Millions of people all over the world are affected by allergies. Tiny particles of dust in the air, a friend’s cat or even freshly cut flowers can lead to sneezing, itching and runny noses in some people. Though we are quite aware of external agents that cause allergies, we do not suspect the seemingly innocent glass of milk or bowl of fresh peanuts. After all, what can they do to us? Unfortunately, people who are allergic to these foods have to be very careful around such foodstuffs.

An allergy is a severe reaction of the body’s immune system. The immune system goes into overdrive when there is a perceived threat to the body. In this case, the body perceives an ingredient in the food, like protein, as potentially harmful and goes all out to attack this ingredient and you, in the process. This is what causes itching, rashes, hives or other reactions in the body. In mild cases, the reactions are also mild. However, some reactions are very uncomfortable and may even be fatal. Examples include vomiting, diarrhea, asthma, wheezing and anaphylaxis.

Food allergies may be caused by almost any ingredient in the food. Even so, specialists have identified eight common allergens that affect the most number of people. These are: wheat, egg, milk, soy, fish, peanuts, nuts of trees and shellfish.

There are a large number of myths surrounding food allergies.

Myth 1: Food allergies are very common.

Food allergies occur in less than 12% of the adult population. Of the 6-8% of children who suffer from food allergies, a huge majority outgrows their allergies as they age. Food intolerance is another matter. Food intolerance happens when a person is unable to digest or process a particular ingredient. Food intolerance produces mild though persistent reactions in the body, which is quite different from the severe allergic reactions caused by food allergens. A good majority of people suffer from food intolerance. Unfortunately, most people mistake food sensitivities for food allergies.

Myth 2: Most people are allergic to milk

Milk allergy is very uncommon in adults, though it is quite common in children below the age of 3. Most children outgrow their allergies as they grow. Adults may experience bloating, nausea or breathing problems after ingesting milk products. But these reactions are a result of being lactose intolerant.

Myth 3: Food allergy is only lifestyle threatening, not life threatening.

This is a serious misconception. Food sensitivity is lifestyle threatening, food allergies can become life threatening. This is because of the inherent nature of allergies, where the body produces severe and sometimes violent reactions to counter an attack. Food allergies are particularly life threatening in small children as they can accidentally ingest something that can cause a violent allergic reaction.

Food allergies must be treated immediately and patients need to be taken to a doctor as soon as possible.

Food allergies can be diagnosed by conducting allergy and intolerance tests. Once an allergy is detected, sufferers must avoid those foods. This is the only way in which food allergies can be treated. Of course, there are medications to relieve symptoms, but, as they say, prevention is always better than cure.



By: gardnerwilkinson

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You will need to find out if you are having a food intolerance versus a food allergy, if eating a specific food causes you to suffer from some symptoms. It is easy to confuse the two together. However, if there is confusion, you may not be aware about the severity of your ailment and what appropriate action can best help you reduce your symptoms. Finding out the difference between the two can help you determine the best treatment option.

With a food allergy, your immune system response is triggered, leading to an allergic response. Only 2 percent of adults and 6 percent of children have a true food allergy that can be dangerous to their health. Mostly food allergens include peanuts, shellfish, soy and wheat. You do not need to consume a whole plateful of your food allergen for it to be fatal. Just a small amount can endanger your life.

With this, having a food allergy is considered more severe than having a food intolerance alone. Some of the most common symptoms of a food allergy include hives, eczema, wheezing, swelling of the throat, abdominal pain, and headaches. However, if your allergic reactions are severe, you can also suffer from shock, airway constriction, loss of consciousness and rapid pulse. This can mean death if you are not given the required treatment in a timely manner.

On the other hand, if you experience a tummy ache or diarrhea due to eating certain foods, you may be having a food intolerance. You still can eat these foods and yet suffer no symptoms if these are taken in small portions. This factor also distinguishes it from a true food allergy.

Obviously, for a food allergy, you would have to avoid eating that specific food. Severe food allergy symptoms require serious medical treatment. To keep you from going into anaphylectic shock, your doctor may give you a shot of epinephrine. You may also need to be warded in a hopsital for emergency treatment and observation.

To know for sure if you are having a true food allergy, some medical testings can help. Your doctor may also recommend that you keep a food diary so that you can note down the symptoms that you suffer from in response to the food that you just ate. With a better understanding, it is possible to reduce your symptoms whether allergic or otherwise.



By: Evelyn Lim

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Our introduction to this topic will include the basics, which will be followed by a more in depth look at this topic.

Allergies are the inflammations that answer from the sensitivity to certain stuff, called allergens. The inflammations happen when the immune normal reacts to that particular objective. People all over the world endure from allergies. There are many brands of allergies. The most regular are recurrent allergies that are the answer of certain foliage, plants, or pollens in the air at certain time of the year. Other people experience allergies to particular foods or animals.

Symptoms of allergies adapt by qualities. They are classifyified by gradation of severity, plus mild, moderate, and terrible allergic responses. While there is no discussment for allergies, they can be discussed. Most people experience only mild symptoms. They may enter dilute eyes, tickly skin, a soft nose, coughing, and itchiness. This brand of antipathy can be chargeled by with an antihistamine. There are some over the defy presented, as well as those you can only get with a prescription. You can help degrade the moves by lingering infringe during that time of year. You may also want to ponder receiving an antipathy shot.

For others, the allergic response is moderate. regularly, the response has swell to other parts of the body. They may find it grim to breath. A terrible allergic response can be life threatening. This may be the response to diverse molds. Antihistemines, steroids, and immunotherapy can all detained remedy the stuff.

Ask yourself a few simple questions to determine if you fully understand the concepts that we have went over so far.

While very bloody, they are a sober topic. normally these are the answer of food allergies. Peanuts, milk, and eggs are the most regular. Symptoms enter abscess of the face, abdominal twinge, cramps, itchiness, and angioedema which are itchiness infringe the throat. It is important to obtain direct health interest for symptoms of a terrible allergic response. regularly a shot can help offset the response. The itchiness and rashes take longer to go away. They can be degraded by with a cortisone cream.

Pet allergies are very grim to charge. It may take up to 2 existence expocertainly to an animal to renovate and allergic response. In addition, it can take months after you have congested being around that animal or their dander for the symptoms to halt. This makes it hard to identify the animal as they allergen bepersuade you can be penalty for existence, then it renovates. Most people think as shortly as you are away from the animal it should halt. When it doesnt they trust it must be something moreover cawith the antipathy, so they go back to their normal of interacting with that animal.

An interesting antipathy is to latex. The things is regularly worn in gloves many people use to wholesome their homes. The skin regularly turns red and tickly. For people with asthma, a latex antipathy can be life threatening bepersuade it can blockade the airbehavior.

Some people have a terrible antipathy to insects, especially those with stingers. They may demand health interest to collect a shot of epinephrine.

Allergies move millions of people each year. An antipathy to pet dander is one of the most regular brands. They can persuade you to feel very uncomfortable. Symptoms enter dilute eyes, dry aperture, and tickly skin. More terrible symptoms enter itchiness, asthma attacks, and grimy breathing. Ironically, a qualities can have a dog for a extent of time lacking any symptoms. Then swiftly, they commence. It never crosses their demur that the dog is the allergen.

If you want to keep your dog, but degrade the stuff it has on you, a HEPA filter might be beneficial. It eradicates particles from the air. This will degrade the total of dander around your home. Vacuum your carpet daily and your curtains monthly. This will degrade the dander in your home as well. Some people trust sweeping their dog daily will wrangle dander. That is not proper. In statement, the more you rinse your dog, the more dander will occur. You should only sweep your dog about once a month. If these stuff dont degrade your symptoms enough to make you comfortable, consult your surgeon about antipathy shots or medications.

If you already endure from allergies, but want to get a dog, ponder a breed that sheds their skin leicertainlyly plus poodles and schnauzers. The breeds that shed their skin the greatest and should be shuned enter cocker spaniels and basket hounds. You might also ponder receiving an outfringe dog. This will degrade the symptoms you feel while in your home.

If you have to give your dog to a good home bepersuade your allergies are out of charge, thoroughly vacuum and clean carpets. tint your curtains and stockade. detach any toys and sheet the dog had associate with. Your antipathy symptoms may resume for up to 3 months after this has all been done.

Allergies from your dog can be a nuisance, but they can be chargeled by next these plain tips to make your home more amenable with your allergies. Feeding your dog eminence dog food can also degrade dander particles bepersuade it keeps their coat shiny and vigorous.

Skin allergies are the answer of many different statementors. It may be a pet, a particular food, or a response to medications. Skin allergies can be embarrassing as well as tickly and twingeful. While they cant be eliminated, they can be discussed. There are some brands of skin allergies.

Dermatis is the inflammation of skin. It is normally a rash answering from associate with metals, chemicals, rubber, plants, and pets. Symptoms of dermatis are flush, abscess, burning, hurtful, longing, and binventoryers. These symptoms normally occur on the face and hands.

tickly warm can answer in a rash that occurs for no visible persuade. It can be tickly, and normally goes a way in a few living. Some people do not even feel it, but other poster it. This is regular in small teenren who take medication for recurrent allergies. regularly, the back is the only zone to crack out.

Uritcaria settles in the medium of the skin. It is caworn by intake a food you are allergic to or a fringe outcome of pleasing a medication. The zone regularly looks burned bepersuade it is light red on the external edges, and very red in the medium.

Eczema is an inflammation of the skin. The skin becomes dry, tickly, and peeling. A red rash and binventoryers regularly occur. It moves the face, arms, elbows, and the back of the knees. Eczema may be hereditary, but it is not known. The symptoms normally commence in teenhood. People with eczema regularly experience hay fever and asthma as well. Eczema is the hardest skin antipathy to discuss.

rash are red and tickly blotches. There are 2 brands of itchiness. Acute itchiness last up to 6 weeks. They are caworn by food allergies, medications, bug bites, and symbols of diseases. even itchiness are not very regular. The last indefinitely, on and off over long periods of time. The persuade is not known. Some surgeons trust them to be stress allied.

Skin allergies can be embarrassing and twingeful. They are time consuming to discuss. It is recommended that you see a dermatologist for any skin discomfort. They can discuss it with over the defy crop such as Benedryl, cortisone creams, and antipathy shots.

Cats are one of the most beloved pets in the world. For some who have the troupe of a cat, the allergic response they get from them is too seriously to touch. They symptoms of such allergies enter tickly skin, red and dry eyes, nasal congestion, sneezing, and grimy breathing. However, if your allergies didnt rise pending after you had your cat for awhile, it can be very grim to have to give it away.

There are some stuff you can do to make your antipathy symptoms lower so you will be able to keep your cat. The allergen is the dander from the cat that compiles around your house in the sheet, curtains, and on the furniture. because most of us expend at slightest 6 hours per night in our bed, it only makes perceive to halt charter your cat on your bed. This will eliminate pet dander while you are resting. It is also recommended that you shower before bed to eradicate any pet dander that may be on you before receiving into bed. You may want to take it a stage added, to not tolerate your cat in your bedroom at all. This will present you a harmless rediscuss when your antipathy symptoms are flaring up.

If you have cat allergies, change your sheet weekly. Vacuum your carpets daily, and sweep your curtains at slightest once a month. These stuff will all seriously eradicate the total of dander in your home. Your vacuum should have a HEPA filter for best answers.

It is forever recommended to sweep your hands after usage any pet. It is even more important if you have allergies. just moving your cat, then your face can delay you with an uncomfortable sundown forward. Use a micro strength cloth to stroke your cat. This will eliminate more dander than a bath, and it is easier. If you still have disorder chargeling your symptoms, seclude your cats to one zone of the house.

care manually vigorous is the important thing, but execution on to your cat is also important. next the crucial stages scheduled here as well as chatting to your surgeon about antipathy shots and medications should tolerate you to feel good and keep that beloved elegant.

Food allergies are among the most dodgy brands of allergies out there. It is the answer of the immune normal not reacting correctly to certain foods, or certain ingredients in foods. The most regular food allergies are nuts, milk, and eggs. Some people just feel ill when they consume something they are allergic to. Others experience abscess in the face, and abscess in the body, dying air paths. rash and rashes are also very regular.

Peanut allergies are said to be the nastiest. Not only do they persuade the most terrible symptoms, peanut oil is worn in so many foods that the number of things that the qualities has to shun can be very long. Last year, a teenage teenager died. She had vanished to the store to lessons with links. Her boyfriend had eaten a peanut butter sandwich after drill before union them. He gave her a goodbye kiss at the store, and the response from the peanut oil swelled her throat hastyen. While it sounds very, alas such happenrences do take place.

Very babyish teenren can have food allergies. It is recommended that you clip a inventory of any food allergies sediscussmently to the diaper bag. This will be a even redemurer to links, family, and teencare providers. It is important teenren with food allergies are attentive of the persuades why they cant have certain foods. This will redemur them to make the right food choices at drill. It is important that your teens principal and lecturers know about the allergies as well. regularly there are classify parties, and if your teen is tempted to eat food they are allergic to, the lecturer can redemur them.

The internet is a great place to find out about food allergies. The Food antipathy & Anaphylaxis group has an brilliant website extensive of information. The organization was produced in 1991. It has over 30,000 components plus families, dietitians, nurses, physicians, drill administrators, lecturers, government operate, and components of the food and drug administration. This diverse group runnings together to educate about food allergies by providing accurate information and heightening attentiveness. They careextensivey observer TV, reportspapers, and the reports channels to be certainly accurate information is being free to the open. They also lobby for added study to be done in the zone of food allergies.

While there is no discussment for food allergies that we know of, correctly wisdom about such food allergies and running with a practiced surgeon can help you find behavior to charge them. It is important if you or a family component has a food antipathy that you make it know to those you are frequently in associate with. This enters co-staff, family, links, neighbors, and daycare providers. This will help them learn about the stem as well as be able to get health interest to you if the post rises. The statement that they are able to let health professionals know you have such food allergies can make all the difference in h how hasty they are able to administer discussmen

In closing, it will benefit you to seek out other resources on this topic if you feel that you dont yet have a firm understanding of the subject matter.



By: meeinter

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Allergy is one of the most common diseases existing in society today. There are millions of people suffering from allergies and about 6 percent of the population suffering from allergy is children and infants. You have to consider that this kind of disease can affect anyone at anytime. Once your immune system overreacts to a foreign object that is usually harmless and releases histamines, allergy symptoms can occur.

You have to consider that as a parent, your baby is one of the most important persons in the world. You feed them, you give them clothes and you provide them with shelter and care. This is why you should be aware if your baby has food allergies as it can cause severe discomfort to them and in severe cases, it can cause death.

As a parent, you have to be aware of your child’s health and because allergies are very common nowadays, you have to take the necessary measures in order to properly manage it and prevent your child from experiencing discomfort because of allergy attacks. Some foods are the main causes of allergies. If you are giving your child solid foods for the first time, you have to be absolutely certain that the food you are giving them will not cause an allergic reaction.

First of all, you have to know how allergy works in order for you to properly manage it and detect it as early as possible in order for you to manage it properly. When your child ate food that his or her body is allergic to, the body will first produce antibodies called IgE. After your child ingested the same food again, the IgE will tell the immune system to produce histamines to fight of the allergens. You have to consider that the allergens are usually harmless but the immune system of your child will mistake it as being harmful and attacks it. Because of the attack on the invader, the body will produce signs and symptoms of allergy after a few minutes of ingesting the food or after about two hours of ingesting the food.

The symptoms of allergy can be mild or severe. On the mild symptoms, your child will experience mild discomfort as swelling of the skin, mouth, ears and tongue. You will also see rashes on the skin that can be itchy. The child may also experience difficulty in breathing as well. In severe cases, your baby may vomit or can have diarrhea. It is very important for you to know that severe allergic reaction can be life threatening.

If a member of your family is allergic to specific kinds of food, your child may also inherit the allergy. Although there are cases where your child can eat the food with no problem at all, you will soon notice that your baby may develop the signs and symptoms after a few times of eating the same food. Here are some of the foods that your child may likely develop allergies to:

•    Fish

•    Peanuts

•    Tree nuts

•    Shellfish

•    Eggs

•    Milk

If your baby is showing signs and symptoms of allergy, you should immediately call your local emergency number as soon as you notice the signs and symptoms. You have to consider the fact that this situation can be life threatening and can cause severe discomfort for your child.

Always remember that early detection leads to proper management and care. The baby’s pediatrician will prepare an action plan for properly managing the allergy attack and will also provide medications to treat allergies.



By: Jack Sands

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When medications fail to adequately control allergy symptoms and avoidance of the trigger is not easy or possible, an allergist may recommend immunotherapy or “allergy shots”. This treatment consists of a series of injections containing small amounts of the substances to which a person is allergic. After a course of allergy shots, 80 to 90 percent of patients have less allergy symptoms, and in many cases their allergies have completely resolved. Allergy shots can be given for allergic rhino-conjunctivitis (nose and eyes), allergic asthma and insect sting allergies.

Are allergy shots experimental therapies?

No. Allergy shots have been given for nearly 100 years and are FDA approved therapies. Numerous well-designed medical studies show the efficacy of allergy shots.

And allergy shots do not contain steroids, which can have adverse long-term side effects.

How do allergy shots work?

Unlike allergy medicines, which act only to “cover up” allergic symptoms or prevent them temporarily, allergy shots fix the underlying problem of allergies. This occurs because the body treats the injection much like a vaccine, resulting in the production of infection-fighting antibodies against the pollen, dust, mold or pet dander. The body then stops producing as much allergic antibodies against the triggers, and therefore won’t have as much, or any, allergic response when exposed to the allergens. These changes can last for many years even after stopping allergy shots. Recent studies show that allergy shots can also prevent people from developing new allergies, and reduce the risk of developing asthma in children with nasal allergies.

How are allergy shots given?

The method of immunotherapy consists of starting at a small dose that will not cause an allergic reaction, with slowly advancing the dosage until the person becomes tolerant to large amounts of the extract. These injections are initially given once to twice a week until a maintenance, or constant dose, is achieved. This usually takes approximately 3 to 6 months. Once the maintenance dosage is reached, the allergic symptoms are largely resolved in most patients. Thereafter, the injections are given every two to four weeks.

How long must I take allergy shots?

Therapy is continued for 3 to 5 years total, after which the patient continues to get benefit for another 5 to 10 years or longer, even after the shots are stopped. If the shots are stopped prior to a total of 3 years, the allergic symptoms typically return more quickly.

What are the risks of allergy shots?

The risks of immunotherapy consist of the possibility of experiencing an allergic reaction to the allergy shot. Most allergic reactions consist of mild to moderate swelling and itching at the site of the injection. These reactions occur frequently, but rarely require any change in treatment. A large swelling may require an adjustment of the immunotherapy dosage or a change in the frequency and amount of the shots.

Less commonly patients experience whole-body allergic reactions, sometimes called “anaphylaxis”. Most of these reactions are mild and consist of itching of the skin, hives, or runny nose. Others are more severe and can present as cough, chest tightness, wheezing, throat tightness, shock and rarely can be life-threatening.

For this reason, it is normally required that patients remain in the physician’s office for 20 to 30 minutes after the injection since most reactions occur during this time. These reactions are typically easily reversed with medicines such as injectable epinephrine and anti-histamines.

Should I take allergy shots?

Obviously, this is a question that only you and your doctor can answer. There are many reasons to consider allergy shots:

- Medicines don’t work: Many patients go to the allergist because they still have symptoms despite having tried numerous allergy medications, with little to no relief of their symptoms. Sometimes allergy shots are the only therapy left for these patients.

- Go for the cure: Other patients like the idea of a “cure”, and opt for allergy shots for that reason. Remember, immunotherapy is the only treatment for allergies that fixes the underlying problem of the immune system, much like a vaccine.

- Don’t like medicines: Some patients experience severe side effects from medications, or don’t like taking medications on a daily basis – the idea of a “once a month shot” is a better option for them.

- Cost of medicines: Medications can be expensive, and since allergy symptoms typically return soon after medications are stopped, patients may require medications for many, many years. Allergy shots can alleviate much of the need for medications and can be a significant cost savings measure in the long run.



By: Cindy Heller

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An allergy takes place when the immune system suddenly has an abnormal response to a certain material that is usually not detrimental to most individuals except those who have allergies. When an allergy is triggered by a substance or allergen, a person’s body recognizes this as a trespasser and subsequently releases chemicals to fight off the “trespasser” causing symptoms that can range from a simple irritation to a fatal reaction that may even lead to death.

Food allergy is a reaction made by the immune system in which antibodies are produced by the body as a result of a negative effect to some foods. Though there are many individuals who claim that they have food allergies, there are only a few who really have certain allergic reactions to food. Most people confuse food allergy with food intolerance. Food intolerance and food allergy are both sensitivity reactions to food, but intolerance to certain types of food does not affect the immune system and isn’t really a life threatening incident.

As of the present time, the medical world still has not found any cure for food allergies. Allergy management only involves the prevention of intake of food allergens and some diet modifications.

Looking closely, during an allergic reaction, the body’s immune system releases antibodies, specifically immunoglobulin E. It subsequently causes the production of chemicals like histamine in the process of “protecting” the body. Now, these chemicals are the root cause of symptoms which may include an irritation in the eyes, skin, throat, lungs, and the gastrointestinal organs. These takes place whenever the individual is exposed to the allergen.

Although any type of food can cause allergic reactions to different types of individuals, there are eight major foods out there that are often the main culprits of an allergic reaction. These eight major allergy-causing foods are: fish, soy, milk, wheat, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, and shellfish.

By and large, individuals afflicted with allergies react only to some allergy-causing foods. Sometimes, allergy to a certain type of food may also cause allergic reaction to foods that may be related with the allergen food. This incidence is known as cross-reaction. For instance, an allergic reaction to wheat may also cause a reaction to rye. Allergy to pollens subsequently causes an allergy to green apples, hazelnuts, almonds, and peaches. A reaction to goat’s milk may also be associated with an allergy to cow’s milk. And the list goes on and on.

Moreover, individuals who have been afflicted with asthma and/or eczema may also be at risk of developing a food allergy. With bad luck, they would probably have a reaction that is more severe than those people who only have food allergy to worry about. This is due to the fact that when an allergy takes place the person will be under stress which then may lead to triggering their asthma and/or eczema which will aggravate the situation.

But the intensity of the reaction will depend on some circumstances like the individual’s sensitivity threshold to the food allergen, amount of eaten food, and the exposure scale the person has to the food.

Although, there is no cure to allergies, self-discipline and vigilance will help you, the allergy-sufferer, overcome these food problems. There may be some medications out there that alleviate the symptoms but a consultation to the physician will give you a better understanding to your allergy problems as well as treatment recommendations.



By: Jack Sands

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Allergies are an overreaction of the immune system to substances in the environment called “allergens”. Exposure to an apparently harmless substance, such as pollen causes the immune system of an allergy sufferer to react as if the substance is harmful. Allergies can be of various types: indoor and outdoor allergies (also known as hay fever, seasonal, perennial or nasal allergies), food and drug allergies, latex allergies, insect allergies, skin allergies and eye allergies. Here is a vital, reassuring piece of allergy information: people that have allergies can live healthy and active lives like everyone else.

The study of the biomedical aspects of allergies and what causes them, what types of things people are allergic to, what cures there are for those allergies is – allergy immunology. Many people benefit from allergy immunology because many people suffer from allergies or allergy symptoms. We have a lot to be thankful for in terms of scientific discoveries when we are able to take a shot that lets us enjoy milk again or take a pill that stops hay fever. All of those cures are courtesy of the study of allergy immunology.

There are a variety of tests that scientists do to discover what people are allergic to. There are a variety more that they perform to discover how to create an immunotherapeutic system to help cure us. In basic, scientists find out what causes allergies and then, sometimes, flood our immune systems with exactly the thing we are allergic to in order to drive our immune system into resistance mode which naturally fights the cause of the allergy symptoms.

This, of course, is only one part of the science behind finding the cures for various allergies but it is a popular method.

Immunotherapy is designed for those allergy sufferers that are not reacting to conventional medical cures.

If the natural medications for symptoms do not work, many people turn to immunotherapy instead. This is a type of therapy that actually moderates and fixes the cause and direction of the allergic reaction and fixes the allergy itself, not just the symptoms. Sadly, but immunotherapy does not work in everyone. It generally recommended as a last help by most medical professionals because of the expense and complication.

Immunotherapy requires taking injections for three to five years that may or may not result in long term benefits for the allergy sufferer. This allergy therapy is only recommended for those that have no choice but to be near their allergens or for those that are experiencing hard allergic reactions. This therapy is commonly used on people that suffer from hay fever allergies and on people with asthma as the allergens in that type of allergy are hard to avoid.

Allergy immunology makes it possible for those types of allergies to be cured because of the way science has dedicated itself to finding a cure for common allergies. To date, there are many cures for allergies and many more on the way.



By: Tomas Labas

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In Part 1:  Understanding the Allergy Basics of the Allergy Control Products series on “The Secret to Living with Allergies,” the differences between seasonal allergies and indoor allergies were covered as well as diagnosing allergy triggers, the causes of allergy symptoms and important steps to take to find allergy relief.  In indoor allergies, the top three allergen sources include dust mite allergens, molds and pet dander.  Although some allergy sources are harder to identify, pet allergies may often be self-evident as contact with the animal or pet can cause obvious allergy symptoms.  What may not be as well known is what causes pet allergies, as it is not actually the pet hair that is at the root of the problem.  In Part 2 of the Allergy Control Products “The Secret to Living with Allergies” series, what causes pet allergies and steps to reduce allergy symptoms related to pet allergies will be covered.

Step 1:  Learn the Facts About Pet Allergies that Cause Your Allergy Symptoms

Many people believe that what causes pet allergies is the pet hair, but the allergy-causing material is instead a protein found in the animal’s dander (made up of flaky skin cells and dried saliva), saliva or urine that triggers allergic reactions.  These pet allergy particles are particularly small and your allergy symptoms begin as they are inhaled into the nose and lungs or come in contact with your eyes.  In some cases, your allergic reaction may build up and occur hours after you come in contact with an animal.  However, most often, an allergic reaction and the resulting allergy symptoms happen very quickly (within minutes).  

Since all dogs or cats produce animal dander, unfortunately, none are hypoallergenic.  Some animals may produce less dander and people with pet allergies may be more sensitive to some breeds than others.  Symptoms of pet allergies can include sneezing, itchy eyes or nose, runny nose or nasal congestion and contact-induced rash or itching.  For asthma sufferers, allergic reactions such as wheezing, shortness of breath and lung congestion can bring about even severe asthma symptoms.

Pet allergens (pet dander) are the highest in homes with pets, however, pet allergens can be found even in places where pets are not allowed.  Pet dander is very sticky and can travel on clothing to public places.  Pet dander can remain allergenic and cause allergy symptoms for long periods of time and important steps, covered in Step 3, should be taken to reduce contact with pet allergens. 

Step 2:  Millions Suffer from Pet Allergies, with Cat Allergies Being the Most Common Pet Allergy

Although many animals (from birds to horse to dogs) can cause pet allergies, the most common pet allergy is to cats.  Cat allergy may be more predominant due to a higher potency of cat dander as an allergen or the fact that cats are not bathed as frequently as dogs and do more self-grooming, further increasing the presence of saliva and pet dander that leads to allergy symptoms.  According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI), approximately 10 percent of Americans may be allergic to animals.   Of these allergy sufferers, many may have asthma and 20 to 30 percent of asthma sufferers have pet allergies.  These asthma sufferers include kids with childhood asthma.  The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) explains that allergic asthma (caused by allergens such as dust mites, cat and dog dander and other environmental allergens) is the most common form of asthma in children.

Taking important steps to control pet allergies can lead to a healthier life for you and your children and potentially avoid instances in which severe asthma or allergy reactions may take place.

Step 3:  What to Do for Pet Allergy Relief

If you have pet allergies and there is a pet in the home, it may be necessary to find a new home for the pet.  This step can be difficult to do and the necessity may be dependent on the severity of your allergic reaction.  If your pet stays at home, the pet must be kept out of the allergy sufferer’s bedroom and you should wash hands or clothing after any contact.  In either instance, cleaning steps throughout the home should be undertaken as it is important to get rid of pet allergens or keep levels as low as possible. 

For effective pet allergy relief, begin with cleaning steps in your bedroom.  Create a barrier between yourself and pet allergens that have accumulated in your bed by covering pillows, mattress and other bedding in allergy-proof bed encasings.  Wash your linens and any other bedding frequently, and even consider replacing bedding items.  The carpet can be the second largest allergy-causing source after the bed, and removing or treating the carpet will reduce your continued exposure to allergens that have built up in the soft carpet surface.  Vacuum any remaining carpet regularly, and it is particularly important to use a HEPA filtration vacuum, as these vacuums are designed to contain small allergy particles such as pet dander.  Air filters in your vents will keep pet allergy particles from circulating in the home, and special filters over an air vent in the bedroom provides an extra level of filtration in the allergy sufferer’s bedroom.

Using HEPA air cleaners or HEPA air purifiers can be particularly good for people with pet allergies, as the tiny pet allergy particle stays in the air for longer periods of time.  The HEPA air filter has a better chance to capture these particles before they settle to the ground, for improved air cleaning.  Give your pet frequent baths to help remove dander on the surface of skin or fur and reduce your pet’s need to groom itself.



By: Colleen F Finnegan

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On the average, a person could experience several allergic reactions to one or more things. This happens when we breathe in something that is usually harmless and our immune system (the body’s barrier against viruses and bacteria) classifies it as harmful and attacks. These are the allergens that we need to avoid exposure to. The hard part is, it is difficult to avoid allergens if we don’t know specifically what we are allergic to. Much harder still, allergens are everywhere. They can be in the form of plant pollens from trees, grasses, and weeds, dust mites, animal dander, cockroaches, mold, chemicals, and so forth. It makes it thrice as hard to avoid because pollen and mold may become airborne and can travel easily for miles.

Those affected with allergic rhinitis, also called nasal allergy, pollinosis, or hay fever is commonly caused by plant pollens. Some weeds depend on the wind for cross-pollination than insects to produce seasonal allergies. This makes allergies hard to avoid. Allergies symptoms are a result of the release of histamine, a very important protein in the body which mediates inflammation and is involved in many reactions. Here are the common symptoms that you may experience: itchy, puffy, and watery eyes, stuffy nose, sneezing, coughing, decreased sense of smell, headache, and wheezing. This makes it very bothersome as aside from these, one can experience shortness of breath because the airways become constricted as the body’s response to the allergens. Should the immune system over activate and not be treated, it may result to complications and life-threatening situations. Relief of symptoms is a must!

Allergies treatment is a big factor to those who have allergies. For one, it would be less bothersome for them if they have relief from their symptoms. Having itchy eyes and a runny nose is not exactly a recipe for a happy day. Having it for three consecutive days is already a burden, what more if it extends to more than that? The symptoms also get worse during different seasons. It is important to know what to do and prevent it from occurring before the season changes.

To be diagnosed accurately, check with your physician and let him help you determine which particles you are allergic to. For all the over-the-counter-medications, which includes the anti-histamine medications, that is available in the market to provide symptomatic relief, still the best way to treat the allergic rhinitis is to avoid exposure to allergens. It is also the most cost-effective way in managing allergies. It is best to remove pets from the house to avoid animal dander, staying indoors when there are high pollen counts, control dust mites by using plastic-lined covers for mattress and pillows, and remove any that could absorb minute particles of dust such as stuff toys, carpets and drapes. Allergies treatment may include over-the-counter medications for symptomatic relief and shot for uncontrollable symptoms or unavoidable allergens (or those present all throughout the year).

Do not be afraid to have your allergies checked. You have nothing to lose but a lot to gain. It is important that you know what you are allergic to so you could have better prevention. Enjoy life without the burden of allergies symptoms!



By: Ragweed Allergy

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Part 1:  Understanding the Allergy Basics

Whether you suffer from seasonal allergies or indoor allergies to dust mites, molds and pet dander, you may be regularly faced with allergy symptoms such as congestion, runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing or more.  You may experience allergy symptoms while outside as a result of seasonal allergies.  Or, your allergic reactions can come about due to exposure to indoor allergens while cleaning, coming into contact with pets or even while sleeping!  In order to understand the secret to living with allergies, you must educate yourself about allergic triggers, environmental controls and what causes your allergy symptoms.  As Part 1 of the Allergy Control Products series on The Secrets to Living with Allergies, learn some time-tested allergen avoidance steps toward living a healthier life that is free of allergy symptoms. 

Step 1:  Diagnose the Allergy Triggers that Cause Your Allergy Symptoms

Any allergy sufferer knows the misery that can be caused by allergy symptoms such as congestion, runny nose, headache, watery eyes, sneezing, itching, rash and even severe symptoms such as asthmatic reactions.  What some allergy sufferers don’t fully know is what may be triggering their allergies, and the key to managing these symptoms is diagnosing precisely what causes allergic reactions.  It may be surprising that many allergy sufferers who have mild allergy symptoms may not be able to pinpoint what they are allergic to.  Without consulting with a physician to understand the nature of their allergies, these allergy sufferers are unable to proactively control their allergies. 

In some cases, identifying allergy triggers is easy.  For instance, if you sneeze and have trouble breathing when around cats, it’s likely that you have a pet allergy.  Certain food allergies, contact with allergen sources or exposure to obvious allergy sources (such as dusty or moldy rooms) may also be easy to identify.  However, many people are unaware that they can come into daily contact with large allergen sources throughout the home that cause or worsen their allergy symptoms.  Understanding your sensitivity and resulting allergy reactions to these indoor allergens can have a profound impact on alleviating your allergy symptoms.

For the best understanding of your specific allergies, see your physician or allergist for allergy testing.  A skin test may be performed in order to determine whether you many be allergic to dust mites, pollens, pet dander, fungi or other sources.  Allergy medications or allergen injections may be recommended.  Physicians can help you outline a plan for addressing your exposure to allergy triggers in order to alleviate allergy symptoms.

Step 2:  Identify the Dust Mite as One of the Biggest Culprits in Causing Indoor Allergies

The top 3 indoor allergens are dust mite allergens, molds and pet dander.  All three can be found in most homes and millions of dust mites can be found in even the cleanest of homes.  One easy way to find allergy relief is to reduce your allergen exposure within your home.  Many people who have allergies are allergic to dust mites and because they cannot be seen by the naked eye, you could be totally unaware of how much you come in contact with dust mite allergens. 

Dust mites are relatives of the spider, and they thrive in the dark, warm and humid environment found in pillows, mattresses, bedding, carpets and upholstered furniture.  Dust mites excrete fecal particles and it is these particles, as well as their dead bodies, that cause your allergic symptoms.  In fact, “dust” is made up of dust mite allergens and other allergen particles. Inhaling these particles triggers your allergies. 

Around the home, you come in regular contact with indoor allergens, but the greatest allergen exposure is to dust mite allergens.  A large dust mite allergen source is your bed.  If you wake up feeling congested, sneezing, with swollen eyes or a runny nose, or with other allergy symptoms, inhaling dust mite allergens while you sleep is to blame.  You spend up to 8 hours a day in bed, inhaling these allergens and unwittingly aggravating your allergies.  The second largest source of dust mite allergens is found in carpeting. Since many homes have carpeting, the carpet is another large area for causing allergy symptoms. 

Step 3:  For Indoor Allergy Relief, Control Your Environment to Eliminate Allergy Triggers

The good news is that simple steps around the home could alleviate allergy symptoms and possibly reduce your need for allergy medications and treatments.  The first step is to address the bedroom due to the large amount of time spent there each day.  Cover your pillow, mattress and other bedding in allergy bed encasings to create a barrier between you and the dust mite allergens in the bed.  Wash your linens frequently in hot water to remove allergens.  Treat your carpet with special allergy-removing carpet products, or remove carpets in favor of hardwood floors or tile.  Vacuum weekly with a quality HEPA vacuum, which will contain allergens while you clean, and wear a face mask while cleaning.  Keep your home’s humidity level below 50% as low humidity discourages dust mite and mold growth. 

For more tips on controlling dust mite allergies in your home, request a copy of the Allergy Control Products Improving Life Indoors catalog or visit the Allergy Control® Allergy Learning Center for more allergy education.  Also, visit allergycontrol.com for upcoming topics regarding The Secret to Living with Allergies.  Next, Allergy Control Products will cover Addressing Pet Allergies and future series will include Controlling Mold in Your Home.  Don’t miss these helpful allergy tips from the allergen avoidance experts!



By: Colleen F Finnegan

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