Archive for the ‘children’ Category

Types and Differences of Indoor Allergens

Friday, August 6th, 2010

There are a variety of airborne allergens responsible for triggering allergies inside the home and workplace. These include:

* House dust. Mixture that contains tiny particles of soil, plant material, human and animal skin, hair, fabric fibers and insect parts. It is often one of these specific components that is responsible for triggering an allergy. These particles can easily become airborne and inhaled when disturbed. House dust is considered the most common type of indoor allergen. This is in part because all the other common indoor allergens can be components of house dust.

* Dust mite droppings. Dust mites are microscopic arachnids (related to spiders) not visible to the naked eye. They usually live deep within carpeting, upholstery and mattresses, where they feed on shed epithelial (skin) cells. It is not the dust mites themselves that are allergens, it is the digestive enzymes found in their droppings. Dust mite droppings usually disintegrate from a pellet into a fine powder, which can easily be stirred up into the air and inhaled. Dust mites are the most common type of allergic trigger for individuals with asthma.

* Dander. Tiny flakes of skin shed from animals – usually pets (e.g., dogs, cats, birds). The proteins are secreted by oil glands in the animal’s skin. Since animals are constantly shedding dander, allergens are deposited around any area in which the animal is present. In contained areas, such as a home, the accumulation of these substances is more likely to become airborne and trigger an allergic reaction in people with animal allergies.

* Cockroach debris. Small particles of cockroach droppings, saliva, eggs and outer coverings. These particles contain a protein that can trigger an allergic reaction in some people when inhaled. Cockroach debris is often a component of household dust, which can become airborne if disturbed, and then inhaled. Cockroaches are attracted to food sources and household food wastes, and favor damp areas. Many homes in the United States have cockroaches living in them, even if they are never seen.

* Mold and mildew. Mold spores are airborne particles found in damp indoor areas such as bathrooms and basements. The term mildew usually refers to mold that can be seen. As mold grows, it releases mold spores into the air. Airborne mold can be directly inhaled or settle into household dust. Mold can be invisible to the naked eye and grow unseen behind walls and under floor tiles.

Though many people assume that indoor houseplants are off-limits to anyone with a strong allergic reaction to pollen, few indoor plants are actually problematic. This is because indoor plants generally do not flower or pollinate as much as outdoor plants. However, two types of common houseplant – the weeping fig and flowering maple – can cause eye allergies and trigger asthma, respectively. People allergic to mold should reduce the number of potted plants in the home because soil is an ideal place for mold to grow.

Tobacco smoke is one of the most commonly acknowledged asthma triggers. It can also complicate allergic conditions because of its effects on the respiratory system. Both direct smoking and inhaling secondhand smoke are harmful. Secondhand smoke can cause the most damage to others in close, indoor areas.

Individuals with allergies should also be aware of the danger from smoke generated from wood-burning stoves. While this type of smoke is not itself an allergen, studies have demonstrated that wood smoke can cause an increase in respiratory symptoms, lowered respiratory function and lowered pulmonary function. Smoke is also a common irritant of asthmatics. Asthma sufferers should try to stay away from wood-burning stoves and fireplaces.

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Questions For Your Doctor Regarding Dander

Wednesday, March 4th, 2009

Preparing questions in advance can help patients to have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions related to dander:

1. Do my symptoms indicate that I am allergic to dander?
2. What methods will you use to determine if I am allergic to dander?
3. Does this condition pose a danger to my overall health?
4. What are my treatment options?
5. Am I a candidate for allergy shots?
6. Are there any types of cats or dogs that are “allergen free” and won’t cause me to have a reaction? Are certain breeds better than others?
7. Can I still have a pet if I am allergic to dander?
8. Are there any medications that will allow me to be around animals for a short period of time?
9. If I don’t own a pet, can I still have a reaction to dander in my home?
10. What steps can I take to reduce the level of dander in my home?
11. Would I benefit from using a HEPA filter or a vacuum with a HEPA filter?
12. Is my child more likely to develop dander allergies because I have the condition?

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Dander Treatment and Prevention

Tuesday, March 3rd, 2009

For people with dander allergies, the only way to prevent an allergic reaction is to avoid contact with problem types of dander as much as possible. People with dander allergies should particularly avoid having an animal in their house. Dander is small and sticky and can stay airborne for extended periods of time. Dander allergens can adhere to walls, furniture, clothing, carpet, air ducts and numerous other places indoors. As people spend much of their time at home, avoiding exposure to dander allergens in the home is vital for allergic individuals.

The best method for avoiding dander in the home is the removal of pets from the home. Other methods, such as cleaning the home, only remove the allergen partially and temporarily.

Removal of a pet is often effective enough that the patient does not require any additional treatment. However, patients should be aware that it may take six months or longer to completely rid a home of dander after a pet is removed. Thorough cleaning, such as scrubbing the walls and replacing furniture and carpeting, can speed up the process.

Physicians may recommend removal of a pet because continued exposure could lead to other health problems, such as asthma. It can also worsen the severity of the patient’s reactions. However, most people are unwilling or unable to part with their pets. For people with allergies to dander who decide to keep their pet in the home, the following steps can help reduce their allergen exposure:

* Keep animals out of the bedroom at all times and designate “animal–free” areas of the home, if possible. Keeping an animal outside is often only a temporary solution, because the pet’s dander will eventually build up within the house.
* Run portable air purifiers throughout the home and consider using a HEPA filter.
* Clean, dust and vacuum regularly, using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter.
* Frequently change furnace and air filters.
* Do not permit any animals on furniture.
* Consider placing plastic covers on upholstered furniture or purchase vinyl or leather furniture.
* Remove carpeting and rugs in the home and replace them with tile or hardwood flooring.
* Wash hands after handling animals.
* Have the animal bathed by a nonallergic individual once or twice a week.
* Have a nonallergic individual brush the animal daily outdoors.
* Have the animal’s litter box, cage and bedding cleaned by a nonallergic individual.
* Use a covering for the mouth and nose (e.g., surgical mask) when cleaning inside, or let someone else handle any indoor cleaning.
* Use allergen-resistant bedding.
* Wash bedding in hot water.
* Wash clothing frequently. Certain types of clothing may also be more prone to collecting dander. Research has found, for instance, that wool sweaters collected up to 10 times more dander than other types of clothing.
* Provide a well–balanced diet for pets. A healthy animal may lose less fur and feathers, thereby reducing levels of indoor dander.
* Avoid hugging and kissing animals.
* Avoid visiting the homes of people with pets.

Dander allergies can also be treated with medication. Over-the-counter antihistamines can relieve itchy eyes. Nasal decongestants can reduce congestion. In people with allergic asthma, asthma medications may be required to help prevent asthma attacks.

Allergy immunotherapy is also able to successfully prevent or reduce allergy symptoms in some patients who are allergic to dander. Immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, involves a patient receiving regular shots of a low dose of an allergen over a period of months or years. Over time, the patient is able to build up a resistance to the allergen, and can tolerate normal exposure to the allergen without an allergic reaction.

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Questions For Your Doctor About Cat Allergies

Wednesday, February 4th, 2009

Preparing questions in advance can help patients to have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions about cat allergies:

1. Do my symptoms indicate a cat allergy?
2. What tests will you use to determine if I am allergic to cats?
3. Is it dangerous for me to have a cat?
4. Are certain breeds less likely to cause a reaction?
5. What are my treatment options?
6. I am not willing to give away my cat. How can I reduce my exposure to cat allergens?
7. Is my child more likely to have cat allergies because I have the condition?
8. Is it likely I am allergic to other animals as well as cats?

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Cat Alergies Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention

Tuesday, February 3rd, 2009

Physicians trying to determine the cause of an allergic reaction will compile a medical history and a list of symptoms. They will also perform a physical examination.

In addition, an allergy skin test may be performed to help diagnose the patient. This test involves introducing a small amount of an allergen to the patient’s skin to determine if the person is allergic to that allergen. If a rash or small bump develops, the patient is most likely allergic to that substance. Physicians typically test for dander first. If the test is negative, the physician may test for other allergens, such as saliva and urine.

Alternatively, a physician may order a blood allergy test. These tests look for the presence of allergy-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) in the bloodstream. The most commonly used blood test for allergy conditions is the radioallergosorbent test (RAST).

The main form of treatment and prevention for cat allergies is avoidance – completely avoiding contact with cats to prevent the allergic reaction from occurring. However, many cat owners are unwilling or unable to part with their pet.

Therefore, treatment for cat allergies may also include medications like antihistamines and decongestants, as well as allergy shots (immunotherapy). People who choose to keep their cats can also lower their risk for symptoms by keeping the animal out of their bedroom. They should also avoid petting, kissing or hugging the animal.

However, it should be noted that individuals with significant cat allergies, or cat allergies that lead to asthma, must remove their cats.

In the rare instance when anaphylaxis occurs, the patient will require immediate medical attention. An injection of epinephrine is required to reverse the patient’s symptoms.

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Prevention Methods For Animal Allergies

Monday, January 12th, 2009

For people with animal allergies, the recommended method of preventing an allergic reaction is to completely avoid contact with the animal to which they are sensitive (avoidance).

Because people become very attached to their pets, this is not always an option for animal owners.  However, there are preventative measures that can be taken to minimize allergic reactions. They include:

* Keep the pet out of the bedroom at all times and designate “pet-free” areas of the home, if possible.
* Run portable air purifiers throughout the home and use a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter.
* Clean and vacuum regularly. Using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter may help remove allergens.
* Frequently change HVAC and HEPA filters.
* Do not permit the pet on furniture.
* Consider placing plastic covers on upholstered furniture.
* Remove carpeting and rugs in the home (replace with tile or hardwood flooring). People who choose to keep carpeting, or must keep it, should steam clean it frequently.
* Avoid clutter and keep walls and floors bare.
* Wash hands after handling the pet.
* Avoid hugging and kissing pets.
* Have a nonallergic individual brush the pet daily (outside), as well as bathe it twice a week.
* Place litter boxes and animal cages away from areas of air filtration vents in homes. Also have nonallergic individuals clean soiled litter boxes and cages.
* Provide a well-balanced diet for the pet; minimizing fur loss may reduce indoor dander.
* Let someone else do the vacuuming to avoid breathing in allergens, or wear a mask when cleaning. Cleaning can stir animal allergens up in the air, where they are more easily inhaled.

When visiting a friend or relative who has a pet, people allergic to animals need to be particularly careful. These visits may require the allergic person to take preventative medicine before a trip or to make arrangements to sleep in a hotel.

Controlling non-pet animal allergies depends on the type of animal. Allergies caused by cockroach debris may be controlled using methods similar to those used to reduce dust mites, as well as using chemicals to kill cockroaches and cut off their food supply.

People who are allergic to insect bites or stings should, of course, avoid those animals when possible, or perform yard work at times when insects are less active. For instance, getting rid of a wasp’s nest is best done in the evening, when their activity level is low.

Some leukotriene modifiers have been used successfully to prevent the sneezing and nasal congestion associated with allergic rhinitis, an inflammation of the mucous membrane that lines the nose. Some animal allergens are known to cause allergic rhinitis. However, these medications are primarily used in people with asthma or seasonal allergies and are not specifically approved for use in the prevention of animal allergic reactions.

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Animal Allergies: Related Allergies and Conditions

Sunday, December 28th, 2008

Animal allergies are related to a number of other conditions, including other allergies. People with pollen or dust mite allergies may be more likely to also have animal allergies. Also, people with outdoor allergies might experience reactions after contact with an outdoor animal, even if they do not have an animal allergy. This is because outdoor allergens such as pollen and mold can get caught in animal fur.

Specific allergies are not inherited, but the tendency to develop an allergy is inherited. If a parent is allergic to dander, for instance, a child has a higher likelihood of developing an allergy of some type, although not necessarily to dander. The risk of developing an allergy is much higher if both parents have allergies. People who are prone to develop allergies are said to be atopic.

Some of the common conditions related to animal allergies are:

* Allergic rhinitis. An inflammation of the mucous membrane that lines the nose causing nasal congestion, sniffling and sneezing. Animal allergens can cause allergic rhinitis.

* Allergic conjunctivitis. An inflammation of the tissue lining the inside of the eyelid that produces irritation and tearing of the eyes. Animal allergies can cause acute allergic conjunctivitis symptoms.

* Contact dermatitis. An inflammation of the skin that is caused by direct contact with an allergen. A red, bumpy rash may appear when the skin comes into direct contact with an animal.

* Asthma. A condition in which breathing airways become blocked or narrowed, causing shortness of breath and breathing difficulty. Animal allergens can cause acute and chronic asthma symptoms. The incidence of asthma-like symptoms in cat owners is significantly higher than those who are exposed to other animals. There is also evidence to suggest that people with animal allergies are at increased risk of developing asthma.

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Allergies Herbs and Supplements

Saturday, December 20th, 2008

Allergies occur when the body reacts to a substance refinance home mortgage rates is usually harmless. An allergy refers to an exaggerated reaction by our immune system in response to bodily contact with certain foreign substances. Almost 40 percent of the human population will suffer from allergies at some point in their lives. It is estimated that about 50 million North Americans are affected by allergic conditions. The cost of allergies in the United States is more than $10 billion dollars yearly. Allergic rhinitis (nasal allergies) affects about 35 million Americans, 6 million of whom are children. Asthma affects 15 million Americans, 5 million of whom are children. The number of cases of asthma has doubled over the last 20 years.

The common misunderstanding about allergies is that it can be only caused by allergens. Although allergens may be the precipitating event that causes allergenic symptoms, the fundamental problem is a compromised, weakened and out-of-balance immune system as a result of food and lifestyle mismanagement.

The immune system is the body’s organized defense mechanism against foreign invaders, particularly infections. Its job is to identify and react to these foreign substances, which are called antigens. Antigens are substances that are competent of causing the production of antibodies. Antigens may or may not lead to an allergic reaction. Allergens are certain antigens that cause an allergic reaction and the production of IgE. The aim of the immune system is to mobilize its forces at the site of invasion and destroy the enemy. Examples of allergens include pollens, molds, dust mite, danders, and foods.

Allergies can develop at any age, possibly even in the womb. They normally occur in children but may give rise to symptoms for the first time in adulthood. Asthma may persist in adults while nasal allergies tend to decline in old age.

The parts of the body that are prone to react to allergies include the eyes, nose, skin, lungs and stomach. Although the various allergic diseases may appear different, they all result from an exaggerated immune response to foreign substances in sensitive people.

Allergies can come from various sources. This being the case, it is not quite simple to come up with a single treatment plan that covers all type of allergy, most allergies are acquired after birth. Allergy relief can be found in many different shapes and forms of medications, both those available over the counter at your local drugstore or pharmacy or those that are prescribed by your physician. The best solution to keep away from triggering allergies is to avoid coming in contact with the specific allergen that affects the individual.

Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is the most common of the allergic diseases and refers to seasonal nasal symptoms that are due to pollens. The symptoms are sneezing, often accompanied by a runny or clogged nose, coughing and postnasal drip, itching eyes, nose and throat, allergic shiners and others. Year round or perennial allergic rhinitis is usually due to indoor allergens, such as dust mites, animal dander, or molds

Asthma is a breathing problem that fallout from the inflammation and spasm of the lung’s air donate a car (bronchial tubes). The inflammation causes a thinning of the air passages, which limits the flow of air into and out of the lungs. Asthma is most often, but not always, related to allergies. Common symptoms include are a feeling of tightness in the chest, breathlessness, difficulty inhaling and exhaling, coughing and noisy breathing.

Hives (urticaria) are skin reactions that appear as itchy swellings and can occur on any part of the body. Allergic eczema is an allergic rash that is usually not caused by skin contact with an allergen which symptoms are itching, redness, and or dryness of the skin, rash on the face and eyes.

There are many effective medicine are available for the treatment of allergies now it is on you to choose the right one for your allergy problem by consulting with your doctor. By the combination of avoidance, proper food and right medicine make you free from allergy as there are so many highly quality nutritional supplements that can be helpful like Vitamin C which has natural antihistamine effect. Vitamin C commonly thought of mainly in prevention of colds, flu and scarlet fever, is being rediscovered for help in allergies. Vitamin C has been used with much success in high doses to eradicate specific allergies. Quercitin which also has a natural antihistamine effect which relieve allergy symptoms. Supplements like Methylsulfonylmethane MSM it reduces allergic and inflammatory responses and Stinging nettles which may effective for hay fever.

Eyebright was and continues to be used primarily as a poultice for the topical treatment of eye inflammations. Essential fatty acids (EFA) which may reduce inflammatory responses associated with allergies. Thymus extract also a good herbs relieving allergies, including asthma, hay fever and food allergies. Probiotics feed the cells lining the colon to enhance health and resistance to penetration of potential allergens. Spirulina protect against allergic reactions by inhibiting the release of histamines.

Supplements for food allergies are Protease enzymes which decreases allergic and inflammatory responses by digests proteins and may be helpful for people with food allergies and the Digestive enzymes and Betaine hydrochloride which able to assist in the digestion of food and reduce the likelihood of food sensitivities.

Apart of using medicine you must take prevention measure to avoid allergies like support the immune system, reduce stress, and drink lot of water and avoiding smoking.

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Beating Allergies

Tuesday, December 9th, 2008

Med Diet Could Help

A new theory has emerged from the medical and scientific community that may help many mothers fight their children’s allergies before they are even born.

Research found that mothers who consumed foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and olive oil could lessen their child’s potential for developing allergies after birth.

The studies observed that a child’s diet had little impact on the prevention of allergies – however, foods the mother ate during pregnancy seemed to have a direct connection to allergy development in their children before seven years of age.

The studies conducted in the island of Menorca followed 500 mothers through six years. The studies followed both mothers who had diets rich in oil and fish and those who had poor diets. The results revealed that children born after a fish-and-oil diet during pregnancy had a 45 percent lower risk of developing most common allergies.

These studies found that mothers who ate diets rich in red meat had an opposite result. Their children’s risks for developing a range of allergies were increased.

These studies are not without controversy, and many American physicians are sceptical of the validity. However, this diet should not be dismissed altogether when mothers are deciding which diet to follow during pregnancy – Australian physicians and scientists are tentatively excited about the finding and many believe the theory that a mother can influence her child’s health, including potential for allergies, was entirely plausible.

Menorca, where the trials were conducted, is the second biggest of the Balearic Islands. Menorca is quieter than neighbouring Majorca and offers far more family friendly activities and attractions. The south side of the island offers plenty of beautiful beaches and resorts, while the northern parts of the island are mostly residential and consist of quiet fishing villages.

Visitors will find plenty of tourist information and a good number of bureaus offering advice to holidaymakers. The visitor has plenty to discover on Menorca. Annual festivals, art celebrations, sightseeing and general exploration await the curious visitor.

The island might be smaller than Majorca, but offers a good number of first class beaches. Menorca has been somewhat sheltered through the years and has avoided the mass commercialisation that often comes with popular tourist destinations. As a result the holidaymakers will not be bombarded with timeshare touts as elsewhere. Menorca welcomes families and is known for providing wholesome activities and entertainment.

Many of the popular attractions in Menorca include such facilities as Es Freginal Park, known for its flower exhibits. Placa Alfons III is a plaza offering the finest in cafes and shops and a massive tourist information center. The Xoriguer Distillery makes several products, but is primarily known for its gin. Visitors are welcome to attend tasting events and are able to purchase the products made on Menorca.

Menorca also offers several amazing churches constructed at various times in history. Visitors are met with gorgeous Gothic architecture and intricately detailed decor that isn’t found anywhere else in the world.

A combination of a great holiday destination and the Mediterranean diet is enough to draw visitors year after year – for good reason.

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Food Allergies Are On The Rise In Kids

Thursday, December 4th, 2008

I thought reading about melamine in food and the hysteria around listeriosis was bad enough. News reports that the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have confirmed that “more American children than ever are developing allergies to some of the most common items in the nation’s food supply.” The latest report says that the number has jumped a whopping 18% in the last decade, which they fear is an underestimation.

The piece goes on to note that children in other areas that haven’t adapted a Western diet have been a-ok. But for the poor tykes stateside, eggs, milk, wheat, soy, fish, shellfish, peanuts, and/or tree nuts are ravaging young bodies everywhere. At this rate, we’ll have a society of bubble boys and girls when another 10 years passes. Doesn’t look like all that food avoiding is doing any good.

Will this whole allergen debacle ever get resolved? I’m still waiting to find out why I can devour peanuts, pine nuts, and almonds with no problem, but have to ingest mass amounts of Benadryl if the other nutty culprits come into play.

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