What You Need To Know About Wheat Intolerance

There are people who have wheat intolerance due to the allergic reaction that occurs when wheat is introduced in the diet. More often than not, it can be seen as early as childhood when a baby categorically becomes sick when eating foods with wheat or drinking wheat - based fluids. However, wheat intolerance is not generally considered as a form of allergic reaction to wheat. It is usually not associated to sudden appearance of allergic reactions which can be attributed to other factors since there are certain underlying conditions that can define the true range of the intolerance to wheat products.

According to statistics, at least one out of seven individuals can experience wheat intolerance. Since the symptoms for this condition varies a lot and may manifest several days after consuming the product, proper diagnosis can be difficult. Technically speaking, wheat intolerance is basically an allergic response to wheat based products. However, there or other parts of the immune system that can be involved other than what are affected when true wheat allergies manifest. Some of the symptoms for wheat intolerance are comparable with mastisis symptoms although among the most common indication includes:

*Sudden headache, stomach cramping and bloating
*Diarrhea or constipation, flatulence,
*Chronic fatigue
*Arthritis
*Skin rashes
*Eczema
*Low resistance to infection among others.

The symptoms for wheat intolerance may start from mild flatulence to vomiting and severe stomach cramps. Even older people may develop intolerance to wheat because experts believe that the genetic makeup of human bodies do not evolve as fast as agricultural products do. Today, wheat production or often based on scientific methods in order to increase the harvests. Sometimes when the genetic structure of wheat is altered in order for farmers to shorten their waiting time before harvesting, the complex molecular structure of wheat is also altered making it difficult for some people to digest proteins from these agricultural products. There are cases wherein it spreads to other similar products like rye, barley, and oats.

There is no best treatment for recovering from wheat intolerance except avoiding the product altogether. However, depending on how serious the condition is, gradually introducing the wheat in the daily diets using small portions may help train the body to recognize the protein structure of wheat so that it can digest it. On the other hand, this is not recommended for those who serious intolerance to wheat because it can lead to a more serious condition when the symptoms become severe.

If you are suspecting your child to have wheat intolerance, the best way to find out is through food elimination diet. You can start a regimen of introducing certain food groups you suspect of causing the allergic reaction and eliminating it from the list once your suspicion is cleared. This will help you determine if a true wheat allergy is present or there are other types of food that cause the allergy. This way, you can avoid introducing wheat to your child's diet if your suspicion is confirmed that wheat intolerance is the cause of the allergic reaction.

Learn more about wheat intolerance and how to treat its symptoms. Find out about mastisis symptoms and how to deal with it properly.

Original article

Almond Allergy - What Causes It?

Forty percent of Americans believe that they have an allergic reaction to certain foods. Of all allergies, nut allergies mainly result in deaths. At a point you probably experienced symptoms when you ate some food with almonds in it. Does that mean you are having an allergic reaction? How would you know if you are allergic to almonds? If you are having an reaction, what can you do?

Allergic reactions may be mild. This can be in the form of rash and/or watery eyes and congestion. The reaction may also be moderate such as rash and hives, itchiness and/or difficulty breathing. A severe reaction however, consists of abdominal pains, vomiting and strenuous breathing. A severe reaction to almonds may occur such as the unexpected incapability to breathe.

The symptoms of food intolerance are often confused with an allergic reaction. About two hours after consuming the food, a true allergic reaction will occur, which involves a reaction by the skin and bowels. Food intolerance, on the other hand, is a gastronomic reaction and not an immune system response. Symptoms of food intolerance include diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, heartburn and headaches. A hint as little as 1/44,000th of a nut can generate an allergic effect, while intolerances involve some amount of intake to cause a response.

Foods that normally cause reactions are protein based. The body sometimes misinterpret proteins as being intruders. The immune system reacts by discharging antibodies and histamines to drive out the allergen out of the body. A grouping of locations is likely for outbreaks and do not essentially relate to the area of intake or function.

All food allergies can be hereditary, including reaction to almonds. It is mainly expected to come about during youth. Some allergies will fade away in adulthood. At any time, new allergies can emerge. Repeated experience makes allergic responses more probable. Some items crop up in many foods, which make them more liable to set off allergic reactions. Likely allergens include corn, wheat, dairy, eggs and soy.

Eliminating almonds is of vital importance. Because not all goods have items listings; and because some mask it underneath an alternate name or just simply not list it at all, trying to totally eliminate almonds can become quite complicated. Almonds applied to the skin can trigger a reaction also. It can also turn up in cosmetic products such as conditioner, shampoo and lotion. Take note of alternate titles such as Amygdalus dulcis or Prunus dulcis. There is a link in Resources that list home remedies that may be of help. Do not be discouraged because in some cases, after reducing exposure to almonds, the reaction does go away.

Halfdan Timm is a young entrepreneur from Denmark, who has made a site on almond allergy. Information regarding this very subject can be found here - for example, reading about signs of allergies is possible - take a look for yourself, if you happen to have apple allergy!

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The Symptoms That Can Indicate An Apple Allergy

Apple is known to be the main player in the allergic reaction called Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS). Ninety percent of apple allergies that are found in northern Europe and North America are more often than not related to "birch pollen." Since apple allergies are mainly centred on pollen, most apple allergy reactions occur after eating a fresh apple (particularly with the skin) and other parts of the Rosaceae fruits such as the hazelnut and peach. Only raw fruit, and not apples that have been pasteurized and cooked, will affect persons who are liable to have an apple allergy. The allergy producing proteins cannot survive the cooking or the pasteurizing process.

Watery eyes often results from Oral Allergy Syndrome that is usually brought on by an apple allergy. According to Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters Health System, indicators like sneezing and runny nose can also occur during an apple allergic reaction. This type of reaction can be brought on by the skin of the fruit making contact with the face or the skin on the hands. This contact can be made simply from peeling the fruit.

Itching may also be a sign that an apple was eaten. Swelling of the gums, tongue and lips and also tingling may accompany the itching. Dangerous swelling may appear around the throat as well, and the danger of asphyxiation may occur. Anaphylaxis is a severe condition that can cause difficulty in breathing, nausea as well as low blood pressure. Therefore, at the first indication that anaphylaxis is present, medical attention should be sought.

Apple allergies can show up around the mouth in the form of hives. These hives may come with seasonal allergic reactions and also when fresh fruits are eaten from the Rosaceae family. Symptoms present in seasonal pollen allergies and apple allergies imply that maybe there is a direct connection between proteins found in birch pollen and those found in apples.

When young children seem to dislike apples and any fruits from the Rosaceae family, their parents may see them as being very fussy eaters. In truth though, the child may just be reacting to the after effect of eating the fruit. Noticeable symptoms of hives or swelling may not accompany the itchiness the child experiences, hence he or she may find it difficult to express what is being felt. The child may simply turn away from eating the fruit instead.

For some persons, abdominal pain and diarrhoea may occur. The allergy sometimes can have such an acute effect on the gastrointestinal structure that bloody faeces may result.

Halfdan Timm is a young entrepreneur from Denmark, who has made a site on apple allergy. Information regarding this very subject can be found here - for example, reading about nasal allergy is possible - take a look for yourself already today!

Original article

10 Tips to Surviving Spring Allergies

With the onset of spring, and summer just around the corner the flowers are blooming, the grass is green and the sun is shining. So waving goodbye to your allergies for another season seems like an exciting prospect.

Is it though? With one in four people suffering from allergies like Eczema, Asthma or Hay fever for many, especially babies and young children the change of season brings no relief and only a host of other issues to contend with.

Two of the most common allergens dust mite and mould still continue to thrive but with spring upon us and the pollen count starting to rise for allergy sufferers this time of the year can be the worst for triggering outbreaks of eczema, hay fever and asthma.

While the flowers in bloom bring beauty and fragrance the pollens bring sneezing, itching and a host of other symptoms.

Mould in particular is more prevalent in cooler and moist conditions commonly seen on walls, ceilings, certain types of furniture, bathrooms and in the laundry.

Older style homes using weatherboard and fibro that were built without insulation or windows being closed all winter with no adequate ventilation tend to attract mould easier than a brick home.

Combine this with dust mites that breed in rugs, bedding and the extra blankets used throughout winter. Turn on the air conditioning to further circulate the dust and just to finish off with pats and cuddles from our furry friends.

Is it any wonder that young children in particular tend to spend more time at the doctor during the cooler seasons than at any other time of the year.

Another issue can be misdiagnosis, many children are placed on antibiotics for upper respiratory and chest infections and commonly attendance at childcare or school is blamed for this when in fact your child may very well have any allergy.

If your child is constantly sniffling, has a runny nose, coughing a lot particularly at night or early morning and no amount of antibiotics seems to treat the issue question the doctor on whether your child could possibly have an allergy like hay fever or asthma and get a referral to a respiratory paediatrician or an allergist.

There is no avoiding the change in season but there are steps you can take to reduce allergies taking over your household.

Allergy Action Plan

Wash pillows and sheets weekly in hot water above 55 degrees with a few drops of tea tree oil to kill dust mitesIf pollen triggers your allergies then consider drying your clothes in the clothes dryer or indoors, whilst energy conservation is paramount your health and wellbeing is more soTry to avoid the outdoors during windy weatherVacuum mattresses, rugs and curtains - spray with either a dust mite spray or mix some very hot water with tea tree oil and sprayDust more frequentlyIf your house isn't insulated strongly consider having this done, insulation batts rating R2.5 or higher in your ceiling and combining this with a whirlybird or 2 on the roof is great for ventilation of the house and assists in reducing mould. It will also increase warmth in winter and further cools the house in summer so reducing the need for heating and cooling which is a definite allergy trigger.Wash walls and furniture if mould is present. If mould is a real issue consider getting in a mould cleaning specialist.Place moisture absorbers under beds or in areas where dampness and moisture is a problem these can be found in your supermarket cleaning aisles and they will last for 2-3 months.Clean filters regularly on your air conditioners and spray with some tea tree and lemon oil mixed in hot water not only is this blend totally natural, it has antiseptic properties and leaves the room smelling fresh.As much as you love your furry friends, cats can be a child's worst enemy when they have allergies.

By being prepared and putting your allergy action plan in place your child's spring season may pass with fewer trips to the doctor than you might think.

Nadine Hall is an Aromatherapist, Certified Infant Massage Instructor and mother of two. Visit her website: http://www.naturewithin.com.au/

Original article

Gluten Allergy Symptoms and Prevention For Men and Women

Millions of People around the world suffer from food allergy. Science has yet to discover the specific cause of this type of allergic reaction and why some people becomes allergic to particular types of food. However, one thing is for sure, visible symptoms can be seen when the person is exposed to food allergens.

One known type is Gluten allergy which starts at a very young age. Professionals have yet to conclude the specific reasons why an individual develops this type of food allergy. And sad to say, there are no available medicines available to alleviate this allergy (medications available can only help lessen the pain from the small intestine and not stop the allergic reaction) except that the person who has it should avoid foods that contain gluten.

Coeliac disease is often associated with Gluten allergy and specifically pertains to the health condition wherein the immune system attacks the lining of the small intestine when the patient is exposed to gluten. This condition may catapult to more serious complications in the future including cancer, bone disease and even anemia; if left untreated.

Visible signs can be witnessed on the person who suffers from this type of food allergy. The lining in the small intestine is important for absorption of nutrients in the body so young patients may show loss of appetite, weight loss, vomiting and diarrhea. On the other hand, adult patients may suffer similar conditions like constipation, diarrhea and loss of weight. Some individuals may also show signs of depression, extreme fatigue and bone pain.

Allergens that cause this food allergy can be traced from wheat products including bread, pastries, pasta, cereals, soups, sauces and other baked goods. The best thing to do as mentioned was to avoid those type of food groups that contain gluten or perhaps eat food substitutes like drinking wine instead of beer or using gluten-free products found in various grocery stores.

Preventing food allergy is not an easy task. Individuals who suffer from this health condition should monitor their diet regularly - which could be a pain most of the times. In other words, self-discipline is the key to win against gluten allergy and coeliac disease.

But of course, the patient has to be vigilant on the type of food/ alternative he or she eats. To do so, regular check-up is also necessary in order to ensure that the patient is healthy and eating the right kinds of food.

Original article

Identifying And Dealing With Sore Throat Allergies

When the immune system perceives something taken into the body as being harmless, it sends out certain chemicals to counteract their negative effects on the body. Some of these substances that immune system is trying to protect the body against, are harmless. However, the body does what it does in order to protect itself.

One symptom of a throat allergy is hay fever. This symptom is usually quite tenacious. Persons who are continuously exposed to pollutants from industrial wastes, metals or candida, agonizes with long-lasting sore throat allergies. The ingesting of foods such as cucumber, zucchini and sunflower seeds is the major cause for severe sore throat allergies. For sore throat allergy to be treated, it is imperative that its symptoms be properly identified. In addition to the symptoms already mentioned, persons suffering from sore throat allergies also experience a pain when swallowing and their nasal passages are usually congested.

When you have a sore throat that is caused by allergies, it is not always necessary for you to take drugs as a means of cure. Alternative treatments could include the use of peppermint oil and several other non-prescription treatments. Another way to treat your sore throat is the way that has long been used and may even be the most effective method; gargling with tepid water with some salt in it. Sprays for the throat that can be bought over the counter are also very effective in treating a sore throat allergy.

Drinking lots of fluids is also a good way to help to soothe your hard-testet throat on the way to curing your throat allergy. Water, vegetable soups and broths are usually advisable when one is suffering from a throat allergy. Rest is also a very essential in the treatment of a throat, which is sore. However, if there are additional symptoms and if the other symptoms persist despite all your efforts to treat them, then you should go the doctor to get it checked out.

When a doctor's definitive prognosis comes back to say that your throat has been triggered by allergies, s/he will try to discover exactly what triggered your allergic reaction. More than likely your doctor will tell you that you will need to stay away from whatever it is you are allergic to, be it the foods you consume or any other allergens such as pollen. Additionally, you should try to stay away from smoking and drinking alcohol, and avoid dehydration as this may cause an irritation of the throat which in turn will cause you to cough; further irritating your already poor throat.

Halfdan Timm is a young entrepreneur from Denmark, who has made a site on sore throat allergies. Information regarding this very subject can be found here - for example, reading about allergies cough is possible - take a look for yourself!

Original article

Allergies And Americans

In America, about one out of four people suffer from some type of allergy. That's over 60 million! Moreover, many people have more than one type. Allergies are the third most common chronic disease in children, and the fifth highest chronic disease overall. They come in a variety of forms. Which one do you have and how might you get some help?

Indoor/Outdoor

The indoor/outdoor allergies are carried on the air. They include pollen (from trees, grass and weeds), mold spores and dust mites. Pet allergies are also in this group, such as cat, dog and rodent allergies. Cat dander is the most common pet allergy. About three-quarters of all people with allergies have allergies in the indoor/outdoor group.

Skin

About seven percent of sufferers have skin allergies, which are caused by touching the allergen. Poisonous plants like poison oak, poison ivy and poison sumac all trigger allergies on skin contact. Other common allergens are latex (such as latex gloves), cockroaches and dust mites. Even some foods can be skin allergens. Many people also suffer from exposure to harsh chemicals in the house such as cleaning products. When applied to the skin and not removed promptly, many of these can cause harsh rashes and irritations.

Food and Drug

Food allergies get a lot of notice, because they can be lethal: they claim over 200 lives yearly. Some people do not even know that they suffer from a type of food allergy. As they go about their normal routine and habits of eating they do not pay attention to which foods irritate their system. They don't realize the signs and symptoms that often accompany a disease like this. However, food allergies are the primary allergy for only about six percent of allergy sufferers. They are most common in children. Peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish and shellfish are responsible for 90% of all food allergies. One of the most common drug allergies is penicillin. Almost 400 Americans die every year from allergy to penicillin.

There are so many types of diseases out there these days that we often don't pain attention to the wide array of allergies that might be affecting us. Some people have allergies in a single category and others suffer from multiple categories of this disease. If you are an allergy sufferer, discuss your triggers and symptoms with your chiropractor. Chiropractic is the best and most well accepted holistic treatment for many diseases. Some types of allergies respond remarkably well to chiropractic care. So find yourself a local chiropractor and get checked out today.

Achieve Chiropractic Clinic
Dr. Jon Bjarnason
1720 Westminster St Ste 100
Denton, TX 76205
(940) 566-8605
Denton Chiropractic

Original article

5 Natural Remedies For Hives (Urticaria)

Hives or more commonly known as urticaria is a condition which consists of tiny red bumps appearing on the skin, bumps which are called wheals. While the causes of the condition can range from idiopathic (unknown causes) to allergies, stress or drugs, there are several ways in which it can be treated with natural remedies.

Here are 4 popular natural remedies for hives. Please note that while these methods will remove your red rashes and bumps, they won't prevent the condition from developing again as they are not a preventive or permanent cure for urticaria (hives):

1. Avoiding coffee, tea, alcohol or chemical drinks high in sugar will help your wheals to disappear faster. It is recommended you consume filtered water or mineral water and nothing else during this period.

2. Use oatmeal and cornstarch in the amount of 2 tablespoons each, combine with a bit of liquid and form it into a paste, then apply it to the rash areas for about 20 minutes. This will speed up the wheal dry up process and give you relief.

3. Consume green tea in moderate amounts as it contains natural antioxidants and it will help with the swelling considerably.

4. Don't scratch the rashes, instead take a towel and dip it in cold water then apply it on the bumps to relieve pain and itch. You can also use ice cubes if you find it more convenient.

5. Another thing you can apply on the rash for relief is aloe vera gel 2-3 times a day as well as vitamin E oil.

These are just several natural remedies to help you get relief from pain and itching and also help speed up the healing process for your hives. For a more permanent cure you should try some over the counter medication that will work with regular hives but might not if you suffer from chronic hives. In that case a natural treatment would be more appropriate as that type of treatment clears your body on the inside of bacteria and fungal issues you might have.

As always, make sure to contact your doctor first for a professional opinion on your condition. If his remedies for hives haven't worked for you it might be time to try out the natural treatment. Follow the link below to find out how a chronic hives patient for over 25 years finally managed to cure her condition permanently using only natural treatments.

Get rid of Chronic Hives using a proven natural method. Click here to find the best treatment for hives.

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If You Suffer From Allergies Try Switching To Organic Sleep Products

Many of us suffer from allergies. We are easily exposed to dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and particles in the air which cause our immune systems to stimulate a hyper-sensitive reaction. Choosing to redesign your home and replace traditional home furnishings with organic products may help reduce the signs and symptoms of your allergies. There is variety in organic designer furnishing to assure your home will still be a chic representation of your lifestyle as well as beneficial to your health.

Why Should I Replace My Regular Furniture with an Organic Product?

Even the cleanest homes contain many thousands of dust mites and unfortunately their favorite residence is your bed and bedding materials. The average person spends approximately 8 hours per day in their bed making them very susceptible to the allergens produced from this pests' excretion. Most people sleep on mattress toppers made from petrochemicals, synthetic fillers and poly fibers. Regardless of the top quality brand, the chemicals in these materials evaporate and are released into the air which we breathe directly into our respiratory system, which weakens our immunity. Eco-friendly furniture offers natural and organic alternatives. They offer consumers mattress toppers made from organic cotton and naturally treated wool that isn't processed or dyed with harsh chemicals. It helps keep moisture away, creating a clean, fresh and dry bed which prevents common molds and allergens.

Are Organic Furniture Products Comfortable?

Since we spend most of our time in the bedroom it's important to create a space that is functional and comfortable. There are many stylish bedroom furniture sets to choose from as well as the option to mix and match different pieces according to your style. They have taken the traditional furniture of Japanese culture and re-designed it to fit your modern-day lifestyle. Multi-functional beds create an environment that allows air to circulate throughout the mattress and sleeping area. The platform design is simple but tasteful giving you a bed that is low to the ground and takes up minimal space. Platform bed sets offer two large under-the-bed- drawers for storage giving you a space saving option. These sets pair perfectly with their Natural Latex mattress made from latex foam, wool, unbleached cotton and castor oil. These natural products create a healthy allergy-free sleeping environment that's comfortable, too! Naturalpedic foam provides a unique resilience that makes an ideal sleeping platform. It provides superior rest for two people of different weights. Movement is not transferred through the mattress allowing for an unbothered relaxed sleep.

How Can I Maintain a Stylish and Allergy Free Home?

Cluttered and over furnished homes are breeding grounds for dust mites and mold spores. When it comes to keeping your home allergy free you want to choose pieces that are multi-functional, but you don't have to give up style. A perfect place to start is the living area which tends to get chaotic during our everyday lives. Try furnishing your living space with a sleeper sofa, not only does it provide a comfortable place to sit and watch movies, but it allows for extra space when guests stay for a weekend. Many of the sleeper sofas are sleek, simple and sophisticated. They've changed the look of a bulky pull out bed and turned it into a refreshing design. It gives you the option to lounge in a half drop position or fold it flat into a bed position. Finally you have the option to choose furniture that is modern and exudes your sense of style while still keeping a healthy home environment.

Furniture like Haiku Designs' platform beds and bedroom furniture sets is now being built to serve multi-purposes, providing quality organic sleeping products that are healthier substitutes to traditional bedding. The commitment of Haiku Designs to the environment continues to push the company to provide you with eco-friendly furniture that is not only healthy for the environment, but for your home.

Original article

Adding In Comfort With Bed Covers

Not all comforters and blankets are created equally. Some offer more warmth and relaxation, while others may keep you tossing and turning with sleepless nights. If you want to make sure you stay comfortable, then you not only want to consider the comfort of the blanket but also the decor and extra capabilities that accompany the blankets you have. Looking at the covers that are a part of the comforter which changes how you sleep and the overall look of your room.

There are several items that come with bed covers and comforters, all which are divided by decor and extra appeal to the room. Down blankets most often come with duvet comforter covers. These are placed outside of the main cover to add in an extra layer of decor. They are also used as a protective layer against the daily traffic, particles, dust and mites which may come into a bedroom and cause the main comforter to lose its appeal.

The duvet comforter covers introduced are inclusive of several classic and modern styles available. You can find any set of patterns or colors available, all which easily fit over the main blanket which you have. The duvet style is well - known as the craft combining with the down or feather stuffing that is a part of the blanket and which adds into the overall look and appeal. Each of these covers easily adds into the decor of any bed while creating a different level of comfort for the colder days in your area.

Not only do you want to create the right appeal with the duvet style, but also add into convenience and comfort with the other areas of your bed. A popular item which is now used are the allergy mattress covers. These are placed on a mattress before a bed sheet and are used to protect your bed from collecting particles and substances. Some of the preventative actions added into this are inclusive of stopping dust mites and small particles from adding up in your bed. With the allergy mattress covers you are easily able to enhance the options for sleeping in peace.

The options available for your bed ensure that you are able to sleep in comfort. Guarding against allergies to changing the decor of your comforter, all help you to have the right options for your bedroom while getting the rest needed. With the right tools, you will no longer have to worry about the problems which may arise with the wrong fitting for your bed.

The author is an experienced Content writer and publisher on the topics related to duvet comforter covers and allergy mattress covers.

Original article

Seasonal Allergies in Children

Seasonal allergies, sometimes referred to as hay fever, are allergic reactions to pollen from trees, weeds, and grasses that typically persist during the fall and spring months. Pollen is a fine powdery substance consisting of microscopic grains that are released from plants by the wind and insects. Springtime allergies are often the result of pollen from trees like: oak, elm, birch, ash, hickory, maple, walnut, sycamore, and cypress.

Symptoms of seasonal allergies include runny nose, nasal congestion, watery eyes, dry/itchy eyes, and sneezing. These symptoms are triggered when pollen gets into the eyes, lungs, and nose. While there is no cure for seasonal allergies, several over the counter and prescription medications exist (in the forms of pills, sprays, and drops) that help provide relief from many seasonal allergy symptoms.

Contrary to popular belief, people are not always born with allergies, even though many allergies are hereditary. Sometimes allergies won't develop until later in life, which can make the diagnosis difficult, because sufferers may not even realize that they are suffering from allergies.

Aside from medications, there are several behaviors that sufferers of seasonal allergies can practice to reduce their contact with allergens. Air conditioning and oscillating fans promote airflow that can keep pollen at bay while indoors. Since pollen can be tracked indoors on clothing, removing and washing clothes worn outside can keep pollen from getting indoors. A shower after a day spent outside will also ensure pollen on the skin and in the hair doesn't cause an allergic reaction.

When possible, travel outside should be kept to a minimum between the hours of 5 am and 10 am, when the pollen count in the air is generally the highest. People who are especially sensitive to pollen should follow local weather reports for a daily pollen count, which can have an effect on the number and severity of allergic reactions a person experiences. Windows in homes and in cars should remain closed on days when the pollen count is high, and laundry should be dried indoors. Garden chores, like mowing the lawn or pulling weeds, should also be avoided when pollen is in the air.

Perennial allergies, like those caused by mold, dust, and pets, are more consistent than seasonal allergies and can affect people throughout the year. While symptoms may be similar, a doctor or pediatrician can usually determine whether allergies are seasonal or perennial. Parents of children who suffer from any type of allergy should inform teachers and babysitters about their child's allergies, triggers, severity of attacks, and type of medication (if any) used to control symptoms. This not only prepares the teacher or sitter to help the child through an allergic reaction, but also allows them to take preventative measures to keep the risk of reactions to a minimum. Parents should also teach their children about allergic triggers so the child can develop a pattern of avoiding their triggers on their own. Even though allergies can make sufferers appear as if they have a cold or flu, an allergy is not a germ and can't be caught or spread.

Dr. Gina Rosenfeld is a San Diego Pediatrician who has been in practice for 35 years. She is also a member of Children's Physicians Medical Group.

Original article

Will Air Purifiers Help to Reduce Mould and Help Allergies?

Many people suspect that mould in their homes may be causing their health problems, others may find mould or musty smell in their homes unpleasant, but don't believe it causes problems; they just want their homes to smell fresher and to have a clean indoors. What is the truth about mould? Is it a problem or a part of nature that we have to accept? If it is a problem, how much of a problem is it and is there anything to be done about it?

Some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from visitors to our website involve the issue of mould in the home. Most people understand the seasonal allergy problems associated with pollens, but are confused as to whether or not mould and mildew might be contributing to their asthma and allergy symptoms, or their poor health. The article below explores some of the issues of mould and possible solutions.

Many people aren't sure if air purifiers will help with reducing mould in their homes. Mould is a real issue that can cause health problems. The right air purifier especially when used in conjunction with a dehumidifier will most certainly help.

Mould spore size can range from 1 to 100 microns, Air purifiers will trap and kill these mould spores, the spores die inside a HEPA air purifier filter because it is a dry, sterile environment, mould requires dampness to live so if you also reduce the humidity level with a dehumidifier you will solve the problem. A good quality HEPA filter will remove airborne mould spores, if the mould is embedded and can't be removed such as you may find in mouldy smelling basements, filters that also remove odours such as Blueair Smokestop air purifiers will be best.

In nature mould plays an important part in the decay of leaves and trees. So mould is good... outdoors! Moulds inside your home or workplace are not good. Airborne mould spores inside your home really become a problem when they land on moist or wet surfaces. Then they are free to reproduce via the production of tiny invisible spores, and rapidly increase to amounts which cause humans discomfort and even illness.

Mould particles are small enough to pass through the cilia in your sinuses and are too small to be easily exhaled, so they can become lodged in your lung tissue. In comparison, larger particles such as dust are usually caught by the cilia before they enter the lungs. (Some moulds, called mycotoxins are potentially very toxic). Thus moulds which are inhaled do cause allergic reactions in many people - generally in the form of runny or sneezing noses, red eyes, rashes, and the generally unwell feeling you get when you have a cold or suffer from hay fever. The reaction is often instant but sometimes may be delayed for hours. Asthmatic people can also have allergic reactions to the inhalation of mould. As is often the case, infants, children, and the elderly can be more greatly affected by mould inhalation than healthy adults.

Most mould spores range from 3-100 microns in size but some can be as small as 1 micron. When looking at air purifiers to handle mould, it is important to find one that takes out at least 3-micron size particulates or smaller. All the HEPA air purifiers can remove mould spores.

If you cannot entirely rid your home of mould, however, you can substantially reduce it. If your house is old, there is a greater potential for mould problems as anyone with a musty old basement knows. Newer, tightly built homes that don't have good airflow can also be problematic. Office buildings, particularly older ones are often rife with mould.

Extensive water damage that has resulted in the significant growth of mould may require removal by a licensed contractor. Smaller, visible areas of mould should be cleaned up with household cleaners and the areas dried. However, the mould is often not visible because it is in hidden places. The mould may reside on a surface but when the surface is disrupted, the spores become airborne and begin to cause problems for people. The spores generally settle down in time but whenever they are disrupted they take to the airflow again. That's where a continuously running mould air purifier can be of great assistance in getting a clean indoors. If you can't entirely remove the mould or even find it, you can quickly and easily remove the airborne spores with mould air filters. If you allow the mould spores to remain floating around inside and they subsequently land in a wet area, the process begins again with the growth of new mould.

Mould air purifiers with HEPA (high efficiency particulate arresting) filtration systems are the most effective at removing the airborne spores. Mould spores don't reproduce without moisture, very often a dehumidifier will also help to reduce the amount of moisture in your home and can be used in conjunction with air purifiers. When airborne mould spores are pulled into an air purifier, the HEPA filter traps them and they die. Mould does not reproduce in the filters since there is no moisture in air purifiers.

In conclusion, whenever possible, remove the mould completely, to prevent re-growth use a combination of dehumidifiers and high quality, HEPA filters such as Blueair air purifiers to continually absorb the airborne spores. These units are made to run 24/7 and actually work more efficiently when allowed to do so. This will greatly help in the reduction of mould spores in the airflow you breathe. Since mould does have the potential to slide right past the protective cilia in the body and end up in the lung tissue, it's important to stop it before it has the chance to reach your nose, especially infants and children.

Air Comfort Centre are leading UK air improvement specialists, we are the main UK authorised dealers for Blueair air purifiers and also supply a whole range of other air treatment products such as dehumidifiers, humidifiers, panel heaters, Heatstrip heaters and ceiling fans, please visit our website at http://www.aircomfortcentre.com/ for access to advice and to purchase top quality air improvement products.

Original article

Alleviate Allergy Problems Through the NAET Therapy

Mild allergy related problems are common and affect a large part of the population. While this isn't a cause to worry there are others who cannot lead a normal life because of allergy related problems. Conventional medicines cure the symptoms but often fail to eradicate the problem from its roots. Alternative medicine, on the other hand not only helps to get rid of the problem, but also prevent it from coming back.

There are several systems of alternative medicines, ranging from Ayurveda, to Color Therapy, Crystal Therapy and Homeopathy. The NAET or the Nambudripad Allergy Elimination Technique is ideal for people looking for a non invasive and drug free therapy. This completely natural treatment was devised by Devi Nambudripad, a licensed chiropractor and acupuncturist. The entire therapy begins with the basic belief that allergy can be treated when a small particle of the allergen is left in the body.

The theory believes that people suffer from allergy because of energy blockages in the body. These are diagnosed by the practitioner using applied kinesiology or the system of muscle testing to determine the allergy. The allergy is then treated with a combination of therapies including acupressure and spinal stimulation.

After every treatment session, the practitioner is required to abstain from the allergy causing food for about 25 hours. The treatment can last for up to two years after which the patient may have to take the procedure again. There are cases where successfully treated patients have seen zero recurrence even after 20 years of the treatment.

NAET has its roots in the oriental definition of allergy, where allergy manifests itself through various symptoms that include psoriasis, eczema and aching joints. These symptoms may seem unrelated to one another. And if conventional medicine was to be referred, these symptoms would be associated with some other medical condition.

Reasons for allergy can be varied. If it isn't a single food, there could be a combination of foods that could be causing these conditions. In fact practitioners of NAET believe that allergy can also be caused when beneficial substances such as vitamins and minerals aren't absorbed. And when these substances aren't absorbed they can cause allergy. This theory may sound insane to people who have always believed in conventional medicine. But the several thousands of people who have benefitted from this therapy stand testimonial that NAET works.

The treatment is covered under medical insurance as well. The company has insurance billing codes from the year 2000. You can always check with your insurance company if they cover NAET.

The author is an expert on NAET therapy and has written several articles on allergy treatment, including food allergy.

Original article

Excessive Mucus and the Allergy Connection: How to Get Rid of Mucus Permanently

Tired of swallowing pills and using nasal sprays with no end in sight? I can relate, I used to be there myself. Four years ago my sinus struggles ended when I became liberated from all sinus disorders. I will share with you some of the simple things I did which brought permanent relief, not for me only, but for others also who were willing to go unconventional. Here are some of the things we did that proved to be effective to reduce excessive mucus significantly or totally eliminate it:

The mucus function

But first a word about our need of mucus. A normal amount of it-one to two pints a day-must move through the sinus and nasal cavities and passages every day--to keep our breathing apparatus functioning healthily. This explains why the main function of the membranes lining those areas is to produce mucus. They protect our breathing organs from pollens, dust, germs, foreign particles, etc.; and also explains why a constant flow of clear, watery mucus--not green or yellow mucus--is normal and vital to sinus health. How, then, do we keep our "good sinus mucus" from becoming excessive? Here are some proven tips:

Allergic irritation

Probably most excessive mucus is the result of allergic irritation caused by the environment and exacerbated by some of the foods we eat. Yet, unknown to many, house dust is the invisible culprit behind much allergic reaction suffering, and which sets off the production of histamine--the clear, watery mucus so common during allergy season or year-round if you are allergic to house dust. Try this experiment: place your nose close to the carpet or overstuffed furniture and inhale deeply. If you are allergic to the dust you will know it within seconds: itchy eyes, coughing, difficulty breathing, sneezing, etc. If this should happen and based on the intensity of the reaction and its frequency, you may have to decide whether to try a regular antihistamine, or seek professional help. Sometimes household pets' dander in the house dust is the element causing the problem and can be isolated and dealt with.

Foods to avoid

Dairy products and sugar will, in most cases, exacerbate allergic reactions and the excessive mucus issue. I know people who eliminated these two items from their diet for four to five days, and the results were so convincing that they substantially reduced the use of these two foods on a permanent basis. In fact, excessive mucus is no longer an issue at all for them.

Green and yellow mucus

These colored mucus, although very common in some circumstances, are indicative of health issues that need our attention. They are often telling us that there is an infection in various states of progress being fought by our immune system. One way to make them more tolerable is to drink 5-6 glasses of water a day; to help their passage through the breathing apparatus and to help the immune system do its job. Abstaining from mucus producing foods like sugar and dairy products, as already mentioned, will also help lessen their annoyance. These two mucus should not, as much as possible, be swallowed. One OTC remedy that helps to loosen it so it can be expelled is guaifenesin. Why not try some of these suggestions? The risks involved are minimal while the potential results can be greatly rewarding.

Paul Sanchez teaches and interacts with people on how to care for the sinuses and on related issues at: http://www.mysinustory.com/excessive.html and http://www.mysinustory.com/yellow.html He had suffered from sinus problems for many years. Experimenting with alternative solutions he found permanent relief which he now shares at those websites, besides giving assistance, help, support and encouragement.

Original article

Natural Allergy Remedies - How You Can Eliminate Pet Allergies

Millions of people are plagued with allergies, and sometimes those closest to us can be the cause of such allergy symptoms as runny noses, itchy eyes, sneezing, and hives. I'm talking about our pets, of course! Sometimes it just seems like there is no relief, but you love your pets so much that you think, "I'll just have to suffer with my allergies".

Or maybe you think you can't have a furry companion because of your allergies. Perhaps you've checked out ads for "non allergenic cats" or "non allergic dogs" thinking that there was a way around the 'no pets' rule. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as non allergenic cats and non allergenic dogs.

Most people don't know that their allergies aren't caused by their pet's hair, but instead by the dander and saliva particles that flake off their coats! It's true! Most people think that it's the hair that causes allergies, and while pet hair can be quite annoying, it doesn't actually cause your allergy symptoms.

You see, here's what happens - When your pet moves, runs, jumps, etc. he is constantly shedding dead skin cells called "dander" as well as the dried particles from his saliva after he has cleaned himself. It can cause anything from watery and itchy eyes, uncontrollable sneezing, irritating hives, and runny noses.

This is where the idea of non allergenic cats and non allergenic dogs comes from; there are a variety of hairless breeds of cats and dogs out there, and the "hair" theory has become a common misconception. People automatically assume that the hair is what causes the problem, so a hairless pet must be okay! Unfortunately, that is a myth.

Wouldn't it just be great if you didn't have to suffer through the symptoms of pet allergies? Well here's a few things that just may help if you suffer from mild allergy symptoms.

Start by vacuuming your home regularly, from the carpets to the furniture. This will make a big difference in the amount of dander dust in your home. Also make sure you wash your pet's bedding as well as your own blankets, sheets, and pillow cases weekly. If you have furniture covers or pillows, it would be a good idea to throw them in the wash as well. Dusting often also helps to cut down on the amount of dander dust in the house.

Another thing that has proven quite effective for most pet owners has been a solution that you apply to your pet's coat. It's one of the many natural allergy remedies that you can try, and what is so great about it is that it is non-toxic to your pet! The PH of this product has been specially altered for your pet's skin and it also contains natural conditioners which can help make your pet's skin and coat healthier, both which will help with allergies.

Keeping your pet's skin and coat healthy is necessary for allergy relief. By also feeding your dog wholesome foods, along with the above mentioned steps, you should notice a huge difference! Not only will you be happy, but so will your pet!

Remember, natural allergy remedies are the best. Use them whenever possible for the health of your pet!

Learn more about natural allergy remedies at http://petproductsforyou.com/. You'll discover how to treat your allergies naturally by clicking on "allergy relief".

Original article

Yeast Allergy Symptoms - The Indicators

Even though yeast allergies are quite common, a significant number of its symptoms are ascribed to yeast actually are the causes of something else. Nevertheless that is not to say that yeast allergy symptoms have not been the bane in the existence of many persons. The downside to not being able to pinpoint the exact symptoms is that it makes it that much harder to do it on your own, and therefore you will definitely have to visit your doctor to help you to ascertain what you need to do so as to escape other such flare ups.

The main yeast allergy symptom is fatigue and sluggishness, as the allergy usually deteriorates the immune system. Another common symptom of yeast allergy is gastrointestinal ache. It causes gassiness, vomiting and diarrhoea. This is an indication that there is something not too good taking place in your intestines. Due to the fact that intestinal issues are also a usual symptom of other food allergies, this also makes it hard figure out what is making your body respond the way it is responding. The symptoms of yeast allergy may take anywhere from hours to days after its consumption to show up and therefore it is usually very hard to figure out what exactly is causing them.

Other yeast allergy symptoms include a runny nose, and prickly eyes. It may also come with sneezing and coughing. These reactions come about as the body's way of rejecting what it deems a foreign substance that can cause it significant damage. They are, in essence, the body's way of alerting you that there is something wrong in your body. In its fight against the yeast, the body releases a chemical known as histamine to counteract the effects. Too much histamine is what usually causes the runny nose and the itchy eyes in persons who are having an allergic reaction to yeast. It can also cause you to go into anaphylaxis in some extreme cases. This is the reason for doctors prescribing antihistamines so that they can counteract the histamine the body produces to warn of the presence of yeast in your body and also to off the body protection from its yeast intake.

Rashes and eczema are also common symptoms of a yeast allergy. Hives may also be a symptom that is developed from having consumed yeast. There is a difference between hives and eczema, in that while eczema is a prolonged condition that is activated by an allergic response, hives is directly related to a response to whatever is causing the symptoms. There is normally a quick appearance and disappearance of the hives. They usually appear and then disappear just within a few short hours.

Halfdan Timm is a young entrepreneur from Denmark, who has made a site on yeast allergy symptoms. Information regarding this very subject can be found here - for example, reading about coffee allergy symptoms is possible - take a look for yourself!

Original article

What Is the Treatment for Flushing As a Result of Drinking Alcohol?

So you're experiencing flushing after drinking alcohol? Most likely, your first reaction was embarrassment. Why me? Well, there's a condition called Asian flush or Asian glow that exists and you may have heard about it.

As the name implies, this condition primarily affects people of Asian descent. Approximately 50% of the Asian population have this condition. The sufferers of Asian flush lack a certain enzyme called ALDH2. This enzyme helps metabolize alcohol in the liver. Long story short, because this enzyme is not doing its job, toxins will accumulate in the body causing the flushing.

The treatment for this type of flushing is not as easy as taking a pill. In fact, there is no prescription on the market that will cure this condition. Wouldn't it be great if there was a pill that you could take like a birth control pill that prevent your flushing from occurring and drink all you want? Sorry, no such luck.

I have had Asian flush all of my adult life. For years, I didn't realize that there was anything wrong with me. I had feelings of flushing on my face and cheeks but I ignored them. It wasn't until someone told me that my face was red and mentioned that he knew of other people that had the same problem. He said it was called Asian flush. I decided to do some research on this subject on the internet.

Based on my research, I have concluded that there are some ways to treat Asian flush without the use of prescription drugs. There are "over the counter" drugs, food choices, and special techniques to follow before drinking that will help curb the symptoms from occurring.

There are over the counter drugs such as Pepcid AC and Zantac that seem to work part way. It's not a cure but it seems to help some sufferers with flushing. Pepcid AC and Zantac are H2 blockers. H2 blockers help reduce acid in the stomach. Drinking alcohol increases acid in the stomach. Thus, it counteracts the effect alcohol has on the sufferer's body. It definitely helps with reducing symptoms but should not be considered a cure-all for this condition.

There are food choices that might aid in reducing Asian flush symptoms. Eating complex carbohydrates such as bread, crackers and toast are a good food choice to help soak alcohol in the stomach. Also, cheese, poultry, eggs and milk will do the same and stay in your digestive system longer. Eating fruits or drinking fruit juices with fructose and a high concentration of vitamin C will aid in speeding up the body's ability to metabolize alcohol.

These are a few techniques I have used to help with reducing flushing. Today, I have been able to continue to drink socially even though I have Asian flush. It is a hurdle to jump but it is possible work through your problem with the right techniques.

Want to learn more about Asian flush and techniques on how to treat Asian flush? There are also other pertinent topics about Asian flush on the Asian Flush site.

Original article

The Pros and Cons of Using A Neti Pot for Nasal Irrigation

Many people suffer chronic sinus pain and allergies. There are many causes of such conditions, like stress, infection, pollution, dry nasal passage or sometimes it's because the nasal passages are too small. Whatever the cause, one thing's for sure - living with constant nasal problems is not easy. There's medication that can be taken, but many doctors and alternative health practitioners advice regular nasal flushing with a neti pot. A neti pot is a small device, like a teapot, used to flush out the nasal passages. A solution of salt and water is mixed, and then the spout is placed against the nose, allowing the solution to gently flow into the passages and then flushed out. Debris, allergens and other blockages are cleared, and the passages become hydrated, allowing for air to freely pass through, and relieves pain and discomfort.

Now, the thought of pushing water through your nose may not sound appealing. Indeed, it may sound nasty to some people, but it has been proven to relieve sinus pain and many people use it on a daily basis. If you're not sure if nasal flushing with a neti pot is right for you, read these pros and cons, to help you decide:

Pros:

Simulates the natural process of the body

A neti pot works in the same way as our bodies do. Our nasal passage has its own natural way of dealing with the foreign bodies that invade it. In the case of the respiratory system, tiny hairs called cilia and mucus line our nose and nasal passages. These act as traps, catching the dirt and dust and other particles to prevent them from entering the lungs. This dirt is then transferred to the back of the throat and is eventually destroyed by stomach acids. With the flushing action of the neti pot, the water solution helps to flush out the particles trapped in the cilia, when the mucus grows too thick or dry, then expels it from the passages.

Uses natural ingredients

There are no chemicals or unnatural ingredients used when flushing with a neti pot. Only filtered water and non-iodized salt touches your nasal passages. Medicines can serve their purpose, but daily intake of medicines can be bad for other parts of your body, like your liver. With water and salt, there are no side effects.

Soothe Irritation

Sometimes passages are inflamed, which is why they cause pain and irritation. A nasal flush can help soothe the inflamed passages, bringing relief from the pain.

Cons:

May wash away the good elements

When the mucus in the nasal passages become too thick or dry, then they become ineffective, which is why a nasal flush can help them rehydrated. However, the action of running water through the nasal passages may also wash away the good elements in the mucus, such as the antibacterial and antifungal components.

Not for people with nosebleed

Sinus flushing may aggravate nosebleed, so if the person experiences frequent nosebleed, then he or she should not attempt a nasal flush.

Using a neti pot can be helpful for people who suffer from allergies, sinus infections and other problems relating to the nasal passages. Many people swear by its efficacy, and it can be a good alternative to medication. Of course, it's not for everyone, and anyone who would want to try it should consult their doctor before going on any long-term nasal flushing therapy.

For More Information:- Neti Pot | Nasal Irrigation

Original article

PSYCH-K Success Story - How I Transformed My Corn Allergy!

Corn Again! - August 8, 2010

Four weeks ago my husband asked for me to make him some corn for dinner. No big deal most would say. Yet for me, the moment I touched the freezer door handle was the moment my life would change forever.

As I reached in the freezer to grab the bag of frozen corn my past flashed before me. I was 6 years old again, feeling very sad, sitting at my grandmother's table in Wichita, Kansas for what, in my 6 year old mind, might be the last time ever.

I was moving from Kansas to Colorado. I was leaving my very best friend in the whole world, my beloved grandmother. Would I ever see her again? How long would it be before I could be with her again? I would be moving 500 miles away. I might as well be moving ½ way around the world. It was a gut wrenching, horrible feeling. In fact, it was the most upsetting time in my young life.

My lovely grandmother had made my favorite food for our going away party; Jolly Green Giant Niblet corn with butter sauce in a boilable nylon bag. How cool was that? Yet, it was to be the last time I could eat my favorite food because it was too expensive and my mother would never buy it.

We moved to Colorado and I could no longer eat corn of any kind. Every time I ate it I had horrible gut wrenching pain and had to get to a bathroom quickly. Even at 6, I realized it was the corn. Nobody else made the connection. But I sure did.

Fast forward to my age of 30 and I am diagnosed with an allergy to corn. No kidding! I already knew that. I had abstained from eating corn for 24 years. Now I would abstain from eating it for the rest of my life.

Fast forward another 19 years and PSYCH-K enters my life. After a year of wonderful changes through working with various PSYCH-K process I still had not tackled this most vexing of foods, until I touched the bag of frozen corn in the freezer 4 weeks ago. I thought to myself, I wonder if my corn allergy is tied to this traumatic moment when I was 6 years old? I dumped the bag of corn in the pan and set it to cook on the stove. Then I went to work doing a PSYCH-K Balance. Sure enough, that event had caused the subconscious connection of corn with gut wrenching pain!

I had a gut wrenching experience every time I ate corn as a child through my entire adult life. I had a gut wrenching experience while eating corn during that traumatic departure. The subconscious mind is the master of association and corn had been associated with the gut wrenching trauma of moving to Colorado.

After doing a PSYCH-K Balance I confidently told my husband I would eat corn that night and have no problems. It was a joyous moment and boy it tasted really wonderful! I had not only one serving, but went back for a large 2nd helping of the golden stuff. NO REACTION! No histamine reaction, no sniffles, no stuffy nose, no gut wrenching trip to the bathroom! I slept comfortably the entire night and had no cramps or discomfort of any kind. After 43 years of avoiding corn one simple PSYCH-K Balance changed everything. SIMPLY AMAZING!

So, when people ask me about allergies I now confidently say, let's explore that a bit. Most allergies are tied to a person, event or situation that formed a challenging or negative association to a food, environmental element or animal. When we tap into the subconscious mind we are able to make dynamic changes very quickly.

It's been 4 weeks since my return to eating corn. I've had corn on the cob, loose corn niblets, and pop corn now numerous times and still no reaction. So, I sing praises to PSYCH-K for being able to enjoy eating corn again!

International Certified PSYCH-K Instructor
Karen McKy, MHt
http://www.subconsciouschange.com/
email:Karen@SubconsciousChange.com
303-952-0596 Office
719-648-3070 Cell

Original article

Natural Treatments for Hay Fever

Allergies are caused by your immune system attacking something that isn't actually harmful to your body, but for some reason your body thinks it is. Basically, your immune system is in place to protect you from harmful things like bacteria, toxins and viral infections, but in the case of allergies your body mistakes something harmless like pollen as a threat to your body.

Allergies can be environmental allergies, where people have an immune response to particles in the air such as tree pollen, pet dander, dust, grasses, or mold. Another type of allergy can be allergies to certain foods, such as dairy, wheat, or peanuts.

Having allergies often involves a genetic component, as having a close relative with allergies makes it much more likely that you will suffer from allergies as well. There are no known causes of hay fever. However there are factors that are correlated with allergies, such as fatigue, poor digestion, insomnia, stress, and low immunity.

Allergic responses are caused by the release of histamines and symptoms are similar to having the cold or flu, involving itchy and watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, fatigue and cough. They can also involve the skin, causing itching and rash. These symptoms are due to the body trying to flush out the allergen which it sees as a threat.

Since allergies are caused by the release of histamines, drugs for allergies are aimed at blocking the activity of histames. Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra and Benadryl are the most common over the counter medications for allergies, and the drugs they contain are all histamine blockers which help reduce the immune response caused by allergens. There are also prescription drugs like Flonase which contain inhaled steroids used to reduce inflammation. These drugs will give the most immediate relief from allergies, however many people want to avoid taking medication long term for reasons like side effects and cost, and there are some things you can do help get rid of your allergies in a natural way.

Natural Treatments for Allergies

By far the simplest and yet one of the most effective things you can do to reduce your allergy symptoms is to drink plenty of water. Water helps keep the lining of your respiratory system fluid and reduces your sensitivity to airborne allergens. In addition, being dehydrated causes your body to release more histamines than normal, so staying hydrated by drinking water will help prevent this.

If you suffer from allergies, you have probably noticed that when you are feeling burned out, your allergies are worse. So, getting adequate sleep can be of great benefit in reducing allergies. When your body is exhausted, there is a tendency for your immune system to get hypersensitive to your surroundings as a way to defend a body which it sees as already weak. With enough sleep, your body is healthier and more prepared to take on the stresses of the day, so your immune system relaxes as it sees less need to protect you. Also, overextending yourself and your energy due to excess stress can have the same effect, where your body becomes exhausted and your immune system goes overboard in trying to protect you.

There are herbal medicines which act in a similar way to allergy medication by stabilizing the immune cells that produce histamine. Quercitin and stinging nettle are two commonly used herbs. In addition, because fatigue and a weak immune system are correlated with allergies, a natural adaptogen or immune strengthener can help improve your allergy symptoms as well as your energy levels. Astragalus, rhodiola, and ashwaghanda are some herbal medicines that reduce stress and help strengthen the body's immune system and the organs involved in energy production.

The Mind-Body Connection in Allergies

The mind-body connection in allergies is an interesting one to consider, and one not usually discussed when dealing with allergies. If you imagine your immune system as the defense system of your body, and the immune cells as the soldiers employed to defend you, it follows that an allergic reaction is when those soldiers become overly defensive and start attacking things that don't really pose a threat to you.

If you are suffering from allergies, it is sometimes helpful to look at whether you may be feeling too protective of yourself, and hence getting overly defensive. Protecting yourself is a natural inclination, however this natural protective instinct can sometimes get out of hand and rather than provide a benefit to you, actually end up being harmful and keep you from living your life more fully. If you notice you are spending a lot of energy trying to prevent bad things from happening, getting anxious over not being able to control certain aspects of life, this may be a component that leaves you more susceptible to allergies. Dealing with these fears can help you learn to trust that you are capable of taking care of yourself when hardships or attacks do occur, leaving your defense mechanism - hence, your immune system - more stable and less hypersensitive. Try and relax - life won't deal out anything that you aren't able to handle.

Allergies, while usually not a severe health problem, can still make life much more difficult. For people who suffer from chronic allergies it may be necessary to take medication to reduce your symptoms, but in the long run working towards treating your allergies in a natural way will help reduce your need to take drugs and improve the health of your immune system and your body.

Dr. Petersen is a naturopathic doctor living in San Diego, CA.
For more articles, news, and natural health tips visit http://www.thenaturalhealthspot.com/

Original article

This Fall, Get Ready to Sneeze

In August, the Northeast experienced record ragweed pollen counts, the most common cause of Fall allergies, but there is also an increase in patients suffering from mold and dust-mite allergies. Residents along the East Coast experienced a record-breaking summer of high heat and rainfalls. When combined, they form the perfect storm to growth of these allergens.

Hurricane Irene, which caused severe and record-breaking rainfall all along the East Coast, caused flooding of "epic proportions" according to NASA. This has made ideal circumstances for ragweed, which thrives in lots of water and sun. It blooms around August and can continue producing pollen through the late fall until a killing frost. Weather experts expect that it will be a long blooming season as well, since for the last decade killing frosts have been occurring later and later. These factors will combine to produce record levels of air-born allergens late into the Fall.

High levels of rain are also ideal for another common allergen, mold. Mold multiplies quickly in wet conditions. Although it is not a seasonal allergen, the Northeast, which typically has much dryer weather conditions in late summer is expected to have unusually high levels of mold this Fall.

Dust-mites are also a widespread allergen expected to reach unusual levels due to the high heat experienced this summer and the dampness.

Allergic reactions to air-born allergens can range from mild to severe. Usual symptoms include stuffy or runny nose, sneezing and itchy eyes. Other symptoms can include coughing, fatigue, and sore throat. These symptoms can sometimes lead to more serious conditions such as sinus and ear infections. Due to blockage in the nose, snoring is also a very common result.

Treatment of your allergies vary according to severity. Prescription nasal steroid sprays decrease the allergic reaction and inflammation in the nose. Non-sedating antihistamines treat the body's natural reaction when it comes in contact with an allergen by blocking histamine which causes swelling and congestion. Allergy injections or immunotherapy, are for patients with long-standing allergies, and may be identified through skin or blood tests. They gradually reduce symptoms and the need for medication. If you're not sure what it is that is causing your allergic reaction, an allergist can identify your allergy. It is important to treat your symptoms because they can lead to more serious conditions, and if they are interfering with your breathing or sleeping, seek treatment with an ear, nose and throat specialist.

David Volpi, M.D., P.C., F.A.C.S. is a board-certified otolaryngology surgeon with Ear, Nose and Throat practices, Otolaryngology Associates, on the Upper West Side and Upper East Side and is a staff member of the best teaching hospitals New York City. Realizing that there is a lack of information on the part of the public about the potential severity of snoring, he founded The Manhattan Snoring and Sleep Center to be a place where snoring patients can go for expert information, diagnosis and treatment. As a recognized authority throughout the country for his work in snoring disorders, he is also the author of the definitive guide book on the diagnosis and treatment of snoring: Wake Up! You're Snoring...

Original article

What Is a Fish Allergy - And Can You Live With It?

Some people who are allergic to fish are able to consume shellfish; while conversely, some people who cannot eat shellfish can have fish. Fish allergy manifests itself when individuals have a negative medical reaction to certain proteins in fish. Many people are allergic to the types of fish that are generally consumed by others; such as cod, Pollock, salmon, tuna and snapper. Allergy testing can be used to check if a person is allergic to fish.

A fish allergy more often than not starts in maturity and it may be something that lasts a lifetime. Due to the fact that the proteins that cause allergic reactions in people tend to be found in such a wide cross-section of fishes, people who are allergic are often times told to stay away from fish altogether. However, if an individual wants to continue eating the fishes they do not have an allergic reaction to, then allergy testing could be used to make the differentiation for them.

An individual may not be allergic to a specific fish, but may be allergic to the fishes they themselves eat. Albeit this is an uncommon allergy, it may be the most maddening, as you may have an allergic reaction to a fish meal one day and the next time you have it, it does not affect you. Vigilant testing may be the only way to identify which fish you are allergic to.

Commonly, fish allergies manifest themselves in a physical way where the mouth itches; there is skin irritation and uneasiness of the intestine. Some people have a more severe reaction; wherein there is an enlargement of their airways which can cause them to go into anaphylactic shock. It is important for you to find out from the people who also consumed the fish meal, if they are experiencing the same reaction. If not, then you should go to the doctor to get the allergy test and treatment if necessary. However, whether or not others are having the same reaction, once your reaction is severe, you should go to the doctor immediately.

As previously alluded to, you can have an allergic reaction to fish by way of cross-contamination. As such, caution should be taken when you decide to order fish in a restaurant. Restaurants that use a grill can inadvertently cause cross-contamination when the air becomes a conductor. Persons suffering from fish allergies should also either avoid Asian restaurants or at the very least, ask what is in their sauces, as many of their sauces do have fish in them. Mediterranean dishes are also widely known for the inclusion of fish in their ingredients. With this in mind, persons who have a history of fish allergy should make sure the waiters know that they should not be consuming fish in any form.

Halfdan Timm is a young entrepreneur from Denmark, who has made a site on fish allergy. Information regarding this very subject can be found here - for example, reading about how to stop allergies is possible - take a look for yourself!

Original article

Dust Mite Covers - Bid Farewell to Troublesome Allergies

It is undeniable that health plays an extremely vital role in deciding our overall happiness. Unless a person is feeling fit, they cannot really cherish all the wonderful things the life has to offer. Today, allergies are one of the most predominant health worries of the world requiring special attention. Not only you are required to keep a safe distance from visible allergens, you must also take care of a number of silent troubles such as dust and mite found in mattresses and pillows. Unfortunately, since these elements attack you when you are asleep, you can't really do much to prevent them. Thankfully, we have the option of going for dust mite covers and give ourselves a considerable protection from the allergies caused by the aforesaid allergens.

Since the market has way too many options to offer for such allergy prevention covers, you need to possess a fair amount of info in order to make the right purchase. First of all, you must understand that the fabric used to make such covers decides their efficiency. Hence, when out to buy anti-allergen products such as allergy mattress covers, allergy pillow covers, and the likes; always try to go for the covers with tight woven fabric as the size of the pores greatly decides the level of protection such covers offer. You can find pore sizes ranging from 0 to 10 microns in the market. Here, it is important for you to understand that even though zero micron fabric offers remarkable resistance to dust and mite, they also restrict the flow of air; thus, choose the micron size wisely.

Gone are the days when you had to wake up in the middle of the night due to nasal irritation, chest congestion, itchy skin, running nose and other similar outcomes of dust and mite allergies. Using dust mite covers on your mattresses, comforters and pillows promises uninterrupted sleep every night. Thanks to the extensive range of allergy prevention covers available in the virtual market, no matter whether you need allergy mattress covers for your master bed or pillow covers for you little one, you are sure to find exactly what you are looking for and that too within no mentionable time. You can simply use any web search engine to find the leading stores offering anti-allergy covers and choose the best deals after comparing the prices, features and feedback of different options available on the net.

The author is an experienced Content writer and publisher on the topics related to dust mite covers and allergy mattress covers.

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Which Perfume Is Best for the Allergy Sensitive?

Allergies are a serious health problem for many people. People are allergic to so many different things; every possible food you can think of, animals and dust are just some of the things that can cause allergies. Many people can also have allergic reactions to perfume, causing them to stop wearing some of their favorite fragrances, or suffering when they are around someone who is wearing perfume. But this doesn't have to be the case. There are things you can do to lessen your allergic reactions to perfume. Read on for ways you can still smell fabulous and not have to suffer from those terrible allergy symptoms.

If you suffer from allergic reactions to perfume, you also probably have the same response to scented soaps, lotions and cosmetics. When you spray perfume on yourself or even are near someone who is wearing perfume, you may start to get a sore throat, runny nose, itchy eyes or difficulty breathing. If you already have asthma, you may be more prone to perfume allergies.

First, you need to figure out if there is a particular fragrance that is causing the allergic reactions. It may just be a particular smell that is bothering you and not perfume altogether. See an allergy specialist and have him do a skin patch. This will narrow down on the specific fragrance that you are allergic to. Many people tend to have allergic reactions to fruity or citrusy perfumes, but tend to do better when they switch to a more clean and fresh scent. So if you want a new perfume, get something like Mon Jasmine Noir by Bvlgari rather than Happy by Clinique. The Bvlgari one is very light, clean and fresh. Unless you really have severe allergies to all perfume, this type of light fragrance isn't likely to irritate you. The latter, however, is sure to exasperate your allergies if you are prone to them. It is a really strong citrus smell like orange and grapefruit -- you may break out in hives just by looking at it.

It could also help you to start making some changes at home. Keeping an air filter and a humidifier in your bedroom can help your breathing. Make sure to keep your house clean of dust always, and try to vacuum at least once a week. You may also want to stay away from all these fragrances during the regular work week, and just keep your perfume and scented lotion in a drawer and save them for a special occasion. When you do decide to wear perfume, make sure you carry with you something that helps your symptoms. Always bring any prescription medication, as well as things like nasal sprays, nasal gels and eye drops.

You don't have to suffer with your perfume allergies. Prevent them before they start. Save your perfume for special occasions, and wear light and clean perfume that doesn't upset your allergies, like bvlgari perfume. Go to perfumeandcolognemall.com for your perfume needs.

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Casein Allergy - What Is Casein Allergy?

One of the primary proteins in milk is casein. People can be allergic to casein with symptoms that can be either minor or fatal. This allergy usually affects children more than it does adults. It is common for this allergy to be misdiagnosed and sometimes thought to be lactose intolerance.

For babies, the symptoms usually show up when they first start consuming milk formulas. However, they normally grow out of the allergy by age 7. Like most allergies, the reaction to casein may range from mild to severe. Symptoms may include diarrhoea, trouble breathing, ear infections that are recurrent, runny nose and extreme griping in the stomach.

This effect of this allergy is usually seen initially on the skin by way of an itchy rash which can turn into eczema. In addition, there may be evidence of swelling in the face, as well as a reddening of the chest, throat or face. Symptoms are also experienced in the digestive tract where it causes persistent diarrhoea. Some symptoms are of a respirational nature with shortness of breath and wheezing; all asthmatic in nature. The blood pressure may drop and the individual may become unconscious. People may have these symptoms for hours or even days, and may also experience vomiting.

In order to figure out if the symptoms you are experiencing is directly related to casein, it is suggested that the individual remove some foods from their diet for about two weeks and make a note of the foods they do eat. After you have taken on a diet devoid of casein (you can find information on how to do this online), you should consult with allergy experts. Even after you have made the medical consultation, the onus is on you to be proactive by educating and protecting yourself by reading the wrapping on all the foods you consume to make sure they are safe.

If your family has had issues with food allergies, do not give the babies in your family any form of milk-based products. The best cure for an allergic reaction to casein is for you to prevent it altogether. When an individual is having a serious reaction to casein they may also have to stay away from such things as paints, some perfumes and colognes and glues. A casein allergic reaction can call for treatments such as epinephrine, corticosteroid cream or ointment and Benadryl, but the drug given is dependent on the degree of the allergic reaction the individual is experiencing.

As previously mentioned, an allergy to casein is not the same thing as being lactose intolerant. In the less severe instances of casein allergies, the symptoms may have the appearance of lactose intolerance. The body's immune system rejects the protein found in casein, thereby bringing about the severe response to its consumption, and this is how the allergy is manifested.

Halfdan Timm is a young entrepreneur from Denmark, who has made a site on casein allergy. Information regarding this very subject can be found here - for example, reading about casein free cheese is possible - take a look for yourself!

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How to Prevent Mold Allergy at Home

Common allergens like house dust and pet hair are often overlooked. But they can do more harm in long term than any other disease. House dust has a number of ingredients: tiny fibers from furniture, animal dander, microscopic bits of human skin, food remnants, detergent fragments, and more. house-dust mites, insects too small to be seen by the naked eye, ticks, spiders etc have been the point of research for a lot of allergists. They can live almost anywhere in the house and are found in greatest numbers in beds, furniture, and rugs. Another common allergen is mold spores, especially that of black mold.

Fragments of the mites themselves can be allergens, as can substances found in their droppings. A thorough housecleaning to reduce the amount of dust and the number of mites is essential for anyone with house-dust allergy. Doctors will suspect house-dust allergy if the patient suffers year round symptoms that flare up during spring cleaning or at other times when the amount of dust in the air is increased.

How to prevent mold allergies at home:

1. Regular cleaning for household items: Start with mattresses, box springs, and pillows, which should then be put in dust-proof covers. Mattress should be removed from the bedroom of the allergy sufferer. Floors (and the rest of the room) should be cleaned at least once a week.

2. Keeping the dampness controlled reduces black mold formation: Humidity should be kept low, because house mites grow only when the humidity is more than 20%. packed and ornate furniture should be kept out of the allergic person's room because it traps so much dust. Pets, furs, stuffed animals, and other potential sources of allergens should also be banished from the person's room.

3. Eradicate the Molds: Cleaning the house to get rid of molds requires other steps. Molds grow readily in the warm, damp atmosphere of bathrooms; these should be kept well ventilated and cleaned thoroughly, with a fungicide if necessary. Damp basements can also be breeding grounds for molds; a dehumidifier can reduce their growth.

4. Clean those bed and pillow covers: Pillows are another potential source, they develop molds with time and usage and hence should be replaced every year or two. You should consider switching to anti allergen pillow covers or bed covers. They provide good protection against molds and other micro allergens. You should also use anti allergen detergents to sanitize the upholstery at home.

5. Clean the AC filters: Air conditioners can have both good and bad effects on allergy patients. If air conditioner filters are not cleaned or replaced regularly, they can collect molds and pollens. But if air conditioners are kept in the recirculating mode so they do not draw in air from outside and if their filters are kept clean, they can reduce the amount of allergens in the air appreciably. If you have allergies to mold, you should make it a point to clean the air conditioner filters frequently.

6. Using Air filters: Electronic air-filtering machines are even more effective. These sophisticated services, based on space-program technology, can remove as much as 99% of airborne pollutants. The most effective are so-called HEPA, or high-energy particulate-arresting, filters. These tend to be expensive, costing about as much as an air conditioner. Some machines combine HEPA and charcoal filters for even greater efficiency.

If you want to know more about allergies, their prevention and how to make your home allergy free, you may visit http://www.allergyfreehome.info/

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Food Allergies and Intolerances: How to Make Gluten and Dairy Your Friends

Do you ever wonder why so many people nowadays are gluten and dairy intolerant? That certainly didn't seem to be the case in the past. Our grandparents' generation in fact ate mainly bread made out of wheat (wheat having relatively high amounts of gluten). Were they ok consuming gluten or did they have a problem they didn't know about? And how do you raise a generation which is dairy intolerant in a country like New Zealand where the sheep and the cows traditionally outnumber the people by far?

Many of you will blame it on the technology we are using to grow and process our grains, dairy products and other foods. The milk is pasteurized and homogenized, some grains are being genetically modified, and the meats can be full of hormones. Fair enough, those may be contributing factors in developing food allergies and intolerances. However, I believe there are a number of other things we need to consider here.

Most of us are aware that what you expect is what you get. If you have an expectation that something is bad for you, it will be. If you have the opposite expectation, you are less likely to suffer ill effects. The following experiment is extremely telling: A number of people were given a very decadent dessert to eat. All of those people gave blood before and after they ate the sugary dessert. They also filled in a questionnaire and indicated how they felt during and after eating the dessert. Some of the people reported that they felt a lot of pleasure and were very happy about eating the sweet temptation. Virtually everybody who fell in that category demonstrated through the blood tests that their immunity improved after they ate the dessert. Other people reported that they felt guilty and knew they shouldn't have eaten the dessert because it was bad for them. The blood from all those people showed that their immunity got worse after they ate the dessert. Clearly, there is nothing inherently bad or good about the dessert itself. It is what you make it mean and your attitude towards it (not the substance itself) is what affects you the most!

Similar experiments with water prove the same point. Japanese researcher Masaru Emoto took the purest water from a Himalayan spring and "cursed" it by projecting mentally a bad intention onto it. When frozen, this water displayed the ugliest crystals you could imagine. In a parallel experiment Emoto took chlorinated water, micro-waved it, and then mentally projected Love and Gratitude onto it. Once frozen, the water displayed the most beautiful crystals. So again - there is nothing inherently good or bad about either type of water other than our own attitude towards it!

Back to gluten and dairy - are you really intolerant or is it all in your head? Yes and Yes! If you have symptoms, I believe that you really are intolerant and at the same time it must be all in your head. For whatever goes on in your head has a powerful effect on your biochemistry. Gluten and dairy have had extremely bad press in recent years. This negativity has become part of the (unconscious) collective consciousness. I believe that this is why the younger generation picks up on it easily - the war on gluten is so profound in the Western countries that gluten is almost at the risk of becoming part of the "programmed dangers" we are born with. In reality, in and of itself gluten is neither bad nor good. It is our attitude that makes it so.

The same goes for other types of allergies and intolerances. Cat allergies very often get triggered when people hear a cat on the TV! This clearly shows that your thinking matters more than you can imagine. A "slight" complication comes from the fact that sometimes you don't even know what you are thinking since a large part of the thinking process is happening on a subconscious level (where our deepest fears reside).

So what can you do? In general, the happier you feel, the more foods you will tolerate. (As an aside, the happier you are, the more foods your children will tolerate as well. Your children are like a sponge - they soak up your attitudes and eventually become a version of you, whether you like it or not). You need to let go of the fear and find ways to experience joy and pleasure in your life. The easiest way to do that is to get present to gratitude. Write down 200 things you are grateful for - this simple exercise is guaranteed to shift your mental state, which in turn will alter your body chemistry profoundly. Do this daily and you won't know yourself in a week or two. Whenever you are about to tell yourself off for having eaten something "bad", quickly start making a gratitude list instead. You will be amazed at how much stronger and less reactive your immune system will become!

Vyara Bridgeman is an Advanced Certified BodyTalk practitioner who works with patients from all over the world suffering a variety of physical, mental and emotional conditions. To find out more about Vyara's BodyTalk practice, what her clients say about her, and how she can help you achieve a balanced body-mind, visit: http://www.bodytalk4life.com/

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Can You Get Food Intolerances Later in Life?

As far as I can remember I never had problems eating just about any food. It may have been the case where I didn't like the way something tasted but I could still eat it, in other words it didn't make me sick. Fast forward twenty years and I hear myself saying things like "I can't eat so and so because I have a food intolerance to it." What does it mean to have food intolerances? How is having food intolerance different from being allergic to certain foods? Why do we become intolerant to certain foods as we age?

In my case it's shell fish. One time when I was much younger I tried a raw clam; it turned my stomach really bad and about a couple of hours later I was vomiting. I think that was the start of my food intolerance. There is some information online regarding stressful situations in connection with a food episode like the one I had. But unfortunately it's not understood why.

Regardless of the reason the intolerance was gradual as other food items were added to the list. In the case of raw clams I could never eat them but I was still able to eat lobster, cocktail shrimp and my favorite stuffed shrimp. First it was the cocktail shrimp; just putting it anywhere next to my mouth would make my stomach turn. Then the lobster, I felt really sorry when I couldn't eat lobster but it wasn't as hard to give up as stuffed shrimp.

So why was I able to eat these things when I was younger but not so much now? First of all let's quickly mention that food intolerances are different from food allergies. For example, food allergies will cause an immediate reaction of your body's immune system. This reaction can cause a life threatening condition called asphyxiation and requires immediate medical attention. Food intolerances on the other hand are normally non life threatening and usually cause problems with your digestive tract.

I for one will not die (as far now) eating shell fish but it will make me sick to my stomach. What are some causes of food intolerances? A quick search online list several causes including lack of certain digestive enzymes as in the case of being lactose intolerant. Other reasons include celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome, sensitivities to preservatives found in some foods, even a stressful memory of certain food (as may be the case with my food intolerance).

Finally the question; can food intolerances and food allergies develop as we age? The simple answer is yes. Now as to why it happens exactly is not yet known. There are many different examples. For some people they may have had an allergy or intolerance when they were younger, but they grew out of it, only to find later in life they have it again or with another entirely different food.

Although disappointing that we do not yet know why we get food intolerances and allergies as we age at least we can test for them and learn how to live with them. It just goes to show that things are always changing especially within our own bodies and we have to stay alert. If you think you may have an intolerance or allergy see your doctor right away.

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Indoor Humidity: Can Indoor Humidity Affect Your Life?

The important thing to remember is that the perfect indoor humidity level is not the same depending where you live. If you live in a hot and humid climate such as Florida, it is 40% to 50%. If you live in a cool dry climate, the perfect indoor humidity levels can be 30% to 40%. Some very dry climates such as in desert areas can even be lower so you have to add indoor humidity to the air thru a humidifier. Some people like it humid and some like it dry, it depends on who you are talking to.

Depending upon your body type and gene pool, the human body can adapt to any climate that it needs to. The human body does not do well with constant changes of back and forth. An example is: Hot and humid climate in Florida; going in and out of air conditioning can be harmful to your health.

If the humidity level regularly exceeds 50% for too a long a period, you are likely to experience a rapidly increasing dust mite population, which will affect allergy sufferers also.

A room that has high moisture content in the air will have a strong musty odor. The damp air is a perfect breeding ground for mold, algae, mildew and fungus to grow which can cause health problems such as Asthma and Allergies. The best course of action is to fix the problem because it will not get better over time. A temporary fix is a humidifier till the problem is fixed and remediated.

The latest models of dehumidifiers in the market place have built-in humidity controls to keep the levels below 50%. There are many manufacturers of humidifiers, so go over to the Consumers Reports people and check out their test results for what is the best one to buy for your money.

If you are one of those people who has problems with your sinuses because of low humidity, this will be bad for you also. I know that every winter is a problem for a lot of my clients because of dry skin, itchy eyes and dried out sinus. Some people can also get sick from this condition and think it is an Indoor Air Quality problem when it is just due to low moisture in the air. A good quality Humidifier can help that condition in the winter time for all of us. A humidifier will put moisture back into the air to help out with that condition. They can also be programmed to operate on your furnace, air conditioner or in the bedroom for that room only.

It is also a good idea to have a good quality hygrometer to check out the moisture levels in your home. Like I mentioned in a previous paragraph, check out the Consumers Reports people for their latest test results and which hygrometer is the best one for your dollar. Do not buy a cheap model from your local dealer. The best thing is to go to Google and do an internet search for "best quality hygrometer" for the right one. If you buy one, make sure that the price tag is more than $50. Remember, you get what you pay for in hygrometer.

If you have any question, feel free to call us or visit our website. We specialize in Indoor Air Quality for people with Asthma, Allergies and the Chemically Sensitive.

To learn more about your home, visit our website at http://www.safe-homes.com/ or http://www.air-testing.com/

Mr. Art Emiss is available as a professional speaker to help educate your community or group function on Asthma, Allergies, Mold, Indoor Air Quality and the Chemically Injured. Visit our website and sign up for our Free Air Conditioning Filter Change Reminder Service.

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