Exploring The Candida Albacans Allergy Link

There number of reasons, and many theories as to why Candida Albacans multiples and overgrows in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. In this article we are going to explore the Candida Albacans allergy connection, and explain how they can be linked.

Did you know that over 90% of the population are allergic to candida? This would seem to be contradictory when we have been led to believe that everyone has at least a small amount of candida either in or on them.

This is because the immune system has different levels of response to problems. For candida it is considered as relatively low risk and so there is a delayed hypersensitivity to it. This is quite usual and it normally it is sufficient to keep a yeast infection in check.

However, for various reasons, sometimes the immune response becomes more sensitive to the candida, and in some people, around 10% of the population, they have an naturally increased allergic reaction to candida, which can cause eczema, chronic vaginitis, hives, asthma, abdominal pains and cramps and diarrhea.

In extreme cases, the reaction to candida can cause other auto-immune conditions like celiac disease, thyroiditis and even rheumatoid arthritis.

In a study published in the Lancet, it was shown that candida contains protein called HWP-1 which is has a gluten like structure, and so a candida infection in the gut can cause an immune reaction to HWP-1, which can cause an allergic reaction to all gluten. Which of course means that wheat and grain product would cause an allergic reaction and potentially Celiac Disease in some.

If this is the case, then a wheat product free diet may not be sufficient to relieve the symptoms for a celiac patient, as the underlying problem is not the food they are eating, but an overactive immune response to the candida in the GI tract.

A solution to this problem would be to adopt a wheat free diet, along with the proper antifungal treatment to bring the candida levels back under control.

Some other studies have referred to even more nefarious impacts that candida may have on the body. There is some evidence to suggest that it can act as a sensitizing agent, making the host more receptive to allergens like mold, dust and pollen.

Killing off a yeast overgrowth in the gut can be done carried out in a number of ways, but the most obvious and natural one is to starve the yeast, and boost the levels of friendly bacteria in the gut to regain balance.

This is generally managed through the adoption of an anti candia diet, which reduces the intake of sugar, yeast and diary based products and also reduces the amount of processed foods in the diet. Starving the yeast, supplementing the diet with foods or preparations rich in probiotics can help replenish the gut with the required levels of healthy friendly bacteria.

Continue reading to discover natural methods to combat candida yeast infections by signing up for our free newsletter.

We have only touched on one element of the Candida Albacans allergy link in this article, but it is clear that if you spot signs of a candida infection, you should seek to get a diagnosis from you doctor prior to further complications arising.

Grab your free copy of Jane Symms' brand new Candida & Yeast Infection Newsletter - Overflowing with easy to implement methods to help you discover more about the candidia albacans allergy connection.

Living With A Gluten Allergy

If suddenly you find yourself suffering from a gluten allergy you are not alone. It?s important to learn to live with a gluten allergy and the best way to do that is to understand the allergy.

With a gluten allergy your immune system will respond to the gluten which is found in a variety of foods that have the proteins found in cereal grains. The difference between a wheat allergy and a gluten allergy is Celiac a disease of the gastrointestinal tract.

Not everyone but a majority of people that suffer from a gluten allergy will develop Celiac which targets the gastrointestinal tract. In fact it wasn?t until recently when it was determined that Celiac was caused by a gluten allergy. Prior there had been no connection made.

A person suffering from a gluten allergy must ensure that they have a gluten free diet. When diagnosed with Celiac disease one must ensure that their diet is gluten free to ensure that the problems associated with Celiac are avoided.

When a gluten allergy turns into Celiac disease the biggest problem is that it does not just affect the gastrointestinal tract, it also affect the brain causing brain dysfunction, inflammation of the lungs, and arthritis.

The classic symptoms that accompanies a gluten allergy that has become Celiac is diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating, weight loss, iron deficiency, and malnutrition as a result of not absorbing the nutrient. And that?s just the beginning of what this dreadful disease can do.

For example a gluten allergy can actually affect the tissue causing eczema, skin rashes and itching, and it can even cause hives. It can also cause respiratory problems including asthma and it can cause

Arthritis will develop in about 45% of those suffering from a gluten allergy that do nothing about it and about 15% in those that change to a gluten free diet. Those with Celiac see an increased risk of esophagus, pharynx, and small intestinal cancer. Fibroid lung disease is also seen at a much higher rate than in those that do not have Celiac or a gluten allergy.

Recently studies have shown that a gluten allergy is often combined with a dairy allergy. If you know you have a gluten problem it?s a good idea to replace dairy products with soy products or some other alternative.

Be sure to include natural supplements in your diet when suffering from a gluten allergy. There are several things they can do for you. They can replace the nutrients you are missing because of a diet that is gluten free and they can help restore the body to health and build the immune system back up to a healthy state.

With a gluten allergy you want gluten free diet will have no wheat, barley, rye in any form. The best diets are made up of foods that are good for you and also foods that taste good. Try to make the changes so as not be depressed by a long list of what you can?t eat. You gluten free diet should be comprehensive.

A gluten allergy can be a tough diagnosis to hear but once you know what?s wrong it?s much easier to start making yourself feel better.

Get all the latest information about Allergies from the only true source at http://www.1allergyinformation.com Be sure to check out our gluten allergy pages.

Food Allergy

Food allergies happen when your immune system messes up. Your immune system is supposed to protect you from disease and germs. If you have a food allergy your immune system makes a mistake and thinks the food is going to harm you.

The response is the same whether it is a food allergy, an allergy to medicine, an allergy to a flower or tree, or an allergy to peanuts. Although the foods themselves are not harmful the reaction the body has can be life threatening.

In recent years we have heard a lot about the peanut food allergy mainly because the reaction is usually very severe leading to anaphylactic shock.

Here?s what can happen if a child or adult for that matter eats a peanut topped brownie which they have a food allergy to ? the antibodies in the body over react releasing histamine in the blood.

The histamine released eyes, throat, nose, respiratory, skin, and even the digestive system can be affected by the food allergy. The reaction could be mild or severe and it can happen almost right away or a couple of hours later.

Some of the first signs of a person suffering from a food allergy can be a runny nose, hives, itchy skin, tingling lips or tongue. Other signs can include tightness in the throat, hoarse voice, coughing, wheezing, stomach pain, diarrhea, and nausea or vomiting.

And with a serious food allergy anaphylaxis occurs which is a severe allergic reaction that comes on suddenly and with several serious problems all occurring at once ? the heart, digestive system, respiratory all react at the same time and the breathing tube narrows while the tongue swells making breathing difficult if not impossible ? this is a medical emergency.

If you have a serious food allergy and not necessarily to peanuts you need to make sure you know exactly what you are eating. If there is any doubt don?t eat it. You might also carry the proper medication with you.

Kids often suffer from milk and eggs but the often will outgrow these. Severe allergies are commonly seen in peanuts, shrimp, and fish and these do not usually disappear with age.

Not sure how to tell if you have a food allergy? Sometimes it?s pretty easy to figure out. Hives may appear or perhaps stomach problems occur. But other times it?s harder to tell. And sometimes even if you know you have a food allergy determining to what can be really difficult.

Many medical professionals believe that allergies are genetic and inherited so if you have a parent that suffers from hay fever you can expect to do so yourself. Food allergies can resolve themselves over time.

It is important that you do not confuse a food allergy with food intolerance such as with lactose intolerance which can cause severe stomach pain and diarrhea. But that doesn?t make it an allergy.

For some food allergies it?s as simple as not eating the food anymore. Other food allergies are harder to diagnose and harder to avoid. You should see a doctor that specializes in allergies. The doctor will ask you a lot of questions to help determine if you have a food allergy.

A liquid extract of the food or foods that are suspect is used to determine the food allergy. A tiny scratch is made on the skin and then a drop of the extract placed on the scratch. The doctor will watch for the development of a red spot which will indicate you have a food allergy to that particular food.

Once a food allergy is determined the doctor will decide on the best course of action and whether treatment is needed. Once you know what your allergy is it becomes much easier to deal with.

Get all the latest information about Allergies from the only true source at http://www.1allergyinformation.com Be sure to check out our food allergy pages.

The Peanut Allergy Problem

More than 3 million people in America have a peanut allergy which translates into 1 out of every 90 people or 1.10% of the population. The peanut allergy problem continues to grow.

Peanuts are a dietary protein that?s very cheap and generally in its purest form is peanut butter. Yet it has become one of the most common foods for allergies. Unfortunately peanuts are finding there way into many different foods and trace amounts are also entering the food chain from varying angles which is making the peanut allergy problem worse.

Because of the seriousness of these allergies foods are not warning that trace amount of peanuts may be in the product while other products are going for the market based on the peanut allergy problem and proudly announcing there are no peanuts in their products so relax and enjoy.

Anaphylactic shock is one allergic reaction. It can move rapidly becoming fatal in just a couple of minutes. It requires epinephrine as the earliest signs. Symptoms include apprehension, flushing, hives, swollen mouth, eyes, or tongue, itching, tightness in the throat and chest, runny nose, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, sudden fatigue, chills, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and on the most serious end loss of consciousness and death. The personal allergy problem should not be ignored.

So with the peanut allergy problem being such a problem how come so many still get caught. Sometimes it is a result of incomplete labeling of the packaging, it can also be ignorance of food allergies at schools or restaurants. Some medications can actually cause a peanut reaction, and traces of peanuts aren?t always marked on packages.

Although things are improving the peanut allergy problem is enhanced because often food labels aren?t carefully read. As consumers we are also not trained to question the contents our food where it is prepared and does not have label packaging such as in restaurant take out. Sharing utensils can even be dangerous to someone with a peanut allergy. And taste testing just a tiny bit can be deadly.

The peanut allergy problem also has an identity issue. Many are not aware that just trace elements can kill. We also have a tendency to minimize or deny the allergy even if we have recognized previous symptoms. Failure to tell someone when an allergic reaction is occurring is also a big problem and the biggest problem is not wearing a medical bracelet that warns of a peanut allergy.

The peanut allergy problem has sees a great deal of failure in the treatment end. Many peanut allergy sufferers do not carry epinephrine sold as Epi-Pen?, Ana-Kit ?. They should have it on them at all times and they do not. And of those that carry it on them many do not use it faster enough. They also do not carry two epinephrine doses on them and they should because the second one is often required. Lastly failure for the individual to be taken to hospital can cause death.

Lifestyle changes, better awareness, better packaging, better training in dealing with a reaction, and faster medical intervention are all ways that will help reduce the peanut allergy problem.

Get all the latest information about Allergies from the only true source at http://www.1allergyinformation.com Be sure to check out our Peanut Allergy pages

Get The Facts On Allergy Medication

Allergy medications are everywhere ? oral antihistamines, nasal antihistamines, decongestants ? Maybe it?s time to get the facts on your allergy medication.

Allergy medication is available over the counter and it is prescribed widely by doctors all around the world. Pick up a magazine there?s ads, the television is full of ads ? these products are heavily marketed and choosing the one that?s going to work is an entirely different game.

There are four allergy medication categories ? nasal sprays, decongestants, nasal antihistamines, and oral antihistamines. Let?s have a look at all four categories.

Oral antihistamines are by far the most common allergy medication prescribed by doctors. The block the histamines which is the chemical that is responsible for most of your symptoms. They do not offer permanent relief but as an allergy medication they do provide relief for itching, sneezing, hives, and nasal drip. Antihistamines can cause drowsiness and make it difficult to concentrate. You can actually be given a DUI if you are driving and taking this medication. Some of the OTC antihistamines are Benadryl, Atarax, Dimetapp, Tavist, Chlor-Trimeton, and Claritin. In fact Benadryl should be in every medicine cabinet.

Nasal antihistamines are newer and available through prescription and are a good allergy medication for the right situations. They work for12 hours and are steroid free. It is believed because of inhalation the dosage absorbed is better. It cause drowsiness, headache, and post nasal drip.

Oral and nasal decongestants are another allergy medication choice that is commonly used for those that have runny noses, sinus issues, post nasal drip, fever, pollen, sneezing, and itching. They are available in both prescription and OTC and in pills, drops, sprays, and liquids. However the ingredient phenylpropanolamine which was found in older decongestants has been banned. Current decongestants include Sudafed, Triaminic, Entex, and Ornade. Decongestants can make you jittery, elevate your blood pressure, and make sleeping difficult. Sudafed should be in every medicine cabinet.

The last allergy medication we?ll look at is nasal sprays. The non-steroid formulas are considered very safe and work best if you started a few weeks before the allergy season. Steroid formulas are available through prescription and are more effective and include Flonase, Nasonex, and Beclovent. Side effects include cataracts, hypertension, headache, weight gain, and nasal ulcers.

But wait we?ve had a look at a variety of allergy medications but there are also several natural remedies and an allergy medication that contains no harsh chemicals is likely to make your body much happier.

Besides considering a natural allergy medication you might also consider giving your body?s immune system a boost with the right supplement. After all the cause of allergies is an immune system that is misfiring.

And that means that an allergy medication isn?t always the solution to the problem. Sure it will reduce the symptoms but it is doing nothing to actually get to the bottom of the problem.

Once you get the facts on allergy medication you are in a much better position to make educated choices that work for you, your type of allergy, and your person situation. Choose what?s right for you.

Get all the latest information about Allergies from the only true source at http://www.1allergyinformation.com Be sure to check out our Allergy Medication pages

Dealing With A Wheat Allergy

Foods that contain wheat are everywhere ? after all they are a staple in the American diet. But both the protein and the gluten in the wheat are a common allergen. Dealing with a wheat allergy can be frustrating.

If you have a wheat allergy of course the most logical thing is to avoid wheat products to prevent the allergic reaction. This includes cereals, baked goods, chocolate, pancake mixes, waffle mixes, pies, cookies, processed meats, breaded meats, some casseroles, pastas, some salad dressings, soups, alcoholic beverages, and the list could go on and on. Let?s face it wheat really is everywhere.

Symptoms of wheat allergy include nausea, vomiting, stomach ache, diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin disorders, eczema, dermatitis, respiratory infections including asthma, hypertension, headache, and even anaphylactic shock. Great you know what the problem is and you are doing your best to avoid wheat but it?s in the most unexpected places and you do occasionally mess up.

Besides avoiding wheat there are other things you should do to treat your wheat allergy. There are medications that can help depending on what your symptoms are. Stomach related issues can be dealt with either with OTC or prescription drugs. Immunotherapy can inject small amounts of wheat into your body with the theory that over several years your body will learn to tolerate wheat and the allergy will disappear.

Has anyone noticed that allergies are on the rise? Stats are certainly indicating this. Think back 10 years ago ? do you recall the press that wheat allergies were getting. I?m betting you don?t and yet today it seems like just about every other person has some type of allergy with wheat and wheat products being right on top. Why is that?

Modern life is hard on our bodies. We are exposed to high levels of toxins and stress which take their toll on our body, on our immune system, and on our adrenal system. Allergies are our body?s immune system misfiring and that?s exactly what happens with a wheat allergy. So what needs to happen is we need to bring our body back to optimum health.

We can remove wheat from our diet if we have a wheat allergy but the problem is when the body is out of sync the allergy list just keeps growing and growing so a smart choice would be to nourish the body with vitamins, herbs, and supplements.

For example in the case of a wheat allergy adrenal support and immune support are both very important and herbs such as goldenseal, licorice, marshmallow, and Echinacea can help boost the adrenals and the immune system.
You should also be sure that your vitamin supplements are giving you the most benefit. For example Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine and will improve adrenal function. Take up to 5000mg daily. Increase in 500mg increments and stop when the bowel is no longer tolerating it. COQ10 is powerful boosting the immune system, reducing histamines, and improving heart health. Take 100mg two times a day. Vitamin B5 helps deal with stress and improve adrenal function. Take up to 1000 mg a day and split into two doses.
Dealing with a wheat allergy needs you to go beyond treating symptoms and get to the root of the problem. Only then will you be healthy and feel alive.

Get all the latest information about Allergies from the only true source at http://www.1allergyinformation.com Be sure to check out our Wheat Allergy pages.

Dealing With A Gluten Allergy

A gluten allergy can result in Coeliac disease which is a condition of the small intestine. Gluten is found in rye, barley, and wheat and it reacts with the small bowel causing the immune system to attack the bowels lining.

Sometimes it?s subtle while other times you know that you have a problem. When it is not treated it can lead to anemia, diseases of the bone, and even some types of cancer. Of course the best treatment for a gluten allergy is to avoid foods with gluten.

What causes the gluten allergy? Gluten is two proteins glutenin and gliadin which when mixed with water become sticky like dough. In the small bowel are little tiny fingers called villi which are supposed to absorb nutrients but with a gluten allergy your immune system attacks them and destroys them.

The symptoms of a gluten allergy in a child include irritability and generally not feeling happy, poor appetite, not gaining weight, swollen stomach , arms and legs become thin and wasted. In adult symptoms can be very similar but also include horrible smelling diarrhea, constipation, abdominal bloating, tiredness, depression, bone pain, thinning of the bones, itchy skin, and sometimes even a difficulty becoming pregnant.

Symptoms can also include nausea, vomiting, stomach ache, diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin disorders, eczema, dermatitis, respiratory infections including asthma, hypertension, headache, and even anaphylactic shock. Great you know what the problem is and you are doing your best to avoid wheat but it?s in the most unexpected places and you do occasionally mess up.

Diagnosing your gluten allergy might include blood tests for anemia, iron and folic acid, as well as blood tests for different antibodies. An endoscopy test with a biopsy might also be conducted.

A gluten allergy is not preventable and the best treatment is to have a gluten free diet to stop the damage to the small intestine and even reverse it. You will need to do you homework so that you know which foods contain gluten. There are many that you would not generally think of that do such as cooking oil.

There are some excellent books on dealing with a gluten allergy that can help you as well as help you learn about natural products that can help heal the intestine. Your doctor will also be able to assist you and a dietician can help you with your diet.

Don?t forget to heal your body with vitamins and minerals as well as herbal supplements that can boost your immune system and help bring you back into balance. Healing the intestine is an important part of bringing your body back into total health.

Complications from a gluten allergy are very rare. Occasionally infertility does occur, autoimmune diseases, osteoporosis, and a slight increased risk of bowel cancer can occur. Studies have shown that after 5 years of being on a gluten free diet your risks of all cancers associated with gluten are removed.

Foods that contain gluten are everywhere ? after all it is a staple in the American diet. But both the protein and the gluten in the wheat are a common allergen. Dealing with a gluten allergy can be frustrating because there are so many restrictions. Learning how to properly deal with it will reduce your frustration and keep you healthier.

Get all the latest information about Allergies from the only true source at http://www.1allergyinformation.com Be sure to check out our gluten allergy pages.

Defeat Allergy by Strong Immune Support

Immunity is the power to resist against diseases and different foreign bodies like antigens. It is the system to fight with foreign antigen as well as the ability to develop self supporting mechanism.

Physical illness allergies and different viral and non-viral diseases may occur due to the cause of weak immune system. One is known by the health he keeps but how can we maintain a healthier body system not only depend on our diet and exercise but how immune we are to resist against the physiological disorders.

Different kinds of vaccines are now in common use to evoke the immune response they act directly or indirectly and help the body mechanism to produce antibodies against that particular antigen.

The person who has a weak immunity not only suffers different frightening diseases but he is also susceptible to most of the contagious diseases. Weak Auto-immunity of a person develops the risk factor to several viral and bacterial infections and ultimately decreases the T-lymphocytes count. The body gets weaken and the enzymatic activity slows down in this manner. The self supportive mechanism targets different enzyme level and all other biological pathways for proper regeneration of enzymes.

How to get a proper immune support? One has to do much towards low fat diet intake of non-addictive drugs smoking hygiene and so on. By having good immune support we not only fight against different risk factors but we also get the natural tendency to stand by on physiological and psychological changes.

Immune Support AllNutri.com

Hi, I am Ketty and I am student of Medecine.

Seven Steps Towards an Allergy Free Home

1. Take your shoes off when you enter your home. Pesticides, pollen

and more can get on your shoes and then be transferred to carpets.

2. Idle your car in the driveway or street if you must. Never idle a car in an attached garage! Fumes can seep into the home. Install a carbon monoxide detector in the closest room to the garage for extra safety precautions.

3. Smokers can smoke outside. Smoke travels through a home, so smoking in one particular room is not a healthy alternative. Chemicals from cigarette smoke can remain in an environment for up to 10 years. Smoking in one room of a house is like asking to swim in the un-chlorinated side of the pool. It just doesn't work that way.

4. Use non-toxic cleaning products instead of chemical brands. Toxic ingredients to avoid are chlorine, ammonia, methylene, chloride, phenol, formaldehyde, cresol, and xylene. The fumes from these products can stay on surfaces for days until you absorb them into your skin or breathe them into your lungs. Toxic cleaning products is the #1 reason children end up in emergency rooms.

5. Never mix household cleaning products. The combination of chlorine bleach with an ammonia cleanser. It will give off a toxic gas that is a severe respiratory irritant.

6. Do not let pets in the bedrooms. All pets have dander?and it can be an allergen. We usually spend 6-8 breathing in the bedroom. Keep the bedroom as allergy-free as possible! An air purifier would be a bonus here. Your body needs a chance to rest without having to fight to breathe at the same time!

7. Cover pillows and mattresses with 100% cotton pillow and bedcovers. They are more breathable and product less allergens than plastic and polyester.

We can't choose when we want to breathe. We have to breathe every minute of the day. Shouldn't we be able to breathe clean air indoors?

If you?d like more Healthy Home Tips, then contact Debbie Mumm at www.healthy-environments.com. Her booklet, 6 Dozen Healthy Home Tips, is now available. It makes a terrific New Parent, or New Home gift! Debbie Mumm lives in Grayslake, IL and has been an Indoor Air Specialist since 1996.

Consider The Five Important Allergy Relief Measures

With each season, come new flowery blooms and blossoms. While most people enjoy these seasonal changes, this can be detrimental for allergy sufferers. The summer heat can increase the growth of certain allergy triggers, which will increase allergic reactions. Knowing what steps to take to get allergy relief, will help you enjoy each season and what come with them.

With these simple tips on what to do for allergies, you can get through each season with some much needed allergy relief.

* Limit your outdoor exposure during the peak allergen hours, such as morning hours to mid-afternoon. These times can be hard on people with allergies and cause wheezing, sneezing and itchy eyes, more so than other times of the day.

* When gardening or cleaning the house, be sure to put on a mask that will help filter out the dust particles and pollen.

* Keeping the windows closed will help reduce the amount of allergens in the house. Be sure to keep the A/C running inside when you can. The air conditioner offers a bit of allergy relief as well as it filters the air in the house, reducing pollutants.

* If you are a person who spends a lot of time outdoors then a nightly bath will provide allergy relief as it will help to wash pollen and pollutant off of the body and out of the hair. This will help you get a good nights rest. * You can help the onset of an allergy attack by taking the proper allergy relief medications prior to going outdoors. It is far better to ward off the allergic reactions rather than trying to settle them down.

You will want to keep your allergy medication handy at all times, or if you have no prescription you will want to keep some form of over the counter antihistamines on hand at all times to get immediate allergy relief.

These types of medications can help with the initial sneezing, watery eyes and itching. You might want to try a decongestant for a stuffy nose. You will want to stay away from such items as the over the counter nasal sprays for instant relief as they can be addicting.

Corticosteroid nose sprays can be very helpful in the long run as they help control symptoms and you only have to use them once a day. Keep in mind that, steroids for allergies are not the same as the steroids used by many sports minded people.

No matter what precautions one takes to avoid an allergic reaction, you still can have an attack from time to time, after all no one is safe from everything. The over the counter medications only offer short term allergy relief and it may be necessary at times to seek the help of a professional allergist.

Going to see an allergist can help you in many ways as they offer a variety of treatments for allergy suffers that are not available as over the counter treatments. Allergists can help you get long lasting allergy relief and they can also help you build your immune system to lower your reactions.

Allergists offer allergy injections that have proved to be the best medical treatment available. There is a new approach to the injections called rush immunotherapy, this has been proven to show amazing results. In this type of injection treatment, the shots are given over a shorter period of time, making this type of treatment good for people who have life threatening allergies.

These types of allergies may include severe allergic asthma or severe allergies to insects such as bee stings. Rush immunotherapy is also good for people who will be traveling, but as with any injection therapy this must be done in a doctor's office or a clinic.

By following some preventive measures and remedial measures, you will get the allergy relief needed to be active and enjoy the seasons as you were meant to.

Summary:

Summer brings with it many sort of allergies. With each season, come new flowery blooms and blossoms. While most people enjoy these seasonal changes, this can be detrimental for allergy sufferers. Knowing what steps to take for your allergic reactions, will help you enjoy each season and what come with them.
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A Look At Hypoallergenic Mattress Bedding:A Solution For People Suffering From Allergy

If you get up in the morning or after a refreshing brief afternoon siesta and have symptoms like sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, nasal stuffiness, runny nose or stuffy ears chances are you are suffering from dust mite allergy.

Dust mites belong to the same family as spiders and are often found in homes. However they are so small ,they cannot be seen by the naked eye. The bedroom is a perfect abode for these house dust mites and they make homes in your pillows, mattresses, blankets & bed springs. One study conducted by researchers found that the average bed has two million of these creatures living on it!

During the night we shed our dead skin cells and they often get attached to the mattresses we sleep on. Dust mites consume these dead skin cells and shed their waste droppings on the bed itself. Their waste containing allergens and debris and is the cause of most allergies. At least 10% of humans are allergic to dust mite droppings. During its short 80 day lifespan, the average dust mite produces around 1000 allergenic waste particles!

To cure this particular problem many bedding manufacturers have developed hypoallergenic bedding for standard mattresses. Due to their small size dust mites easily slip through the pores between the thread of normal bedding fabrics. Hypoallergenic mattress bedding is woven tightly so that the pores are too small for dust mites to penetrate and infest your bedding.

Even if you do not suffer from allergies it's a good idea to buy hypoallergenic bedding. It keeps your bedding clean and hygienic. Who wants to sleep on dust mites droppings anyway!

Mike Lombardy is a freelance writer & mattress salesman. He also edits a small site giving information on selecting mattress sizes.

The Itchy Dog: is it an Allergy?

Scratching is a very common symptom in dogs, and you as an owner should aim to nip it in the bud early before self trauma causes secondary injuries to your dog. However, before wondering whether your dog could have an allergy, you must rule out the common parasitic (fleas and mites), bacterial (hot spots) and fungal (ringworm and yeast) infections. See my article Is your Dog Scratching to explore these in greater detail.

Just as allergies have become more common in children these days compared to several generations ago, veterinarians are seeing far more allergies in pets too. It is difficult to explain this phenomenon, theories range from alterations in the content of pet foods to the use of modern day household cleaning products or simply genetic evolution. One thing is certain, whatever the cause, allergic dogs benefit hugely from avoiding the offending allergen or, if that is impossible, appropriate treatment to minimize the itchiness.

Lets start with the presenting signs of an allergy in dogs. Itchiness can manifest itself not only as obvious scratching at the neck and flanks, but also as face rubbing, foot licking or chewing and over grooming. Foot licking, for example, is often perceived by owners as normal, when in fact the dog is responding to itchy feet in the only way it can, by licking them. The skin between the toes may turn red and sore due to the compulsive licking, and in white dogs such as West Highland White Terriers and Bichon Frises, the fur is stained brown by saliva.

Ear infections are another common sign of an underlying allergy. Though general waxiness, hair in the ear canals, lack of ventilation, bacteria and yeast may trigger the infection, an underlying allergy is often the root cause of the itchiness. If your dog gets recurrent ear infections, by eliminating an underlying allergy you may prevent your dog from going over the itchiness threshold and developing full blown ear infections.

So, what are the common allergies in dogs?

For convenience they are best separated into 4 categories.

1) Flea bite hypersensitivity
2) Adverse food reaction
3) Atopic dermatitis
4) Contact dermatitis

Flea bite hypersensitivity is relatively straight forward to cure. It is a simple case of eliminating every single flea on the dog and, crucially, in his/her environment. The itchiness is caused by an allergic reaction to the flea saliva, and so even a solitary flea can trigger a scratching frenzy. To rule out flea bite hypersensitivity, all animals in the house (dogs and cats) should be treated with a reputable veterinary spot on medication monthly without fail, and the house should be thoroughly sprayed with an insecticidal spray.

Adverse food reactions are more difficult to treat as it can be difficult to isolate the precise ingredient responsible for causing itchiness in your dog. Not only that, treating adverse food reactions requires owners to be exceptionally disciplined and motivated in preventing their pet having even a single treat unless the exact ingredients are known to be safe.

There are two ways of diagnosing an adverse food reaction (also known as a food allergy). For those readers for whom cost is not an issue, a blood test can be done to measure for ingredient specific antibodies in the bloodstream. The blood test is quite costly, and if combined with a blood test for environmental allergens is usually upwards of $400 (?200). The company performing the blood test then provides a list of ingredients (chicken, beef, pork, rice, wheat etc) and a score next to them, suggesting which ingredients are best avoided. The owner then picks a commercial diet which does not include any of these ingredients, or indeed a special home cooked diet. The second way to diagnose an adverse food reaction is to conduct a dietary trial. This involves picking a very bland hypoallergenic diet and feeding your dog exclusively that for at least a month, preferably 6 weeks. The author usually suggests turkey and rice, as less dogs are allergic to turkey than chicken. Of course if your dog happened to be allergic to rice or turkey, which is rare but nevertheless possible, you would be none the wiser as the itchiness would continue and you would assume you had ruled out a food allergy having done the turkey and rice dietary trial. Remember if you are doing one of these trials, then your dog must not be given any treats, especially not pigs ears, chews, boneos, dental sticks or any rawhide products. Literally nothing must be swallowed other than turkey and rice (and water!) for the entire trial period.

If you have ruled out flea bite hypersensitivity and ruled out an adverse food reaction, the next step is to consider an environmental allergy, also known as atopic dermatitis. Symptoms of atopic dermatitis usually begin between 1 and 3 years of age, though any age is possible. The itchiness is often seasonal, which is consistent with a pollen allergy, though some dogs are itchy all year round. There are certain breeds which are predisposed to this condition: Boxers, Bull Terriers, Dalmations, English Bulldogs, German Shepherd Dogs, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Shar Peis, Shih Tzus and West Highland White Terriers being the most commonly affected. Diagnosis is usually made based on the history and ruling out all the other causes of itchiness, and many vets will treat the condition on these presumptions. However, definitive diagnosis can be achieved via a panel of injections into a patch of skin, or blood tests. Neither of these are particularly effective and generally not performed unless the owner is prepared to attempt a desensitization programme. This involves a long term course of injections given by your vet on, say, a monthly basis to desensitize your dog to the offending allergen, and so make the allergic reaction much smaller when he/she does come into contact with it.

Contact dermatitis is a skin reaction caused by your dog coming into contact with a chemical that is an irritant. It therefore only tends to affect the stomach, groin and feet of the dog, and is characterized by reddening and drying of the skin in these areas. It can also be seen when owners shampoo their dogs with a product that is not intended for use in dogs. Contact dermatitis is rare, but easily ruled out by careful use of cleaning products around the household. Just think, did the itchiness coincide with the introduction of a new carpet cleaner, washing powder or fabric softener?

By far the best treatment for any allergy is avoidance of the cause. By careful investigation and following the steps above this is often possible, especially for flea bite hypersensitivity, adverse food reactions and contact dermatitis. If avoidance is impossible though, as is the case for many cases of atopic dermatitis, then seasonal or lifelong treatment may be indicated. Steroids are very effective at stopping itchiness caused by allergies, but long term use can lead to undesirable side effects, such as adrenal gland disease. Long term steroid use should only be used as a last resort, when other medications have been tried and failed. These other medications include antihistamines, essential fatty acids and medicated shampoos.

Dr David Brooks is part of the online veterinary team at WhyDoesMyPet.com. Veterinarians, Vet Technicians, Nurses, Trainers, Behaviorists, Breeders and Pet Enthusiasts are here to answer your pet questions and concerns... Our dedicated community of caring experts are waiting to offer you advice, second opinions and support.

Allegra A Common Anti Allergy Drug

 More than 50 million Americans have allergies. Allergic rhinitis (inflammation in the nasal area) is the most common allergic disease, affecting at least 20 to 25 percent of the population. Allergies are the 6th leading cause of chronic illness in the U.S.

For allergy symptoms such as a runny nose, watery/itchy eyes, or sneezing that occur infrequently, most individuals can be treated successfully with an oral non-sedating antihistamine such as Loratadine (Claritin), Desloratadine (Clarinex), Fexofenadine (Allegra), or Cetirizine (Zyrtec) or an antihistamine nasal spray.

Allegra is a common anti allergy drug available by prescription. Fexofenadine or Allegra is an oral, "second generation" antihistamine that is used to treat the signs and symptoms of allergy that are due to histamine. It is similar to the other second generation antihistamines like the Loratadine (Claritin), Cetirizine (Zyrtec) and Azelastine (Astelin). Histamine is a chemical that is responsible for many symptoms of allergic reactions, for example, swelling of the lining of the nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes.

Fexofenadine blocks one type of receptor for histamine (the H1 receptor) and thus prevents activation of H1 receptor-containing cells by histamine. Unlike the first generation antihistamines, fexofenadine and other second-generation antihistamines do not readily enter the brain from the blood, and, therefore, they cause less drowsiness.

Sanofi-Aventis announced this month that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have approved Allegra(R), (fexofenadine hydrochloride), an oral suspension for the twice-daily treatment of symptoms associated with seasonal allergies in pediatric patients, 2 to 11 years of age, and for the treatment of chronic idiopathic urticaria in children 6 months to 11 years of age. This approval makes available a safe and effective seasonal allergy treatment option that is non-impairing to pediatric populations as young as 2 years old.

Allegra side effects in children 6 months to 5 years old were similar to placebo. Side effects varied by age. The most commonly reported Allegra side effects were: vomiting, pyrexia, cough, otitis media and diarrhea.
An advisory panel of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has voted overwhelmingly that three allergy remedies?Loratadine, Cetirizine, and Fexofenadine (Allegra) are safe enough to be bought at pharmacies and supermarkets without a doctor?s prescription. But the manufacturers of the drugs are resisting the idea.
Fexofenadine, marketed in the United Kingdom as Telfast and in the United States as Allegra, is available only on prescription in both countries. But you can check Allegra information available on various internet sites.

The three popular anti-allergy drugs marketed by Schering-Plough, Pfizer, and Aventis, are heavily advertised directly to consumers. The drug companies claim that they are better than the older drugs because they do not cause drowsiness.

Roger is an associated editor to the website http://www.allegrarelief.com . It is committed to provide visitors with complete information on allergy, Anti allergy Drug, Allegra Dosage & allegra effects. You can reach Roger at roger.sandler@gmail.com.

Pain, Allergy and Burn Relief Remedy

Blue Tansy's high azulene content gives it a vivid, deep blue color. It can stain so take care!

Blue Tansy's delightful scent is warmly herbaceous with a complex sweetness that to me is reminiscent of apples with a hint of spice.

Everyone invariably loves the friendly and inviting scent of Blue Tansy!

Its rapid anti-inflammatory action immediately calms the nervous system and associated muscles, ligaments and tendons.

Blue Tansy's natural anti-inflammatory action makes it an exceptionally good relaxant.

Use Blue Tansy for relieving muscular aches and pains, sprains and strains, arthritis, rheumatism and sciatica.

Soothes nervous tension and relieves stress!

Blue Tansy is a natural antihistamine with anti-allergic properties.

Research shows Blue Tansy to be especially effective for allergy relief!

Useful in blends for asthma and emphysema due to its bronchio-dilating effect, blending with Lemongrass will enhance this effect.

Strong analgesic properties help reduce any swelling or itching associated with allergies.

Calms dermatitis!

Blue Tansy is excellent first aid remedy for radiation burns from cancer treatment, as well as for inflamed or sun damaged skin.

In Ayurvedic Medicine, an ancient system of healing practiced in India, the sweetly cooling and spicy aroma of Blue Tansy is ideal to regulate and pacify ALL the Doshas or bodymind types. Vata, Pitta and Kapha imbalances respond well to Blue Tansy's regulating influence.

Symptoms of Vata imbalance are premenstrual syndrome, constipation, insomnia, restlessness, nervousness, anxiety and worry.

Symptoms of Pitta imbalance are high blood pressure, anger, frustration and emotional upsets.

Symptoms of Kapha imbalance are high cholesterol, low metabolic forces, slow to lose weight, fluid retention, stagnation and blockage, lethargy and depression.

BLEND WITH: Lemongrass, Rosemary, Helichrysum, Cypress, Chamomile

PLEASE NOTE: There are many cheap, synthetic copies of aromatic oils, but these are not recommended for therapeutic use. For best results purchase the highest quality oils you can possibly find. Use certified organic essential oils, or oils that have been tested and are pesticide free.

Aromatherapy is a gentle and noninvasive complementary health care system used for balancing and synchronizing your body, mind, spirit and emotions to enhance your health. Properly administered essential oils are a natural, safe and effective way to enhance your health and well-being and can produce satisfying results where other methods have failed. Please consult with your physician regarding serious health concerns and do not attempt to self diagnose.

KG Stiles is a certified aromatherapist practicing in Ashland, OR USA. PurePlant Essentials is her line of pure organic essential oils. Remedies with Blue Tansy KG recommends: Click to learn about & order ALLERGY RELIEF Click to learn about & order ESSENTIAL OILS COMPLETE GIFT SET - INCLUDES BLUE TANSY Click to order BLUE TANSY More Info? Contact: KG Stiles at Springhill Wellness Center, 2520 Springhill Drive Ashland, OR USA (541) 941-7315 Mahalo!

What Is A Gluten Allergy

In wheat, barley, rye, and low level oats, there is a rubbery like protein called gluten. This substance is what helps the dough bind, which you would see with baked breads and other baked foods. Although these grains contain gluten, which can cause a gluten allergy in sensitive people, they also contain a number of other proteins that can also cause allergy symptoms.

The four primary proteins found in wheat, rye, and barley includes albumin, globulin, gliadin, and glutenin, better known as gluten. While the symptoms and severity of the symptoms of gluten allergy vary from one person to another, generally a person would experience hives, swelling, abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting, or asthma. If the person is highly sensitive to gluten allergy, the symptoms could be life-threatening.

The good news about gluten allergy is that if the person has a reaction after eating wheat or wheat product, making an early diagnosis is easy. The challenge is that so many of the foods we eat are made with wheat, making it difficult to tell where the real problem lies. Most often, a trained doctor or allergist would conduct a skin prick test or take blood to confirm that gluten allergy is the problem.

If the reaction to gluten is severe, the solution might be to eliminate wheat and wheat by-products from the diet. However, if the gluten allergy is minor, then reducing the amount of wheat consumed and/or allergy medication or shots might do the trick. If the person with gluten allergy is a young child, chances are he or she will outgrow the allergy.

Gluten Intolerance, also known as Coeliac Disease, is a hereditary disorder that affects the immune system. In this case, when gluten is consumed, the mucosa, which is the lining of the small intestine, is damaged. When this happens, important vitamins and nutrients are not absorbed properly. When a person has this type of gluten allergy, the symptoms would be different in children than they would be in adults.

For children, the gluten allergy would be seen as abdominal distension, impaired growth, abnormal stools, irritability, poor muscle tone, malabsorption, poor appetite, and wasting of muscle. If an adult has this type of gluten allergy, then diarrhea, significant weight loss, abdominal cramping and bloating, constipation, and offensive stools are common.

In both cases of gluten allergy, a doctor would need to perform blood tests to make a confirmed diagnosis. Once done, the only treatment is to have gluten completely eliminated from the diet. Because of this, it is essential that nutrient and vitamin deficiencies be addressed with things such as niacin, iron, thiamin, riboflavin, chromium, magnesium, selenium, folacin, molybdenum, and phosphorus. With proper care and diet, a person with gluten allergy can enjoy a hearty choice of foods without the irritating symptoms.

Grant Segall RPh is a pharmacist and webmaster for the allergy related website http://www.allergy-allergy.com.

When Goose Allergy Gives You Goose Bumps

Goose bumps are prevalent when you are scared. Goose bumps also occur when you are greatly mad, sad, happy or aroused.

Whatever the cause of goose bumps, it can always be noted that they are not always good.

Such is the case when you develop goose allergy. Goose allergy is not a very common form of allergy. Medical journals and resources do not even recognize it as a modern or frequently occurring allergy.

Hence, the real definition of goose allergy varies and is often treated with utmost confusion. Goose feathers can cause allergy just like feathers, fur and danders of cats, dogs and birds cause allergy to the skin.

However, the more prevalent occurrence of goose allergy is attributed or identified to eating the meat of a duck or goose. This article will focus on that.

Cause of goose allergy

One way of surely getting or acquiring goose allergy is through eating duck meat. Duck meat can be turned into several delectable delicacies and there are a rising number of countries around the world that are somehow turning into consuming such meat.

You may or may not agree with people eating goose or duck meat. Whatever argument you are taking regarding duck meat, you still can not change the fact that ducks meats are becoming popular, be it on exotic or regular menus.

Because duck belongs to the family of chicken and turkey, there a number of people who have duck or goose allergy.

People may have goose allergy, but they will never find out about it until they happen to experience the onset or manifestation goose allergy. Of course these symptoms will surface after they have eaten duck or goose meat. Symptoms of goose allergy then start to appear.

Symptoms of goose allergy

Symptoms of goose allergy are somehow similar to symptoms of chicken allergy. It is because goose, chicken and ducks are of the same family of bird or poultry species that are raise for their meat and for their eggs.

Goose allergy attacks are characterized by asthma attacks, eczema, unusual fatigue, insomnia, depression and chronic disturbance of the gastrointestinal system.

Unusual symptoms of goose allergy may also appear like bed-wetting and infections particularly in the bladder and in the ears. Migraine coming along with other symptoms may also be expected.

Sinusitis can also observed in people with goose allergy especially during duck allergy attacks.

Be aware that the manifestations of goose allergy attacks may occur and show up hours or even about one to two days after taking in or eating duck meat.

Treatment and prevention of goose allergy

Just like other forms of allergies, antihistamines are prescribed to people exhibiting apparent indications or manifestations of goose allergy. It is important to note, however, that antihistamines should not be taken without proper prescription as it may lead to over dosage and other serious medical conditions.

Antihistamines contain substances and anti-allergic enzymes that can pose adverse and irreversible side effects to people who take inappropriate dosages.

People with goose allergy, above all things, should also eliminate duck meat in their daily diet. Goose and duck allergic people should do so immediately if the symptoms of goose allergy are already exhibiting or showing up. Doing so would certainly stop the prevalence or occurrence of such manifestations.

Charlene J. Nuble 2006.

For answers to All your frequently asked questions about goose allergy, please go to: http://goose-allergy.allergyanswers.net/ or go to: http://allergyanswers.net/ http://allergyanswers.blogspot.com/

Allergies-Relief from Allergy - Its Symptoms and Medication

What is Allergy

An Allergy is a hypersensitive response of the body to certain substances, called allergens. These allergens can be of plant origin such as pollens, animal origin such as dander (scales shed from the skin, hair, or fur of animals), and insect origin such as the stings of bees and wasps, or the dust mites themselves. House dust, smog, smoke, and some strong odors may trigger allergies. Drugs like penicillins and cephalosporins evoke allergic reactions in sensitive patients. Food allergies are also extremely common and vary individualistically from animal sources like eggs, milk, and sea food to plant sources such as eggplant, drumstick, and wheat. Allergens can be inhaled, eaten, injected, or contacted by the skin.

Signs and symptoms of Allergies

The body's defense mechanism is considering simple and otherwise harmless substances to be potentially dangerous and is preparing for battle by producing a particular type of antibody called IgE in large amounts but in a way that on exposure to an allergen for the first time, only its memory remains. However, on subsequent exposure, an allergic response is manifested in the form of signs and symptoms depending on the tissue, organ, or system involved. All these are due to the release of a chemical substance called Histamine by some body cells under the influence of IgE, thus inducing congestion, excessive secretion, and muscle spasms. The most common examples are those of Asthma (a respiratory allergy with wheezing and breathlessness) and Eczema(a skin allergy with eruptions, itching, oozing, etc.)

Causes of Allergies

Although modern medicine claims that allergies and most of the other chronic diseases have a hereditary predisposition to blame, homeopaths and naturopaths all over the world believe that every disease is multi-factorial in origin. Health according to them is a dynamic state of physical, mental, and spiritual equilibrium where a homeostasis is maintained in spite of a continuous influx and interaction of the opposing or negative energies with the life perpetuating ones through harmoniously orchestrated processes that are so subtle that they can hardly be perceived. In simple words, other than one's genes, the lifestyle, diet and regimen, psychological state of a person, and degree of exposure to toxins or irritants, together contribute to giving rise to an allergic personality. Thus logically speaking, it is the immunity at fault and not the allergen. In fact, observations show that in most cases, once an allergic disposition is acquired, the body gradually begins to react hypersensitivity to more and more substances so as to only add to the medical list of allergens. Hence, it can be easily surmised that the remedial measures must be capable of bringing the deranged immunity back to normal rather than expecting and advising the allergic patients to give up or stay away from all the probable allergens.

Auxiliary treatment of Allergies
It has been known for long that natural foods and natural living always pays off good dividends probably because Mother Nature completely shoulders our responsibility, but if it's the artificial that you cherish, then Mother Nature will see that you perish. One doesn't really need to browse through research documents to fathom the truth in this statement. All that one needs to do is to go into retrospect and compare his or her life with that of his or her grand parents. It's not that there were no illnesses then; however, those illnesses were genuinely caused by miasma such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. These days, the number of allergic and auto-immune disorders has gone up to such an extent that they beat all the natural causes.

Following is a list of probable underlying causes that set the background for the development of an allergy.

* Regular exposure to pollutants in air, food, water, etc.
* Sedentary lifestyle which leads to impaired blood circulation and poor oxygenation of the tissues.
* Lack of sleep.
* Injudicious administration of vaccines and allopathic medicines which are after all foreign proteins and chemicals which have the capacity to alter the immunity.
* Frequent negative or overpowering mental states such as depression, anxiety, grief, fear, anger, irritability, despair, jealousy, etc.
* Improper external as well as internal hygiene inclusive of proper bowel/bladder/sexual habits and avoidance of substance abuse in the form of tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs.

This artical is a part of Biogetica.com a health portal.

I stood first in the Mumbai University Homeopathic degree examinations. The oldest Homeopathic pharmacies in India chose me as one of their main consultants at a young age. I had done plenty to further the cause of homeopathy and vibrational medicines. I am familiar with iridology, classical homeopathy, magneto therapy, naturopathy, yoga, meditation, urine therapy, bio chemical salts, Bach flower remedies, and mana force spiritual healing. I am Medical Director of Biogetica.com.

Allergies - Allergy Shots

In this article we're going to discuss a common form of battling allergies with the use of allergy shots and how allergy shots work to build up a person's immunity to outside allergens.

A growing number of people who suffer from allergies and not finding the relief that they want from antihistamines are turning towards allergy shots to hopefully put and end to their dreaded sneezing, wheezing, itching and misery.

So exactly what are allergy shots? Allergy shots actually contain a very small amount of whatever it is that you're allergic to. If you have multiple allergies, such as a combination of indoor and outdoor allergies, then two shots are actually given. One for the outdoor allergies and one for the indoor allergies.

How do allergy shots work? Well, in theory it's actually very simple. Allergy shots help your body fight the allergen that is bothering you. When you get shots of the allergen itself your body makes antibodies to the allergen. These antibodies help block the effects of the allergen itself. Your symptoms become less severe because the antibodies block the way your body reacts to the allergens. After taking enough of these shots over a long period of time you might start to get relief from your symptoms. This relief should last for a very long time.

Many kinds of allergies can be battled with allergy shots. They work very well with allergies to pollen, or what is commonly called hay fever. They also work for eye allergies, bee sting allergies, and even some drug allergies. In many people, allergy shots can greatly improve asthma symptoms. Most people will get allergy shots after they have exhausted every other option.

Unfortunately, not everyone can get allergy shots. If you have severe asthma or a heart problem you should not get allergy shots. Also, if you take a beta blocker for a heart condition you shouldn't take allergy shots. Children under five years of age should also not get allergy shots. Also, you shouldn't start allergy shots if you are pregnant.

If you decide, along with your doctor, to get allergy shots, he will first have to give you an allergy test to determine what allergies you have. This test in effect is actual treatment as some of each allergen has to be injected into you in order to do the test. After the results are in, a vaccine can be made which can then be given on a weekly or biweekly basis or for whatever interval the doctor thinks is necessary.

Once you start taking your shots you will at first have to take them every week or every other week. After about 6 months most people can go on what is called maintenance and get shots once each month. This usually continues for about 3 to 5 years until eventually most people no longer need to take shots because their immunity has been built up enough to the allergens.

Allergy shots are normally not harmful but some people do have reactions to them. If you should have a severe reaction the doctor will usually keep you in his office for about 20 minutes each time you get your shot so that if you have a reaction he can give you something to counteract it.
Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Allergies
 

Learn How To Control Pollen Allergy Symptoms

There are many different types of allergies. Approximately 1 in 7 people are allergic to pollen. Pollens are small, egg-shaped male cells of flowering plants. The flowering plants produce these pollens as part of their reproductive process. All kinds of trees, weeds and grasses use wind pollination. These plants have dangling structures or anthers. This is where the wind captures the pollen. A large amount of pollen is released and transmitted through the air to a surface. It may land in your eyes or you could breathe it in. A few will land on a receptive stigma or female organ.

Some symptoms of pollen allergies are stuffy nose, itchy eyes, headaches, sore throat and trouble breathing. How much pollen that is in the air depends on the time of day and if the weather is windy and warm. The total amount of pollen in the air for a day is called the pollen count.

Pollen grains carry on their exterior coat 30-40 dissimilar proteins. The female parts of the flower need these proteins to distinguish the correct match for pollination. If you inhale in pollen grains or they get into your eyes, the proteins are discharged just as if they landed on a receptive female stigma.

Normally the immune system would take care of the foreign proteins by discarding them. Some people have an immune system that will not get rid of the pollen proteins. Instead, a process takes place that releases a chemical called histamine. The histamine causes the symptoms of the allergy.

Mid October to the end of March are usually the months when pollen is in the air. It depends on the region because of the plant's response to the climate. Trees flower when the weather starts to get warmer in the spring. The flowering time for each kind of tree lasts around two weeks but the peak pollinating period only last a couple of days. There are many varieties of grass and they each have their own flowering period anywhere between mid-December and mid-March.

There are a few ways you can lower your exposure to pollen. Pollen clings to clothes, skin and hair. Take a bath or shower and change your clothes after you have been outside. It is best to stay indoors during the morning hours between 5 and 10 a.m. Also try to avoid being outdoors on dry days or when the wind is strong. Wear a protective mask if you must work outside. Vacuum regularly with a vacuum cleaner that catches all the airborne particles. You can also use a good air purifier to keep your indoor air clean. Taking herbs such as enchinacea and dandelion has been suggested to help allergy symptoms.

Learn as much as you can about the plants that cause your allergic reaction. This will teach to recognize the plants so you can stay away from them when they are pollinating. Keep all the windows closed during the day and run an air conditioner. Before the pollination period starts and after it is over you have nothing to worry about. You can even take a walk in a wooded area.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Allergies

Decrease Your Cat Allergy Symptoms

If you start to sneeze, develop teary eyes, a runny nose and a headache every time you get near your cat you might be having an allergic reaction. Cat allergens from the saliva and dander have to be airborne in order for you to breathe them in and then have an allergic reaction. Since they are airborne, they can circulate everywhere in your house and on you. Have yourself tested so you can be sure your symptoms are coming from your cat. Allergists can perform a scratch test on your skin that can reveal 70-80 possible allergens. Allergies to a pet can begin at any age. Many people that have pet allergies may have allergies to other things like molds or pollen. Allergies also tend to run in families.

Most people do not want to give up their cat unless they absolutely have to. If the symptoms are mild, you probably will be able to keep your cat. There are ways to decrease the unpleasant symptoms of the allergy.

Start by not letting your cats sleep with you anymore. In fact, keep them out of your bedroom completely. Wash your bedclothes in a hot water temperature of 140-degrees. This will eliminate any allergens while you are trying to get your symptoms under control.

Try to keep your cat confined to one area of the house until you have been treated and feel better. This might be difficult but it may be the only solution if you have severe allergies. A room you don't use could be a good area to keep your cat in temporarily. Make sure you put toys, food and water in the room. A room with windows with wide panes may be a good idea so they can sit and look outside. Have someone without allergies take your cat outside for a while every day.

Cats should be bathed regularly to control the quantity of allergens that are released. A good micro fiber cloth will also work. You can rub down their coat to eliminate any obvious dander. There are shampoos for pets that work to reduce the airborne allergens. Always wash your hands after touching your cat. There are medications that can be taken such as antihistamines, eye drops and nasal sprays. Allergy desensitization shots are another treatment option. The shots make the person immune to the allergies. Small amounts of allergens are injected at first and than slowly increased. Make an appointment with a holistic healthcare practitioner if you want a more natural way to control your symptoms. Nutritional supplements and herbs may decrease an allergic response. Your cat should also eat a healthy diet with omega-3 fatty acids. Cats produce less dander if they are healthy.

If for some reason you don't respond to any of the treatments then you might have to give up your pet. Of course, you want them to have a good home. Ask family members or friends if they would take your cat. Rescue groups are also good to call to help you find a place where your pet will receive excellent care.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Allergies