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Allergy Proofing

Monday, October 20th, 2008

One of the most important parts of allergy management is to avoid allergens, the substances that cause the allergic reaction. This includes reducing and minimizing the number of potential allergens in your home. Find out what you can do in the bedroom, bathroom, basement or house.

Allergy proofing your whole house

* Keep humidity below 50% if possible
* Keep carpeting to a minimum. Use carpet with low pile
* Keep windows and doors closed during pollen season
* Keep surfaces clean and free from dust
* Make sure dryer is vented
* Keep amount of upholstered furniture to a minimum
* Install an air cleaner in the house
* Use an air conditioning system with a filter
* Use shades instead of blinds throughout the house
* Limit clutter and knick-knacks that collect dust
* Exhaust fans should be used when cooking to remove humidity
* Do not allow smoking in the house

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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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Anaphylaxis Allergy

Thursday, October 16th, 2008

Anaphylaxis is a rare but severe allergic reaction that can occur after exposure to an allergy-causing substance. If you have a history of allergies or a family history of anaphylactic reactions, you may be at higher risk. Causes of anaphylaxis include certain medications, latex, insect bites and stings, and foods such as peanuts, shellfish, and dairy products. Anaphylactic reactions are rarely caused by pollens.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

* intense itching or burning
* sneezing or coughing
* flushing, redness of the skin
* watery eyes
* hives
* tightness in chest/difficulty breathing
* wheezing
* tongue swelling
* nausea/vomiting
* rapid/weak pulse
* decreased/low blood pressure
* shock
* dizziness/fainting

If you think you have had an anaphylactic response, you should see an allergy specialist. The specialist will evaluate your symptoms and ask questions related to your exposure and reactions to different allergy-causing substances. This will determine if you have had an anaphylactic response, and if so, what has triggered it. Allergy testing may also be part of the evaluation. Although anaphylaxis is rare, it is serious and potentially life-threatening. One out of every 2.5 million people per year dies from anaphylaxis.

Epinephrine

Epinephrine (adrenaline) is the drug that is most commonly used to treat anaphylaxis. If you are at risk, your doctor or specialist may recommend you carry an epinephrine kit, which includes a self-injecting shot. The shot can be self-administered, and should be given immediately after the reaction until professional medical attention is available. Follow-up by a medical professional should be performed as soon as possible. You may also want to wear a MedicAlert bracelet indicating your condition and instruct family members and friends how to administer the epinephrine to you in case you have a reaction and are unable to administer it to yourself.

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Allergy Treatment

Wednesday, October 15th, 2008

Allergy sufferers should be seen by an allergist or an ENT (ear, nose, throat) specialist. The physician or specialist will ask questions related to the patient’s medical history and may perform a series of medical examinations and tests. One common test is the “skin test,” done by scratching or lightly injecting a small amount of allergen into the surface of the patient’s skin. If a large hive develops, it usually means the patient is “sensitive” (allergic) to that allergen. Skin tests help to determine the patient’s sensitivity to each allergen, making it easier for the patient and physician to formulate a plan to alleviate the symptoms caused by the allergens.

Environmental factors

Counselling in proper environmental control is often included as part of allergy treatment. Avoiding substances that cause allergic reactions may make symptoms more manageable. Preventative measures can reduce the frequency and severity of allergic reactions significantly.

Medications

Medications such as antihistamines and decongestants are commonly used to prevent and relieve allergy symptoms. They are widely available over the counter or by prescription. Anti-inflammatory agents such as cromolyn, nedocromil, and corticosteroids are also used to prevent allergy symptoms. These drugs work by helping to reduce inflammation in the airways caused by allergens. Low-dose corticosteroid nasal spray has become very popular and has proven to be extremely effective in managing the rhinitis (nasal inflammation) caused by allergies.

Allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots)

Allergy shots are given to patients with moderate to severe allergies. If the patient’s allergy symptoms occur year round, or if the allergy is caused by a substance that is not easily avoidable, allergy shots may be the most effective form of treatment. In immunotherapy, the patient is given a series of shots or vaccinations to help build immunity to the allergen. Patients are given an injection once a week containing only the allergens to which the patient reacts. As the weeks progress, the concentration of the allergen in each shot is gradually increased. Typically, patients will receive injections for 3 to 5 years or more.

Immunotherapy is a relatively safe if somewhat old-fashioned method of treatment. The effectiveness of these shots can be quite variable.

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Allergy Signs And Symptoms

Tuesday, October 14th, 2008

Allergy symptoms may include the following:

* sneezing
* runny nose
* itchy throat, nose, roof of the mouth
* itchy, watery or red eyes
* congestion

Although allergies and colds have similar symptoms, there are some telltale signs that can help you differentiate between them. If you aren’t sure whether you have allergies or just a cold, ask your health professional. Your pharmacist or doctor can help determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment.

Experts think that 1-2% of Canadians have serious allergies to food, insects, medications, latex, and exercise. These allergies are potentially life-threatening emergencies that require immediate medical attention. A person experiencing a serious allergic reaction may have difficulty breathing, throat swelling, skin redness or itching, and an irregular heartbeat or palpitations. In most cases, it is recommended that people with an identified serious allergy wear a MedicAlert bracelet and carry an EpiPen®, which is an injection device that contains epinephrine. A recent study showed that two out of three parents were unsure of how to use their child’s EpiPen®, and almost half did not even carry their EpiPen® with them at all times. If you or a family member have a serious allergy, talk to your pharmacist or doctor, and make sure you know how to recognize all the signs of a potentially life-threatening reaction so that you know exactly what to do if the time ever comes.

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Allergies

Monday, October 13th, 2008

Allergies are triggered by various allergy-causing substances (allergens) such as pollens, molds, and animal dander. In the springtime, typical allergens are pollens that come from grasses and trees. During the rest of the year, other allergens such as pet dander, mites found within house dust, and molds are common.

Most people who have allergies have inherited them; however, allergies can develop on their own later in life. People with allergies have an antibody called IgE (immunoglobulin E). This substance causes an excessive reaction to allergens. Typical allergy symptoms include repetitive and prolonged sneezing, runny or plugged nose, itchy, watery, red or swollen eyes, and itchy throat. Other common allergic reactions include skin and intestinal problems, such as hives, itchiness, rashes, diarrhea and headache.

Are allergies life-threatening?

Allergies are rarely life-threatening, but serious allergic reactions can occur. These include swelling of the respiratory passages, shortness of breath, and anaphylactic reaction. People who suffer from allergies have an increased chance of developing respiratory infections and may be more susceptible to developing asthma. The majority of allergy sufferers are affected by reduced efficiency in daily activities, decreased energy levels, and a reduced quality of life.

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Consult With an Allergist or Immunologist

Sunday, October 12th, 2008

If your child has ever had an allergic reaction, or has a history of severe allergies, seek the care of an allergist/immunologist for a follow-up evaluation and to discuss treatment and environmental control options before the school year begins. An allergist/immunologist is the best-qualified medical professional trained to manage the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of allergic disease.

Once an allergy trigger is identified, an allergist/immunologist can provide detailed information about avoiding the substance. They also will prescribe self-injectable epinephrine, which temporarily reverses the allergic reaction. If a reaction occurs, inject epinephrine and call 911 immediately.

The AAAAI represents allergists, asthma specialists, clinical immunologists, allied health professionals and others with a special interest in the research and treatment of allergic disease. Established in 1943, the AAAAI has more than 6,500 members in the United States, Canada and 60 other countries.

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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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