with life-threatening allergies know all too well that precautions against an allergic reaction must be taken in every aspect of life. An extraordinary case of an allergic reaction related in the NY Times emphatically illustrates this point.
The article, Risks: Allergic to Peanuts, Even in Transfused Blood, relays the story of a six-year-old boy who went into anaphylactic shock when he received a blood transfusion from a donor who had consumed peanuts. The story of the incident was published in The New England Journal of Medicine.
At first, the boy's reaction, which included lowered blood pressure, a rash, and difficulty breathing, mystified the doctors. When the boy's mother recalled that her son had experienced the same symptoms when eating peanuts many years previously, the doctors realized what had happened. A blood test confirmed that the boy's reaction was indeed due to a peanut allergy!
It's important to keep the potential for allergic reactions in mind in all situations, and to realize that puzzling symptoms could stem from such allergies. This case, for instance, spotlights a larger, likely often overlooked scenario. As the doctors in this boy's case point out, "It is possible that allergens transferred in blood products to other patients have led to reactions that have gone unexplained and unreported."
Tags: peanut allergy, blood transfusion and allergy, anaphylaxis
Though universally regarded as a repulsive nuisance, bed bugs have not been considered a major health threat until now. In addition to the skin irritation that bed bug bites can cause in individuals with bed bug allergies, a peer-reviewed study published last week in an online journal of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that bed bugs could play a role in transmitting disease.
The researchers at a hospital in Vancouver, B.C. tested three patients from the neighborhood affected with the bed bug infestation, along with a sample of five bed bugs. "Three bedbugs from one patient contained methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and the two from the other patients each contained vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE)."
Typically, experts offer differing views on what such data might mean. Medical director of infection prevention and control at St. Paul's Hospital Marc Romney says, "Even though this is a small study, it suggests that bedbugs may be playing a role in the transmission of MRSA in inner-city populations where bedbug infestations are a problem."
On the other hand, Robert Wirtz, chief of entomology at the CDCs Center for Global Health, points out that the study "emphasizes the need for some further studies to determine the potential bedbugs have for transmitting these agents. While the work was well done and it shows an association, it doesnt establish that bedbugs are capable of transmitting the bacteria."
Regardless, we're sure you feel, as we do, that protecting your home from bed bugs is more important than ever. Use Allergy Armor Bed Bug mattress protectors and Danby dehumidifiers to discourage bed bug infestations.
If you feel like your allergies have been worse than ever this year, it could be because "2011 could end up being the most extreme allergy season on record," as reported in this video Worst Allergy Season Ever? by Fox News.
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, the worst cities for allergies this year are Tulsa, OK; Knoxville, TN; Memphis, TN; Richmond, VA; and Chattanooga, TN.
Medical director for Allergy and Asthma Care of New York Dr. Clifford Bassett explains why this year has been so bad. One reason is the heavy rains which cause trees to produce a lot of pollen. In addition, tree and grass pollen are being released together and it will stick around for several more weeks.
Dr. Bassett recommends seeing an allergist to get tested so that treatment can be customized to each individual's allergies. Testing takes about ten or fifteen minutes and leads to the development of a very directed plan.
He also shares the following allergy tips:
Avoid triggers Triggers are not only things in the air like pollen and mold, but 50 percent of people with seasonal allergies may actually get worse by eating fresh fruits like apples, pears, hazelnuts, almonds, and kiwis. Oral allergy syndrome and scratchy throat worsen allergy symptoms.
Wear sunglasses to help keep pollen out of your eyes.
Wash your hair in the evening or at night before going to bed.
We've been keeping a close eye on news about the relationship between BPA and asthma and allergies. We've talked about this subject before. (See BPA, Allergies, and Asthma and BPA, Triclosan Linked to Allergies.) A new study seems to provide further evidence of a connection between BPA exposure and respiratory trouble, reports CNN.com.
The research, presented at the Pediatric Academic Society's annual meeting, indicates that the higher the amount of BPA an expectant mother is exposed to early in her pregnancy, the more likely it is that her newborn will experience wheezing during the first three years of life. According to pediatrician Dr. Adam of Penn States Hershey Medical Center, "fetuses exposed to high levels of BPA at 16 weeks of gestation had an increased risk of transient wheeze. At six months the infants were twice as likely to wheeze; the condition persisted for three years then cleared up."
Women with higher BPA levels were involved with particular activities, including working as a cashier, eating canned foods, and being exposed to tobacco smoke.
There continue to be skeptics, however. Executive director of the Polycarbonate/BPA Global Group with the American Chemistry Council Steven Hentges says:
This small-scale study, which has not been peer-reviewed or published in the scientific literature, is inherently incapable of establishing a cause-effect relationship between any causative agent and wheezing. The statistical associations reported in this study have not been verified or corroborated by any other study on BPA, which is one of the best tested substances in commerce. Based on the full weight of scientific evidence, government agencies around the world have determined that BPA is safe for use.
Despite some critics' reluctance to admit that BPA could pose a threat, we believe that erring on the side of caution is the best option. To reduce BPA exposure, the Department of Health and Human Services and experts from the National Institutes of Health recommend the following:
Purchase plastic containers marked at the bottom with recycle codes 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6. These plastics are unlikely to contain BPA. Look for the BPA-free label when shopping for food our other household items. Never microwave polycarbonate plastic food containers. High temperatures can break down the chemical and increase the chances that BPA will enter your food. Choose fresh or frozen vegetables to limit the amount of canned goods you consume. Can linings often contain BPA. Use glass, porcelain, or stainless steel to store food. Don't take receipts unless you have to.
I had the opportunity to speak with a builder last week. All of the houses he builds are certified green and Energy Star rated. This means that the materials he uses are low toxicity, such as low VOC paint and carpet adhesives, for example. In addition, his houses are tested by a third party to ensure that it is tightly sealed; air leakages drive up heating and cooling costs.
Sounds perfect, right? It is pretty great, but he did bring up a matter that I thought was interesting, and in line with much of what we've covered regarding indoor air pollution: A tightly sealed house, while it's great for keeping heating and cooling inside (and outside weather out), also means that any pollutants that are present indoors are there in higher concentrations, with little chance of fresh air circulation.
Hence, any toxins that are in the home may have a greater effect on inhabitants' health. For instance, radon that could be present, whether from the soil or from granite counter tops, could have a somewhat exaggerated effect as compared to the effect it would have in a not-so-tightly-sealed home. In addition, any pollutants that are introduced in the home environment from products like hairsprays, room fresheners, perfumes, art supplies, adhesives, chemical cleaners, etc. could easily build up in the home.
This, of course, is not to say that homes should not be tightly sealed. Rather, it's important to be aware that the products you use on a day-to-day basis could be greatly affecting your family's indoor air quality. Especially with Energy Star homes or homes that are properly insulated, it's important to consider using natural cleaning products and natural personal products.
Tags: green home, indoor air quality, indoor air pollution, natural cleaning products
The worst of spring allergies, at least here in Atlanta, is waning, along with the decrease in the yellow river of pollen we endure every year. But with summer coming up, now is a good time to prepare for the allergens that propagate during the warm weather months. Here are my three top picks for summer allergy relief:
Dehumidifiers are essential for allergy sufferers to use during summer months. They not only help the air in your home feel cooler and cut down on cooling costs, but they also help reduce dust mite allergen and mold spores. Choose from our robust selection of quality dehumidifiers.
Air purifiers are one of the number one allergy relief products that allergy sufferers should have, year round. They decrease total allergen load, and provide allergy sufferers with pure, clean, allergy-free air by cleaning the air of dust mite allergen, pet dander, mold spores, pollen, and odors and chemical fumes that trigger allergy attacks. Air purifiers are frequently among the first items recommended by allergists implementing an allergy avoidance regimen for their patients.
Mattress covers, also year-round essentials, are important to use during summer months. Dust mites thrive in bedding, and increased moisture due to summer humidity makes dust mites especially prolific. Allergy relief bedding keeps dust mites cut off from their food source, and most importantly, out of your breathing zone so you can breathe easy.
Tags: spring allergies, summer allergies, dehumidifiers, air purifiers, allergy bedding
My little girl has been enjoying playing out on our sun porch as the weather has gotten nicer. But last week, I noticed that wasps were buzzing around, looking perhaps for a place to build their nest. My husband promptly killed them, of course and hopefully they got the message that our house it not a good place for them!
This experience reminded me that after spring allergy season is over, summer allergy season which includes a rise in stinging insect allergy attacks will begin. And don't think that if someone has been stung once by something with no reaction there is not the risk of an allergy. In fact, it's the first sting that usually sensitizes a person who has a stinging insect allergy. Then, subsequent encounters with the insect's venom produce a reaction, which could be life-threatening.
So even if you aren't aware of any such allergies in your family, be aware that when wasps, yellow jackets, fire ants, honey bees, and hornets are out and about and do your best to protect your family. This includes trying to keep food items covered (whether they are being consumed or they are garbage leftovers), staying away from where nests could be, and using insect repellants like special candles or sprays like herbal armor. When insects are encountered, stay quiet and calm; don't do anything to provoke them or make them feel threatened.
Allergic individuals must be especially vigilant. They should always have their epi-pens nearby, and someone should always have cell phone reception to be able to call emergency personnel if the need arises. Tell others about the allergy in case anything happens.
As the number of cases of both allergies and ADHD disorders are on the rise, it's particularly interesting to examine factors that may be increasing the incidence of both conditions. One somewhat controversial such factor is the consumption of food dyes. The FDA has recently decided that more tests are needed before it can make any recommendations about food dyes, as reported by CNN in FDA advisers want more study of food dye-ADHD link.
As far back as 1975, Dr. Benjamin Feingold put forth in his book Why Your Child is Hyperactive, the idea that food dyes could lead to ADHD. Many in the autism and ADHD community are area of the diet he recommended, the Feingold diet, which essentially eliminates food dyes and additives; many swear by its results. However, "reviews of the data found that the correlation between dyes and hyperactivity were inconsistent."
Many studies on food dye and hyperactivity have been conducted since, but critics are quick to point out apparent weaknesses of the study. For instance, that children's changed behavior was reported by parents rather than clinicians or that dyes were not tested individually.
However, a 2007 study by researchers at the University of Southampton in the United Kingdom showed that artificial food dyes and the preservative sodium benzoate did in fact increase ADHD symptoms in both hyperactive and non-hyperactive children. A 2010 follow-up study examined the connection between food dyes, ADHD, and histamine.
Lead author of the study, Dr. Jim Stevenson testified at the recent FDA hearing about banning or regulating food dye in products: We found mixtures of certain artificial colors together with sodium benzoate preservative in the diet increased the average level of hyperactivity in 3 and 8/9 year old children in the general population.
Parents from all over the country also testified about the difference in their children's behavior once food dyes were eliminated from their diets. One mother spoke about how her son's allergy to food dye led to behavioral issues. Another has a website, www.momasabcs.com, devoted to information about food dye allergies and making healthier food choices.
Nevertheless, the "FDAs evaluation of studies on color additives and ADHD found there was very little strong evidence in any of these studies that showed dyes were the primary reason for a childs hyperactivity. " The International Food Information Council concurs (IFIC). President and CEO of IFIC David Schmidt points out, Without sufficient scientific evidence that a causal link truly exists between food colors and hyperactivity in children, communications that suggest a link could have unintended consequences, including unnecessarily frightening consumers about safe ingredients that are consumed every day. Interestingly, the IFIC is supported mostly by broad-based food, beverage, and agricultural industries.
While frightening consumers can have unintended, sometimes dire consequences (the vaccine-autism scare comes to mind), I wonder if erring on the side of caution wouldn't be better here especially since the issue is food dye and protecting consumers against possible dangers isn't itself dangerous.
In the wake of Japan's disaster, many of us have spent some time considering the dangers of radiation. Sales of potassium iodide, the main treatment for radiation exposure, have soared, even here in the United States. In 2004, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology put out a position statement on The Risk of Severe Allergic Reactions from the Use of Potassium Iodide for Radiation Emergencies. Here are some take-away points:
Potassium iodide (KI) has been suggested for use in preventing the thyroid gland from uptaking radioactive iodide in the event of radiation exposure or potential exposure.
When KI was used in Poland after Chernobyl, it reduced the expected rate of thyroid cancer.
For the most part, KI is safe, and the benefits far exceed the risks.
However, there are risks of allergic reactions to oral administration of KI in those who have an iodine sensitivity or allergic reactions to the substance.
Radiocontrast media (RCM) containing organic iodine are sometimes responsible for adverse reactions. These types of reactions should not be construed as indicative of a KI allergy.
Similarly, contact dermatitis caused by iodine-containing antibacterials applied topically does not confirm an iodine allergy. "Anaphylaxis to these preparations is exceedingly rare and not proven to be due to iodine."
Iodine allergy and seafood allergies are sometimes confused because seafood tends to have high concentrations of iodine. However, "IgE antibody mediated seafood allergy has never been attributed to iodine, but rather to specific proteins in fish and shellfish."
Tags: potassium iodide, iodine allergy, radiation and allergies
This video on CNN Health raises the debate about how far others should go in accommodating those with allergies. In this particular instance, parents at a Florida public school are protesting their children's "inconveniences," policies put in place to protect a girl who is deathly allergic to peanuts. By law, those with such allergies are considered disabled and provisions to keep them safe must be made. It seems like many don't agree, however. Watch this video and let us know what you think.
Tags: peanut allergy, peanut allergies in school, allergy rights
Though it's best for allergy sufferers to maintain a cleaning regimen throughout the year in order to minimize indoor allergens, spring cleaning is an excellent opportunity to tackle some special projects that will help keep allergies at bay.
Here are three things you can incorporate into your spring cleaning routine that will keep allergens out of your breathing zone:
Repair leaks to prevent mold. Look for areas in your home that are damp or that already have mold buildup and attack the source. Mold spreads, and when dry, warm weather sets it, mold spores become airborne and particularly allergenic.
Get rid of clutter. Unless we're especially vigilant, we accumulate things without even realizing it, whether it's paper junk, excess clothing that's never worn, or an abundance of kids' toys that we convince ourselves they'll play with one day. Room by room, go through your house and get rid of everything that you don't need. (Tip: If you have to explain to yourself why you need it, you most likely don't.) The more drastic you are, the bigger the payoff. Less things means less surface area for dust to collect on. You'll breathe better physically and mentally. Trust me.
Dissuade cockroaches and prevent cockroach allergen. Cockroaches love warm, humid environments, and therefore typically come out in full force during summer months, especially in the south. Clean under stoves and refrigerators to remove any crumbs that could attract these pests. Also, block pantry doors, outside drains, floor cracks, and anywhere else where cockroaches could enter your home.
If you're like me, it's almost impossible to resist going outside to enjoy the beauty and soft warmth of spring even if you pay for it later with itchy eyes, sneezing, and sniffles. Following are some easy ways to keep the allergies to a minimum, even when you venture outside for fun:
Time your excursions. Pollen counts are usually highest in the morning, from the time the dew dries until late morning. If you can, stay indoors during this time.
Watch the weather. Cloudy, humid days with little wind are the least allergen-ridden. Conversely, dry, sunny days with a breeze make pollen light and airborne; you'll be exposed to much more pollen when you're out during this kind of weather.
When you come inside from a nice spring walk, take off your shoes to avoid tracking the pollen all over your house.
Take a shower to rinse off allergens that get stuck on your skin and hair. This way, you won't be inhaling allergens for hours after your time outside.
Use a neti pot every morning and after your walks to keep your nasal passages clean of allergies.
Tags: spring allergies, pollen, neti pot, pollen count
With early childhood asthma and allergies on the rise, researchers are always on the lookout for reasons for this surge. In addition to a lack of vitamin D, iron deficiencies may also account for problems in infant and childhood breathing, according to a study published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.
As Science Daily reports in Pregnancy Anemia Linked to Childhood Wheezing and Asthma, "The study of 597 families who had previously participated in the Asthma in Pregnancy (AIP) Study, found 12 percent of mothers had anemia while pregnant. Among their children, 22 percent had recurrent wheeze in the first year of life and 17 percent had active asthma at age six."
Allergist Paige Wickner, MD, co-author of the study and member of the ACAAI says, "The message for moms is, take your iron supplements and your baby may breathe easier." Asthmatic women must be especially vigilant about taking their iron supplements while pregnant: "We found that the effects of anemia on childhood respiratory health are even stronger and longer-lasting for women with asthma who have anemia while pregnant."
As we've covered in the past, bedbugs have made a huge resurgence in recent years. While the bedbugs themselves are not actually harmful unless you have an allergic reaction to their bites, the mental toll and loss of sleep can be devastating. People spend thousands on inspections and efforts to remove the pests from their homes if infestations do occur.
Protecting against bedbugs is, of course, another instance where the old adage applies: "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." Allergy Armor Bed Bug is prevention in a package. These bedbug-proof covers trap any existing bedbugs in the mattress, blocking them from their food source (you) and killing them, and also prevent any infestations from occurring in the first place.
If the horror of bedbugs and the threat of allergic reactions to their bites aren't enough to keep allergy sufferers from preventing infestations, Medical News Today points out another bedbug-related danger for those with allergies, asthma, or multiple chemical sensitivities: the chemicals often used to exterminate them.
Interestingly, it's the regulation of dangerous chemicals like DDT that is partially responsible for the increase in bedbugs. In addition, bedbugs have developed a resistance to many of the pesticides exterminators would normally use. Because of this difficulty in finding substances that kill these pests, officials are seeking permission to resume use of propoxur, a chemical that is effective in halting infestations, but which was pulled from the market when the EPA raised safety concerns.
Avoid resorting to extreme measures, like the use of questionable chemicals, by implementing the following measures in addition to bedbug covers:
Regular inspection Laundering thoroughly and frequently Vacuuming Reducing clutter Sealing up cracks in walls and baseboards
This "Cork-Southampton calculator" is 96 percent accurate, a significant improvement in current tests' accuracy, which ranges from 61 to 81 percent. The test was developed by scientists at University College Cork whose study was published in the March 3 online edition of the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
In the past, the best way to diagnose food allergies was through a double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenge. But this method is time-consuming, expensive, and comes with the risk of anaphylaxis. To come up with an alternative, Dr. Audrey DunnGalvin and Professor Jonathan Hourihane of the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health came up with a highly accurate, allergen-specific algorithim for predicting the presence of cow's milk, peanut, and egg allergies.
This mathematical model relies on known or suspected predictors of having a particular allergy. The more clinical information that can be collected, the more accurate the test. To devise the test, the researchers studied the outcomes of combinations of data, including the results of a skin prick test, allergic reaction, sex, age, allergen specific IgE in serum, and total IgE. These results were then compared to the results gained from food challenges. The calculator they came up with is more accurate than individual allergy tests.
The development of this calculator is exciting because it means less expensive allergy tests and better quality of life for allergic children and their parents. As Dr. Audrey DunnGalvin puts it, "Young children can find the normal food allergy tests quite stressful and this test will take a lot of the distress out of the process, even just by delaying a challenge until the odds of passing it improve over time, which is the norm. It has also implications for oral immunotherapy where clinicians try to desensitise children to their allergies by giving them controlled doses of the food to which they are allergic."
Kevin Dalton of UCC's Office of Technology Transfer adds, "We foresee a commercial product being launched this year resulting in better patient care and substantial savings for the healthcare service."
My family and friends know that I write for an allergy relief company, so I'm often asked for advice about which products to buy or about allergies in general. This week, my mother asked me why her eyes were itching. She doesn't typically have allergies, but she noticed that after doing professional organizing for a certain client of hers, she often comes home with smarting eyes.
At first I thought it was just a reaction to dust, but this time she had an additional piece of information. My mother had noticed that her eyes seemed really bothered after filing paper that had either been photocopied or was NCR paper. This is carbonless carbon paper; NCR stands for "no carbon required."
I was fascinated. I knew that printer cartridges could contaminate indoor air. As described in our learning center article, How small is a micron and why does it matter?, particles from laser printers and copiers are actually among the most dangerous indoor air pollutants:
The size of a given particle helps to determine the degree of potential threat to human health. Particles ranging from .3 to .9 micron present the greatest health concern.
These irritating mid-range particles include particles from laser printers and copiers. Particles in this size range (.3 to .9 micron) are small enough to get past the tiny hairs that line our breathing passages and too large to be easily exhaled.
Because mid-range particles are more likely to become lodged in lung tissue, they are suspect in a wide range of health problems related to indoor air pollution--from headaches and dizziness to cardiovascular disease and cancer.
So these particles might be part of the source of irritation. Personal air purifiers are excellent for situations such as this. A mask might also help, but it would be a lot less comfortable. And if itching eyes were the result of one person's relatively minor exposure to photocopy particles, imagine how compounded the effect is for those who work in offices packed with cubicles, multiple printers, photocopiers, co-workers with perfume, off-gassing carpet, etc.
Another thought I had, in relation to the carbonless copy paper my mom was handling, is that the connection between BPA and allergies, as discussed in BPA, Allergies, and Asthma might be at play here. Here's why: As The Soft Landing blog points out in Can BPA Be Absorbed Through the Skin?, "BPA on a receipt is 250 to 1,000 times greater than the amount of BPA typically found in a can of food or a can of baby formula." Most receipts use the same paper that's found in carbonless copy paper, so the same should apply to NCR paper.
ScienceNews.com's article Concerned About BPA: Check Your Receipts corroborates the point. Organic chemist John C. Warner says, "The average cash register receipt that's out there and uses the BPA technology will have 60 to 100 milligrams of free BPA. ScienceNews.com clarifies, "By free, he explains, its not bound into a polymer, like the BPA in polycarbonates. Its just the individual molecules loose and ready for uptake." Uptake, as in absorption through the skin. I wonder if BPA in this case can also be airborne.
What to do about this exposure, especially since it's difficult to avoid receipts? The Soft Landing offers the following tips:
Minimize receipt collection by declining receipts at gas pumps, ATMs and other machines when possible.
Store receipts separately in an envelope in a wallet or purse.
Never give a child a receipt to hold or play with.
After handling a receipt, wash hands before preparing and eating food (a universally recommended practice even for those who have not handled receipts).
Do not use alcohol-based hand cleaners after handling receipts. A recent study showed that these products can increase the skins BPA absorption (Biedermann 2010).
Take advantage of store services that email or archive paperless purchase records.
Do not recycle receipts and other thermal paper. BPA residues from receipts will contaminate recycled paper.
If you are unsure, check whether paper is thermally treated by rubbing it with a coin. Thermal paper discolors with the friction; conventional paper does not.
Since BPA is absorbed through the skin, it might also be a good idea for cashiers and others who handle a lot of receipts or other carbonless paper to wear gloves while they work. The Environmental Protection Agency is concerned enough about this matter of BPA exposure through receipts that it put out an article on the topic, BPA Alternatives in Thermal Paper Partnership.
We hope as awareness of these toxins and how we are exposed to them grows that more and more sources of allergy triggers will be addressed. As always, we will stay abreast of news in the topic and pass it along to you.
Tags: printers and allergies, receipts and bpa, receipts and allergies
Allergens are the biggest threat to hotel guests, reports CNN in a new article called A microscopic look at hotel hygiene. But allergens are not the only danger for travelers. Germs abound in many hotel room hotspots and it's enough to make your skin crawl.
One particularly germ infested hotel room hotspot is the bed. Philip Tierno, Director of Microbiology and Immunology at New York University's Langone Medical Center, travels with mattress and pillow covers to guard against the substances he knows lurk inside mattresses: millions of skin cells, human hair, bodily secretions, fungi, bacteria, dust, dust mites, lint, insect parts, pollen, cosmetics and that's not all. Bedbugs, as many of you know, have made a recent, disturbing resurgence even in luxury hotels.
Bedspreads, which are rarely washed, are especially rife with germs, Tierno points out. He advises getting rid of it right away when you stay in a room that has one. (We usually stick ours in the closet.) Many higher-end places use duvets instead of bedspreads with a top sheet as a layer between you and it. But beware of budget hotel bedspreads; know they may be holding months of many, many guests' dirt to put it kindly.
Other germ hotspots include faucet and sink areas, the flusher handle of the toilet, the underside of the toilet seat, and the shower floor. Many hotel rooms are not disinfected the way they're supposed to be. For instance, hidden camera investigations have found that the same rag that was used on the toilet was also used to wipe the remote control, or that the housekeeper wore the same gloves for washing water glasses that she wore while cleaning the toilet.
Interestingly, as disturbing as these findings are, hotel rooms don't actually spread disease like we might think. Tierno says that frequent and thorough hand-washing is an excellent protection against these germs. He also points out that "of the 60,000 types of germs people might encounter over the course of their lives, only 1 or 2 percent are capable of causing disease."
Still, I now feel (even more) justified in packing along my disinfecting wipes and flip flops for the shower when I stay at hotels and I might just start bringing my allergen covers too!
Tags: hotel germs, allergy covers, hotel hygiene, allergens
The Washington Post warns today in Flu Season Heats Up that it is still flu season. "Don't let the warmer, brighter days fool you," writes Leslie Tamura. "Flu season is not over."
In fact, director of the office of epidemiology at the Virginia Department of Health Keri Hall tells us, "We are right now at the highest level of flu cases we've seen all season." This means that more people are infected with the flu which means your chances of exposure are even greater.
If you haven't yet had a flu shot, it's not too late. Drug stores, some grocery stores, and your doctor are all still providing vaccinations. Remember, those with asthma should definitely be vaccinated because respiratory infections like the flu are much more serious for them: They can turn into pneumonia or acute respiratory distress easily.
Children ages 6 months to 18 years should receive vaccines, as should those over 50, and pregnant women. Individuals in contact with these people should also get vaccines in order to provide a sort of ring of protection around them.
If you have concerns about getting a flu shot, such as if you have an egg allergy, be sure to discuss options with your doctor.
The end of winter signals the approach of spring and relief from the many effects of dry air. Indeed, it's at this juncture that many of us are experiencing and exhibiting the signs of a season full of dry air, both indoors and out.
For dry hair, comb vitamin E oil through your locks before going to bed. This is deeply moisturizing and will reduce both flyaways and static. Also, try not to shampoo every day because your scalp produces fewer oils in winter. Instead, wear a shower cap or simply rinse with warm water and use conditioner. Blow dry on medium rather than high to help hair retain moisture. Leave-in conditioners can also help.
Chapped lips are another hallmark of winter when it comes to personal care. Nicole Catanese, the beauty editor of SELF magazine, describes the underlying issue: "There's a barrier layer on your skin. When it's very dry outside, that barrier gets disrupted, the layer gets tears and holes, so any moisture you put on your lips seeps right back out." A fool-proof solution is using Vaseline to keep dry air out and moisture in, giving the natural barrier layer of your lips time to heal.
Dry skin is something we all seem to struggle with in winter. Avoid anti-aging moisturizers during winter because they can be drying. Look instead for products containing vitamin E. Also avoid hot showers, opting for warm water, which isn't as drying on skin. Using a humidifier restores the moisture the heater sucks out of the air, "stopping the problem before it starts."
To keep hands moisturized, try putting on lotion before donning your gloves. This gives the lotion time to absorb. And olive oil works as well as nail oils to keep nails from becoming overly dry and cracked.
Hydrate from the inside out. Omega 3 fatty acids help with dryness all throughout the body. It can be found in foods like salmon, almonds, sardines, and tuna to help fight inflammation caused by dryness. Vitamins C and E are also important. Vitamin C helps build collagen and is found in red bell peppers, broccoli, and citrus foods. Vitamin E, a nutrient in nuts and sunflower seeds, helps hold water in the top layer of skin. Biotin, also essential for skin health, can be consumed in egg yolks and peanuts. And, of course, drink that water!
We talked last week about how some ways to reduce indoor allergens during winter. Vacuuming more frequently is one sure-fire way to minimize the allergens in your home. But, as with many tasks, there's an alright way to do it, and a better way especially if you want to cut down on allergens. Following are some quick tips to help you vacuum most efficiently:
Vacuum top to bottom. Start upstairs and make your way down to lower levels of the house. The idea is that dust and other allergens that get stirred up in the vacuuming process will settle in a place where they will still get cleaned up. (This tip also applies to dusting: Always, always, dust before you vacuum so dust from shelves and the like gets picked up with the vacuum cleaner.)
Use a HEPA vacuum cleaner. HEPA filtration ensures that the air coming out of your vacuum is cleaner than the air going in.
Consider using powders for killing dust mites.Dust Mite and Flee Control from Ecology Works is a customer favorite. Allersearch X-Mite also works well. If you prefer a non-powder option, Anti-Allergen Solution is an excellent choice. This product is especially versatile: It can be used in washing machines or sprayed on pillows, upholstery, and more and it's non-toxic.
Don't push down on the vacuum cleaner. Pushing down on the carpet only compresses the rug's pile, making it harder for dirt to be released.
Vacuum slowly. Vacuuming slowly gives your vacuum cleaner time to pull dust and other allergens out of the carpet. It also gives brush rolls time to sweep pet hair up from the carpet fibers.
Vacuum the same area multiple times.No, you don't have to vacuum your house several times in one day. What we mean is, pass the carpet back and forth over the same area three or four times to ensure maximum cleanliness. Again, slow movements are most effective.
Vacuum in different directions. As you pass over the same area a few times, alter the direction of your vacuum cleaner to pick up maximum amounts of dust and debris.
RoHS (pronounced rohas), or The Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive, was implemented in the European Union in 2006. It is a standard that limits the use of six hazardous materials in the manufacture of various types of electronic and electrical equipment. Now, many manufacturers have adopted this standard in the United States. Although there are a great many more substances that critics say need to be eliminated, the standard is a good start to altering manufacturing standards to make products healthier for homes and for disposal.
By restricting these toxic materials in products, several purposes are served. We are safer in our own homes, because we reduce exposure to toxins. Workers who construct and dispose of them also reduce their exposure. Finally, nature and our environment are more protected when these products are thrown away into landfills.
The materials that are limited are:
Lead (Pb)
Mercury (Hg)
Cadmium (Cd)
Hexavalent chromium (Cr6+)
Polybrominated biphenyls (PBB)
Polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE)
RoHS helps reduce damage to people and the environment in developing countries where much of today's "high-tech trash" ends up. The use of lead-free solders and components has provided immediate health benefits to electronics industry workers in prototype and manufacturing operations.
Many of today's consumer electronics are now RoHS compliant, examples include Apple's iPod, Dell and HP computers, and Nintendo's Wii.
We carry a number of RoHS certified vacuum cleaners and air purifiers:
Have you noticed you're waking up every morning with a sore throat? Does your skin seem especially dry? Dry air is most likely the problem. Luckily the solution is simple: humidification.
With winter weather in full swing, you're probably noticing how dry air both from the cold temperatures outside and from forced air heating inside can affect your health. Dry skin, sore throats, itchy noses, and irritated sinuses can all be caused by dry air.
Humidification solves this problem by reintroducing moisture into the air, by making you and your family much more comfortable, and by forestalling problems like sinus infections and eczema flare-ups. And Humidifiers aren't just for winter; humidification also relieves symptoms of colds and the flu naturally and safely for the whole family all year long.
We offer a wide selection of humidifiers to fit into a variety of situations and budgets. For instance, a personal humidifier like the Germ Guardian Table Top Humidifier is ideal for use at the office, where heated air may make skin and sinuses dry all day.
Air-O-Swiss humidifiers are our most popular room humidifiers among customers and staff alike. With outstanding Swiss construction and a range of options, including cool or warm mist and ultrasonic, evaporative, or air washer systems, Air-O-Swiss humidifiers will provide your family with years of comfortably humidified air. And with built-in hygrometers, there's no guesswork: Simply set the gauge, and the humidifier will automatically shut off when ideal humidity is reached or switch on when air gets too dry again.
Through February 15, we'll send you a free demineralization cartridge when you purchase an Air-O-Swiss humidifier.* Act now to save $14.99 and start enjoying the benefits of humidified air today!
A blog post entitled Nearly all pregnant women harbor potentially harmful chemicals in today's Washington Post discusses the presence of toxic chemicals in pregnant women's bodies. Of most concern, of course, are chemicals that cross the barrier of the placenta and affect the developing fetus.
Jennifer LaRue Huget writes, "Research published this morning in Environmental Health Perspectives analyzed data from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2003-04, checking for the presence of 163 different chemicals in the women's blood, urine and serum. Many chemicals (such as PCBs, organochlorine pesticides, PFCs, phenols, PBDE flame retardants, phthalates, polycyclic 14 aromatic hydrocarbons and perchlorate) that are associated with adverse health effects were found in 99 percent to 100 percent of pregnant women, and nearly all women carried multiple contaminants. Some of the contaminants studied, such as mercury, bisphenol-A, heavy metals and hormone disruptors, can cross the placenta and thus affect the fetus. Many of the chemicals remain in current use, though others have been banned."
The lead author of the study, Tracey Woodruff, director of the Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment at the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, offered some tips for how pregnant women can protect themselves from some of these chemicals, which can cause neurological damage or affect the male reproductive system, among other adverse effects. These tips include:
Eat a healthy diet, choosing organic foods whenever possible. Avoid cigarette smoke. Using an air purifier can help rid the air of harmful contaminants. Remove dust from your home environment. Wash hands before meals. Choose personal care products with fewer toxic ingredients.
In this season of flus and colds galore, it's not uncommon to see people wincing away from congested coughs and sneezes. But Singapore scientists are looking into other activities laughing and singing, for example that can spread sickness just as, if not more, easily.
With a giant mirror and a high speed camera, the researchers are able to observe, in real time, a person's spray of liquid droplets when coughing, sneezing, laughing, and talking. They hope their observations will aid in updating infection control guidelines, reports Fox News in How Far Does Your Sneeze Really Travel?.
Using volunteers, team leader Julian Tang, a virologist and consultant with Singapore's National University Hospital and his colleagues will study the velocity and distance of exhaled airflows, or plumes, produced by coughs and sneezes, and even laughing, crying, singing, whistling, talking, snoring, and breathing. In addition, they will evaluate how effective standard preventive measures like sneezing into a fist or a tissue are.
The upshots of such research not only help prevent the spread of common sicknesses like winter colds, but can also help guide recommendations for how far apart to place hospital beds or how to stall the progression of the next pandemic.
So far, the researchers have found that whistling and laughing appear to spread infection very effectively. Tang says, "Laughing produces a surprisingly strong, diffuse, exhaled plume, and I suspect that singing (especially trained operatic singing) will produce an even stronger, more penetrating plume."
As always, additional pieces of the puzzle are necessary to put together the whole picture. As Tang puts it, transmission rates depend on many other factors including "virus survival and host immune responses - which other teams are studying."
If making restaurants comfortable for the allergic community just because it's the "right thing to do" isn't enough, financial expert Paul Antico has demonstrated that catering to the food allergic community has monetary benefit, reports Medical News Today in How Much are Food Allergic Diners Worth?.
Antico leveraged his background in financial analysis to determine how much economic power the food allergic and Celiac disease community can wield. He explains, "Millions of Americans - or roughly 5% of the general population - have known food allergies or gluten intolerance, and restaurateurs should recognize the tremendous spending power of this community."
And it's not just the allergic diners themselves who may choose restaurants based on their accommodation of allergic individuals. Consider a group of ten who foregoes a particular restaurant because their allergic companion doesn't feel comfortable there that's a lot more money than one meal's worth.
According to Medical News Today, "Even if a restaurant is already at or near capacity during weekend prime times, by becoming more allergy-friendly, they can still increase their profits by tens of thousands of dollars annually." Many restaurant owners understand this and are taking steps to cater to the allergic population. These steps include training employees in allergy safety, creating gluten-free menu options, and seeking industry certifications.
Antico is also the founder of AllergyEats, which collects "objective, peer-based feedback to [make] it easier for the food allergy community to find allergy-friendly restaurants and avoid those that don't measure up."
Tags: food allergy, restaurants and food allergies, allergyeats, celiac disease
Food allergic individuals rely on product labeling to let them know when food items contain allergenic foods. However, as anyone with food allergies knows, these labels are sometimes frustrating. For instance, some feel that "over" labeling may restrict food allergic individuals from enjoying foods that are not in fact dangerous: This is the case when labels read "prepared in a facility that processes " or "may contain ." Of course, there is a chance for contamination, so food allergic individuals should not risk eating these food items.
But when individuals, especially young people, feel that these labels are overcautious, they may not heed them and life-threatening exposure may occur. In short, for food labeling to actually protect allergic individuals, they must retain their validity in the eyes of food allergic consumers.
More straightforwardly dangerous, however, is when food products are actually mislabeled specifically when manufacturers neglect to include the inclusion of highly allergenic foods. This was the case in a recent recall of Rice Krispies Treats Holiday Village Kits, whose icing packages contained "undeclared egg."
Parents of allergic children often sidestep the problem of food product labeling by making their children's food from scratch. Websites like Kids With Food Allergies help parents of food allergic children by offering a database of recipes that don't contain highly allergenic foods, such as eggs, peanuts, and dairy.
In addition, companies dedicated to making allergen-free cake mixes, treats, and the like give parents of food allergic children the peace of mind that comes with knowing the food they are giving their children was purposely prepared without dangerous ingredients. Such companies include Cherrybrook Kitchen, Navan Foods, and Divvies.
Posted by Cordelia on Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Weve all heard of the dangerous reactions to peanuts and bee stings that children can suffer. Now, there are a series of potential new allergens for children. As they get exposed to more and more un-tested or adult items, their newly developing immune systems are getting taxed.
Be cautious of the following allergens:
Cell phones. Cell phone rash is a new condition that is usually caused by the nickel in many phone face plates and phone bodies. Symptoms include red, itchy skin where the phone is pressed to the face or on the tips of the fingers. The parts with the most nickel are the menu buttons, and the metal frames around the liquid crystal display (LCD) screens.
Scents in shampoos and soaps can cause respiratory allergies or skin rashes and eczema.
Temporary Tattoos share a pigment that is used in hair dye. A reaction can occur from the tattoo itself or the groundwork may simply be laid for the child to have a reaction years later should s/he use hair dye.
Nickel allergies are common in children, especially girls who are frequently exposed after they get their ears pierced. Physicians recommend that children wait until age 10 to get ears pierced or use only silver or gold jewelry. Nickel can also be found in zippers, snaps on clothing, belt buckles, eye glass frames.
There are many more substances that children are being exposed to now that did not even exist in the recent past. Using caution in introducing new products to children is always prudent.
Hopefully the word is out by now that cold and cough medications should never be given to children under the age of 2. What may not be as well known, however, is that according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), several studies have shown that such medications "don't work in children younger than 6 years and can have potentially serious side effects."
Dr. Tamara R. Kuittinen, Director of Medical Education at the Department of Emergency Medicine at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City describes this in a FoxNews.com article entitled How Effective are Children's Cough and Cold Medications. "These medicines can do more harm than good," she states. "The ingredients in childrens cough and cold medications do not help. They are not effective, especially the decongestant, and part of it is because childrens anatomy is different. The risk margin is high."
Kuittinen says the only medications that are acceptable to administer to a child suffering from cold symptoms are children's acetaminophine (Tylenol) or ibuprofen. These will relieve aches and pains associated with a cold. She suggests using an oral syringe to ensure proper dosages are given, and reminds parents that reading product labels carefully is always essential.
Having three young children of her own, Kuittinen recommends humidification for helping youngsters suffering from colds. "Having a humidifier in their room is very helpful," she says. "Make sure you clean it every other day and its also important to keep children well hydrated."
While everyone gets a cold now and then, sometimes it can lead to complications like sinus infections, especially when allergies are involved. Ear, Nose and Throat specialist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City and author of "Sinus Relief Now" Dr. Jordan S. Josephson offers some additional alternative treatments for cold symptoms, in particular when colds lead to sinus infections.
"Sinus irrigation is great for kids," he says. "You can use a saline mist or a neti pot, and various other things for kids, such as a Hydro Pulse Sinus irrigation system. These are products that kids can use to decrease amount of infections they get."
Tags: cough medication, cold medication for children, children cold remedy, humidifier, neti pot, sinus irrigation
April 2010's issue of the Allergy Consumer Report discussed the relationship between BPA and allergies in BPA, Allergies, and Asthma. As promised, we are on the lookout for new information on this topic. Science Daily recently reported on BPA's role in contributing to allergies in Antibacterial Soaps: Being Too Clean Can Make People Sick, Study Suggests. The study they discuss links both antibacterial soaps and BPA to allergies.
The University of Michigan School of Public Health conducted a study that suggests that "Young people who are overexposed to antibacterial soaps containing triclosan may suffer more allergies, and exposure to higher levels of Bisphenol A among adults may negatively influence the immune system."
Triclosan is found in a wide range of antibacterial products, and BPA is found in many plastics, including the protective coating inside food cans. Both triclosan and BPA are classified as endocrine-disruption compounds (EDCs), a type of environmental toxicant. They mimic hormones or affect them in other ways, and are thus detrimental to human health.
In the study, researchers compared urinary BPA and triclosan levels with cytomegalovirus (CMV) antibody levels and diagnoses of allergies or hay fever in a sample of U.S. adults and children over age 6. Erin Rees Clayton, research investigator at the U-M School of Public Health and first author on the paper, reports, "We found that people over age 18 with higher levels of BPA exposure had higher CMV antibody levels, which suggests their cell-mediated immune system may not be functioning properly." People over age 18 with elevated triclosan levels were also more likely to report allergies or hay fever.
Compellingly, the research adds to a growing body of evidence that EDCs are harmful to our health at lower levels than previously thought. The research may also support the hygiene hypothesis, as Allison Aiello, associate professor at the U-M School of Public Health and principal investigator on the study, describes: "The triclosan findings in the younger age groups may support the 'hygiene hypothesis,' which maintains living in very clean and hygienic environments may impact our exposure to micro-organisms that are beneficial for development of the immune system."
Aiello goes on to state, "It is possible that a person can be too clean for their own good." Triclosan, indeed, may change the household microorganisms we're exposed to in such a way that children's immune system development is affected.
BPA exposure affected the immune system differently, depending on the individual's age: In people over 18, BPA exposure was associated with higher CMV levels, but in younger people, the reverse was true. Rees Clayton explains, "This suggests the timing of the exposure to BPA and perhaps the quantity and length of time we are exposed to BPA may be affecting the immune system response."
Though a link between BPA, triclosan, and allergies is certainly demonstrated by the study, we're still not sure about the exact nature of the association. For instance, as Aiello says, "It is possible that individuals who have an allergy are more hygienic because of their condition, and that the relationship we observed is, therefore, not causal or is an example of reverse causation."
Nevertheless, it behooves allergy sufferers, especially those with children to be aware of triclosan, BPA, and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals, not only because of the problems they pose in general, but also specifically in terms of their possible effect in exacerbating allergies.
As Dr. Richard Lockey, director of the division of allergy and immunology at USF Health says, when you bring out those boxes of decorations from the attic or garage, "You disturb dust and other debris that hasn't been touched for a year, and it can certainly cause problems."
Christmas trees, whether they are cut live trees or artificial ones, can also lead to allergies. Live trees bring everything from the outdoors inside so individuals who are allergic to pollen or mold may experience acute allergy attacks when they are around live pines. In addition, some individuals are allergic to a substance called terpene, which is in the sap of evergreens and is released when the trunk or branches are cut.
Artificial trees can be just as bad. Dust and other allergens settle on tiny leaves, making artificial trees that have been sitting in storage uncovered a gigantic allergen magnet. And sneezing, runny noses, itchy eyes, and congestion can ruin any good tree decorating party.
So what's the solution? Dusty boxes holding holiday treasures should be taken outdoors and cleaned off before they're brought into the house. Be sure to wear an allergy mask to reduce exposure to allergens as you're cleaning. Trees, live or artificial, may be blown with a leaf blower outside in order to remove accumulated allergens, suggests the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Alternately, trees could be sprayed with a hose before they are brought inside. Be sure dry your tree completely before bringing it inside.
As always, keeping indoor air as allergen-free as possible is essential to keeping allergy and asthma symptoms at bay. Don't inadvertently bring allergens into your home along with the holiday sparkle. Clean off dusty boxes and allergen-laden Christmas trees before enjoying them and stay allergy free this season!
Posted by Cordelia on Wednesday, December 01, 2010
In the 2006 movie "Snakes on a Plane", Samuel L. Jackson is tormented by snakes released on an airplane. Snakes probably are not a big concern for most allergy sufferers traveling this holiday season, but cats on a plane could be a big problem!
Lots of people are traveling for vacations and visiting family for the holidays. In addition to all the new security regulations, allergic travelers need to be aware of the potential for flying cats. Cats or their allergens are found in nearly all airplane seats. Many travelers bring their cats in the cabin, but even those who just like to cuddle with Mittens before leaving for the airport can leave these potentially harmful allergens lying in wait on seats.
There are a number of ways that an allergic traveler can protect his or herself:
Always bring any needed allergy medication on board with you. To facilitate security checks, make sure that all medicines are in labeled containers. For more information, check out this page on the TSA website.
Carry a full change of clothes in a sealed plastic bag on board and then change as soon as you land.
Use an airplane air filter that plugs into the above head air nozzle such as the Plane Clean Air filter.
There is a debate going as to whether cats should be allowed in airplane cabins. You can check with your airline to see if they allow cats on board. If you have an opinion, let them know preferably in writing or at least email. In the mean time, take some measures to protect yourself.
A Neti pot might be the allergy relief product I recommend most, both to allergy sufferers and non-allergy sufferers alike. Our neti pot is what we reach for at the first sign of a cold. And over this Thanksgiving holiday which has been great, despite runny noses it's the allergy relief product I used to help me feel okay even as my sinuses are congested.
I mentioned earlier in the week that our family has been slogging through our first (and hopefully only!) bout of winter colds. Everyone is pretty much over it, except for me. Though I'd never had sinus trouble of any kind before, when I was expecting our second child early this year, I caught a cold that involved my sinuses, and it was awful.
Facial pain from the pressure that had built up in my sinuses woke me up in the middle of the night, it was that bad. I took a steaming shower, softly pummeled my cheekbones under my eyes with my fingers to help loosen the mucus, and of course used the neti pot. This all helped enough that I could go back to sleep, but I did go in to see the doctor the next day.
Unfortunately, my internal medicine doctor had never heard of a neti pot and seemed at a loss when I told him that my teeth were hurting from the pressure. I couldn't take any of the regular decongestants because I was pregnant, and I didn't even like using what I was able to take. I was really thankful for the short- and long-term relief that my neti pot provided, though.
At an appointment with my midwife later that week, she was extremely concerned about my continued congestion. There is so much more fluid in general in the body during pregnancy, and specifically, more mucus. This is why many women are persistently slightly congested during pregnancy. She told me that I had to pay very close attention to getting the congestion cleared out so that an infection didn't develop antibiotics were not something I wanted to be taking in the early stages of pregnancy either.
Using a humidifier and the neti pot regularly, and drinking lots of fluid, I made it through with no infection, thankfully. Unfortunately, it seems like since then my sinuses are "weak," for lack of better words; every time I get a slight cold, the facial and tooth pain starts up and lingers. And, as always, I reach straight for my neti pot. After using it, I feel the relief immediately, and for a while afterwards, mucus continues to drain out, relieving pressure and forestalling the possibility of infections.
I tell all my friends to use a neti pot when they are sick or suffering from allergies, and I really think it should be one of those things found in every medicine cabinet.
The old adage is really true: Time flies when you are having fun! It is hard to believe, but time is running out on our November sale to celebrate 10 years in business. You have a few days left to take advantage of this great savings opportunity.
Every order placed this month is eligible to receive a 10% discount at checkout. The discount is applied before the shipping cost. The only products that cannot be discounted this month are Miele Vacuum Cleaners and Ladybug Steam Cleaners. Also, by placing an order you are automatically entered to win one of our prize giveaways.
If ordering online, please use the checkout code: 10YEARS. If you want to call and place your order, your product expert will be happy to include the discount.
Tags: November Sale, Sell-a-Bration, 10 year anniversary sale
Despite vigilant hand washing, trying to eat well, drinking lots of water and other cold-prevention strategies, we at the Combiths household have gotten our first round of winter colds, starting with our two-year-old little girl. Thankfully, she only suffered from a runny nose and mild crankiness neither of which slowed her down much!
As often happens, at nighttime, our daughter's congestion worsened, and we heard her struggling to breathe unhindered. So we dug out our favorite humidifier, the Air-O-Swiss ultrasonic humidifier and set it up in her room.
When we went in to check on a while later, we were dismayed to find that the room seemed overly damp and her sheets were even beginning to feel wet! Since the Air-O-Swiss has a built-in humidity gauge and we'd set it at 45%, we wondered what was going on. We soon realized that we'd set up the humidifier too close to the heater we keep in there. This must have thrown the hygrometer off, since heated air is much drier than unheated air.
We moved the humidifier over, pointed the nozzle away from her bed, and when we checked on her again, the humidity seemed right. In fact, the humidifier had stopped spewing steam because ideal humidity had been reached. We also noticed that her breathing was much improved, and we felt great knowing that she was getting restful sleep, which would help her recover.
We recommend humidifiers to all our friends with young children because we've seen firsthand the difference it makes in comfort and recovery, especially during winters fraught with sickness.
When the first cold weather hits, my lips get extremely chapped just one sign of what dry air can do to skin. And those with sensitive skin, such as those with eczema, are particularly vulnerable to the effects of dry air. Cold air is not the only dry air we have to worry about. Heated air in the home is also extremely drying to the skin. This is what most affects my two young children, and they don't even suffer from allergies or dry skin normally.
To prevent dry skin and eczema in the winter, check out the following helpful tips from renowned pediatrician Dr. Sears for helping "winterize" children's skin:
Apply a moisturizer. Moisturizers seal in moisture and also bring water up from lower layers of the skin, both of which contribute to healthy skin. Many moisturizers contain ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin, however, including fragrances, dyes, and other chemicals. Make sure to use a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer, such as Vanicream Skin Cream.
Seal in moisture after baths. Applying moisturizer when the skin is somewhat damp is the best way to seal in moisture and keep the skin hydrated.
Moisturize the skin during air travel. Air on planes is exceptionally dry. Be sure to apply moisturizers before flying, after, and maybe even during the flight. This will go a long way in preventing hours of dry air from causing skin problems that could lead to eczema.
Hydrate through drinking liquids. Have your child drink a lot of water throughout the day. This helps keep skin hydrated.
Vaporize the air. Using a humidifier increases ambient moisture in the air, preventing the effects of dry air. As an added benefit, humidification also makes the air feel warmer.
Eat seafood. Fish is high in skin-nourishing nutrients such as omega-3 oils, and vitamins A and D. Omega-3s, especially, guard against inflammatory reactions, and may also be given as supplements.
Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Antioxidant-rich foods (think foods with lots of color like blueberries) guard against wear and tear of the skin, helping protect it from the effects of dry air.
Posted by Cordelia on Wednesday, November 17, 2010
My family and I recently had to vacate our house due to a hot water heater leak that led to the discovery of rotten asbestos tiles from the 1960s which led to the discovery of mold. Our lower level, basement, and crawl space had to undergo asbestos removal and mold remediation. My husband, my 8 year-old son and our three cats moved into a hotel suite for 3 weeks.
After a few days my husband, Mike, complained of a bad headache when in the room from the cat litter smell. We cleaned the box out twice a day, but there was still an odor. I knew that I loved the Austin air purifiers, so I came into work and picked up an Austin Healthmate. We unpacked it amd plugged it in. Within 10 minutes, Mikes headache was gone. He was stunned. Although I did not have a headache, I really enjoyed the clean, fresh air in the room. The room had felt stale and airless to me. I slept better due to the clean air and also the low noise. It acted as a white noise generator drowning out the sounds of all of us living in such close quarters.
My dust mite allergy had gotten worse in the hotel because the bed there is not covered with any dust mite bedding like ours at home is. I awoke less congested after setting up the air purifier.
I am glad to have the Austin now that we are back at home. There has been and continues to be construction in the house. The Austin Healthmate is doing a great job of filtering out the excess dust and other things in the air making the house much more pleasant to be in. After everything is finished I will move the Austin into the newly painted den to remove the paint smell. Finally, I am looking forward to having it in our bedroom.
Before all this happened, I knew that I loved Austin air purifiers, now my whole family is converted. I love that they are made in the USA, that they have such great filtration, and that they are so easy to maintain. Now, I love how our Austin Healthmate made us feel in our hotel room and in our own home.
Tags: Austin Healthmate, Austin Air, Austin Air Air Purifier
Yesterday I made a Dutch-oven-full of white chicken chili. Stocked with three kinds of chilies Anaheim, poblano, and jalapenos the undertaking was one of my more "dangerous" cooking adventures. I don't know if everyone's as sensitive to jalapeno oil as I am, but despite my best efforts to keep my hands washed, I still experienced reactions but they reminded me of a few things related to allergies.
Firstly, after one of my said hand-washings, I apparently still had residual oil on my hands which was confirmed when my nose started burning and my eye started stinging. Apparently I'd brushed my hand in those areas of my face without realizing it. I realized how many times we actually touch our mucous membranes without much awareness. This is the way we contract many of our sicknesses.
Interestingly, saliva has an enzyme which can kill a lot of germs, so contact with eyes and nose may actually have a greater chance of making us sick than sharing a coke with someone. This frequent touching of our faces highlights the importance of even more frequent hand-washing, especially when we're out and about. And allergy and asthma sufferers, who are at increased risk of respiratory complications even from the common cold, must be particularly vigilant not to get sick.
Another thing I remembered as I enjoyed the spicy chili was that peppers can be instrumental in helping relieve cold symptoms. By clearing nasal passages, consuming spicy foods like hot salsa, a cayenne lemon drink, or my white chili can help those with colds breathe a little easier for a while. In fact, one of my favorite allergy/cold relief products is nasal spray formulated with capsaicin peppers.
In Halotherapy: Is Salt Treatment for Real?, Time Healthland discusses a new (in the Western world) therapy for asthma, allergies, allergic skin conditions, and other respiratory ailments. Halotherapy, or salt therapy, provides a salt filled room, often pumped with salty air, for those suffering from such conditions. The environment aims to mimic the naturally occurring salt caves of Eastern Europe, which have been used for therapeutic purposes for centuries.
Ron Rofι, owner of Halo Air/Salt Rooms in New York City explains, "The whole microclimate with the right air quality, humidity and salt particles is effective for cleansing the respiratory tract, the skin and the body as a whole."
There have been no clinical trials in the United States about the effectiveness of salt therapy and owners of halotherapy facilities are careful to point out that their establishments are not medical. However, Time points out that there are studies suggesting that such salt treatment might be effective: "A 2006 study in the New England Journal of Medicine found that inhaling hypertonic saline improved lung function in people with cystic fibrosis. Also in 2006, a of cigarette smokers, published in the European Respiratory Journal, found that inhaling aerosolized salt temporarily improved smoking-related symptoms such as coughing and mucus production."
With the benefits that saline nasal irrigation provides, we wouldn't be surprised if salt therapy follows the trajectory of neti pots in terms of gaining acceptance and popularity as people find relief from their allergies and asthma through using the salt rooms. As Etya Novik, who owns salt therapy facility Respira points out, "If you think about chiropractic, acupuncture, even the neti pot, they were all considered out there one time but were slowly accepted in the medical world. I think that a lot of American doctors just aren't familiar with salt therapy."
What do you think? Would you try salt therapy if you had the chance?
Tags: salt room, salt room therapy, asthma, skin allergies, allergies, halotherapy
Posted by Cordelia on Wednesday, November 10, 2010
There are many ways to address allergies, but the first and most important line of defense is a good mattress cover and pillow encasements. We spend up to 1/3 of our lives in bed and 80% of all people with allergies are allergic to dust mites, so protecting yourself in bed is vital.
Some interesting dust mite facts:
Each of us sheds about one-fifth of an ounce of dead skin a week.
Human and pet skin flakes are the prime food of dust mites.
Ten percent of the weight of the average 2-year-old pillow is dead dust mites and their droppings.
Mattresses double in weight in 10 years due to the presence of dust mites.
Every time you move or the furnace goes on, dust mites and broken bits of their bodies and their droppings are whooshed into the air. You breathe them into your lungs and eat them day and night.
Our indoor atmosphere is often two to five times more polluted than outdoor air.
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), as many as 90 percent of people with allergic asthma and 10 percent of the general population are sensitive to dust mites.
Most people are not allergic to the actual dust mites but to their feces and dead body parts.
Dust mite allergens are as small as 10 microns.
You can experience a tremendous health benefit simply by encasing your mattress and pillows in high quality allergy bedding such as Allergy Armor bedding. Any purchased bedding should say the average pore size of the fabric which should be smaller than the 10 micron size of dust mite allergens.
In addition to protecting you against dust mites and their allergens, good allergy bedding will protect you and your bed against the following:
Bed Bugs (See our new Allergy Armor Bed Bug Packages)
These pests cannot settle into your bed if you have already covered it. This is especially important in areas where bed bugs are prevalent such as New York and Boston. Also for people who travel a lot.
Head Lice
These are commonly spread in day care centers and schools. Items such as mattresses and pillows can house lice even after theyve been eliminated from someones head. Normally, people are instructed to wrap anything in plastic for 10-14 days that cannot be washed. This can be very inconvenient for pillows and mattresses. Head lice are bigger than dust mites so they cannot make their way into encased pillows and mattresses. You can then simply wash sheets and bedding in hot water and cleanup is done.
Good quality mattress and pillow encasements can make a big difference in your day to day health as well as long term prevention. Make the investment in your family today. Any purchases made in Nov 2010 qualify for our 10th Anniversary 10% discount. Code: 10YEARS
At my house, we routinely take off our shoes at the front door, and politely request that guests do the same. We even have a basket of colorful slippers from Ikea that we bring out when we're expecting a large crowd. I inherited this practice from my mother, who no doubt was influenced by the Asian community in San Francisco for whom not wearing shoes in the house is standard. And while in the South the habit may not be as prevalent, there's good reason for allergy sufferers to adopt it.
Allergens and pollutants are much more concentrated inside the home than out. This is compounded by the fact that indoor air may pose health hazards that are not found outdoors. For instance, off-gassing from furniture that contains formaldehyde or the chemicals released by air fresheners, in addition to many other offending items, may be polluting indoor air. (A complete guide can be viewed on the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) page The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor Air Quality.)
Winter is an especially important time to consider the factors that may be contributing to indoor air pollution in your home. As you seal your home against cold weather and huddle indoors for longer periods of time, this is the season that indoor air pollution can have the greatest effect.
So what does taking off your shoes at the door have to do with all this? "Source control" is one of three basic strategies described by the EPA to improve indoor air quality. While matters like asbestos or a faulty heater are larger concerns and should be addressed immediately, seemingly small things like taking your shoes off can also make a difference in reducing indoor air pollution.
Shoes track into the house everything that they've encountered outdoors. In addition to plain old dirt, this includes pesticides found in soil, pollen grains, mold spores, pet dander, and more. With all the allergens in your home already and the efforts you make to reduce them, the last thing you need to do is bring more into the house and spread them all over the place. Institute a shoes-off policy and slip on some cozy slippers instead it's for your health!
New research, reported in the November 1 issue of the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, indicates that allergic infants may be at increased risk of having a peanut allergy if their mothers ate peanuts during pregnancy.
The study, led by Scott H. Sicherer, MD, Professor of Pediatrics, Jaffe Food Allergy Institute at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, evaluated 503 infants from the ages of three to 15 months with likely milk or egg allergies or who had significant eczema. These are factors linked to an increased risk of peanut allergy. The infants had no previous peanut allergy diagnoses. As Medical News Today reports in Pregnant Women Who Eat Peanuts May Put Infants At Increased Risk For Peanut Allergy, "A total of 140 infants had strong sensitivity to peanut based on blood tests, and consumption of peanut during pregnancy was a significant predictor of this test result."
This study adds another twist to the back-and-forth recommendations offered by the American Academy of Pediatrics as new findings surface. In 2000, the Academy advised that women whose infants were at risk of allergies based on their family history avoid peanuts while pregnant and breastfeeding. However, in 2008, due to limited supporting evidence, this recommendation was withdrawn.
Research on the risk factors behind a child's developing peanut, milk, and egg allergies is being conducted by the Consortium of Food Allergy Research (CoFAR), which just received a renewed $29.9 million grant from the National Institutes of Health. Studies such as this one on peanut consumption during pregnancy help identify potential risk factors, and therefore present an opportunity for risk reduction.
Dr. Sicherer says, "Researchers in recent years have been uncertain about the role of peanut consumption during pregnancy on the risk of peanut allergy in infants. While our study does not definitively indicate that pregnant women should not eat peanut products during pregnancy, it highlights the need for further research in order make recommendations about dietary restrictions."
He goes on to point out, "Peanut allergy is serious, usually persistent, potentially fatal, and appears to be increasing in prevalence. Our study is an important step toward identifying preventive measures that, if verified, may help reduce the impact of peanut allergy."
No one wants to get socked with colds or the flu, but for allergy and asthma sufferers, winter time illnesses can lead to complications like prolonged respiratory problems or sinus infections. In addition to getting flu shots, and the fundamental advice of getting plenty of exercise and rest, following are some suggestions from Fox Health contributor and children's health and green living expert Deirdre Imus:
Wash hands frequently. Soap and water are best for warding off the flu and colds, but alcohol-free hand sanitizers are your next best bet when you can't get to a sink.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Eat healthfully, including many organic whole foods. Eat as many fresh fruits and vegetables as you can work into your diet.
Take your vitamins. Vitamins C and D help boost the immune system and are particularly useful in combating colds and the flu. Furthermore, vitamin D deficiency, found in about 70 of children, has been linked to an increased risk of respiratory tract infections.
Probiotics improve digestive function and reduce fever, runny nose, and cough when used every day for six months.
Antioxidants, found in many fruits and vegetables, also boost the immune system.
Tea with lemon, cayenne pepper, and garlic offers a soothing remedy for coughs and sore throats.
Also remember to have your humidifiers out and ready to help alleviate the dryness caused by forced air heating systems and to ease nighttime congestion.
We all know that "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" so putting these hints into practice early this season may save you and your family from the sickness of the season and the aggravated respiratory symptoms that go along with it.
As with many social activities, Halloween brings extra considerations for parents with allergic children. School parties, play-group costume get-togethers, and of course trick-or-treating are all potential dangers for food allergic children. Following is a combined list of tips for staying safe during Halloween, courtesy of Dr. Clifford Bassett's blog on Fox News.com and the Children's Hospital Boston pediatric health blog:
Go shopping with your food allergic children to buy some snacks and treats that are safe for them to eat. This way, they will have something special to munch on at parties that won't cause a reaction.
Try to attend Halloween parties at your child's school or with other friends. This way you can monitor his or her candy consumption to make sure no allergenic foods are eaten. Dress up to make your attendance seem less supervisional and more fun.
Make certain that your child has emergency medication on hand, including an epi-pen and/or rescue inhaler if asthma is a concern.
At your own home, pass out non-food items, such as stickers.
Before trick-or-treating, teach your food allergic child which candies are safe and which are not. Do this by specially pointing out that, for instance, Snickers have peanuts in them.
Suggest that your child trade candy with friends or siblings. This way he or she can swap allergy-triggering foods with safe options and everyone is happy. This is also a good way to spread awareness about food allergies in a fun environment.
Pre-distribute goodie bags or safe treats at the homes where your child will be trick-or-treating. Your child will be safe and will also feel included.
Keep your child busy with other Halloween excitement that doesn't involve eating, including watching scary movies, carving a pumpkin, or helping pass out candy instead of going out to trick-or-treat.
Do you have any unique and fun ways to keep your allergic children safe during Halloween?
Tags: halloween safety, food allergies and halloween, halloween allergies
Parenting.com recently highlighted the changes over the recent years in allergic children's experience with food allergies. Following is a summary of the "then and nows" when it comes to coping with food allergies:
Public Awareness of Food Allergies Then Knowledge about and preparedness for food allergies was rare. Even paramedics didn't always have epinephrine to treat acute reactions. Now People are becoming more and more allergy-savvy. With the rise of food allergies and increasingly widespread coverage of allergic conditions, schools, medical personnel, and individuals are more knowledgeable about how to help keep food allergic children safe.
Changing Advice about Children and Food Allergies Then Hold off on introducing allergenic foods. Pediatricians used to instruct parents with a history of food allergies to delay giving their children food like peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and eggs until they were older, believing that the immune system should mature before having to deal with these potentially problematic foods. Now Delaying allergenic foods is no longer recommended. A lack of evidence validating the above advice has led the American Academy of Pediatrics to withdraw their recommendation to delay introduction of allergenic foods. Though this change occurred in 2008, the old advice is still often what parents believe they need to follow. This is problematic because researchers are beginning to think that delaying these foods with allergy-prone children may make them even more likely to react to them.
Causes of Food Allergies are Becoming More Clear Then The cause of allergies was a mystery. Now We're getting more and more answers about the origins of allergic conditions. The hygiene hypothesis is among the most prevalent ideas about why allergies are on the rise. Changes in the food industry, specifically the increase in processed food consumption, is also viewed as a possible reason.
Food Allergy Cures Look Possible Then No food allergy treatments were available. Now Curing allergies is on the horizon. Desensitizing children to the foods their allergic to (under strict doctors' supervision, of course) has been successful in many trials. Herbal remedies, sublingual immunotherapy, and allergy vaccines are also showing promise.
In most parts of the country, fall weather is settling in and many people are beginning to shake out their down comforters, make hot chocolate, and re-stock dresser drawers with favorite wool sweaters. While these three rituals can mean several things to allergy sufferers, today we're going to explore wool allergies.
Although an actual allergy to wool itself is rare, there are a few ways in which wool can affect those with allergies. Lanolin is a naturally occurring substance that helps sheep shed water from their coats, and many individuals who think they are allergic to wool are actually allergic to this "wool wax." Lanolin is also often used in creams and lotions, especially natural ones, and can cause allergic reactions through this type of exposure as well.
In addition to lanolin allergies, wool can trigger allergies by causing exposure to cat dander. In a 2007 article, Seniors and Asthma, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) says, "A recent study at the University of Sydney found people who wore wool sweaters were exposed to more than 10 times the amount of cat dander than individuals wearing no upper body clothing. People who wore freshly washed T-shirts were exposed to the least amount of cat dander." Of course, wool can also act as a carrier for dust mite allergen and other allergens, especially if sweaters are washed infrequently.
Another way that wool causes problems for allergic individuals is by irritating sensitive skin and exacerbating eczema. Indeed, in Tips to Remember: Allergic Skin Conditions, the AAAAI lists wool as a contact irritant that can trigger eczema. This type of contact irritation could be alleviated by wearing another layer beneath the wool so that the wool doesn't come into contact with the skin.
Anyone out there have any wool sensitivity stories or tips to share?
Tags: wool allergy, wool allergies, lanolin allergy, wool and eczema
According to research conducted by Dr. Tolly G. Epstein of Ohio University's Cincinnati College of Medicine and others and published in the Journal of Pediatrics, living with a dog starting in infancy may make young children less likely to develop eczema. Conversely, among children with a sensitivity to cat allergen, living with a cat may increase the odds of eczema.
In the study, children under one year of age who were at increased risk of allergies were given yearly exams that included skin-prick tests to evaluate sensitization to a number of allergens. This determined which allergens the body had produced antibodies against. The research team found that 14 percent of the children had eczema by the age of four. However, among the children who had a dog in their home during infancy, the rate was only 9 percent. In addition, among children who did have a sensitivity to dog allergen, the risk for developing eczema was substantially lower among children who had a dog compared to those who didn't.
With cats, the issue was not as clear-cut. No overall definitive relationship between having a cat and lower eczema risk was found. However, among children sensitized to cats, there did appear to be some association: The rate for developing eczema was highest among those with a cat allergen sensitivity who had a cat compared to those who didn't and lowest among those with no cat sensitivity who did have a cat.
Although there isn't currently a solid explanation for the apparent protective effect of having a dog, Dr. Epstein speculates that early exposure to dog allergen affects children's immune system to develop in a way that eczema is less likely to occur. "It may be that these children develop a tolerance, but we don't know that for sure."
Complicating the overall picture even further, these findings seem at odds with those of another study that correlated increased asthma risk with the presence of a dog in the house among children at increased allergy risk. (Cats were unrelated to asthma risk.) This could be due to the fact that dogs carry more endotoxin, a bacteria that triggers inflammation in the airways, than cats do.
Ultimately, Dr. Epstein says that at this point it is hard to give parents specific advice on pets and also points out that little is known about how family pets affect allergy and asthma development in children with average risk of these conditions.
These studies fit in perfectly with the ongoing exploration of whether exposure or protection from certain allergens is a better forestaller of allergic conditions. Since my family is not at increased risk for allergies and asthma and we have both a dog and two cats, I hope that if anything, my children's exposure to dog and cat allergen helps their bodies know that these are not particles that need to be fought against.
Tags: eczema, pet allergy, animal dander, endotoxin, asthma, cat allergy
Unlike last year's vaccine shortage and the prohibitive lines to receive vaccinations, this year flu vaccines were ready in abundance and in record time. In fact, as Fox News reports, many drugstores offered vaccines in conjunction with their back-to-school sales.
Another difference this year is that the CDC is recommending everyone be vaccinated. This protects not only those most at risk for complications from the flu, but also provides a "circle of protection" by keeping stronger individuals from spreading the flu. As CDC physician Dr. Anne Schuchat puts it, "Influenza is serious, and anyone, including healthy people, can get the flu and spread the flu. Flu vaccines are the best way to protect yourself and those around you."
This year's vaccine includes three strains of influenza: last year's swine flu, another strain of the H3N2 family that has emerged, and a Type B strain. A high-dose version of the vaccine is available for those over 65. Other varieties of the vaccine in terms of dispensation include the nasal mist, which is recommended for those between 2 and 49 who have no underlying health conditions and who aren't pregnant. Preservative-free vaccines are also available, and often recommended for young children or pregnant women.
Remember, those with asthma are considered high-risk for developing complications from the flu, and should be sure to receive vaccinations. Those who are allergic to eggs, however, must take precautions when getting a flu vaccine because of the way the vaccine is prepared. If you fall into this category, be sure to discuss this with your doctor.
When it comes to laundry and allergies, we may think of how it's important to wash bedding frequently in the hottest water possible, or with the addition of an allergy detergent, in order to kill dust mites. However, it's equally important to realize that products we might use while doing our laundry like fabric softeners can also cause problems, especially for allergy sufferers, as an article on the Dayton Ear, Nose & Throat Surgeons, Inc. website highlights.
This information isn't new. In the May 2000 issue of the Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Anderson Laboratories revealed that fabric softeners emit chemicals that cause respiratory tract inflammation and irritation, including toluene, styrene, phenol, thymol, xylene and trimethylbenzene, among other chemicals.
The very nature of fabric softeners makes them particularly dangerous: The product is formulated to remain in the fibers of the fabric for a long time. Hence, the chemicals slowly release, affecting the air and the health of those who wear fabric softener-treated clothing.
As always, those with weak immune systems are most affected by these chemicals; elderly individuals and babies are particularly vulnerable to their effects, which include diarrhea, frequent crying, and rashes in infants. Alarmingly, there may also be a connection between Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and the use of fabric softeners on baby clothing and bedding. Eczema is also a concern when using fabric softener. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics advises that those with eczema "avoid fabric softener."
In adults, some symptoms caused by fabric softener fumes are tiredness that is not cured by resting, difficulty breathing, nervousness for no known reason, difficulty concentrating and remembering, dizziness, headaches, sick stomach, feeling faint, rashes and/or difficulty controlling body movements.
A recent Parenting.com article featured on CNN Health discusses why kids get sicker at night and points out that one reason is asthma and allergies.
Dr. Santiago Martinez, a pediatric allergist and clinical assistant professor of medicine at Florida State University Medical School in Tallahassee, describes why asthma symptoms worsen at night: "The body's level of cortisol drops at night, and cortisol has some preventive effects on asthma." Conversely, histamine levels rise at night, exacerbating allergy and asthma symptoms. In addition, dust mite allergen and pet dander are often present in higher concentrations in children's rooms, increasing exposure during sleep.
Parenting.com offers the following tips for helping allergic and/or asthmatic children through tough nights:
Antihistamines, which should only be used in consultation with your child's doctor, can alleviate symptoms.
Consider immunotherapy shots, which slowly build immunity to allergens.
For asthmatic children, have a bronchodilator on-hand at all times. Peak flow meters to monitor your child's breathing and medications are also important to have on-hand.
"Preventing steps to reduce allergens can go a long way, too," writes Laura Flynn McCarthy, who recommends:
Keeping the child's windows closed to reduce pollen exposure.
The NFL season kicked off last night and everything related to football is in the news. One topic that I find interesting is that you always hear announcers talking about the recycled rubber pellets in the fake grass. Sometimes, you can even see rubber flying in the air on tackles or quick cuts.
At first glance, it may seem that this "artificial turf", often composed of material from recycled tires, is an automatic resource saver and the clear "green" alternative to natural lawns (and football fields) with the water and pesticides they require. However, synthetic grass surfaces may actually pose a health hazard because of the lead and other toxins they release and the extreme heat they can produce.
The New York Times reports on a new bill signed by Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg requiring parks and health departments to work together to ensure a thorough review of the materials that go into producing artificial fields. The bill was prompted by issues like the closure of a field of artificial turf due to elevated lead levels.
Since dust mites play such a large role in allergies, we thought we'd take a closer look. Here are some possibly little known facts provided by the Medical Entomology Center about these tiny creatures that give us such trouble:
Adult female dust mites are a mere 0.3 mm long; males are slightly smaller and thinner.
Dust mites are mainly translucent.
As arachnids, dust mites are in the same family as spiders and scorpions. They have eight legs.
Because they lack an exoskeleton, dust mites are vulnerable to water loss. This is why they favor humid conditions, like beds.
Dust mites have no eyes.
Favorite habitats include mattresses or pillows because of the constant source of skin scales. Humans shed about one gram of skin a day while sleeping. We also produce about a pint of water in sweat every night, providing the high humidity that dust mites love. Dust mites also live in carpets, furniture, cushions, clothes, and stuffed animals.
Adult females lay between 40-80 eggs in their lifetime. Eggs hatch into larval nymphs, which molt into two nymphal stages before reaching adulthood. Adults live between one and three months. Temperature and humidity affect both the speed of development and adult longevity.
Dust mites produce around 2,000 fecal pellets in their lifetime, each of which contains digestive enzymes; it is these enzymes that people are allergic to.
To reduce dust mite allergen in the home, the Medical Entomology Centre recommends the following:
Wash pillows and bedclothes regularly, at high temperatures if possible. If high temperatures are not an option, you can freeze pillows before washing them.
On the fifth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, many are looking back at the effects of the disaster. One devastation of the hurricane was the mold that spread across New Orleans. Not only did it destroy residences, but it also made children with asthma very sick. As Medical News Today reports in Asthma Symptoms and Attacks in Children Increased by Post-Katrina Mold, "experts point to increased sensitivities to environmental asthma triggers as a risk for more severe asthma symptoms and attacks in hundreds of New Orleans children."
To help with the problem, the Merck Childhood Asthma Network, Inc. (MCAN) announced a pledge of about $2 million to Xavier University of Louisiana's Center for Minority Health and Health Disparities Research and Education to sustain the Head-off Environmental Asthma in Louisiana (HEAL) problem, which has been assisting families manage their children's asthma.
Included in this help is research, and one of the most telling findings is that almost 80 percent of children with asthma in post-Katrina New Orleans are sensitive to mold. This is 30 percent more than children in seven other cities in the United States. In addition, asthma rates overall in New Orleans are three times higher than the national average. The city also has the highest childhood asthma death rate in Louisiana.
Dr. Floyd Malveaux, Executive Director MCAN, says, "We have heard a lot about how Katrina changed the city of New Orleans, but very little about how the city's post-Katrina environment changed health outcomes." He adds, "There is an undeniable connection between the environment and the health of children with asthma. Effective asthma management must go beyond traditional medical care and include additional interventions to manage the problem, as well as to reduce exposure to the specific environmental triggers known to exacerbate a child's asthma."
Researchers Dr. Jay Kolls, Professor and Chair of Genetics at LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans, and colleagues, have "found that vitamin D may be an effective therapeutic agent to treat or prevent allergy to a common mold that can complicate asthma and frequently affects patients with Cystic Fibrosis," reports Medical News Today.
One of the most prevalent fungal organisms inhaled by people, Aspergillus fumigatus does not generally cause problems for most people. For those with asthma and Cystic Fibrosis, though, this common mold can trigger severe allergic symptoms. However, only a certain subset of patients develop the allergy; the reason for this disparity is what the researchers set out to determine.
They found that those with heightened reactivity to the mold had a lower average blood level of vitamin D than those who exhibited less reactivity. Dr. Jay Kolls summarizes: "We found that adding vitamin D not only substantially reduced the production of the protein driving an allergic response, but it also increased production of the proteins that promote tolerance."
Low vitamin D levels are dangerous for other reasons as well. Recent studies have indicated that low levels may contribute to heart disease, a higher risk of diabetes, some cancers, and depression, in addition to asthma, colds, and respiratory disorders. As Dr. Kolls puts it, "Our study provides further evidence that vitamin D appears to be broadly associated with human health."
Image courtesy of sckin.org
Tags: vitamin d, mold allergy, cystic fibrosis and mold, asthma and mold
High school graduates across the country are gearing up for the rite of passage of moving out of their parents' homes for the first time. And as if the anxieties of living on their own and starting college aren't enough, Health.com reports on 9 Health Hazards Hidden in College Dorms.
While preventing many of these involves good hygiene practices and knowledge on the subject matter, mold and bedbugs are two items that are somewhat out of a college freshman's control. But AchooAllergy.com can help with both of these issues.
In terms of mold, it should be noted that a suspicion of mold infestation in the building itself, such as in walls or ceiling tiles, should be cause for moving out. The hazards are simply too great, and remediation in that situation is not in the student's hands. However, for matters such as a too-humid room, a small dehumidifier goes a long way, not only in preventing moisture buildup and mold growth, but also in keeping the dorm room comfortable.
We have two cats and a short-haired dog. While no one in our family is allergic to animal dander, we regularly have guests who are allergic to cats. Needless to say, it's important to me to keep our home as clean as possible from pet dander to avoid triggering guests' allergic reactions.
Of course, I use my beloved Dyson DC24 All Floors all around the house several times a week. Lightweight and small, but oh-so-powerful, I can easily cart this vacuum around to clean everything from the kitchen floor to the office's futon mattress. I also use it on upholstery with the car turbine head that came in the car cleaning kit. (I've found that the secret when using this tool is not to press too hard on the upholstery which can keep the turbine head from spinning properly.)
When I'm not vacuuming, however, my Gonzo Pet Hair Lifter is a little miracle worker. I just swipe it in short strokes on pet hair covered cushions, and it collects fur like a magnet. I also use a lint roller which works really well too. I prefer the Pet Hair Lifter because I don't have to throw away or replace any tape.
Even though these methods may remove visible hair, it's important to remember that vacuuming with a HEPA vacuum cleaner is necessary for removing smaller animal dander particles. I try to do right before allergic guests arrive.
Do you have any favorite tips for removing animal dander from your home?
Tags: animal dander, pet allergies, pet hair, dyson, pet hair lifter
For anyone suffering from hay fever, otherwise known as allergic rhinitis, a stroll in the park or admiring the flowers may cause much more suffering than joy. Instead, itchy watery eyes and a runny nose may send you right back inside. When pollen gives you grief, it may be helpful to know some of the most common allergy-causing plants and trees, their peak seasons, and where they thrive. Here are the top five culprits, as presented by Health.com:
Ragweed
Found in abundance in the Midwest and the Mississippi River basin, youll find ragweed in fields, riverbanks, roadsides, and rural areas, especially in the summer and fall. According to Dr. Warren V. Filley, a spokesperson for the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, ragweed is the "most allergenic plant we have." About 75 percent of Americans with plant allergies are sensitive to this plant, which much smaller in stature than the next instigator.
Mountain Cedar
For the allergy sufferer in the Texas hill country, it does not get any worse than the majestic mountain cedar. Found in mountainous areas, especially in Arkansas, Missouri, and parts of New Mexico, Oklahoma, and of course Texas, this tree causes some of the most severe allergy symptoms. Their peak time is in spring.
Ryegrass
Grasses are often a problem for those who have allergies. Whats worse is if you mow your grass, you also pick up mold as well as pollen, not just the grass itself. Ryegrass is seen in dry, cool lawns, meadows, and pastures in the northern parts of the United States. It does the best in the spring and summer, along with its cousins who often also cause allergies: timothy, blue, and orchard grasses, though these don't earn the prestige of the "top five" list.
Maple
The pride of Canada, there is also a profusion of maple trees in the eastern United States. Indeed, this beautiful, colorful tree is found throughout the United States, especially the ash-leaf maple that produces potent allergens. Maples cause the worst allergies in the early spring and are seen along streams and woods. The red, silver, and sugar varieties of the maple are more moderate.
Elm
Another beautiful tree, the elm is seen in cultivated, wetland habitats, especially in the eastern and midwestern United States. The American Dutch elm peaks in the spring and the lace bark elm in the fall.
To see the next five worst plants and trees for your allergies, check out the full list at Health.com.
To obtain accurate pollen and mold levels in your area, go to the National Allergy Bureau website, which reports pollen and mold levels by area.
Tags: allergies, allergenic plants, ragweed, cedar, grass, maple, elm
Health.com recently reported on the detrimental effects of mouth breathing which often occurs in those who suffer from allergies. In fact, the article states that "chronic mouth breathers" are "most often children with allergies."
The problem is that those who breathe predominantly through their mouths have trouble getting sufficient oxygen into their blood. This outcome affects their size, weight, and sleep quality which could affect other aspects of life, like school performance.
Mouth breathing occurs because of nasal obstructions, which allergies or chronic infections can cause. Untreated mouth breathing can lead to unattractive facial and dental development, including long face syndrome, narrow mouths, and receding or protruding jaws.
Sleep apnea is also associated with mouth breathing. Additionally, the effects of mouth breathing can lead to the misdiagnosis of other conditions, including attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), due to the similar manifestations of the disorders.
Dr. Yosh Jefferson, a general dentist in Mouth Holly, N.J. and author of the study, states, "Mouth breathing is a medical problem that touches almost every family. It's an unrecognized epidemic that needs immediate attention" and says that those who suffer from chronic mouth breathing are "suffocating and literally dying a slow death that robs them of their appearance, health, longevity, and quality of life. Mouth breathing is very treatable, but to do this it must be diagnosed and treated as early as possible."
With school's start just around the corner, many parents of allergic children face the challenge of making sure their children are healthy and safe even while not under their direct supervision. The back-to-school season is a time of high pollen and mold levels, and exposure to both (and additional) allergens and viruses at school can take a large toll on children's health. Asthma, triggered in large part by allergies and respiratory illnesses, accounts for a 46 percent increase in emergency room visits among children during the fall, Medical News Today reports.
Following are some tips offered by the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) to help children stay healthy and avoid missing school:
Schedule a back-to-school checkup with your child's allergist to make sure allergy and asthma symptoms are under control. If you've never taken your child to an allergist, now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment for allergy testing and developing a treatment plan.
Communicate your child's treatment plan with school staff. This should include a list of allergens that trigger your child's allergy or asthma symptoms, medications, and emergency contact information.
Protect your child against the flu (both seasonal and H1N1) through vaccinations, especially if he or she has asthma.
Meet with the school nurse, teachers, and coaches to ensure that they are familiar with your child's symptoms and treatment plan. Remind them that the inability to concentrate, temper tantrums, and irritability, rather than mere behavioral problems, could be subtle signs of battling asthma or allergy symptoms.
Have a plan in place for emergencies. Children can keep inhalers with them at school with an allergist's recommendation. In addition, those at risk of anaphylaxis should have their Epi-pens at the ready. Make sure both your child and school staff know how to use these emergency medications, and make sure that you've filled out a permission form allowing staff to administer medications if they're needed.
Discuss ways to avoid allergy triggers with your child.
If your child is allergic to pets, ensure that your child isn't exposed to class pets that could be triggering symptoms.
sure that coaches and gym teachers recognize signs and symptoms of an asthma attack, such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Broadcast food allergy information. Share a list of allergic foods and safe alternatives with lunch staff, teachers, medical staff, and class volunteers.
Tour the school to indentify substances that could trigger your child's allergy or asthma symptoms.
Tags: allergies, asthma, back to school, medications, epi pen, pollen
Today in Meet the Critters Inside Your Mattress, CNN Health highlights the allergens that lurk in mattresses: "The mattress can be a jungle of dust mites and bedbugs, milling around among dried remnants of blood, saliva, sweat and basically all the other bodily fluids you can think of."
Amidst a recent report from the National Pest Management Association that bedbug infestations are still on the rise, awareness of nighttime pests continues to increase. Bedbugs, while horrifying to think about, do not necessarily pose a danger to all people; however, some individuals are allergic to their bites.
But, as many allergy sufferers know, even if bedbugs are never an issue, beds can harbor other allergens namely dust mites that induce severe allergy symptoms, disrupting sleep and thereby diminishing quality of life.
Dr. Clifford Bassett, a New York allergist, says that about 10 percent of people are sensitive to dust mites, which pose a particular problem for those with asthma. He recommends using allergy bedding and washing linens frequently in water at least 130 degrees F. Stuffed animals, which can also play host to dust mites, may either be washed or put in the freezer for at least five hours to kill the pests.
Another angle of attack against dust mites is vacuuming the mattress to help reduce dust mite populations. As Dr. Sharon Horesh Bergquist of the department of medicine at Emory University puts it, "I don't think people give a lot of thought and energy into proper mattress care. It really can improve not only the quality of people's sleep but also reduce their chances of having mites and infestations of bedbugs."
Mold and mildew, which can thrive in the warm, moist environment that beds can provide, may also be limited by waterproof mattress pads or covers. Furthermore, pets should be kept off the bed to prevent other kinds of vermin from getting into the mattress.
Environmental control of allergens lines up with the principle of prevention, and taking proper precautions against allergens propagating in mattresses and bedding is a key element indeed, maybe the most crucial component of beginning to reduce your exposure to allergens.
In a recent Sunday Housecall called Growing Evidence that Zinc Nasal Spray Can Damage Smell on FoxNews, Dr. Isadore Rosenfeld says, "Zinc nasal spray is ineffective ... In addition, if you use it frequently, it can interfere, sometimes permanently, with your sense of smell."
A common over-the-counter homeopathic cold remedy, zinc nasal spray is often reached for to "cure" colds. Instead of risking the use of such a product, Dr. Rosenfeld recommends staying at home, drinking fluids, getting rest, and waiting for the sypmtoms to subside on their own in a couple days.
Recently, my husband did some maintenance work on our car before a family road trip. One of the things on his list was changing the air conditioning filter in our van. After he removed the filter, he showed it to me. It was an absolute nightmare - black with several years' accumulation of dust and pollution. It could not possibly have been effective in purifying our car's air. Furthermore, I suspected that the musty odor I smelled from time to time might have come from this dirty filter.
Upon doing a little bit of research, I found that this was in fact the case. A site that helps with do-it-yourself car repair, 2carpros.com, cites the following as two common problems with car air cabin filters:
Air cabin filter becomes plugged not allowing air flow into the vehicle cabin.
Air cabin filter becomes moist creating mildew and odors.
Of course, breathing unclean air in such a confined space as a closed vehicle is hazardous, especially to those who are particularly sensitive due to allergies or asthma. The next time you take your car in for an oil change, be sure to ask the service people to check your car's air conditioning filter. Just like any other filter, it needs regular replacing in order to be effective in helping you breathe better.
Tags: car air conditioning filter, mildew smell in car, allergens in car
Pain in the sinus area and other symptoms of sinus infection (fever, or a creamy, yellow, or green discharge from the nose).
A worsening of allergy symptoms with no known cause.
Taking prescription or over-the-counter allergy medication without it helping your symptoms.
Your allergy medciation causing bothersome side effects, like drowsiness or decreased coordination.
A fever or ear pain.
A cough or cold that lasts longer than one to two weeks.
Severe itching of the eyes or nose.
Your allergy disturbs your quality of life.
Seeing an allergist can help you determine which allergens are responsible for your symptoms. This helps pinpoint how to reduce your contact with these allergens through environmental control measures. A combination of physicians' treatment and using allergy relief products in a targeted manner helps many people live their lives as free from allergy symptoms as possible.
Staying protected from the sun is not as simple as slathering on any old sunscreen. While it's good that Americans seem to have become more and more conscious of the dangers of unprotected, prolonged sun exposure, we still have a long way to go in terms of using sunscreen products that don't possibly cause more harm than good.
Factors such as the inclusion of hormone-disrupting chemicals, ingredients like vitamin A that could actually speed the development of skin cancer, and over-stated claims about the products' effectiveness all contribute to a misinformed and misguided use of sunscreen.
As always, don't think that just because a product is out there, it's safe. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration has spent 32 years trying to set enforceable guidelines for consumer protection - all the while allowing products with questionable chemicals and product stability to be sold. In the meantime, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has set forth some helpful information and a list of the safest sunscreens.
We're happy to report that Vanicream Sunscreen receives a good report from the EWG.
Be sure to check out the 2010 Sunscreen Guide to explore all the facts for yourself before heading out to the sun this summer.
Tags: sunscreen, sun block, safe sunscreen, sunscreen chemicals
It's an almost classic combination that little bag of peanut snacks you munch on while in the air. But for many, a growing number in fact, peanuts are deadly, and some wonder whether they should be allowed in the confined space of an airplane.
Recently, as CNN reports in a story called Should Peanuts be Banned from Planes?, the U.S. Department of Transportation has proposed banning peanuts from flights as part of their overall effort to improve air travel.
The rationale is as follows: "The Air Carrier Access Act prohibits discrimination by U.S. and foreign air carriers against individuals with disabilities. Airline passengers with severe allergies to peanuts have a qualifying disability."
The proposal includes four options regarding peanuts on planes: banning them altogether, offering peanut-free flights when requested in advance, having a peanut-free zone on the plane, or doing nothing.
While peanut allergies affect only about 1 percent of the population, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, the allergy is the leading cause of fatal and near-fatal food-allergic reactions. And while ingestion is of course the most dangerous type of exposure, highly sensitive individuals can experience a reaction while merely in the presence of the peanut protein. In such a case, the close quarters and circulated air of air travel could pose a real danger and a "peanut-free zone" would be mostly ineffective.
Some with peanut allergies or peanut allergic children won't risk flying at, while others balk at the idea of "having to bend [their lives] for everyone else's issues."
What are your thoughts?
Tags: peanuts, peanut allergy, peanut allergic, peanuts and airplanes
CNN Health reports on the health risks of the smoke clouds formed from burning off the oil from the recent oil spill. The smoke carries with it soot, volatile gases, and other toxic byproducts.
Dr. Phil Harber from the Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA says that the most immediate risk is to cleanup workers more than 12,600 of them and others who are very close to the burn. He adds, however, that depending on the scope and length of the cleanup effort, those on shore could be affected as well: "People with asthma, or who are very young, or who have cardiac disease, are much more likely to be sensitive to the released pollutants."
The black cloud of smoke is composed largely of small particles that can lodge deeply in the lungs. Additionally, the cloud contains gases including sulfur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, and volatile compounds called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Dr. Harber points out that these hydrocarbons at high exposures are considered cancer triggers.
In addition to the smoke created by burning the oil, the spilled oil itself poses a health risk, even while it's sitting on the surface of the water. Interestingly, according to data gathered by the Environmental Protection Agency, air quality levels for ozone and particulates on Gulf coastline are no different than usual. The gases, on the other hand, are affecting people, especially cleanup workers who have reported headaches, nausea, and dizziness.
Especially since "long-term, the potential impact is unclear," air purifiers with carbon filtration can help protect sensitive individuals against exposure to the toxic byproducts of burning oil.
Tags: burning oil, oil spill, asthma, air purifier
The magazine Science Daily reports on a recent study published in Chemical Research and Toxicology that focuses on the development of a way to determine whether chemicals in consumer products and work places may cause skin allergies. The method does not involve animal testing; and it is fast, simple, and inexpensive.
Dermatitis occurs when chemicals in consumer products bond to proteins in the skin, causing redness, itching, and other symptoms by aggravating the immune system. Public sentiment against the use of animals to test soaps, shampoos, and other products has led to existing chemical tests which use substances like glutathione to mimic skin proteins. However, these tests are not useful for detecting the early stages of skin sensitization.
Itai Chipinda and colleagues developed a test using nitrobensenethiol as a stand-in for skin protein. This chemical was used on twenty chemicals known to cause skin irritation and produced a positive result each time; negative results occurred when testing substances that don't usually product skin sensitization.
To check out some allergy friendly shampoos, soaps, conditioners, and lotions, see our Personal Care Products page.
A recent feature Toxic Chemicals Finding Their Way Into the Womb in CNN's series "Toxic America" highlights the chemicals unborn babies are exposed to while still in their mothers' wombs. Over 200 types of potentially hazardous chemicals have shown up in newborns' cord blood, including the following:
Bisophenol A found in water bottles, food can linings, dental sealants and linked to reproductive and behavioral problems, obesity, diabetes, and even cancer.
Perfluorochemcials used on non-stick coatings and stain and grease protection in carpets and furniture; exposure is linked to low birth weight and possibly cancer.
PBDEs flame retardants found in televisions, electronics, and older foams and mattresses; this chemical contaminates house dust and is linked to cognitive and behavioral problems.
PCBs banned since the mid-1970s, this chemical can leach from landfill into the food supply; it's linked to cancer, behavioral problems, and damage to the body's nervous system, immune system, and chemical signaling system.
Dioxins spewed into the air by power plants and other industries, dioxins can cause cancer.
Methylmercury found in contaminated fish and seafood and linked to cancer and lower motor function, attention, and verbal skills.
While there is nothing we can do to control many of these chemicals in our environment, experts suggest minimizing potential exposure to these and other types of chemicals by:
Incorporating organic food into your diet.
Keeping your home as dust free as possible because many of these chemicals contaminate household dust.
Avoiding toxic chemicals found in common household products.
Dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and mold are not the only allergy triggers. Even things that are not typically considered allergens can trigger symptoms. Fragrances are one exaqmple. Whether they're in cleaning products, candles, lotions, or home fragrance sprays, the chemicals in fragrances can lead to itchy eyes, sore throats, skin irritation, sneezing, and more just like an allergy attack.
But I have to admit that every once in a while I do crave some fragrance, and this desire got the better of me last week. Against all better judgment, I caved and bought an air freshener for the car. Within minutes after attaching it to the air conditioning vent, I was coughing and sneezing. Within a few minutes more, my throat was sore. Lesson learned. I took the air freshener (or, poison!) out of my car and thought that there must be some kind of natural alternative.
Eventually, I decided to make a small pouch filled with washrag scraps and attached a ribbon. I dropped a few drops of essential oil directly onto the fabric of the pouch and hung it up in the car. So far, so good. If I had some lavender on hand, I could have made as sachet out of that too. And I've even heard of people leaving coffee beans in a container in their car for the fragrance.
When odor elimination isn't enough, and you crave pleasant scents that don't trigger allergies, what's your solution?
Tags: allergies, air freshener, natural odor eliminator, odor elimination, car fragrance, car air freshener
High fat energy meals may be dangerous for asthma sufferers because they can lead to both airway inflammation and the suppression of asthma medication albuterol, research from Australia indicates. As Medical News Today reports, these are the findings of a study that will be presented this week at the American Thoracic Society ATS 2010 International Conference in New Orleans.
In the study, asthma patients were monitored after they ate low and high fat meals. The high fat meal consisted of fast food burgers and hash browns, with a total of 1,000 calories, over 50 percent of which came from fat. The low fat, low calorie meal consisted of reduced fat yogurt, and contained about 200 calories with only 13 percent of them coming from fat.
Dr. Lisa Wood of the University of Newcastle, New South Wales and colleagues found that within hours of eating the high fat meal, patients showed signs of airway inflammation that were absent in those who had eaten the low fat meal. The high fat meal also inhibited the patients' response to Ventolin (a type of albuterol).
As Dr. Wood summarized in a media statement, "Subjects who had consumed the high-fat meal had an increase in airway neutrophils and TLR4 mRNA gene expression from sputum cells, that didn't occur following the low fat meal. The high fat meal impaired the asthmatic response to albuterol. In subjects who had consumed a high fat meal, the post-albuterol improvement in lung function at three and four hours was suppressed."
The study offers new insight into the idea that lifestyle and diet may contribute to the increasing rates of asthma in westernized countries. In particular, high fat diets have been shown by previous research to stimulate the immune system, thereby causing higher levels of inflammation markers in the blood. This study, however, is believed to be the first to examine how a high fat meal impacts airway inflammation.
One possible issue with the study is that it did not distinguish between high fat and high energy in terms of the effect on asthma and asthma medication. However, because of the TLR4 response that was present, the authors confirm that the culprit is high fat and not the high energy that produced the inflammatory response. TLR4 stands for "toll-like receptor 4." It is present on the surface of cells and triggers an inflammatory response when it senses nutritional fatty acids.
If future studies confirm these findings, we may soon see asthma patients being advised to reduce fat in their diets. I think if I had asthma, though, I would take this information into account and begin implementing it immediately. What do you think?
Tags: asthma, high fat, albuterol, diet, asthma and diet, low fat
As I blogged about recently, I've been struggling with seasonal allergies for the first time in my life, probably in large part due to my pregnancy. I moved to Atlanta from California almost three years ago, and it's also possible that allergies to the new pollens here are finally.
In any case, this last Saturday was particularly miserable for me. We had a great day planned: going to a friend's graduation from Georgia Tech, dropping in at the Peachtree Farmer's Market, and then stopping to see another friend who had a booth at Tucker Day.
But almost from when I got out of bed, I was sneezing what really seemed like nonstop. And between sneezing bouts, my eyes, nose, and throat were extremely itchy. We did all of our activities, but I came to understand first-hand what allergy sufferers already know so well: Allergies affect everyday quality of life. I could barely enjoy what we were doing as I sniffed and swiped (my nose, that is).
While I have been experiencing allergies more than I before, I wondered what made the day particularly different. Why were my allergies so much worse? A friend suggested that it was the wind, which made perfect sense; airborne pollen grains and other allergens are stirred up when the breezes pick up and Saturday was quite a bit windier than normal.
Entomophilous ("insect-loving") plants rely on insects like bees to transfer the pollen from male to female plants, while anemophilous ("wind-loving") plants rely on the wind to disperse pollen. These wind-loving plants cause problems for allergy sufferers because their pollen grains are extremely lightweight, airborne particles.
Luckily, the wind died down in time for Mother's Day, and luckily, "Pollen from bright flowers normally doesn't cause problems for allergy sufferers because it's too heavy to remain airborne," because I got a sensational Knock Out rose bush for the occasion.
Tags: plants, allergies, wind, wind loving plants, pregnancy and allergies
With temperatures creeping ever upwards especially in our neck of the woods (Atlanta), it may seem like a strange time to talk about down comforters. But as spring cleaning projects wind to a close, you may be laundering your winter bedding before storing it away for the next winter season. Proper cleaning and storing are very important for allergy sufferers in particular.
Traditional down comforters can be a haven for dust mites; while some individuals are actually allergic to the down itself. Alternatives such as allergy-free synthetic down PrimaLoft Comforters or naturally hypoallergenic Hypodown Comforters are excellent choices. However, even a regular down comforter can be used by allergy sufferers comfortably when covered by an allergy proof duvet cover, which ensures that dust mites never enter your breathing zone.
It's these regular goose down comforters that we will discuss here. While many recommend only dry cleaning your comforter, chemicals used in the dry cleaning process can leave behind irritating fumes and residues, especially for those with multiple chemical sensitivities or asthma. We prefer giving the comforter a good old fashioned wash while taking some necessary precautions.
Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Always use a large front loading washer. Trying to squish a comforter into a top loader or a small washer can damage the down and can also keep detergent from being completely rinsed out.
Use only a very small amount of detergent. Too much detergent can strip the down of its natural oils and damage it. Lingering detergent can also irritate sensitive skin.
It is absolutely critical that the down is dried completely. Otherwise mold can grow in the down, which would be unhealthy and even dangerous for allergy sufferers and non-allergy sufferers alike.
Use a large dryer, and thrown in a few tennis balls or dryer balls to pound the down and fluff it up.
Dry the comforter on low heat for a long time up to three hours or more taking the comforter out and readjusting it to ensure that no damp patches remain.
When you take it out of the dryer, hang the comforter out to dry in the sun, if possible, or air dry it at least over night.
Shake the comforter out and fluff it to distribute the down evenly.
Tags: allergies, down comforter, down, hypodown, primaloft, wash down comforter
As the storms that have swept across the Southeast move into Atlanta, home base of achoo! ALLERGY, it's a good time to consider the relationship between rain and pollen which isn't as straightforward as it might seem. In general, rain tends to wash pollen out of the air. However, here are a few points to consider provided by the Discovery Health Guide to Allergies: Pollen Count and Allergies:
Smaller raindrops are more efficient at cleansing pollen from the air. Therefore, a prolonged, gentle shower is best at lowering pollen counts.
Conversely, hard rains and larger droplets of water are not as effective at clearing pollen, so don't expect as much relief from this type of weather.
Thunderstorms may actually stir pollen into the air.
Higher humidity causes pollen grains to absorb moisture and sink to the ground; lower humidity causes pollen grains to dry out and become airborne again.
The warmer the weather is, the higher the pollen counts are; cooler weather signals less pollen.
Keeping these points about rain and related weather conditions like humidity and temperature in mind can help you plan your springtime activities around low pollen counts so you can minimize your pollen exposure and breathe better.
Tags: rain, pollen, pollen count, thunderstorm, allergy, spring, humidity, temperature
ScienceDaily reports that low vitamin D levels are associated with lower lung function and greater medication use in children with asthma. Researchers at National Jewish Health published these findings in the Journal of Allergy & Clinical Immunology, also reporting that vitamin D enhances the activity of corticosteroids, which are the most effective type of medication for treating asthma.
Dr. Daniel Searing says, "Asthmatic children in our study who had low levels of vitamin D were more allergic, had poorer lung function and used more medications. Conversely, our findings suggest that vitamin D supplementation may help reverse steroid resistance in asthmatic children and reduce the effective dose of steroids needed for our patients."
The study involved checking the medical records of 100 pediatric asthma patients who were referred to National Jewish Health. Of these 100, 47 had insufficient vitamin D levels and 17 had deficient levels; interestingly, these insufficient and deficient levels are consistent with levels found in the general population.
The connection between vitamin D and allergies is through IgE, an allergy marker: Low vitamin D levels generally indicate higher IgE levels. Accordingly, low vitamin D levels were associated with allergies to specific indoor allergens. Furthermore, low vitamin D levels were also linked to low FEV1, the amount of air a person can exhale in one second, and lower FEV1/FVC, another measure of lung function, ScienceDaily explains. Not surprisingly, low vitamin D levels with its tendency to signal increased allergies and decreased lung function, is also connected to greater use of oral steroids and long-acting beta agonists.
The finding related to increased medication use, senior author Donald Leung, MD, PhD explains, has "two possible explanations. It could be that lower vitamin D levels contribute to increasing asthma severity, which requires more corticosteroid therapy. Or, it may be that vitamin D directly affects steroid activity, and that low levels of vitamin D make the steroids less effective, thus requiring more medication for the same effect."
Researchers conducted further studies that indicated corticosteroid action is enhanced by vitamin D by as much as 10 times in the case of dexamethasone. In summary, Dr. Leung says, "Our work suggests that vitamin D enhances the anti-inflammatory function of corticosteroids. If future studies confirm these findings vitamin D may help asthma patients achieve better control of their respiratory symptoms with less medication."
"[Triclosan and its cousin tricloban] don't do any better than regular soap and water. Our concern is that they are actually interfering with hormones in the human system, in particular thyroid hormones and sex hormones. In addition, they could be promoting drug-resistant bacteria in the environment" (Dr. Sarah Janssen).
Animal studies demonstrate that triclosan interferes with thyroid hormones and testosterone. Longterm effects include behavioral changes, learning abnormalities, and longterm effects on reproductive health, including infertility.
Tricloban boosts sex hormones, which is of concern for those with hormone-dependent cancers like breast cancer and prostate cancer.
Animals share the same hormone systems that humans have.
Seventy-five percent of liquid soaps contain these chemicals.
Canada, the EU, Norway, Germany, and Japan have all taken steps to remove these chemicals in food-related products and cosmetics.
To avoid triclosan and tricloban, read product labels and don't buy items that contain these chemicals.
"We have enough data now to be concerned. The FDA has been evaluating the safety of these chemicals in personal care products for over thirty years and they've essentially given them a pass because they haven't finalized any regulations of them, which means they've been allowed to be in our products without any regulation. It's time to reign in pull these products off the shelves" (Dr. Sarah Janssen).
Allergies have made the Health page at CNN.com. This Allergy Season Nothing to Sneeze At reports that this year's spring allergies have hit earlier because the trees are blossoming and pollinating earlier than usual. This happens when warm temperatures occur sooner than expected.
CNN further reports that the biggest allergy capital of the country, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, is Knoxville, TN, which has already had pollen counts about 6,000 particles per cubic meter this year. April is a particularly hard month for allergy sufferers because its a month during which both tree pollen and grass pollen are at their peak.
While many people are so affected by allergies that they are desperate enough to move somewhere where their allergies might be better, in actuality there are few places in the country to hide from allergies. In fact, many times people develop allergies to local pollens a couple of years after they re-locate.
More people than ever are suffering from allergies. Some blame global warming for the rise, pointing out that warmer seasons cause plants to release pollen earlier and make the spring allergy season longer than ever. Increasing pollution may also be contributing.
As an early season brings the pollen onslaught sooner than expected, what are you doing to find relief from your allergies?
Tags: spring allergies, pollen, pollen allergies, pollen season
In this month of spring cleaning, we'd like to again focus our attention on some common but nevertheless dangerous substances found in household cleaning products. Today's spotlight turns to triclosan, a ubiquitous antibacterial agent found in everything from soaps and toothpastes to socks.
As antibiotic-resistant bacteria like MRSA claim lives, we see a culture emerging in which antibacterial products are becoming the norm. But these products are not only contributing to the problem, they also contain active ingredients, like triclosan, that are harmful to us in and of themselves.
In fact, Fox News reports today on Regulators Looking at Safety of Antibacterial in Soap, highlighting the possible dangers of triclosan. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, stressing that as of now there are no grounds to change the use of triclosan, is reviewing the safety of the substance based on some recent studies.
One such study is that the chemical may alter hormone regulation and also contributes to bacteria evolving so that they become antibiotic-resistant. Other research ties triclosan to liver damage. PureZing.com further describes,
"Found in a lot of antimicrobial soaps and toothpaste products, it can react with chlorine in the tap water to create chloroform. This is a toxic chemical that can give you cancer. If you breathe enough chloroform, you will die. When you wash your hands with antibacterial soap that contains triclosan, you are getting the fumes emitted from this chemical reaction."
Congressman Democrat Edward Markey has taken a strong stance on the matter, declaring,
"I call upon the federal government to ban the use of triclosan in consumer soaps and hand-washes, products intended for use by children, and products intended to come into contact with food. In addition, I will soon introduce legislation to speed up the government's efforts to evaluate and regulate other substances that may pose similar public health concerns."
Interestingly, as the Fox News article states, "Many experts agree that soap containing triclosan does little or nothing extra to remove bacteria that using soap without the ingredient, as washing the hands physically removes the excess bacteria."
Dr. Sarah Janssen of the Natural Resources Defense Council agrees. "It's about time FDA has finally stated its concerns about antibacterial chemicals like triclosan," she says. "The public deserves to know that these so-called antibacterial products are no more effective in preventing infections than regular soap and water and may, in fact, be dangerous to their health in the long run."
Many of us in Atlanta have been enjoying the great weather for the past week. Temperatures have been in the 80s and the sun has been shining. However, the pollen count in Atlanta has skyrocketed over the last week to ten days. A thin layer of pollen can be seen on cars, driveways, homes, and sidewalks.
During the spring months when pollen is at its worst, allergy sufferers have to take some drastic measures to help keep their allergies under control. We have several personal care items that can help allergy sufferers this spring. Allergy masks can be worn outside to protect against pollen. Buying a Narial nasal cup or a nasal irrigator like the Sinupulse is a great way to fight nasal congestion and headaches that might be caused by allergens.
Here is an article from todays AJC that talks about the near-record pollen level.
More and more, we seem to be hearing news of the toxicity of chemicals found in objects and products all around us. Formaldehyde in furniture and upholstery; dyes, fragrances, and parabens (a kind of preservative) in cosmetics and personal care products; and BPA in food containers and packaging all come to mind. While these toxins are harmful to everyone, those with allergies must be especially careful about exposure because many of these chemicals contribute to compromised indoor air quality and can cause respiratory trouble and skin irritation.
Recently, Time Magazine published a list of the Top 10 Common Household Toxins. Following is a summary of the list, and some alternative products that can help you avoid these dangerous chemicals:
BPA, a chemical used in plastic production, is often found in water bottles, food packaging, and baby bottles. Switch to non-plastic containers when possible. Use glass food containers at home, for instance, stainless steel water bottles, and BPA-free baby bottles.
Fluoride, found in tap water and toothpaste, is another concern. To help avoid it, buy fluoride-free toothpaste.
Parabens are synthetic preservatives found in personal care products like cosmetics, shaving creams, lotions, and shampoos and conditioners. Look for paraben-free products like Free & Clear Shampoo and Conditioner.
Phthalates are chemicals that give plastic flexibility and resiliency and are used in a huge variety of products, from vinyl flooring and shower curtains to raincoats, toys, and food packaging. Avoid vinyl and be on the lookout for toys and food packaging that may contain the chemical.
Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) is an additive used as a preservative in chewing gum, snack foods, and diaper creams. Look for products without this chemical.
Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) is a component of Teflon nonstick coatings. Don't use Teflon cookware, or avoid heating empty Teflon cookware to high temperatures.
Perchlorate, an oxidant in rocket fuel, is found in drinking water, soil, and some vegetables. There's not much we can do to avoid it, but environmental groups are putting pressure on the government to lower levels found in drinking water.
Decabromodiphenyl Ether (DECA) is a flame retardant found in carpets, furniture, and electronics. The industry is phasing out the chemical. However, be aware that flame retardant chemicals are also present in mattresses and can cause trouble for those with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). Royal Pedic Mattresses and other NAOMI-compliant Organic Mattresses are excellent alternatives.
Asbestos can be present in housing insulation, drywall, artificial fireplace logs, and toys. Though most manufacturers have abandoned its use or at least reduced its levels, it is not banned by the U.S. government, so be aware that it can still be present in your environment.
Developed by chronic sinus sufferer Dr. Ketan Mehta, the NeilMed NasaFlo Neti Pot is a complete, soothing, saline nasal rinse kit that provides much-needed moisture and natural relief from allergy and sinus symptoms. If you are congested, this natural remedy can make a huge difference if used regularly.
Saline rinses have been used for hundreds of years. Now you can naturally alleviate nasal irritation caused by occupational dust, fumes, animal dander, grass, pollen, smoke, smog, and house dust. The NasaFlo Neti Pot saline rinse is soothing to nasal passageslike a dip in warm ocean waters. You likely will not experience any burning or stinging. The NasaFlo is free of preservatives, iodine, and latex.
NielMed NasaFlo Neti Pot differs from Neilmeds Sinus Rinse because NasaFlo uses a free-flowing gravity rinse method rather than a bottle. The NasaFlo kit comes with a neti pot device that allows gravity to do all the irrigation work. Many customers prefer the neti pot to the bottle because the neti pot does not create a feeling of pressure in the sinuses. With NasaFlo, there's no uncomfortable force or pressure.
The NasaFlo Neti Pot comes with complete instructions and 50 premixed packets of USP Grade Sodium Chloride & Sodium Bicarbonate in a pH Balanced & Isotonic Solution. Its great for use after sinus surgery and safe for use among children and pregnant women.
Most masks we sell are one size fits all. They are adjustable. The key measurement from the top of the mask to the bottom is almost always more than enough for most people. The extra space around your head is taken up with the adjustable or rubber straps.
A general rule of thumb for our masks made by Respro is that they fit small. Our 3M Respirators run a little large with regard to the top and bottom measurement. With the 3M Respirators, its good to keep in mind that though they have some give and adjustability in them, they do not have as much leeway in them as the Respro models because of the fabric.
A quick way to get a better fit is to measure your face. At this point, you need to take a ruler, stand in front of the mirror, and do a quick measurement from the bottom of your chin to the middle of the nose (roughly just above the nostrils since you dont want the mask to rest up by the eyeballs on the bridge of the nose).
Take this measurement and compare to some of our masks. Mask distance from top to bottom:
Respro Aero Small 4 --- fits people with small face and children. Also, keep in mind that unless you have a very small head, the chances are that you it will not fit around your head.
Respro Aero Medium 4.5 --- fits most women.
Respro Aero Large 4.75 --- fits most men.
Respro Techno M 4.75 --- fits most women and some men.
Respro Techno L 5.125 --- fits most men.
3M 6291 Mask --- 4.75
3M 6391 Mask --- 5.0
*Please note that these measurements are approximate and that all of the masks have some give in them.
Please use this guide to help you when you are choosing which mask is best for you. Also, keep in mind that every mask has different filters and applications. Depending on your allergy and asthma needs, the actual fit of the mask might be secondary to filter capabilities of the mask.
With spring officially upon us and pollen season revving up, nows a good time to remind ourselves about how to protect ourselves from pollen exposure and how to use the knowledge of pollen counts to our advantage.
As Understanding the Pollen Count describes, "Similar to a weather forecast, a pollen forecast is a prediction of future pollen levels and helps allergy sufferers plan their outdoor activities and medication regimens. Specific for geographical regions, pollen forecasts take into account pollen counts, temperatures, precipitation, weather forecasts, and other natural events."
By checking the pollen forecast during spring allergy season, you know what days it might be best to stay indoors altogether, and you're aware of how much precaution you will need to take against the pollen exposure that's unavoidable. Pollen.com is an excellent resource, providing you with maps of the National Allergy Forecast and a place to input your zip code for specific pollen count information in your area, among other tools.
During high pollen count season, keep the following in mind in order to limit your exposure and keep symptoms to a minimum through allergen avoidance:
Remember that pollen counts are worst in the morning and lowest after a rainfall, so try to perform your outdoor activities accordingly.
Shower after going outdoors because airborne pollen will stick to your clothing, hair, and skin. Be aware that pets bring pollen indoors as well.
By now we're all familiar with the resurgence of the bedbug problem over the last few years. Once relegated to only to the catchy "Good night, sleep tight " rhyme for most of us, hotels and homes across the country even high end ones have unfortunately become a little more intimate with the nasty little creatures.
Interestingly, bedbugs are not in fact dangerous. They do not spread disease, and for almost everybody, their bites are annoying at most; they feed on human blood and their bites produce red welts that can itch severely. But, dangerous or not, no one is okay with co-habitating with bedbugs.
Especially in closely packed cities like New York, one person's infestation can mean that a whole apartment or condo unit is at risk. A recent New York Times article, A New Breed of Guard Dog Attacks Bedbugs, puts it this way: "In cities like New York, where neighbors are often separated only by bricks and mortar, one persons infestation is everybodys problem, since bedbugs can crawl through walls and along wiring and pipes, and hitchhike on clothing, furniture, luggage and more. In this city of 8.3 million, it seems as if everyone has a bedbug story."
As the problem of bedbugs grows, so have the ways to both detect them and deal with them once they are found. Bedbug-sniffing dogs, who are trained to detect the presence of live bugs and eggs, are in high demand and they are surprisingly accurate: According to entomologists at the University of Florida, a well-trained dog can signal the presence of a single bug or egg with 96 percent accuracy. It's no wonder man's best friend has become the frontline in bedbug detection.
Confirming the presence of bedbugs is only the first step. Getting rid of them is no easy task and it's expensive, as The High Cost of Bed Bugs describes. Protecting your home from bedbug infestations as much as is within your power is a logical proactive approach. See Five Ways to Bite Back at Bed Bugs for more information, and be sure to arm yourselves with Bed Bug Bedding, which is also available wholesale.
According to a study that will be presented at this year's Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAI), Medical News Today reports in New Research Suggests Link Between Climate Change And Outdoor Allergies that climate change may affect respiratory allergic disease, including allergic rhinitis.
Researchers from the Allergy and Respiratory Diseases Clinic at Genoa University in Italy recorded pollen counts, the duration of the season, and the prevalence of sensitizations for five types of pollen in the Bordighera region of Italy from 1981 to 2007. They found an increase in both the duration of some pollen seasons and that the total pollen load increased progressively for some species.
Lead author of the study, Ronato Ariano, MD, states, "Climate changes are a reality, and they can be documented if long enough periods of time are considered."
World Allergy Organization Past-President G. Walter Canonica, MD, adds, "By studying a well-defined geographical region, we observed that the progressive increase of the average temperature has prolonged the duration of the pollen seasons of some plants and, consequently, the overall pollen load."
While results showed that the percentage of patients sensitized to these allergens increased throughout the years of the study, it is not certain whether the prolonged pollen seasons put more people at risk for developing allergies, or whether the increase in allergies is caused by other factors.
This question brings up an interesting possibility in answering the conundrum of why the number of allergic individuals keeps rising: Is climate change and the resultant increase in pollen season and pollen counts tipping the scales of our total allergen load?
Tags: climate change, allergies, pollen, pollen season
The Canadian Medical Association Journal has stated that the preferences of pet owners should not replace the well-being of their fellow passengers, reports ScienceDaily. Since pets can be accommodated safely in cargo holds, the association has decided that airlines must choose to put the needs of their human passengers first or be forced to do so.
Air Canada has been allowing small pets to travel with their owners inside airplane cabins, but many people feel that flying should not mean that people with allergies to pets are exposed to avoidable health risks. The enclosed space of an airplane cabin, where passengers are "trapped" for hours, poses an especial problem for those with allergies because there is no escape from the allergens.
People with allergies to nuts are considered to have a disability under the Canada Transportation Act, and, due to complaints they have received regarding pets on planes, the Canadian Transportation Agency is considering whether those with pet allergies should also be considered as having a disability. This would force Canadian airlines to protect those with pet allergies.
Dr. Matthew Stanbrook, Deputy Editor, Canadian Medican Association Journal and coauthors write, "People with allergies should be able to fly without placing their health at risk and must not be prevented from travelling for fear of being confined close to a pet."
A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology by an allergic disease specialist at Allegheny General Hospital states that oral allergy treatment, or sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), is a "safe and effective alternative to injections for adults who are allergic to ragweed pollen," reports Medical News Today.
As David Skoner, MD, director of AGH's Division of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology and a co-lead investigator in the study puts it, "The study's findings mark a step forward in gaining approval for sublingual administration of allergy medication. We believe a large number of patients would greatly benefit from having access to this new oral treatment to ease their symptoms."
The study involved 115 patients who were randomly assigned to a medium or high dose of standardized glycerinated short ragweed pollen extract or to a placebo. The patients kept journals of their symptoms over the course of 17 weeks during ragweed pollen season. Results showed that frequency of daily symptoms and the need for additional medication were significantly lower in the group taking the high-dose medication versus those on the placebo. The frequency of adverse events was similar in both groups, indicating little risk in undergoing SLIT.
Co-investigator Deborah Gentile, MD, Director of Research in AGH's Division of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology says, "The sublingual method so far has been safe, and the adherence rate should be better because no injections are involved and the medication is administered at home."
Overall, the researchers concluded that SLIT was safe and effective in reducing symptoms in ragweed-allergic individuals; however, they also suggested that additional trials are needed to definitively establish efficacy. Additionally, questions remain regarding treatment schedules, optimal doses, and cost-effectiveness.
This latter issue cost-effectiveness could be greatly alleviated once FDA approval is gained and insurance can begin covering SLIT. We look forward to more such studies that will hopefully push SLIT further toward FDA approval and put a promising allergy treatment option within reach for so many allergy sufferers.
A study published in the current issue of the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology has uncovered a link between eczema in early childhood and behavior and mental health later in life, ScienceDaily reports.
The researchers, who followed almost six thousand children born between 1995 and 1998, discovered that children who suffered from eczema during the first two years of life were more likely to demonstrate psychological abnormalities, particularly emotional problems, at the age of ten than children of the same age who never suffered from eczema.
Dr. Joachim Heinrich of the Institute of Epidemiology of Helmholtz Zentrum Muchen, one of the lead researchers, explains, "This indicates that eczema can precede and lead to behavioral and psychological problems in children." This was especially true in children whose eczema lasted past the first two years of life.
Children who suffer from eczema are more likely to have an increased predisposition for allergies and allergic asthma. In addition, eczema symptoms are accompanied by a wide range of secondary symptoms, including sleep disorders.
Dr. Heinrich says, "We suspect that it is mainly the secondary symptoms that have a long-term effect on the emotions of the affected children." The authors of the study, therefore, recommend documenting the occurrence of eczema as a potential risk factor for later psychological problems in the children's medical records.
For more information about eczema and how to treat symptoms, see our Eczema FAQ.
Tags: eczema, allergies, emotional problems, mental health
Those with allergies to peanuts and tree nuts an estimated 3 million Americans are allergic to one or both must not only be vigilant about not eating any food containing nuts, but they must also be aware of what's been consumed by someone they kiss and traces of nut allergen are not as easy to remove from the mouth as one might think.
Once nuts are consumed, neither rinsing the mouth, brushing teeth, or chewing gum guarantees that the allergen won't be transmitted to the allergic individual. Studies do indicate, however, that waiting at least several hours and eating an allergen-free meal in between the nut-laced meal and kissing may help avoid transmission.
Scott H. Sicherer, MD, FAAAAI, Professor of Pediatrics at the Jaffe Food Allergy Institute, Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York confirms: "We found that after our test subjects ate peanut butter, we did not detect it in their saliva after several hours with them also having eaten a peanut-free meal." He also cautions, however, that "for people who are partners of a person with serious allergies, avoiding the food altogether is the safest alternative." We agree it's best not to take any chances.
Kissing doesn't pose the only threat on Valentine's Day; make sure that any boxes of chocolate received from loved ones even if they don't contain nuts are free of peanut and nut traces because even traces can pose life-threatening risks to allergic individuals.
Interestingly, nut allergic individuals must also know what's in their cosmetic products. Peanut or nut oil, which is often an ingredient of beauty products including lipstick, can cause skin allergy reactions. For more information, visit the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology's Tips to Remember: Food Allergy and our Food Allergy FAQ.
Tags: valentine's day, valentine's day allergies, peanut allergy, tree nut allergy, food allergic
An article from the websiteHealth.com recently highlighted an allergy that we don't hear about very often--toilet seat dermatitis. The condition refers to contact dermatitis that is caused by harsh cleaning chemicals and wooden toilet seats. United States' incidents of toilet seat-related skin irritations in children are on the rise, and these two factors appear to be the reasons.
Dr. Bernard Cohen, director of pediatric dermatology at Johns Hopkins Children's Center explains that children can develop toilet seat dermatitis after repeated exposure to residue from harsh cleaning chemicals, or after using a wooden toilet seat which is often coated with paints or varnishes that can irritate the skin.
A study conducted by Dr. Cohen and colleagues found that missed and delayed diagnoses occurred in every case of toilet seat dermatitis before a doctor came upon the correct diagnosis. The researchers suggest that any time a pediatrician sees a child with skin irritation around the buttocks or upper thighs, they should inquire about toilet seats and cleansers used at home and school.
Dr. Cohen explained in a Johns Hopkins news release: Toilet seat dermatitis is one of those legendary conditions described in medical textbooks and seen in underdeveloped countries, but one that younger pediatricians have not come across in their daily practice. If our small analysis is any indication of whats happening, we need to make sure the condition is on every pediatricians radar.
Although most cases of toilet seat dermatitis are mild and easily treated with topical steroids, inflammation can spread and become increasingly painful if not addressed. Infections can also occur when skin is irritated or broken and vulnerable to bacteria.
The researchers offer the following tips to prevent toilet seat dermatitis:
Use paper toilet seat covers in public bathrooms.
Replace wooden toilet seats with plastic ones.
Clean toilet seats and bowls daily, but dont use harsh cleansers which can irritate the skin. Use rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, or try one of these allergy-friendly cleaners.
Have you been thinking about purchasing a new Austin Air air purifier for your home? Or have you been meaning to buy a new replacement HEPA filter for your Austin Healthmate or Austin Healthmate Plus? There has never been a better time to make that purchase than in the next few weeks.
On February 15, 2010, Austin will be having its first price increase in five years. All of the Austin air purifiers and replacement filters are going up in price. The price increases vary, but by purchasing an Austin from us before the price increase goes into effect, you will be saving some hard earned cash.
We are doing some exciting things on our web pages with our Austin Air line of products. We believe that even at the new price level, Austin will continue to be one of the premier air purifiers in the market and provide the best value for the dollar.
In respiratory health news, a recent study says that people with early lung cancer who quit smoking could double their chances of survival. Though this may seem intuitive, previously there was little proof that quitting smoking after developing lung cancer made any difference to survival, Fox News reports.
The British study analyzed data from 10 previous studies that looked at how long smokers survived after their lung cancer diagnoses. People with lung cancer who continued smoking had a 29 to 33 percent chance of surviving five years. But those who quit had a 63 to 70 percent chance of being alive after five years. The findings were published in the BMJ, or British Medical Journal.
The prognosis for lung cancer patients is usually poor: only about 7 percent of patients live five years past their diagnosis. Additionally, lung cancer is the top cancer worldwide.
Amanda Parsons, of the U.K. Centre for Tobacco Control Studies at the University of Birmingham and leader of the study, says, "The message is you should never give up on giving up (smoking). Even at the stage where you have been diagnosed with early stage lung cancer ... if you give up smoking, your body can still partially recover and your risk is reduced."
Surprisingly, not all doctors recommend smoking cessation to their patients, thinking that to promote quitting adds to the feelings of guilt in the patient and takes away a lifelong comfort from a dying individual. The study will hopefully help both doctors and patients in this crucial step of stopping smoking because the potential benefit of doins so is obviously significant.
For allergy and asthma sufferers, getting a cold is not just an inconvenience. Combined with the congestion, stuffiness, and other symptoms brought on by allergy attacks, colds can lead to bigger problems, like sinusitis. Therefore, it is particularly important for those with allergies and asthma to do all they can to keep from getting sick. The website WebMD, in a feature called Don't Let a Cold Get You Down, offers the following tips:
Avoid touching your eyes and nose, especially when in public. These passages are the most hospitable entry points for the cold virus to enter your body.
Try to refrain from unnecessary physical contact, such as handshakes, whenever possible. Close contact with people carrying the virus could lead to your catching it.
The viruses that cause colds can rest on surfaces for 24 or more. Be conscious of touching public surfaces such as shopping cart handles, doorknobs, tabletops, and other surfaces. When possible, sanitize them, or just don't touch them.
Wash your hands frequently, especially after being out. Don't touch your eyes or nose.
Get 8 hours of good sleep every night. This drastically boosts your immune system.
Maintain a positive outlook on life. Those who are happy, lively, and calm are better able to fight off colds.
Winter weather is in full swing and so are the colds and flus the season brings with it. Though everyone is susceptible, allergy and and asthma sufferers are particularly prone to developing sinus problems when battling cold, dry weather conditions and the sicknesses that may occur.
Here are some ways to avoid sinus problems this season:
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids especially water and eat lots of soup.
Use a neti pot or SinuPulse Elite to flush sinuses. Whether you are sick or not, using a nasal irrigation system will keep your sinuses clear of allergens and excess mucus, helping to stave off irritation or blockages.
Avoid getting sick. Mucus production from a cold or the flu can easily block sinuses, causing sinus pressure and pain, or even infection. To keep from getting sick, make sure to wash hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, especially when in public. Stay away from anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
Use a humidifier, especially in the bedroom. Keeping sinuses hydrated with a humidifier, particularly while you sleep, keeps sinuses properly moist and keeps nasal congestion from drying out and creating blockages in the nasal passages, which can lead to sinus issues.
Anyone who's experienced them can tell you how unpleasant it is to have sinus problems. Stop them before they start this season and breathe better all winter long.
Researchers at University Hospital South Manchester and Phadia AB in Uppsala, Sweded have developed a new and more accurate blood test for peanut allergy, Medical News Today reports. The test predicts with over 95 percent certainty whether an allergic reaction to peanuts will develop in the tested individual.
An allergy to peanuts is among the most common food allergies in children, and it is also one of the most severe. Although other food allergies, such as those to milk or eggs, for instance, may appear early in life and disappear by school age, peanut allergies tend to be lifelong.
Current standard blood or skin tests for peanut allergy have demonstrated a large amount of false positive results: about 1 in 10 individuals test positive for peanut allergy, but only about 1 in 50 are actually allergic. The new test is much more accurate, giving parents more accurate information about whether their children have a peanut allergy, whether children who are allergic to other foods will develop peanut allergies as well, and whether siblings of peanut allergic children also possess the allergy.
As discussed in Indoor Air Quality in the Winter, now is the time of year to be especially vigilant about the fumes and other pollutants we allow to permeate our indoor air.
Due to homes sealed against cold temperatures combined with the increased amount of time our families spend indoors, indoor air pollution is of particular concern during these winter months.
One product asthma and allergy sufferers should avoid is air fresheners. Dr. James T. Li, Mayo Clinic asthma and allergy specialist, has this to say about air fresheners:
"Occasional exposure to air fresheners isn't likely to cause problems, as long as the products are used as directed. However, the chemicals in air fresheners may irritate your eyes, skin and throat. In addition, long-term use of air fresheners may contribute to indoor pollution which can sometimes trigger asthma and other lung problems."
Instead of chemical-laced commercial air fresheners, try these methods of keeping your home fresh:
Grind lemon peels in your garbage disposal to freshen it up.
Sprinkle baking soda on carpets and in garbage cans for natural odor absorption.
When your nasal passages are congested, there is nothing more frustrating. Headaches and difficulty breathing can keep you home from work and stuck in your home. Sinus cavities are painful when swollen. Clear-ease Natural Fruit Lozenges help reduce the swelling naturally in a convenient dissolvable tablet. These lozenges can help relieve sinus discomfort, nasal congestion, ear congestion, stuffiness, and hoarseness.
According to the manufacturer, Clear-ease is an advanced blend of fruit extracts containing 1,000,000 enzyme units of Bromelain from pineapple and 500,000 enzyme units of Papain from papaya in each pleasant tasting lozenge. These natural enzymes enable this dietary supplement lozenge to promote healthy sinus function, support clear nasal passages, and to help maintain overall well-being.
Why isnt this more popular? This question was asked by a customer from Michigan who gave the Clear-ease lozenges a 5 star rating:
I have a history of chronic sinus problems, and my most recent cold left me with a blocked ear for nearly two weeks. Nothing would open it up and it was driving me nuts. I finally got my bottle of Clear-ease, and my ear is open and the pain is gone, quite literally overnight. This is now a must-have staple for me, especially since my Grossan irrigator went kaput after a year and a half of daily use!
These natural fruit lozenges are a favorite of pilots, flight attendants, scuba divers, performers, professional speakers, and voice professionals. Directions for use: Take one lozenge three times daily. Place the lozenge in your mouth until completely dissolved and swallow. For best results, place between cheek and gums. For divers and flyers begin using two days before the event. One bottle contains sixty 85-mg lozenges.
A recent German study has found that a pregnant womans exposure to microbes may protect her unborn child from developing allergies later in life. ScienceDaily reports that environmental bacteria triggers a mild inflammatory response in pregnant mice that renders their offspring resistant to allergies.
Patrick Holt and Deborah Strickland, researchers involved in the study which is published in the online Journal of Experimental Medicine, discuss the biological mechanisms behind their findings and how they may one day lead to the prevention of allergies in humans.
Allergies have become increasingly prevalent in the past several decades, a phenomenon which many attribute to a theory called the "hygiene hypothesis". The theory involves the idea that children exposed to environmental microbes at a young age are less likely to develop allergies later in life. For instance, the most classically cited example is that children raised on microbe-rich farms developed fewer allergies than those raised in cities or non-farming rural regions.
However, it may not be the exposure that makes the difference. Children of farming mothers are less susceptible to allergies regardless of their own exposure. The findings were compelling, but the biological mechanisms behind the fact were a mystery. The new study sheds some light on this fact: pregnant mice exposed to inhaled barnyard microbes gave birth to allergy-resistant pups.
It is still unknown how this works exactly or whether the protection applies to a broad range of allergens. As with many recent research developments in the allergy field, however, the findings provide another piece in the puzzle of allergy prevention.
The new Dyson DC28 Animal is the perfect HEPA vacuum cleaner for an allergy sufferer or pet owner that needs maximum cleaning power in their home. This vacuum is recommended for a large home or apartment with wall-to-wall carpeting; however, with Dyson's new design this vacuum is also well-suited for smooth floor cleaning. This patented design allows the brush roll to lower while pushing the cleaning head into the carpet to give you a deep clean. On smooth floors, this ensures a tighter seal on the flooring you are vacuuming. With push button control, you easily can set the DC28 to clean high, medium, low pile carpeting, or smooth flooring. The new Airmuscle technology increases the suction power without increasing the weight of the head of the vacuum.
The Dyson DC28 Animal with Airmuscle technology uses three Dyson engineered components. The pneumatic actuator to control the cleaning head is explained above. The second piece is a powered cam that ensures the vacuum head remains at the optimal level for cleaning different heights of carpet. The brush roll will adjust up and down to match the pile of carpet you are cleaning. The last component is a high torque clutch. This works to maintain a constant speed of brush roll, while deep cleaning even the densest of carpets. These three new additions work together to make the DC28 Animal one of Dyson's best all around vacuum cleaners.
'Tis the season to enjoy great savings on almost all of your favorite AchooAllergy.com products. We are excited to announce that we are offering a great combination End of the Year Sale and Prize giveaway. When you place an order during Christmas week, New Year's weekend, or even the first week of the new year 2010 (specific times are available at the link below), you receive great savings and you will be automatically entered to win a $500 gift card from Best Buy!
Are you busy this holiday season searching the internet and retail stores for discounts and sales on great gifts? Do you want real savings on your much needed allergy products? You are not alone. Everyone is looking to save money this holiday season. During the next few weeks, you can avoid the holiday shopping rush, save money on gas, spend more time with your family, and order from us from the comfort of your own home!
If you don't have a humidifier in your allergy avoidance arsenal, here are five compelling reasons to have one and use one during the winter months:
Ease cold and flu symptoms: By adding moisture back into the air, a humidifier relieves congestion and nighttime stuffiness so sick family members can breathe better, sleep easier, and get well faster.
Prevent sinus infections: Dry sinuses are irritated sinuses. This can lead to sinus infections in susceptible individuals. Keep sinuses hydrated by using a humidifier when heating makes the air in your house dry.
Keep skin happy: Cold air outside and dry air inside combine to make skin dry, leading to painful cracking and even eczema. Don't wait until skin gets to this point. Use a humidifier to prevent your skin from drying out in the first place.
Cut heating costs:
Air that's properly humid feels warmer than dry air at the same temperature. This spells lower heating costs while you enjoy the other benefits of proper humidity levels.
Take care of your home: Dry air and the flux between summer's humidity and winter's dryness can damage your home's wood floors, furniture, and paint. Keep your home's environment from drastic shifts in humidity levels by using a humidifier during winter months when forced air heating dries out the air.
Recent research published in the December 15 issue of the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine has revealed that asthmatic smokers may be able to reverse some of the damage caused to their lungs by quitting smoking. This interesting result is being reported on the website ScienceDaily.
Lead author of the study, Dr. Martine Broekema, explains, "We found that exposure to cigarette smoke appears to increase the thickness of the epithelium, or lining, of the airways in the lung. This may be the underlying cause of the fact that smoking asthma patients experience more asthma symptoms, such as shortness of breath and phlegm production, compared to non-smoking asthma patients."
The study included 147 participants with asthma, 66 of whom never smoked, 46 who used to smoke, and 35 who were current smokers. Patients were assessed for the severity of their allergies and asthma and then given surveys in order to determine the extent of their smoke-induced symptoms. Then, they had bronchial biopsies.
Scientists discovered several differences between the group of current smokers and the ex- and non-smokers: Current smokers had more mucus-producing goblet cells in their epithelium and the epithelial cell layer also contained more mucous protein overall when compared to asthmatics who never smoked. In simple terms, this means that smoking affected the severity of phlegm production.
"Smoking asthmatics also showed a distinct inflammatory profile in their lungs compared to never-smoking asthmatics," says Dr. Broekema, adding, "Our data suggest that smoking cessation can reverse the thickening of the lining of the airways."
Interestingly, the researchers found no association between the amount of smoking or the duration and epithelial remodeling.
Dr. Broekema sums the results up this way: "This study shows again how important smoking cessation is for pulmonary health, and this appears to be especially true for asthmatic patients. The good news is that quitting appears to have a measurable benefit in these individuals."
It seems that every season has unique challenges for allergy and asthma sufferers, and the holidays are certainly no exception. But as always, knowledge and prevention help keep those with allergies and asthma safe and breathing well.
Let live Christmas trees dry in an enclosed space like a porch or a garage before bringing them in to decorate. Some retailers have a shaking machine, which helps remove some allergens from the tree.
Artificial Christmas trees gather dust and sometimes mold while in storage. Thoroughly clean them outside before bringing indoors.
Launder fabric decorations before displaying them. Allersearch Allergen Wash removes allergens in any temperature of water.
Consider sticking to plastic, metal, or glass decorations that don't harbor dust mites.
Use a mask to keep from breathing lung-irritating chemicals that could trigger an asthma attack while spraying artifical snow.
If you or your family members have food allergies, make sure to let the host of holiday parties know and ask about ingredients used in meals.
Don't forget to bring your EpiPen with you, especially when eating others' homemade items that don't list ingredients.
Remind family and friends that the only way to manage food allergies is with strict avoidance; even a tiny amount is dangerous.
When visiting friends or family with pets, be sure to take medication beforehand to minimize your reaction.
Try to keep stress levels down; stress can trigger an asthma attack.
Stay away from wood-burning fires. The smoke can trigger asthma attacks.
Every allergy sufferer knows how awful it is to sneeze repeatedly during the day. But even what is described as "sneezing nonstop" can't match 12-year-old Lauren Johnson's experience of sneezing up to 12,000 times a day.
As reported by Fox News, Lauren started sneezing constantly throuhgout the day after a bad cold in November. Her only relief came when she slept.
Before they arrived at their diagnosis, doctors referred to Lauren's condition as "machine gun sneezing." Now, they know that she has Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcus, also known as PANDAS.
The diagnosis is a welcome relief because now Lauren can receive treatment, which in this case is a course of antibiotics, and begin returning to her normal activities such as school.
Symptoms of the condition, which occurs following a strep infection(most often strep throat) include cognitive inflexibility, obsessive or compulsive argumentative behaviors, Tourette's syndrome, and Attention Deficit Disorder.
Winter can be a terrible time for skin. Cold, dry air and heated dry air can combine to leave your skin less than supple. Here are three easy things you can do to keep dry skin at bay this winter:
Humidify - Forced air heating systems (the kind used in most homes) dries out the air. Adding moisture back into the air with a humidifier restores proper humidity levels, making your home feel warmer and keeping your skin happy.
Moisturize at the right time - Slathering on lotion doesn't always make a difference. The priniciple behind moisturizing is that lotion will trap moisture near your skin. Hence, the best time to moisturize is after a shower when your skin is still slightly damp. Or, leave some lotion near your sink so you can rub it on after washing your hands. Be sure to use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic lotions such as Vanicream to avoid irritating sensitive skin.
Drink lots of water - Restore your body's moisture levels from the inside out by staying hydrated. To help yourself keep track of your liquid intake, try associating drinking a glass of water with routine activities. For instance, take a glass back to your desk after every break and meal.
Taking care of your skin is especially important if you have sensitive skin or eczema, because dry skin is often the first step on the way to a problem. Adding these items to your winter routine, can go a long way in helping to keep your skin from becoming dry.
Air pollution near major airports has been a well-known problem. But little has been studied about the effect of emissions on air quailty near smaller general aviation or regional airports, which are often located much closer to residential neighborhoods than major airports.
A new study conducted by Suzanne Paulson and colleagues measured a range of air pollutants near such an airport and found that emissions of ultrafine particles were significantly higher than background pollution levels. From the airport, pollution levels were up to 10 times higher at a downwind distance of one football field and up to 2.5 times higher six football field-lengths away. The scientists concluded that "current land-use practices of reduced buffer areas around local airports may be insufficient."
For individuals living in these types of areas, an air purifier fitted with chemical-removing components, such as an activated carbon filter, are essential, especially for those suffering from Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, allergies, or asthma, or those with infants.
Tags: air pollution, airport, asthma, multiple chemical sensitivity
CNN Health reports today on Procter & Gamble's recall of Vicks Sinex nasal spray in the United States, Britain, and Germany. The voluntary recall was announced after bacteria was found in some of the product made in Germany.
Although there haven't been any reports of illness from the contamination, the bacteria could potentially cause serious infections in people with lung conditions or weakened immune systems. There is not much risk to healthy individuals.
In the United States, the specific recalled product is Vicks Sinex Vapospray 12 Hour Decongestant Ultra Fine Mist with a lot number of 9239028831.
Few pet-owner relationships are as heartwarming as those between a seeing eye dog and his master. Recently, the Today Show on NBC reported the same kind of dog-helping-human companionship for food allergic children.
Peanut-sniffing dogs are trained to sniff for peanuts and other food allergens in much the same way that bomb or drug-sniffing dogs search for those items. If they find the offending allergen, they signal their owners by a change in behavior like excessive sniffing or tail-wagging.
Peanut-sniffing dogs have the same privileges as seeing eye dogs, and may be taken into restaurants, malls, schools, and the like. For families of children who have life-threatening food allergies, these dogs offer a chance at a more normal life.
Sherry Mers founded the Angel Service Dog Network after a peanut-sniffing dog changed the life of her peanut allergic daughter. Riley, Ms. Merss daughter, says that with her dog she now feels safer and knows where she can and cant go. The Angel Service Dog Network trains and places allergy-sniffing dogs with families. Four of the dogs which typically cost about $10,000 have been placed so far.
One of these dogs is Roxy, an Australian Labradoodle, who now helps Logan, a peanut allergic child know what is safe and whats not. Logan is so allergic to peanuts that the smell of peanuts on a teachers breath once sent him to the emergency room. Residents in Logans small town raised $20,000 for his chance at a normal childhood. His parents say that Roxy makes the idea of a normal life not far-fetched.
Many families hope for the same for their children. There have been over 2,000 inquiries regarding these life-saving pets. Ms. Mers describes the process of obtaining one, including doctors proof of anaphylactic allergy and proof that having the animal will not cause additional health problems, such as allergies to pet dander or asthma.
The journey of making life with allergies as smooth as possible continues, and were happy to see that mans best friend has joined the quest.
One of the new Miele upright vacuum cleaners, the Miele Bolero, recently scored 4th place in the upright vacuum cleaner reliability ratings from Consumer Reports. The Bolero's overall score was a 71 out of a possible 100 which was just two points behind the top ranked vacuum.
The Bolero scored an excellent rating in these categories: carpet cleaning ability, emissions, and pet hair clean up. The Bolero scored a very good rating for cleaning bare floors, tool airflow, and noise. This is definitely one of the quietest upright vacuum cleaners on the market.
The New Miele Bolero S7580 upright is one of the top of the line Miele upright vacuums. The Active HEPA filter and the new spring-loaded, self-sealing dust bags are ideal for allergy sufferers who want to limit exposure to dust, pet hair and other allergens.
From the strong, deep black color to the creative swivel-neck design to the incredible 55 foot cleaning radius, Miele has developed an evolutionary new line of upright vacuums. For those Miele fans that love the convenience of their canister vacuums, the Bolero retains the flexibility of the Miele canister line with the powerful wall-to-wall carpet cleaning capability of an upright.
A new study has found that infants exposed to higher levels of air pollution are at greater risk for bronchiolitis, reports Science Daily.
Catherine Karr, M.D. PhD, assistant professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington and the study's lead author, points out, "There has been very little study of the consequences of early life exposure to air pollution." She goes on to explain, "This study is unique in that we were able to look at multiple sources including wood smoke in a region with relatively low concentrations of ambient air pollution overall."
Over 12,000 diagnoses of infant bronchiolitis were analyzed with respect to the subject's ambient pollution exposure. Levels of nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide were monitored, as well as particulate matter from monitoring stations within 10 km of the infants' homes. Land-regression maps were also used to ascertain concentrations of ambient pollution in relation to traffic and wood smoke.
The researchers accounted for variables such as sex, gestational age, maternal smoking habits, and breastfeeding, and found that bronchiolitis was indeed significantly linked to increased lifetime exposure to particular pollutants. For instance, infants living within 50 meters of a highway had an increased risk of six percent and those who experienced greater exposure to wood smoke had an eight percent higher risk of developing bronchiolitis.
Dr. Karr summarizes, "In general, we found that traffic-derived air pollutants were associated with infant bronchiolitis as well as wood smoke and industrial emissions."
Michael Brauer, professor at the School of Environmental Health at the University of British Colombia and another lead investigator in the study, adds, "This study adds to a growing body of research showing a link between neighborhood air pollution hotspots and pediatric respiratory disease. We were specifically interested in bronchiolitis, the main reason for children to be hospitalized in their first year, as it is an important and costly childhood illness." He concludes, "Reducing exposure to air pollution may be one approach to decrease bronchiolitis occurrence."
Parents should avoid the use of wood burning appliances and, if possible, live as far away from highways as possible. Care should also be taken that places where children spend a lot of time, such as daycares or schools, be a good distance from major highways.
In addition to steering clear of pollutants as much as possible, parents should take precaution against the pollution it's impossible to avoid, particularly if there are young infants in the home. Air purifiers suitable for those with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity filter volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air, trapping toxic gases and particles that a regular air purifier misses.
Tags: bronchiolitis, air pullution, pollution, air purifier
As allergy sufferers gear up for the winter, they must take extra thought regarding the fact that they will inevitably spend more time indoors. Since indoor air can be as much as 12 times more polluted than outdoor air, individuals with asthma and allergies need to guard against the harmful effects of breathing polluted indoor air.
One of the best ways to do this is to try to keep pollutants from entering the home environment in the first place. For instance, taking off shoes at the door can stop many toxins from coming in, as discussed in our article Major Source of Indoor Dust: Outdoors.
No matter how many precautions you take, however, there are still pollutants in your home's air. Off-gassing from furniture, paint, varnish, and dry-cleaned clothing, to name a few, all contribute to toxic elements in indoor air. To minimize exposure to these, the pollutants must be taken out of the air.
While air purifiers, especially those fitted with carbon filtration, like our Austin Air units, are the most reliable way to reduce both allergens and pollutants in the home, Science Daily reports on new research that points to houseplants' ability to help eliminate indoor air pollution.
Stanley J. Kays, of the Department of Horticulture at the University of Georgia, led a study in which ornamental household plants were tested for their ability to remove harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from indoor air. "The VOCs tested in this study can adversely affect indoor air quality and have a potential to seriously compromise the health of exposed individuals," Kays explained.
In the study, 28 common indoor plants were tested for their ability to remove VOCs from the air, called "phytoremediation." Plants were grown in shade houses and then placed in gas-tight glass jars and exposed to several VOCs. Based on their phytoremediation rates, they were classified as superior, intermediate, or poor in removing VOCs from the indoor environment.
Purple waffle plants, English ivy, the variegated wax plant, and Asparagus ferns had the highest removal rates for all the VOCs introduced. Purple heart plants were rated superior for its ability to remove four of the VOCs tested for.
The study concluded that "simply introducing common ornamental plants into indoor spaces has the potential to significantly improve the quality of indoor air."
Tags: VOCs, indoor plants, indoor pollution, air purifier
The source of dust was the subject of a recent study by Arizona scientists. Surprisingly, Science Daily reports that most of our indoor dust comes from outdoors.
Household dust is made up of a conglomeration of dead skin cells and fibers from carpets and upholstery (inside sources) as well as tracked in soil and airborne particles blown in from outdoors (outdoor sources). In fact, using a computer model that tracks distribution of outdoor contaminants into residences, the scientists found that over 60 percent of house dust originates outdoors.
What's most disconcerting is that much of the particulate matter brought into the home from outside is dangerous, including lead, arsenic, and other substances that make their way inside from outdoor air and soil. This is especially concerning if there are young children in the home, who may ingest these substances by putting dust-contaminated toys in their mouths.
University of Sheffield researchers have been helped by tropical zebrafish in the discovery of new anti-inflammatory drugs to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, according to Medical News Today.
The research team discovered significant parallels between inflammation in the tiny fish larvae and in humans. Thus, zebrafish can be used to screen anti-inflammatory drugs.
Published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology, the reaearch focuses on the behavior of a certain cell that's key in the inflammatory response: neutrophil. Scientists are able to use zebrafish larvae to visualize neutrophils during inflammation, making drugscreens possible. By showing that anti-inflammatory drugs work in zebrafish, the researchers have established that the fish may be used to identify future medications for humans.
Dr. Stephen Renshaw, a lead researcher in the study, says, "I'm very excited by the potential of zebrafish to find new drugs for the human inflammatory diseases as we are always looking for better ways to treat the large numbers of patients with respiratory diseases...This success is only the first of a range of zebrafish drug screens, which I am hopeful will provide real benefits to health in the coming years."
A recent column in the Washington Post highlights food allergic adults of which there are an estimated 12 million in the United States, alone.
With so much (deserved) attention focused on the dangers facing food allergic children, it's easy to forget about adults who face the same types of dangers. In fact, only a quarter of the total population of food allergic individuals are children.
There are a few basic differences between common food allergies in children and those in adults including:
The most common food allergies in children tend to be milk, eggs, soy, wheat, peanuts and tree nuts.
The most common food allergy in adults is shellfish.
Unlike children, adults are unlikely to outgrow their allergies.
Another frightening aspect of adult allergies to shellfish is that they can strike out of the blue in individuals who had never experienced food allergies. Often, these reactions are among the most severe. Typical allergic reactions to shellfish allergy resemble other food allergy reactions: swelling throat, blurred vision, numb tongue, hives, and trouble breathing.
To those who experience a first-time allergy reaction to food, Scott H. Sicherer, an associate professor of pediatrics at Mount Sinai's School of Medicine and medical advisor to the Food Allergy Initiative, advises, "Don't just go home and take a bath because it might get worse. If your reaction is severe, call 911 or get to the emergency room.
He also recommends a visit to an allergist to confirm a suspected allergy and receive guidance about avoiding the offending food. Food avoidance is a "big, life-changing" task that isn't always as simple as it might seem.
Adults with food allergies should always carry an EpiPen in case of exposure. EpiPens buy valuable time before medical attention is received. Food allergy cards are also useful in communicating food allergies especially when dining out.
Scientists are at work determining what causes adult-onset food allergies. One clue, according to Robert Wood, author of Food Allergies for Dummies and chief of pediatric allergy and immunology at Johns Hopkins Children's Center, is that many individuals who are allergic to shellfish are also allergic to dust mites or cockroaches. These three allergens share a common protein, tropomyosin.
As researchers forge ahead in studies that may eventually yield food allergy vaccines, food allergic individuals must continue to take every precaution to keep themselves safe. For more information, visit our Learning Center and our Food Allergy/Anaphylaxis Solution Guide.
A recent New York Timescolumn investigates the claim that hot water should be used instead of cold water to wash your hands.
Many take it for granted that washing with soap and warm water is the best way to prevent the spread of germs, but does the temperature of the water really make a difference?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) points out that hot water that is still comfortable to wash your hands in is not hot enough to kill bacteria. Interestingly, however, the FDA reports that hot water does remove oils that can harbor bacteria from the hands.
On the other hand, a report in a 2005 issue of the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine points out that in studies in which subjects had contaminated hands and then were instructed to wash with water ranging in temperature from 40 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, the temperatures had "no effect on transient or resident bacterial reduction."
In fact, allergy sufferers have a reason to wash their hands in cooler water. The same report notes that the "irritant capacity" of some soaps is increased when hot water is used. This could cause contact dermatitis.
Hot water or not, many allergic individuals react to the preservatives, dyes, fragrances, and other chemicals that are in many personal care products. Browse our personal care products for allergy friendly soaps, lotions, shampoos, conditioners, and more.
Tags: hot water, cool water, germs, contact dermatits, wash hands
An interesting Medical News Today report, which states that the symptoms of nonallergic rhinitis are more severe than allergic rhinitis, prompted us to highlight the differences of these two conditions.
The main difference between allergic rhinitis and nonallergic rhinitis is that nonallergic rhinits occurs without an allergic response.
Symptoms of the two are basically the same. Rhinitis refers to the swelling of the lining of the nose due to expanding blood vessels. In turn, this expansion stimulates the mucus glands in the nose. This results in a congested and drippy nose. One distinguishing characteristic between nonallergic and allergic rhinitis is the absence of itchy eyes and throat in nonallergic rhinitis.
According to the Mayo Clinic, symptom triggers for individuals with nonallergic rhinitis include:
Environmental or occupational irritants like secondhand smoke, strong odors, perfumes, chemical fumes, and pollution.
Weather changes such as alterations in temperature or humidity.
Viral infections like the flu and a cold. Although it usually clears up in a few weeks, lingering mucus in the throat (postnasal drip) or sinusitis can occur.
Foods and beverages, such as spicy foods or alchohol.
Medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen. In addition, nonallergic rhinitis can also be triggered by sedatives, antidepressants, oral contraceptives, or overuse of nasal decongestant sprays.
Hormone changes likw those that occur during pregnancy or menstruation.
Stress can a be a trigger for rhinitis.
Diagnosis of nonallergic rhinitis is mainly a matter of ruling out other possible diagnoses. Allergic causes are ruled out through skin and blood tests; and sinus problems are ruled out through tests such as a nasal endoscopy and a CT scan.
Treatment options for nonallergic rhinitis are the same as those for allergic rhinitis and include the following:
Oral decongestants help narrow the blood vessels in order to reduce congestion in the nose.
Other nasal sprays, including prescription antihistamine sprays, anti-drip anti-cholinergic nasal sprays, corticosteroid nasal sprays, and decongestant nasal sprays. NOTE: Do not use decongestant sprays for more than three or four days because they can cause severe congestion to return.
Natural remedies include:
Rinsing out nasal passages with a neti pot or a squeeze bottle.
Blowing your nose regularly to clear nasal passages of mucus and irritants.
Using a humidifier in the your bedroom or work area will help loosen mucus.
Drinking water to stay properly hydrated.
Using an air purifier can rid the air of pollutants that trigger nonallergic rhinitis symptoms.
Temperatures are cooling, and many in various parts of the country are already fluffing down comforters, digging their cozy slippers out of the closet, and cranking up the heat.
Colder air brings relief from sweltering summers and their attendant humidity problems which spell trouble for allergy sufferers. Air that's too humid causes dust mite populations to thrive and can lead to mold colonies proliferating.
However, heated indoor air poses its own issues for allergy sufferers. Heat generated by forced air heating systems (the kind found in most homes) dries out the air and leads to humidity levels that can be too low for comfort.
In addition to symptoms like dry skin, itchy throats, and watery eyes, allergy sufferers may notice that their nasal passages and sinuses may become irritated in enivornments that are too dry. This is of special concern for those who experience recurring sinus infections, or sinusitis.
As WebMD recommends, those who are prone to sinusitis can take the following measures:
Avoid very dry indoor environments. To keep the air in your home from becoming over-dry, use a humidifier to restore proper moisture levels to the air.
Avoid exposure to irritants, such as cigarette smoke or strong chemical odors. Using natural cleaning products and avoiding home fragrances and other unnecessary chemicals can help keep indoor air unpolluted. Air purifiers filter the air of airborne particles and chemical fumes you can't control.
Staying on top of potential dry air problems before they actually become issues will help you breathe better all winter long.
Many allergy and asthma sufferers have first-hand experience encountering indoor air that exacerbates symptoms. Indoor air pollution has many sources, including cleaning products, fireplaces, and home fragrances. But what if your home itself was polluting your indoor air?
This is exactly what has happened to thousands of homeowners whose homes were constructed with drywall imported from China, according to a recent New York Times article. Individuals like Bill Morgan, who moved into one such affected home in Virginia, have experienced nosebleeds and headaches from the persistent noxious fumes that filled their houses. The fumes are so strong, in fact, that they even cause the metal in the homes' interiors to corrode or turn black including the appliances, which don't take long to fail completely.
The drywall is believed to be contaminated with various sulfur compounds. It was imported into the United States when our own supplies ran low. Sadly, there is no quick and easy way to repair the problem. Estimates to rip out and replace tainted drywall and replace damaged electrical equipment run at about $100,000 to $150,000 per home. Lawsuits aimed in all directions at home builders, insurance companies, drywall suppliers, and Chinese manufacturers are piling up. In the meantime, many homeowners are being forced out of their homes and into financial ruin.
Interestingly, only homes in the United States seem to be experiencing problems from the contaminated drywall. Homes in Asia, where the drywall was also installed, remain unaffected. One safety commission official, who chose to remain anonymous, conveyed that Chinese officials believe the reason is because American homes are more tightly built, with less ventilation than homes in China.
This certainly brings to mind the importance of proper ventilation in the home an issue that often poses a conundrum, especially for allergy sufferers, who must often choose between open windows, which may let in pollen or other pollutants, or a tightly shut home, in which indoor pollutants can build up.
Air purifiers, reconciling the necessity for air circulation with the need for pure air, are often the answer. In conjunction with employing measures to reduce allergens in the home, such as not having pets, vacuuming frequently, and using high quality furnace filters, using air purifiers helps reduce the total allergen load by ridding the air of airborne microscopic pollutants.
The Swizz Fred Humidifier is a stylish, modern humidifier that has had a highly successful debut in Europe. The Fred is now ready to conquer the U.S. market!
When the weather turns cooler and we start heating our homes, the relative humidity inside out homes drops and the air dries out. We, our plants, our furniture and other household items suffer from the dry environment. To counteract this, the Fred lets off steam to keep us comfortable and control indoor humidity. To humidify the air, the Teflon-coated plate heats up water to generate clean steam which is free of minerals, germs, and bacteria.
The Fred Humidifier, created by designer Matti Walker of Switzerland, adds function to modern contemporary style. This humidifier is available in silver and red. It will balance the sharp edges of your home decor with its round, stylish appearance.
These humidifiers help return to our homes or office the balance our modern lifestyle often ignores. These are not your typical, generic appliances. These humidifiers are quiet and chic, perfect for modern home or office decor. The Fred humidifier was a finalist for the 2008 Housewares Design Award in Chicago.
Allergy products aren't just for allergies anymore. As wintertime approaches and colds and flus are all around us, it's great to know that many allergy treatments are quite helpful in alleviating cold and flu symptoms as well.
WebMD's Natural Cold & Flu Remedies Slideshow is right in line with this idea. Here are some natural remedies that can be used for dealing with both allergies and sickness:
Chicken soup - The most classic of all natural home remedies, recent research has actually validated what your grandmother always knew. Inhaling steam helps ease nasal congestion and fluid intake helps avoid dehydration. Chicken soup may even soothe inflammation.
Hot tea - Tea functions in much the same way as chicken soup to relieve congestion and keep you hydrated.
Steam/Humidifier - Breathing in steam, a major factor of soup and hot tea's benefit, can also be obtained through the use of a humidifier. Humidifiers also help keep allergy sufferers from nasal, throat, and eye irritation caused by dry winter air.
Neti pot - This ancient treatment clears nasal passages of mucus with a saltwater solution. Those who are ill with the flu or a cold will find immediate relief by cleaning out their nasal passages. Some even say that regular neti pot use can keep you from getting sick in the first place by flushing out germs. Allergy sufferers benefit greatly by cleansing their nasal passageways of pollen and other allergens. All in all, we feel a neti pot is an essential addition to any medicine cabinet.
Menthol ointments - Many of us probably have memories of our mothers spreading this soothing ointment on our chests or around our noses to relieve nasal congestion. Menthol contains a mild numbing agent which soothes the pain of skin that's raw from too much blowing. Using a humidifier with a medicine cup also eases coughing and opens up clogged passages. (Note: Menthol ointment should only be used in children over the age of 2).
Allergy relief through allergen avoidance is inherently a natural way to prevent allergy attacks. Using products like those mentioned here, as well as allergy bedding, and air purifiers can minimize exposure to allergens keeps your body from producing an immune response in the first place so you don't have to use medicine to treat symptoms, or at least not as often.
When maintaining your allergen avoidance routine, it's a good idea to keep the following hotspots in mind and give them the attention they need in order to minimize exposure to allergens.
Potted plants: Mold can grow easily in potted plants and spread to the floor. Make sure to remove dead leaves, use saucers to protect flooring, and avoid over-watering.
Pets' favorite spots: Pet dander, among the lightest of all allergens, floats in the air and also clings to carpets, furniture, and bedding. While keeping pets out of the bedroom is helpful, airflow nevertheless carries pet dander all over your house. Vacuum frequently and instruct family and friends to wash their hands after playing with the pets.
Carpeting: Both carpeting and area rugs become hotbeds for dust mites, who feed on the particles within them. Vacuum with a vacuum cleaner fitted with a HEPA filter. If possible, remove unnecessary carpeting.
Books: Don't neglect to vacuum your books, which are a notorious but often overlooked dust magnet. They can also harbor mold spores and booklice.
Upholstered furniture: Vacuum furniture regularly, and consider leather or vinyl surfaces, which lessen the presence of allergens. Use a dehumidifier for furniture stored in damp rooms, such as the basement, in order to reduce mold issues.
Bedding: Skin cells left behind in mattresses, sheets, pillows, and other bedding are a tasty treat for dust mites. Cover mattresses, box springs, and pillows with allergy bedding, and wash sheets regularly.
Stuffed animals: Children allergic to dust mites could be reacting to their stuffed friends. Buy machine-washable ones, and wash them in hot water once a week. Or, you can place them in the freezer or the dryer.
Bathrooms: Bathrooms are favorite spots for mold spores because they are warm and wet. Do your best to keep your bathroom clean and dry. Open windows when possible, and use fans. For unventilated bathrooms, dehumidifiers are a good idea.
Kitchen: The kitchen is another favorite hiding spot for mold. Standing water, old food, and cockroaches are all potential allergen sources.
Air conditioning units: Although air conditioning is helpful in keeping the air cool and dry, which helps fight allergens, sometimes the units themselves can pose problems. For instance, dust and mold can collect on the coils and be blown into your home's air. Be sure to install quality filters and change them regularly.
A recent Vietnamese study has added credence to the idea that parasitic gut worms, such as hookworm, could help in the prevention and treatment of asthma and allergies, reports the web site ScienceDaily in their article Gut Worms May Protect Against House-dust Mite Allergy.
The study, headed up by Dr. Carsten Flohr of the University of Nottingham and Dr. Luc Nguyen Tuyen of the Khanh Hoa Provincial Health Service, is the largest double-blind placebo controlled clinical trial testing the links between gut worm infections and allergic conditions.
A little background on this unusual and somewhat distasteful theory: Experts believe that over millions of years of co-evolution, worms have found ways to suppress the immune responses of their hosts (including humans) in order to prolong their own survival. Resultingly, our immune systems have become so used to this relationship that without gut worms, our immune responses can become unbalanced. With improvements in hygiene, parasitic worms have been nearly eradicated in humans living in developed countries. Some think that that unbalanced immune systems could account for the development of asthma and allergies.
The researchers conducted their study in rural central Vietnam, where two out of three children suffer from hookworm and other gut parasite infections - and where allergies are also extremely rare. The team looked at whether treatments to clear the body of the parasites made it more likely for the children to develop allergic conditions.
The results? The treated children did not demonstrate an increased risk of asthma or eczema, but did exhibit a significantly increased risk of having a positive skin allergy test to dust mites and cockroach allergen.
While the findings suggest that gut worms do have the potential to tone down human immune responses, further research is necessary to determine exactly how gut worm infection prevents allergic reactions. As Dr. Flohr puts it, "The next step is to understand exactly how and when gut parasites program the human immune system in a way that protects against allergic sensitization, and for such studies, follow-up from birth will be essential."
Note: It's important to remember that gut parasites can cause severe disease and are a major cause of iron deficiency in developing countries.
Tags: parasite, parasites, gut worm, hookworm, allergy, allergies
As the country knows, the Atlanta area, home to AchooAllergy.com's headquarters and storefront, recently experienced major flooding that touched the lives of almost everyone living in the region.
Sadly, flash floods claimed the lives of several individuals. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and loved ones. Others experienced severe damage to their homes due to flooding. Many, many others sustained more minor damage to their basements as water that had nowhere to go seeped into their homes.
Cleanup attempts began even as the rain continued to pour down, but the repercussions of water damage are long-lasting. And it's crucial that water-logged floors and walls are dealt with properly and quickly in order to avoid more long-term problems.
Here is a checklist of items that can help in the aftermath of flood damage:
An air dryer like the Dri-Eaz Ace TurboDryer helps dry out water-damaged areas by directing targeted air movement into problem areas.
The autumnal equinox is almost upon us (it officially occurs on 22-23 September, according to Wikipedia. While this heralds relief from sweltering summer days, it also means new concerns for allergy sufferers.
One of the most potent allergens in the fall is ragweed, a pollen from the sunflower family. Each ragweed plant produces a whopping one billion pollen grains per season. And, the grains can travel as far as 400 miles because they are so lightweight.
The good news for us in Atlanta is that this last week of almost incessant rain will hopefully do a lot to wash the pollen away. However, it's still a good idea to defend against this pervasive allergen.
Here's a brief checklist of ways to minimize reactions to ragweed:
As tempting as it is to throw windows open during these cooler days, keep windows closed to keep the pollen out of your home. When you do open windows, be sure to use window filters.
Keep car windows closed too.
Consider removing shoes at the door and having guests do the same; this will lessen the amount of pollen tracked all over the house.
Use an air purifier to help capture the pollen that will inevitably get into your house.
Check pollen counts and stay indoors when pollen counts are high. Peak pollen counts usually occur between 10 in the morning and 4 in the afternoon.
Practice overall allergen avoidance. It's important to keep your Total Allergen Load as low as possible, so while your system is being bombarded with ragweed pollen, make sure to minimize your exposure to other allergens. Avoid exposure to chemicals and use allergy relief bedding.
Here in Atlanta, the home of AchooAllergy.com, we have had thunderstorms all week. Interestingly, we recently learned that thunderstorms can cause a higher incidence of asthma attacks, as Science Daily reports.
A research team composed of climatologists and epidemiologists form the University of Georgia and Emory University analyzed 12 years of emergency room data from 41 hospitals in 20 Georgia counties. Immediately following thunderstorms, emergency room visits due to asthma attacks were significantly higher.
Dr. J. Marshall Shepherd, a meteorologist involved in the study, explains the connection: "The rainfall actually can break the pollens into smaller aero-allergens the pollen grains and this can actually exacerbate upper respiratory problems. Secondly, the windy gusts from thunderstorms actually serve to disperse these aero-allergens in a larger area around the thunderstorms themselves."
While this research may at first seem to just add to the long list of things that can trigger asthma attacks (pet dander, cleaning products, perfume, and pollution to name a few), the findings are actually helpful. Knowing what can trigger asthma attacks helps asthma sufferers either avoid triggers or take extra precautions when triggers are unavoidable.
As we stress over and over again, knowledge is not only power, but often times relief when it comes to dealing with allergies and asthma. Be sure to visit our Learning Center to learn more.
New research indicates that a commonly held belief that children who attend daycare have lower rates of asthma and allergies later in life has been disproved.
Medical News Today quotes Dr. Johan C. de Jongste of Erasmus University in the Netherlands, "We found no evidence for a protective or harmful effect of daycare on the development of asthma symptoms, allergic sensitization, or airway hyper-responsiveness at the age of eight years."
In fact, daycare attendance contributed to a higher risk of respiratory infections and wheezing in the first year compared to children who did not attend daycare. Additionally, having older siblings caused earlier infections.
The researchers followed about 4,000 Dutch children over the course of eight years. Parents filled out questionnaires during pregnancy, at three months, twelve months, and then every year until the children were eight years old. At that point, most of the children underwent testing for allergies.
Far from being protective, early darycare may actually pose problems. As Dr. de Jongste sums up the research's findings, "Early daycare merely seems to shift the burden of respiratory morbidity to an earlier age where it is more troublesome than at a later age. Early daycare should not be promoted for reasons of preventing asthma and allergy."
University of Michigan scientists, headed up by Dr. Robert Brook, discovered that breathing in bad air can increase blood pressure and cause unhealthy changes in blood vessels. These changes can last hours or even days.
Participants in the study were exposed to the same amount of particulates and ozone that would be found near local highways in two cities, Ann Arbor, Michigan and Toronto, Canada. Compared to those who inhaled filtered air, breathers of polluted air showed higher blood-pressure readings shortly after exposure. In addition, their blood vessels were impaired as long as 24 hours later. This type of prolonged high blood pressure is a risk factor for both stroke and heart disease.
Although it was previously known that fine particles in the air were associated with higher rates of heart disease and stroke, it was not known how the damage was done or what components of pollution were the most damaging.
The study's findings, however, suggest that particulates are worse than ozone and that two processes are likely occurring as unhealthy air is inhaled: Firstly, the central nervous system experiences changes as particulate matter is breathed in, causing the body to switch to a fight-or-fight mode. This raises blood pressure and heart rate.
Secondly, even after the pollution is less concentrated and blood pressure returns to normal, the particles which can lodge deep within the lungs induce inflammation. This inflammation can stiffen blood vessels and lead to longer-term damage to the flexibility of the blood vessels. These weakened blood vessels also cause an increased risk of heart disease or stroke.
The good news is for most healthy urban residents, the blood pressure changes aren't dangerous. However, Brook points out, "It's plausible that if someone has underlying hypertension or coronary disease, then these changes in blood pressure and blood-vessel function might be exaggerated and might even trigger a heart attack. The levels at which we encounter these particles today is still dangerous to people who are unhealthy and at high risk."
Still, the air in average North American cities contains about 14 micrograms of particles per cubic meter of air. This is much better than a decade ago because of clean-air laws. Levels deemed dangerous by the Environmental Protection Agency are between 151 and 200 micrograms. Cities like Los Angeles, Detroit, and Pittsburgh reach dangerous levels on many days.
Many people who live in polluted cities or who live near highways find relief from purifying the air in their homes with an air purifier. This is especially important for young children and individuals with respiratory problems like allergies and asthma.
In the most recent company newsletter, AllerAirs featured article deals with the myths and facts of air purifiers and carbon filtration. I do not have a link to the article, but the following information is important for people to know when buying an air purifier. This information is excerpted from that AllerAir newsletter.
Myth #1 - "Air Purifiers are not built to remove airborne odor. Any company claiming otherwise is lying."
The problem with most wide-spread myths is that they tend to be mixed with some truth. That's the biggest problem in combating this statement. True, most air purifiers are not built to remove odors. An air cleaner equipped with only a HEPA filtration system can't possibly deal with odors. In fact, there are so few units that can do this effectively that consumers may not have even heard of carbon filtration. To break though this barrier, we like to refer to the long-standing track record of carbon. In fact, carbon has been used for thousands of years in water and air filtration and most notably in modern times, for military gas masks, in high-level scientific research facilities and in hospitals.
Myth #2 - "No residential air cleaner can handle a complex issue like tobacco or forest fire smoke."
In this case, only the right kind of air filtration system can effectively tackle these tough issues. Many manufacturers, who do offer some amount of carbon in their residential units, don't offer nearly enough carbon to do the job. That's why AllerAir's special smoke units are unsurpassed at dealing with these difficult IAQ challenges. The amount of carbon we offer, as well as the depth of our filters is unmatched in the industry.
Myth #3 - "Units which claim to clean odor actually emit ozone and are harmful to your health."
True, ozone technology poses a serious health risk, that's why AllerAir never uses ozone and why some states are banning it outright in residential units. It's important to be clear that AllerAir carbon air filtration does not in any way emit ozone or any other harmful substance. In fact, it's very natural, made from materials like coconut shell. It's a tried and true filtration method that's reliable, safe and effective.
In summary, carbon is the safest and most effective air filtration system for chemicals, gases and odors. Even the most expensive HEPA-only unit on the market cannot deal with these airborne pollutants. While some air cleaners may include a small amount of carbon, only a unit with pounds of carbon and a substantial carbon depth can truly combat odors and chemicals.
A recent study demonstrates the harmful health effects of many candles reports Health.com. South Carolina State University researchers studied petroleum-based and vegetable-source candles to determine their emissions. They analyzed substances released into the air after burning candles from various manufacturers for up to six hours in a small box.
Paraffin candles, which are the most inexpensive and most popular, emitted toluene and benzene which are both toxic chemicals. Soybean candles, however, did not emit these chemicals.
The researchers mentioned that using paraffin candles every once in a while is not likely a health threat. However, using candles often in unventilated areas can lead to problems, especially for individuals with asthma or allergies.
No matter which type of candle you use or how often you use them, it's a good idea to make sure that there is adequate ventilation because combustion alone contributes to indoor air pollution.
Tags: candles, indoor air pollution, asthma, allergies
A new study has found that the concentration of toxic fumes in tunnels is so high that it can cause harm to passengers and drivers, Medical News Today reports.
Atmospheric Environment published the study which measured ultrafine particle concentration levels outside a vehicle in a tunnel in Australia. The study involved more than 300 trips through a four-kilometer-long tunnel with each trip lasting up to 26 minutes depending on the amount of traffic. The results showed that, at times, concentration levels of pollutants were up to 1000 times higher inside the tunnel than in other urban conditions.
Professor Lidia Morawska, director of Queensland University of Technology's International Laboratory for Air Quality and Health and co-author of the study says, "The human health effects of exposure to ultrafine particles produced by fuel combustion are generally regarded as detrimental. Effects can range from minor respiratory problems in healthy people, to acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) in people with existing heart complaints."
Individuals in convertibles, on motorcycles, or in older cars that are inferior in terms of sealing out harmful air are the most at risk. Drivers and passengers should always keep windows closed when driving through tunnels. In addition, personal air purifiers such as the Amaircare Roomaid Air Purifier with an auto adapter kit can help combat the effects of toxic automobile emissions.
Tags: air pollution, pollution concentration, tunnels
What do ET (yes, we mean the Extraterrestrial being from the Stephen Speilberg movie), asthma, and depression have in common?
They were all part of a recent study, reported on by FoxNews, which showed that children who have asthma and symptoms of depression experience greater airway resistance when they are sad or stressed.
Dr. Bruce D. Miller of State University of New York at Buffalo and his colleagues studied the breathing patterns of 90 children between the ages of 7 and 17 before and after they watched scenes from ET: The Extraterrestrial. After watching distressing scenes of the movie, asthmatic children who also had depression symptoms consistently exhibited breathing problems that indicated worsening asthma.
Even if asthmatic children do not have depression, it is important to know that stressful or emotionally traumatic events may cause more intense asthmatic reactions.
A recent Wall Street Journalarticle discusses the next wave of swine flu which is a big concern for parents as school children head back to class. The following quick facts are a summary of the information and recommendations presented in this article:
As of August 13, more than two million people have contracted swine flu in the United States. Over 7,500 have been hospitalized and 477 have died.
A vaccine against swine flu is being developed, but it is not likely that it will be widely available before the next flu season begins.
Health officials, though they originally feared swine flu would be much more deadly, have found that it is very much like seasonal flu.
One unusual thing about swine flu is that young people contract it while the elderly have generally been spared. This is possibly due to immunity they might have from exposure to H1N1 (the swine flu strain) from 1918 to 1957.
Pregnant women and those with asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses are most at risk.
The only way to know for sure if you have swine flu is a lab test.
Treatment for swine flu is similar to that for regular seasonal flu: rest, stay hydrated, take medicines to reduce fever. Additionally, it's important to stay away from others until 24 hours after your fever is gone. Children under 18 should not be given aspirin, and children under four should not be given cold medicine without talking with a pediatrician.
Call a doctor if you experience trouble breathing, chest or abdominal pain, dizziness, confusion, persistent vomiting, or if symptoms persist.
Antiviral medications Tamiflu and Relenza can shorten the duration and severity of swine flu, but they are not recommended for people with mild cases.
The vaccine may not be available until well into the flu season and will be recommended first for those at highest risk of complications as well as health-care workers and those in close contact with infants.
The swine flu vaccine will not provide protection against seasonal flu and vice versa. There are some concerns over the safety of the vaccine, but health officials believe it is safe.
To protect yourself from contracting swine flu, wash hands often with soap and water or use sanitizer. Don't touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
According to WebMD, penicillin antibiotics are the most common cause of drug allergies. Additional related antibiotics, such as cephalexin, cefprozil, and cefuroxime can also cause problems for those with a penicillin allergy.
Reactions or side effects to penicillin are frequently mistaken as an allergic reaction to the drug, but a true allergy involves the immune system. Symptoms of an allergy range from a rash to life-threatening anaphylaxis. The best way to confirm a penicillin allergy is a skin test.
Higher risk groups for developing penicillin allergies are females, those with HIV/AIDS, those with cystic fibrosis, and those with a previous history of allergic reactions to penicillin or other drugs.
Individuals who have previously had a positive skin test for penicillin allergy, hives that appeared quickly after the drug was taken (as opposed to a few hours or days after it was taken), or an anaphylactic reaction to penicillin are more likely to experience an allergic reaction to penicillin. Densensitization treatment, in which small amounts of penicillin help your body become accustomed to the medication, may be recommended.
Interestingly, people are not born with penicillin allergies, but rather develop them after exposure to the drug. Re-exposure can trigger an allergic response.
Preventing an allergy to penicillin entails avoiding the drug and similar antibiotics in general. Of course, some infections require the use of antibiotics, and in this case, allergy skin tests are an important way to discover a sensitivity to penicillin.
Remember that any sign of a penicillin allergy, such as trouble breathing, hives, or other symptoms of anaphylaxis (including shock, low blood pressure, constriction of the airways, flushed or pale skin, dizziness or fainting, and nausea or vomiting and diarrhea) should be taken very seriously and medical help should be sought immediately.
We have two cats and a dog, and I do what I know to do in order to keep pet dander around the house to a minimum. I try to keep the animals out of bedrooms, I have a leather couch, I have minimal drapery, and I vacuum frequently with my Dyson. But I'm sure I'm not as motivated to keep pet dander under control as I would be if any of my household were allergic to cats or dogs. 
The Allergy Consumer Report recently covered the topic of toxic ingredients in nail polish in the series, 
For the second time this year, neti pots have been linked to tragic fatalities via the contraction of Naegleria fowleri , the brain-eating amoeba. While this raises alarms over the use of neti pots to relieve congestion and allergy symptoms, the neti pot itself is NOT the problem. Indeed, there is something in the water.
Deciding to implement allergen avoidance routines makes a huge difference in many allergy sufferers' lives. Certain measures are no-brainers: using .jpg)
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As temperatures continue to drop, you may find yourself reaching for warmer clothes among them wool sweaters. Many people claim they are "allergic to wool," but a true wool allergy is rare. Below are some quick facts that should help clarify wool allergies:
One thing that has consistently set Miele apart from other vacuum cleaner brands is the push to innovate and introduce new and improved products. As we say farewell to the Miele S4 canister vacuums cleaners, the new Miele S6 canisters have arrived..JPG)
Especially around fall and winter holidays, it's hard not to want to add that special touch to your home with fragrance. And if company is coming, you always want to get that lingering pet or fish dinner odor out of the air. 
My husband and I have to make a decision soon about whether we prefer a gas range or an electric range in our new home. Honestly, I like glass cook tops because they are much easier to clean. But I know the pros diehard gas range cite in favor of non-electric stoves and ovens (more control of the heat, faster heat, etc.).
Last week we reported on the 
Indoor air quality affects everyone's health, but the repercussions of poor indoor air quality can be especially pronounced in individuals with asthma and allergies. While we may think of our homes as a haven from outdoor pollution like that from car exhaust and the like, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that indoor air can be up to ten times more polluted than outdoor air, particularly when it comes to volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
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I went outside this morning for a little quiet time before the day got rolling but it didn't last long. When I noticed how many mosquitoes were landing on me I headed straight back inside. 
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As the number of cases of both allergies and ADHD disorders are on the rise, it's particularly interesting to examine factors that may be increasing the incidence of both conditions. One somewhat controversial such factor is the consumption of food dyes. The FDA has recently decided that more tests are needed before it can make any recommendations about food dyes, as reported by CNN in .jpg)
If you're like me, it's almost impossible to resist going outside to enjoy the beauty and soft warmth of spring even if you pay for it later with itchy eyes, sneezing, and sniffles. Following are some easy ways to keep the allergies to a minimum, even when you venture outside for fun:
The end of winter signals the approach of spring and relief from the many effects of dry air. Indeed, it's at this juncture that many of us are experiencing and exhibiting the signs of a season full of dry air, both indoors and out. 
We talked last week about how some ways to 
Have you noticed you're waking up every morning with a sore throat? Does your skin seem especially dry? Dry air is most likely the problem. Luckily the solution is simple: humidification. 
Hopefully the word is out by now that cold and cough medications should never be given to children under the age of 2. What may not be as well known, however, is that according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), several studies have shown that such medications "don't work in children younger than 6 years and can have potentially serious side effects."
Hauling out Christmas paraphernalia can trigger full-blown allergy attacks and may even lead to asthma trouble, as the St. Petersburg Times discusses in 
Despite vigilant hand washing, trying to eat well, drinking lots of water and other 
When the first cold weather hits, my lips get extremely chapped just one sign of what dry air can do to skin. And those with sensitive skin, such as those with eczema, are particularly vulnerable to the effects of dry air. Cold air is not the only dry air we have to worry about. Heated air in the home is also extremely drying to the skin. This is what most affects my two young children, and they don't even suffer from allergies or dry skin normally. 
Yesterday I made a Dutch-oven-full of white chicken chili. Stocked with three kinds of chilies Anaheim, poblano, and jalapenos the undertaking was one of my more "dangerous" cooking adventures. I don't know if everyone's as sensitive to jalapeno oil as I am, but despite my best efforts to keep my hands washed, I still experienced reactions but they reminded me of a few things related to allergies. 
At my house, we routinely take off our shoes at the front door, and politely request that guests do the same. We even have a basket of colorful slippers from Ikea that we bring out when we're expecting a large crowd. I inherited this practice from my mother, who no doubt was influenced by the Asian community in San Francisco for whom not wearing shoes in the house is standard. And while in the South the habit may not be as prevalent, there's good reason for allergy sufferers to adopt it.
New research, reported in the November 1 issue of the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, indicates that allergic infants may be at increased risk of having a peanut allergy if their mothers ate peanuts during pregnancy. .jpg)
No one wants to get socked with colds or the flu, but for allergy and asthma sufferers, winter time illnesses can lead to complications like prolonged respiratory problems or sinus infections. In addition to getting flu shots, and the fundamental advice of getting plenty of exercise and rest, following are some suggestions from 
As with many social activities, Halloween brings extra considerations for parents with allergic children. School parties, play-group costume get-togethers, and of course trick-or-treating are all potential dangers for food allergic children. Following is a combined list of tips for staying safe during Halloween, courtesy of Dr. Clifford Bassett's blog on .jpg)
In most parts of the country, fall weather is settling in and many people are beginning to shake out their down comforters, make hot chocolate, and re-stock dresser drawers with favorite wool sweaters. While these three rituals can mean several things to allergy sufferers, today we're going to explore wool allergies. 
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Though many swear by alternative methods to shorten the duration of colds, doctor after doctor says that "nothing but time can cure the common cold," as this 
When it comes to laundry and allergies, we may think of how it's important to wash bedding frequently in the hottest water possible, or with the addition of an allergy detergent, in order to kill dust mites. However, it's equally important to realize that products we might use while doing our laundry like fabric softeners can also cause problems, especially for allergy sufferers, as an article on the 
On the fifth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, many are looking back at the effects of the disaster. One devastation of the hurricane was the mold that spread across New Orleans. Not only did it destroy residences, but it also made children with asthma very sick. As Medical News Today reports in .jpg)
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While preventing many of these involves good hygiene practices and knowledge on the subject matter, mold and bedbugs are two items that are somewhat out of a college freshman's control. But AchooAllergy.com can help with both of these issues.
We have two cats and a short-haired dog. While no one in our family is allergic to animal dander, we regularly have guests who are allergic to cats. Needless to say, it's important to me to keep our home as clean as possible from pet dander to avoid triggering guests' allergic reactions. 
For anyone suffering from hay fever, otherwise known as allergic rhinitis, a stroll in the park or admiring the flowers may cause much more suffering than joy. Instead, itchy watery eyes and a runny nose may send you right back inside. When pollen gives you grief, it may be helpful to know some of the most common allergy-causing plants and trees, their peak seasons, and where they thrive. Here are the top five culprits, as presented by 
With school's start just around the corner, many parents of allergic children face the challenge of making sure their children are healthy and safe even while not under their direct supervision. The back-to-school season is a time of high pollen and mold levels, and exposure to both (and additional) allergens and viruses at school can take a large toll on children's health. Asthma, triggered in large part by allergies and respiratory illnesses, accounts for a 46 percent increase in emergency room visits among children during the fall, 
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Staying protected from the sun is not as simple as slathering on any old sunscreen. While it's good that Americans seem to have become more and more conscious of the dangers of unprotected, prolonged sun exposure, we still have a long way to go in terms of using sunscreen products that don't possibly cause more harm than good. 
It's an almost classic combination that little bag of peanut snacks you munch on while in the air. But for many, a growing number in fact, peanuts are deadly, and some wonder whether they should be allowed in the confined space of an airplane. 
Dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and mold are not the only allergy triggers. Even things that are not typically considered allergens can trigger symptoms. Fragrances are one exaqmple. Whether they're in cleaning products, candles, lotions, or home fragrance sprays, the chemicals in fragrances can lead to itchy eyes, sore throats, skin irritation, sneezing, and more just like an allergy attack. 
High fat energy meals may be dangerous for asthma sufferers because they can lead to both airway inflammation and the suppression of asthma medication albuterol, research from Australia indicates. As 
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As the storms that have swept across the Southeast move into Atlanta, home base of achoo! ALLERGY, it's a good time to consider the relationship between rain and pollen which isn't as straightforward as it might seem. In general, rain tends to wash pollen out of the air. However, here are a few points to consider provided by the 
Allergies have made the Health page at CNN.com. 
In this month of spring cleaning, we'd like to again focus our attention on some common but nevertheless dangerous substances found in household cleaning products. Today's spotlight turns to triclosan, a ubiquitous antibacterial agent found in everything from soaps and toothpastes to socks.
Developed by chronic sinus sufferer Dr. Ketan Mehta, the NeilMed NasaFlo Neti Pot is a complete, soothing, saline nasal rinse kit that provides much-needed moisture and natural relief from allergy and sinus symptoms. If you are congested, this natural remedy can make a huge difference if used regularly.
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With spring officially upon us and pollen season revving up, nows a good time to remind ourselves about how to protect ourselves from pollen exposure and how to use the knowledge of pollen counts to our advantage. 
By now we're all familiar with the resurgence of the bedbug problem over the last few years. Once relegated to only to the catchy "Good night, sleep tight
" rhyme for most of us, hotels and homes across the country even high end ones have unfortunately become a little more intimate with the nasty little creatures. 
According to a study that will be presented at this year's Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAI), Medical News Today reports in 
A study published in the current issue of the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology has uncovered a link between eczema in early childhood and behavior and mental health later in life, 
In respiratory health news, a recent study says that people with early lung cancer who quit smoking could double their chances of survival. Though this may seem intuitive, previously there was little proof that quitting smoking after developing lung cancer made any difference to survival, .jpg)
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One of the new Miele upright vacuum cleaners, the 
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Here in Atlanta, the home of AchooAllergy.com, we have had thunderstorms all week. Interestingly, we recently learned that thunderstorms can cause a higher incidence of asthma attacks, as .jpg)
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