Archive for the ‘insect’ 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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Allergies to Bee Stings and Insect Bites

Monday, December 8th, 2008

Q: As a child, my face swelled up and I became short of breath after a bee sting. The doctor told my mother that I am allergic to bees. What can I do to prevent another reaction?

A: Approximately 10-15% of the general population is allergic to the venom of hymenopterous insects (bees, yellow jackets, wasps, and fire ants). Your previous reaction suggests you may be one such individual. There are a number of precautions you can take to avoid another allergic reaction. Obviously, avoidance is most effective. When outdoors, always wear shoes. This is probably the most important measure you can take to avoid contact with these insects. Hymenoptera are also attracted to perfumes and bright colors. A change in your scent or attire can make you less conspicuous to these insects. However, despite your best efforts, contact can sometimes be unavoidable. Because of this, it is important for you and your family to recognize the symptoms and signs of a generalized allergic reaction. In an allergic individual, the response to a sting can range from local swelling at the site of the bite to a more generalized reaction with symptoms including shortness of breath, lightheadedness, facial swelling, nausea, abdominal, and/or chest pain. An allergic person like you should carry an emergency self-treatment kit at all times. Your doctor can prescribe a kit for you. Such kits usually contain antihistamine tablets, a tourniquet, sterile swabs, and a syringe preloaded with a medication called epinephrine. It is critical to be prepared to use this kit when necessary. Although the kits always include instructions, you should familiarize yourself with how to use the kit and intermittently review the instructions. Remember that nobody ever plans to be stung! I suggest you consult your personal physician to discuss this important preventive health measure.

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Allergy Environmental Control

Friday, October 17th, 2008

Controlling dust mites, mold spores, house dust, animal dander, and exposure to pollen can help relieve and prevent allergy symptoms. Refer to the following list for ideas on how to control your environment and for better management of rhinitis (nasal – “hay fever”) symptoms.

In the home

* Regularly air out tight, closed spaces like bathrooms and closets.
* Use a damp, not dry, cloth to dust rooms weekly.
* Reduce the number of indoor plants in your home – they are a breeding ground for mildew.
* Reduce or discard items that are likely to collect dust (e.g., dried flowers and stuffed animals).
* Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner.
* Remember to change air filters regularly in heating and air-conditioning systems.
* Keep windows and doors closed during heavy pollination seasons.
* If possible, replace wall-to-wall carpeting with wood or linoleum floors.
* Use dust masks when cleaning.

Bedrooms

* To relieve nasal congestion, try tilting the head of the bed upwards.
* Use allergen-impermeable covers on mattresses and pillows.
* Wash linens in hot water to kill dust mites.
* Use hypo-allergenic bedding, pillows, and blankets.

Outside

* Avoid the outdoors during early morning hours – this is when pollen levels are highest.
* Try to limit outdoor work – leaves, grass, peat, and mulch are common allergens.
* If you must mow the lawn yourself, remember to use a mask.
* Keep the grass cut short.

Pets

* Keep pets that produce dander (cats and dogs) outside.
* If pets must stay indoors, do not allow them into sleeping areas or rooms with upholstered furniture.
* If you have a young child who is clearly allergic to your pet, you should probably get rid of the pet (we are assuming you would prefer to keep the child), although some physicians may recommend low-dose nasal corticosteroids for the child.

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Strict Avoidance is Key for Asthma and Allergies

Saturday, October 11th, 2008

“There is no cure for anaphylaxis, so strict avoidance of triggers is the only way to keep a severe reaction from occurring,” said Anne Muñoz-Furlong, Founder & CEO of FAAN. “For children with severe allergies, even a small exposure can lead to anaphylaxis.” The most common triggers for anaphylaxis are:

* Foods - Any food can trigger an allergic reaction, but the most common are: peanuts, nuts from trees (e.g., walnut, cashew, and Brazil nut), shellfish, fish, milk and eggs. It is important to talk to cafeteria staff and your child about what foods to avoid and not to trade food with other children.
* Stinging Insects - Venom of stinging insects such as yellow jackets, honeybees, paper wasps, hornets and fire ants can cause severe and deadly reactions. Recess exposes children to stinging insects. Teach your child where they are commonly located and how to avoid them.
* Medications - Any medication can trigger a reaction, but the most common drugs that cause anaphylaxis are antibiotics and anti-seizure medications. The school nurse should be aware of what medications your child is allergic to and should have epinephrine available in case of a severe reaction.
* Latex – Products made from natural latex (from the rubber tree) contain allergens that can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. Inspect the toys in your child’s classroom and inform their teacher about this allergy.
* Exercise - Although rare, exercise can trigger anaphylaxis after eating certain foods before beginning the activity. Inform your child’s physical education teacher of this allergy, and check to see if your child can participate in physical activity before the lunch hour.

“For students, studies show that the most severe allergic reactions, especially to food, occur in the classroom,” said Munoz-Furlong. “Parents, school administrators, teachers, and the school nurse need to develop an action plan before the school year begins to keep these students with allergies safe.”

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Severe Allergies in the Classroom

Friday, October 10th, 2008

AAAAI and FAAN educate about dangers of anaphylaxis

With the upcoming school year approaching, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) and the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) are asking every parent of a child with food allergies or a known insect sting allergy to alert their child’s school to the condition and have an action plan ready.

A potentially life-threatening allergic reaction, called anaphylaxis, can be triggered by exposure to one or more allergens, including foods, insect stings, drugs, and latex products. Anaphylaxis can affect multiple areas of the body (such as skin, respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract and the cardiovascular system). Symptoms can include severe headache, nausea and vomiting, sneezing and coughing, hives, swelling of the lips, tongue and throat, itching all over the body, and anxiety. The most dangerous symptoms include difficulty breathing, a drop in blood pressure, and shock – all of which can be fatal.

“All school staff must be made aware of the potentially severe nature of an anaphylactic reaction,” said S. Allan Bock , MD , FAAAAI, and Chair of the AAAAI’s Anaphylaxis Committee. “Parents need to work together with teachers, coaches and school nurses to avoid triggers and act quickly if a reaction occurs.”

To protect your child, and prevent anaphylaxis, the AAAAI and FAAN encourage parents to take the following steps before the school year begins:

* Work with an allergist/immunologist to identify your child’s triggers and reinforce these to your child. If possible, provide your child with a medical bracelet or necklace that identifies his or her specific allergy.
* Tour your child’s school or childcare facility before school starts, and meet with the staff to inquire about policies regarding foods and other potential triggers brought into the classroom.
* Provide staff with information and resources to educate them about your child’s allergy. Have your child’s allergist/immunologist provide clear, written instructions on recognizing a reaction early and administering medication in case of a reaction. Inform staff to call 911 immediately if a reaction occurs.
* Teach staff when and how to properly administer medications such as injectable epinephrine, encouraging them to handle the medication and ask questions. Explain to them that they cannot delay in administering medication to your child, and that they are obligated to assist your child and to include him or her in normal school activities. Children with a history of anaphylaxis should carry epinephrine with them at all times.

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Allergies and Asthma in Recess and Gym Class

Thursday, October 9th, 2008

Going back to school for the year also means recess, physical education and sports. These fun activities can take a turn for the worse if the following triggers aren’t avoided.

* Pollen – microscopic, powdery granules necessary for plant fertilization. The average pollen particle is less than the width of an average human hair. With the start of ragweed season just around the corner, it is important to remember to take your medications 30 minutes before going outside. Also, ask the teacher to close the windows in the classroom to keep the pollen from blowing into the classroom. Review Tips to Remember: Outdoor Allergies for more ideas to protect your child.
* Stinging Insects – severe allergic reactions to insect stings can involve many body organs and may develop rapidly. This reaction is called anaphylaxis. Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include itching and hives over large areas of the body, swelling in the throat or tongue, difficulty breathing, dizziness, stomach cramps nausea or diarrhea. Carry injectable epinephrine with you to help control allergic symptoms. Go to Tips to Remember: Stinging Insect Allergy for more information.
* Exercise-Induced Asthma (EIA) – for children with asthma it is common to experience symptoms after about six to eight minutes of physical activity. People with EIA experience coughing, wheezing, tight chest, prolonged and unexpected shortness of breath.

As many as one out of every 10 young athletes has asthma. It should not stop them from enjoying exercise or even high level of competition, but athletes of all levels need to remember to take proper precautions if they have EIA.

Patients with EIA have airways that are overly sensitive to sudden changes in temperature and humidity, especially when breathing colder, drier air. During strenuous activity, people tend to breathe through their mouths, allowing the cold, dry air to reach the lower airways without passing through the warming, humidifying effect of the nose.

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Epinephrine Allergic Conditions

Tuesday, September 30th, 2008

Epinephrine is a medication that is used in emergency rooms and doctor’s offices to treat allergic reactions. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that involves the entire body. It is most commonly caused by foods, drugs and stinging insects. Administering the epinephrine early in anaphylaxis improves the chances of survival and a quick recovery.

People with a history of anaphylaxis should carry an autoinjectable epinephrine with them at all times. As always go to the Emergency Room after you use it for a follow-up from the physician.

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Symptoms Of Anaphylaxis

Wednesday, September 24th, 2008

Anaphylaxis is a “systemic reaction,” which means that various parts of the body are affected that are a distance from the allergen’s initial entry site (e.g., a sting site for insects or the stomach for foods). Symptoms of anaphylaxis can vary from mild to severe and are potentially deadly. Here is a list of possible symptoms that may occur alone or in any combination:

* Skin: hives, swelling, itch, warmth, redness, rash
* Breathing:
wheezing, shortness of breath, throat tightness, cough, hoarse voice, chest pain/tightness, nasal congestion/hay fever-like symptoms, trouble swallowing
* Stomach: nausea, pain/cramps, vomiting, diarrhea, itchy mouth/throat
* Circulation: pale/blue color, poor pulse, passing-out, dizzy/lightheaded, low blood pressure, shock
* Other: anxiety, feeling of “impending doom,” red/itchy/watery eyes, headache, cramping of the uterus

Reactions usually begin within minutes of exposure, but may be delayed. Sometimes symptoms resolve, only to recur or progress a few hours later. The most dangerous symptoms are low blood pressure, breathing difficulties, shock and loss of consciousness, all of which can be fatal.

There are a variety of medical conditions that may mimic anaphylaxis. These include heart attacks, anxiety attacks, choking and seizures, among others. If you experience any unusual symptoms, it is vitally important to seek immediate medical attention (e.g., call 911) for prompt treatment and to determine the cause of the symptoms.

Substances that trigger reactions

* Foods: Essentially any food can trigger an allergic reaction, but some of the most common ones that cause severe anaphylaxis are: peanuts, nuts from trees (e.g., walnut, cashew, Brazil nut), shellfish, fish, milk and eggs.
* Stinging insects: The venom of stinging insects such as yellow jackets, honeybees, paper wasps, hornets and fire ants cause discomfort for most people who are stung. However, reactions can be severe and even deadly for people with allergies to these venoms.
* Medications: Virtually any medication can trigger an allergic reaction. Common categories of drugs that cause anaphylaxis are antibiotics and anti-seizure medicines. Medical therapies such as certain post-surgery fluids, vaccines, blood and blood products, radiocontrast dyes, pain medications and other drugs may cause anaphylaxis or anaphylactoid reactions.
* Latex: Some products made from natural latex (from the rubber tree) contain allergens that can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. The greatest danger of severe reactions occurs when latex comes into contact with moist areas of the body or internal surfaces during surgery, because more of the allergen can rapidly be absorbed into the body.
* Exercise: Although rare, exercise can also trigger anaphylaxis. Oddly enough, it does not occur after every exercise session and in some cases, only occurs after eating certain foods before exercise.
* Other: Anaphylaxis has rarely been associated with exposure to seminal fluid, hormones and exposure to extreme temperatures. When no cause is found and the reaction is definitely anaphylaxis, it is termed idiopathic anaphylaxis.

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What is Anaphylaxis?

Monday, September 22nd, 2008

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that may involve the entire body. It can result in trouble breathing, loss of consciousness and even death. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical treatment, and later follow up care by an allergist/immunologist.

Anaphylaxis can occur in some people after they are exposed to a substance to which they are severely allergic. The most common substances that trigger anaphylaxis are foods, medications, and insect stings. It has been estimated that up to 15% of the population is at risk for anaphylaxis.

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Types Of Allergic Disease

Tuesday, September 16th, 2008

The existence of IgE antibodies is common to all forms of allergic disease. But the physical symptoms differ depending on the type of mediator released and where they act. When a person with allergies begins to experience symptoms, key questions are: What allergens am I reacting to? When, and how much, am I exposed to these substances?

Major allergic diseases include:

* Allergic rhinitis, or “hay fever”
* Allergic conjunctivitis (an eye reaction)
* Asthma
* Atopic dermatitis, or allergic skin reactions
* Urticaria, also known as hives
* Severe allergic reactions to substances such as food, latex, medications, and insect stings
* Problems commonly resulting from allergic rhinitis—sinusitis and otitis media (ear infections)

Symptoms of allergic rhinitis, commonly referred to as “hay fever,” occur when allergens touch the lining of the nose—called the mucus membranes—of a person who is sensitive to that particular allergen. Allergic rhinitis is characterized by congestion, itching and dripping of the nose and itchy, watery eyes. If the person continues to have daily, ongoing exposure to the responsible allergen(s), the symptoms will continue. Similar to allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis occurs when the eyes react to allergens with symptoms of reddening, itching and swelling.

Symptoms of atopic dermatitis, also called eczema, often result from allergen exposure to the skin. Dermatitis symptoms include itching, reddening, and flaking or peeling of the skin. Symptoms begin in childhood for 80% of those with atopic dermatitis. Dermatitis often precedes other allergic disorders; over 50% of those with atopic dermatitis also develop asthma.

Urticaria, or hives, another allergic skin reaction, is characterized by itchy red bumps that can occur in clumps and be either large or small. Hives are often triggered by infection, certain foods or medications. Foods commonly associated with hives include nuts, tomatoes, shellfish and berries. Medications include penicillin, sulfa, anti-seizure medications, phenobarbital and aspirin.

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that affects more than 17 million Americans and is characterized by coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and wheezing. Allergic rhinitis is considered a risk factor in developing asthma: up to 78% of those with asthma also have allergic rhinitis.

When an individual experiences asthma symptoms, the inflamed airways become constricted so it becomes more difficult to breathe through the narrowed air passages. For people with allergies, inhaling allergens may produce increased inflammation of the airway lining and further narrowing of the air passages. Asthma may also occur as a result of other stimuli, such as respiratory tract infections or exposure to irritants.

Individuals who have allergies to specific foods may have severe and possibly life-threatening reactions if they eat them. The most common food allergy triggers are the proteins in cow’s milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat, soy, fish, shellfish and tree nuts. Food allergy occurs more frequently in children than adults. Many of these children may lose their sensitivity to particular foods over time.

Foods and other allergens, including penicillin, insect stings and latex, can trigger a severe, systemic allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is caused by swelling throughout the body, and can involve several organ systems. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include a feeling of warmth, flushing, tingling in the mouth or a red, itchy rash. Other symptoms may include feelings of light-headedness, shortness of breath, severe sneezing, anxiety, stomach or uterine cramps, and/or vomiting and diarrhea. In severe cases, patients may experience a drop in blood pressure that results in a loss of consciousness and shock. Without immediate treatment with an injection of epinephrine (adrenalin), anaphylaxis may be fatal.

Sinusitis and otitis media are other common allergic diseases that often are triggered by allergic rhinitis. Sinusitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of the nasal sinuses, which are hollow cavities within the cheek bones found around the eyes and behind the nose. This condition affects over 15% of the U.S. population. Otitis media—or ear infections—is the most common childhood disease requiring physician care. If not properly treated, it can affect a child’s speech and language development.

You can learn more about various allergic diseases by reading the appropriate Tips brochures in this series.

Diagnosing and treating allergic reactions

An allergist is best qualified to treat allergic diseases. To determine if you have an allergy, your allergist will take a thorough medical history and perform an exam. If indicated, he or she will then perform allergy skin testing, or sometimes blood testing, to determine precisely which substance is causing your allergy. Once your allergy triggers are identified, your physician can help you establish a treatment program. The first step is to minimize your exposure to your particular allergens to whatever extent possible. Your physician may also prescribe medications to reduce allergic symptoms as well as inflammation.

Immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, may also be recommended to modify your immune response. For many patients, immunotherapy can help diminish their reactions to allergens. Please see the Tip brochure in this series for more information on allergy shots.

In summary, an allergic reaction is a complex chain of events that involves many cells, chemicals and tissues throughout the body. While there is not yet a cure for allergic disease, there are many treatments available to lessen symptoms. See your allergist to determine the best course of treatment.

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