Fruit is one of the tastiest ways to get the important vitamins, minerals and fiber your body needs to be strong and healthy. However, for a small percentage of the population, fruit allergies are a way of life and can greatly inhibit the fruit portion of their diet. These allergies manifest themselves in a variety of ways and almost always people can attribute symptoms to a specific fruit because the reaction is quick.
Oral Allergy Syndrome
A large portion of people who suffer from fruit allergies exhibit mild to uncomfortable itching, tingling, burning and even swelling of the oral areas. Anywhere where the fresh fruit touches the tongue, lips, mouth and throat are subject to these symptoms. These symptoms are all a part of what is known as oral allergy syndrome.
This syndrome not only covers fruit allergies but also vegetables as well and it has to do with mixed chemical reactions of the proteins in the food as well as pollen. In fact, most people with fruit allergies also have allergies to various types of pollen. What is curious is the fact that vegetables and fruits, when cooked, do not usually cause allergies. This is likely due to the fact that the pollen and proteins present are leeched out in the cooking process.
In a small percentage of people who have fruit allergies skin rashes, redness and irritation may also result. In very rare cases, anaphylaxis can occur which is basically when your blood pressure drops, restricting oxygen flow to the brain and also mouth, throat and air passageways can swell, restricting breathing. Death can occur if this condition is left untreated.
Pollen And Fruit Associations
If you have fruit allergies, you may notice that you are not allergic to all fruits, just certain classes of them. In fact, these allergies are often times closely related to your other allergies that you might have. For instance, if you are allergic to ragweed, then chances are if you develop fruit allergies, they would likely be from bananas and various types of melons like honeydew, cantaloupe and watermelon.
Birch tree allergies may precipitate fruit allergies like apple, pears, cherries, kiwi and stone fruits like peaches, apricots and plums. For the few individuals with allergies citrus, oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruits are likely to cause some symptoms, probably due to the acid content.
Treating Fruit Allergies
Avoidance is the best solution when fruits cause allergic reactions, whether it is swelling and irritation around oral areas or even skin rashes on the body. Some people have developed a tolerance of some fruits due to allergy shots but this solution does not work for everyone. Besides cooking fruit or eating them processed, like applesauce or canned peaches, there is little you can do about fruit allergies.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Monday, November 26, 2007
Tying Together Allergies And Frequent Urination
Frequent urination is a common enough problem for men and women with urinary tract infections, prostate problems, diabetes and other health conditions. However, did you know that allergies and frequent urination can go hand in hand, depending on the allergic trigger? That trigger most likely is due to allergies to various types of food depending on your sensitivity.
Celiac Issues
People with celiac disease have a problem with the digestion of gluten products and any ingestion of such products can cause a variety of intestinal issues. A byproduct of this condition with some people is frequent urination. Many foods like bread and pasta contain wheat flour which has gluten properties in it and thus trigger a reaction when eaten. These wheat based allergies and frequent urination are tied together in this respect and only a totally gluten free diet can alleviate the symptoms.
High Acid Food And Drink
Your regular diet could have many potential allergic triggers which can cause frequent potty breaks. Mostly food and drink high in acids can cause allergies and frequent urination but many people may not clue into this cause for quite a while. Only through daily food and drink journals, cataloging everything consumed can the cause of these allergies and frequent urination be pinpointed.
While this food and drink high in acid may not upset the stomach, the way your body digests it could trigger some type of allergic reaction causing the excessive bathroom breaks. No one really knows why this occurs but if frequent urination is interrupting your life, you might want to consider banning high acidic foods and drinks like salsa, sodas, teas, coffee and cranberry juice.
Theories Still Guess Work
The tie between allergies and frequent urination is still somewhat nebulous and some people just seem to have atypical allergic reactions to various substances. The basic consensus is that whatever allergic trigger you have creates a chemical chain reaction in your body. Some people may form hives from eating certain foods while others have diarrhea, nausea and abdominal cramping. The same food that caused the allergies and frequent urination may not do the same thing later when consumed again. Your body is really one big biological, chemical being and your immune system could have simply been malfunctioning at one point.
Allergy Medications
Allergies and frequent urination could also be tied together due to your reaction to the medication used to treat the allergies. Not all drugs are infallible and many of them come with a laundry list of side effects, one of which could be frequent urination. If frequent urination is a problem, be sure to rule out other health conditions like an enlarged prostate or urinary tract infection first before considering an allergy.
Celiac Issues
People with celiac disease have a problem with the digestion of gluten products and any ingestion of such products can cause a variety of intestinal issues. A byproduct of this condition with some people is frequent urination. Many foods like bread and pasta contain wheat flour which has gluten properties in it and thus trigger a reaction when eaten. These wheat based allergies and frequent urination are tied together in this respect and only a totally gluten free diet can alleviate the symptoms.
High Acid Food And Drink
Your regular diet could have many potential allergic triggers which can cause frequent potty breaks. Mostly food and drink high in acids can cause allergies and frequent urination but many people may not clue into this cause for quite a while. Only through daily food and drink journals, cataloging everything consumed can the cause of these allergies and frequent urination be pinpointed.
While this food and drink high in acid may not upset the stomach, the way your body digests it could trigger some type of allergic reaction causing the excessive bathroom breaks. No one really knows why this occurs but if frequent urination is interrupting your life, you might want to consider banning high acidic foods and drinks like salsa, sodas, teas, coffee and cranberry juice.
Theories Still Guess Work
The tie between allergies and frequent urination is still somewhat nebulous and some people just seem to have atypical allergic reactions to various substances. The basic consensus is that whatever allergic trigger you have creates a chemical chain reaction in your body. Some people may form hives from eating certain foods while others have diarrhea, nausea and abdominal cramping. The same food that caused the allergies and frequent urination may not do the same thing later when consumed again. Your body is really one big biological, chemical being and your immune system could have simply been malfunctioning at one point.
Allergy Medications
Allergies and frequent urination could also be tied together due to your reaction to the medication used to treat the allergies. Not all drugs are infallible and many of them come with a laundry list of side effects, one of which could be frequent urination. If frequent urination is a problem, be sure to rule out other health conditions like an enlarged prostate or urinary tract infection first before considering an allergy.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Nasal Allergies Are Nothing To Sneeze At
You can blame your own body’s immunological response as well as genetics for your tendency toward nasal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis. Of course, nasal allergies can also occur from prolonged exposure to certain substances called allergens or even exposure to pollution, cigarette smoke or being born with a low birth weight.
don’t really know why some people have more sensitivity to one substance over another, but they do know your body’s response to these allergens. What happens is that when an allergen gets past your nasal defenses, your immune system perceives it as an attack and will retaliate. During this retaliation, your body releases a chemical called histamine, which is the reason why your eyes will get teary and your nose starts to run. Some people may develop breathing problems, wheezing or even sneezing.
Pollen
Many causes of nasal allergies are from airborne allergens that are breathed in through the nose but the sources are vastly different. Pollen is by far the most prevalent reason why allergies are formed in the first place and different areas of the country will have different levels of pollen, depending on what is growing and flowering at the time. Ragweed travels far and wide so even if you don’t have any growing in your area, you can still be allergic to it. Grass, flowering bushes, and a variety of trees can cause nasal allergies thanks to the pollen and other natural substances they release.
Dust And Animal Dander
Dust often tickles the nose and makes people sneeze but it does not always cause nasal allergies. However, if you have dust mites, tiny microscopic organisms, in your mattress, furniture or carpeting, these could be the true culprits. You will know for certain if your allergies persist even during winter months when outside pollen is at an all time low.
Animal dander can cause real problems with allergic reactions as well. Dander settles into carpets and furniture so even if you get rid of your cat or dog, you can still experience nasal allergies. Only a thorough vacuuming and carpet and upholstery shampooing can greatly lessen the dander population.
Symptoms
Typically, the symptoms of nasal allergies start off with some nose itching as well as sneezing, which is the body’s way to try and get rid of the allergen. From there, your nose could start running which is the body’s way to wash the foreign substance away. From there, you start to develop a stuffy nose and develop sensitivity to other irritants a few hours after your initial exposure. This allergic response could potentially last for weeks or until the pollen or irritant is gone. For some people, nasal allergies are a major pain in the rear and sometimes can develop into more serious illness like sinus infections and asthma.
Treatment
Relief from your nasal allergies will depend on the type of medical treatment you receive. There are anti-histamines, which help with the runny nose and sneezing. Decongestants help relieve the stuffiness and can be paired with anti-histamines. Allergy shots and steroid nasal sprays are other possible treatments. Between you and your doctor, you can experiment until you find the right combination of drugs to best help relieve your nasal allergies.
don’t really know why some people have more sensitivity to one substance over another, but they do know your body’s response to these allergens. What happens is that when an allergen gets past your nasal defenses, your immune system perceives it as an attack and will retaliate. During this retaliation, your body releases a chemical called histamine, which is the reason why your eyes will get teary and your nose starts to run. Some people may develop breathing problems, wheezing or even sneezing.
Pollen
Many causes of nasal allergies are from airborne allergens that are breathed in through the nose but the sources are vastly different. Pollen is by far the most prevalent reason why allergies are formed in the first place and different areas of the country will have different levels of pollen, depending on what is growing and flowering at the time. Ragweed travels far and wide so even if you don’t have any growing in your area, you can still be allergic to it. Grass, flowering bushes, and a variety of trees can cause nasal allergies thanks to the pollen and other natural substances they release.
Dust And Animal Dander
Dust often tickles the nose and makes people sneeze but it does not always cause nasal allergies. However, if you have dust mites, tiny microscopic organisms, in your mattress, furniture or carpeting, these could be the true culprits. You will know for certain if your allergies persist even during winter months when outside pollen is at an all time low.
Animal dander can cause real problems with allergic reactions as well. Dander settles into carpets and furniture so even if you get rid of your cat or dog, you can still experience nasal allergies. Only a thorough vacuuming and carpet and upholstery shampooing can greatly lessen the dander population.
Symptoms
Typically, the symptoms of nasal allergies start off with some nose itching as well as sneezing, which is the body’s way to try and get rid of the allergen. From there, your nose could start running which is the body’s way to wash the foreign substance away. From there, you start to develop a stuffy nose and develop sensitivity to other irritants a few hours after your initial exposure. This allergic response could potentially last for weeks or until the pollen or irritant is gone. For some people, nasal allergies are a major pain in the rear and sometimes can develop into more serious illness like sinus infections and asthma.
Treatment
Relief from your nasal allergies will depend on the type of medical treatment you receive. There are anti-histamines, which help with the runny nose and sneezing. Decongestants help relieve the stuffiness and can be paired with anti-histamines. Allergy shots and steroid nasal sprays are other possible treatments. Between you and your doctor, you can experiment until you find the right combination of drugs to best help relieve your nasal allergies.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Consider Fluconazole For Mold Allergies
If you have ever had chronic sinus problems or allergies that never seem to lessen in severity even when pollen counts are low then you just might have mold to blame. Mold is everywhere and even though it can be a major problem, it is one of the last things that doctors consider when treating sinus problems and allergies. Typically a prescription of fluconazole for mold allergies is what clears many symptoms up and brings relief.
Make sure that your doctor takes a culture of your nose to determine that mold is indeed the culprit. Many times the lab that analyzes the culture can say what type of mold is causing the problem and recommend a good anti-fungal medication in addition to fluconazole for mold allergies.
The Many Forms Of Mold
Mold is a mighty fungus and its many forms run into the hundreds of thousands with some just being minor irritants while others like the dreaded black or toxic mold can be life threatening. Every home has some mold growing whether it is that lab experiment in the refrigerator or some fuzzy appearances where there was a plumbing leak in the ceiling.
Mold in the home can cause illness, especially in the very young and very old who do not have strong immune systems. Therefore, when you present symptoms of allergies, sinus issues or even asthma, tell your doctor about the possibility of mold. He will likely prescribe fluconazole for mold allergies.
Treatment
Fluconazole for mold allergies is an expected treatment once other medications have been exhausted. You might know this drug as Diflucan, which not only treats mold allergies but also infections caused by various types of yeast, which are in the fungus family, the same family as mold. Therefore, you should be able to see the relationship and the reason why fluconazole for mold allergies is a logical move.
Fluconazole comes in both pill form as well as oral suspension and typically adults will receive the pill form while children receive the liquid. If you are on any other medications, you should let your doctor know before you fill the prescription fluconazole for mold allergies. Some diabetic medications as well as those for insomnia and high blood pressure can cause reactions and there may be some over the counter remedies that can also be a problem.
Of course, fluconazole for mold allergies can also present some side effects in a small percentage of people but most do go away on their own. Diarrhea, nausea and even loss of appetite are temporary effects but anything more serious should be reported to your doctor.
Make sure that your doctor takes a culture of your nose to determine that mold is indeed the culprit. Many times the lab that analyzes the culture can say what type of mold is causing the problem and recommend a good anti-fungal medication in addition to fluconazole for mold allergies.
The Many Forms Of Mold
Mold is a mighty fungus and its many forms run into the hundreds of thousands with some just being minor irritants while others like the dreaded black or toxic mold can be life threatening. Every home has some mold growing whether it is that lab experiment in the refrigerator or some fuzzy appearances where there was a plumbing leak in the ceiling.
Mold in the home can cause illness, especially in the very young and very old who do not have strong immune systems. Therefore, when you present symptoms of allergies, sinus issues or even asthma, tell your doctor about the possibility of mold. He will likely prescribe fluconazole for mold allergies.
Treatment
Fluconazole for mold allergies is an expected treatment once other medications have been exhausted. You might know this drug as Diflucan, which not only treats mold allergies but also infections caused by various types of yeast, which are in the fungus family, the same family as mold. Therefore, you should be able to see the relationship and the reason why fluconazole for mold allergies is a logical move.
Fluconazole comes in both pill form as well as oral suspension and typically adults will receive the pill form while children receive the liquid. If you are on any other medications, you should let your doctor know before you fill the prescription fluconazole for mold allergies. Some diabetic medications as well as those for insomnia and high blood pressure can cause reactions and there may be some over the counter remedies that can also be a problem.
Of course, fluconazole for mold allergies can also present some side effects in a small percentage of people but most do go away on their own. Diarrhea, nausea and even loss of appetite are temporary effects but anything more serious should be reported to your doctor.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Tattoo Allergies – An Uncommon But Real Problem
Once seen as something only the bad boys did, tattoos have gone mainstream in the past decade or two. Now it is seen as something cool, a way to express yourself in the most permanent manner. While most people have no lingering side effects once the tattoo scabbing and healing process is over, there are a small percentage of people who experience some type of allergic reaction. Tattoo allergies are often the result of the type of inks used.
Ink Ingredients
Most tattoo artists don’t really read the ink labels to see what ingredients are in there but if you are prone to allergies, chances are your tattoo allergies will be the result of red or yellow ink. In the past, many brands of tattoo ink used mercury in them but this practice has greatly declined because of its harmful effects.
However, inks today that can cause tattoo allergies contain such elements as nickel, cadmium and chromium. While you may not really run across cadmium or chromium much, many earrings and other pieces of jewelry have nickel, so if you have ever had a reaction to it, chances are that you will develop some type of reaction to a tattoo.
Telltale Signs
It is important to note that not everyone who will suffer from tattoo allergies will exhibit signs immediately. Some people won’t develop a rash or inflamed redness for a month or two or even years later, which is the reason why a skin patch test is not really conducive to detecting allergies before getting a tattoo.
For people with tattoo allergies that present themselves years later, the reaction could be itchiness and even raised bumpy areas in certain colored parts of the tattoo. Sometimes, it is the weather that can cause a reaction or even a raised body temperature. The heat, whether it is from body temperature or the weather can cause the skin to swell slightly, which could affect the tattoo. If your own tattoo feels particularly itchy during hotter weather, this could be the reason for your tattoo allergies.
Treatment
If you develop tattoo allergies not long after you get your inked masterpiece, you can apply over the counter treatment onto the rash or affected area. Antibiotic ointment or hydrocortisone creams often bring relief, as do regular anti-itch creams and cold compresses. If the area does not clear itself within a week or so, it would be wise to visit a dermatologist who will likely prescribe some type of steroid to combat your tattoo allergies.
Ink Ingredients
Most tattoo artists don’t really read the ink labels to see what ingredients are in there but if you are prone to allergies, chances are your tattoo allergies will be the result of red or yellow ink. In the past, many brands of tattoo ink used mercury in them but this practice has greatly declined because of its harmful effects.
However, inks today that can cause tattoo allergies contain such elements as nickel, cadmium and chromium. While you may not really run across cadmium or chromium much, many earrings and other pieces of jewelry have nickel, so if you have ever had a reaction to it, chances are that you will develop some type of reaction to a tattoo.
Telltale Signs
It is important to note that not everyone who will suffer from tattoo allergies will exhibit signs immediately. Some people won’t develop a rash or inflamed redness for a month or two or even years later, which is the reason why a skin patch test is not really conducive to detecting allergies before getting a tattoo.
For people with tattoo allergies that present themselves years later, the reaction could be itchiness and even raised bumpy areas in certain colored parts of the tattoo. Sometimes, it is the weather that can cause a reaction or even a raised body temperature. The heat, whether it is from body temperature or the weather can cause the skin to swell slightly, which could affect the tattoo. If your own tattoo feels particularly itchy during hotter weather, this could be the reason for your tattoo allergies.
Treatment
If you develop tattoo allergies not long after you get your inked masterpiece, you can apply over the counter treatment onto the rash or affected area. Antibiotic ointment or hydrocortisone creams often bring relief, as do regular anti-itch creams and cold compresses. If the area does not clear itself within a week or so, it would be wise to visit a dermatologist who will likely prescribe some type of steroid to combat your tattoo allergies.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
About Sun Allergies
Not only vampires are allergic to the sun. Although we don’t often hear cases of sun allergies in the country, this type of allergy is actually common. In most cases, people who have mild sun allergies do not even realize that they have this type of allergies. In most cases, people who have a mild case of this type of allergy would think that they are suffering from sunburns after spending a short period of time under the sun.
Understanding Sun Allergies
Sun allergies can be attributed to the immune system reaction to sunlight. There are some people whose immune systems have problems coping with excessive sunlight that they end with itchy red rashes after spending a few minutes under the sun. In most cases, the itchy red rashes appear at the back of the hands, the surface of arms and legs and in the neck area.
These itchy red patches usually go away after a couple of days so there is really no need to be alarmed over the situation. There is no need to rush to the hospital and demand for treatment or something. Just buy some over the counter anti allergy lotion or cream and spread it on the affected area. A nice warm bath can also help sooth the itchiness away. Do not scratch the itchy skin to avoid causing more damage.
On the other hand, although most people who suffer from sun allergies do not really develop severe symptoms, some people do develop small blisters and hives not only in the skin areas that are exposed to the sun but also in those areas which are clothed. In cases like these, it would be better to see a doctor before you put something on your raw skin.
Yes, over the counter creams and medicated lotion may work but it is always better to be safe. Note that blisters and hives can become infected so be sure to get medical help before you develop something serious. Besides, you do not really want to cause more damage to your skin. Always remember that damages skin on your legs and arms can look really ugly.
For people who have the tendencies to develop severe reactions to the sun, it is not really safe to do some sun bathing even for just a few minutes. People with sun allergies who need to work outdoors must wear protective clothing and sun block to minimize the effect of sunlight on their skin.
Understanding Sun Allergies
Sun allergies can be attributed to the immune system reaction to sunlight. There are some people whose immune systems have problems coping with excessive sunlight that they end with itchy red rashes after spending a few minutes under the sun. In most cases, the itchy red rashes appear at the back of the hands, the surface of arms and legs and in the neck area.
These itchy red patches usually go away after a couple of days so there is really no need to be alarmed over the situation. There is no need to rush to the hospital and demand for treatment or something. Just buy some over the counter anti allergy lotion or cream and spread it on the affected area. A nice warm bath can also help sooth the itchiness away. Do not scratch the itchy skin to avoid causing more damage.
On the other hand, although most people who suffer from sun allergies do not really develop severe symptoms, some people do develop small blisters and hives not only in the skin areas that are exposed to the sun but also in those areas which are clothed. In cases like these, it would be better to see a doctor before you put something on your raw skin.
Yes, over the counter creams and medicated lotion may work but it is always better to be safe. Note that blisters and hives can become infected so be sure to get medical help before you develop something serious. Besides, you do not really want to cause more damage to your skin. Always remember that damages skin on your legs and arms can look really ugly.
For people who have the tendencies to develop severe reactions to the sun, it is not really safe to do some sun bathing even for just a few minutes. People with sun allergies who need to work outdoors must wear protective clothing and sun block to minimize the effect of sunlight on their skin.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
About Dairy Allergies
Dairy allergies are becoming one of the most common causes of ailments in both children and adults. Although some people do not really experience strong symptoms from dairy allergies, there are some people who react strongly to dairy products that they end up with some incapacitating symptoms and may even have to be hospitalized for a few days. If you are one of those people who have strong allergic reactions to dairy products, here are some of the things that you should know about dairy allergies.
What Is Dairy Allergies?
Medical professionals define this type of allergy as hypersensitivity to milk or egg protein. The allergic reaction to these otherwise harmless types of food can be quite crippling for some people. The most common symptoms of this type of allergy are diarrhea, wheezing and vomiting. Children who are prone to dairy allergies should never be given these types of foods to avoid any medical complications. Milk is known to be mucus forming, thus, people who are suffering from asthma should limit their intake of milk or simply do away with milk.
Shouldn’t children be given milk and eggs to help them grow? Yes, your children needs eggs and milk to help them grow but if they are allergic to these food, you just have to find other types of food for your children. Instead of giving your children milk based products, you might want to give them more fresh fruits and vegetables. There is really no point of tempting fate is so if your children manifest allergic reactions to milk and eggs, ovoid giving them these types of foods to reduce the possibility of allergic reactions and medical complications. Always remember that it is best to be safe than sorry.
Lactose Intolerance Versus Allergies
Many parents mistake lactose intolerance for dairy allergies. According to medical professionals, these two are really not the same. While dairy allergies are the negative reaction of the body against the nutritional components of dairy products, lactose intolerance is simply the inability of the body to digest the sugar found in milk.
In most cases, lactose intolerance will cause stomach cramps but it does not really trigger the other symptoms associated with allergic reactions. However, although the symptoms of lactose intolerance are not really serious, the effects of lactose intolerance can be quite uncomfortable. To avoid discomforts, especially when you are traveling or working in the office, it would still be a good idea to avoid milk based products if you have lactose intolerance.
What Is Dairy Allergies?
Medical professionals define this type of allergy as hypersensitivity to milk or egg protein. The allergic reaction to these otherwise harmless types of food can be quite crippling for some people. The most common symptoms of this type of allergy are diarrhea, wheezing and vomiting. Children who are prone to dairy allergies should never be given these types of foods to avoid any medical complications. Milk is known to be mucus forming, thus, people who are suffering from asthma should limit their intake of milk or simply do away with milk.
Shouldn’t children be given milk and eggs to help them grow? Yes, your children needs eggs and milk to help them grow but if they are allergic to these food, you just have to find other types of food for your children. Instead of giving your children milk based products, you might want to give them more fresh fruits and vegetables. There is really no point of tempting fate is so if your children manifest allergic reactions to milk and eggs, ovoid giving them these types of foods to reduce the possibility of allergic reactions and medical complications. Always remember that it is best to be safe than sorry.
Lactose Intolerance Versus Allergies
Many parents mistake lactose intolerance for dairy allergies. According to medical professionals, these two are really not the same. While dairy allergies are the negative reaction of the body against the nutritional components of dairy products, lactose intolerance is simply the inability of the body to digest the sugar found in milk.
In most cases, lactose intolerance will cause stomach cramps but it does not really trigger the other symptoms associated with allergic reactions. However, although the symptoms of lactose intolerance are not really serious, the effects of lactose intolerance can be quite uncomfortable. To avoid discomforts, especially when you are traveling or working in the office, it would still be a good idea to avoid milk based products if you have lactose intolerance.
Friday, November 9, 2007
About Lake Water Allergies
If you are one of those people who simply can’t resist a good swim, you might think twice about wading and swimming into some lakes and ponds no matter how clear the water may appear to you. According to experts, lake water allergies can cause a lot of discomforts to people and may even leave some ugly marks on your skin.
What Is Lake Water Allergies?
Lake water allergies also known as swimmer’s itch is the skins allergic reaction to infection cause by contaminated water. Contamination in the water does not mean industrial contamination or anything of that sort. What we mean here is the natural forms of contamination which is caused by birds and mammals that are living near the lake.
Note that many lakes in the country contain parasites of birds and mammals that can cause allergies. These allergens in the water are especially common during the summer time when more birds and mammals visit the lake. Since we cannot really prevent birds and mammals from getting into the lake and it would be downright inhuman to deprive these animals of their natural habitat, the only solution here is to avoid swimming into the lake especially if you are prone to lake water allergies.
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Lake Water Allergies?
The most common symptoms of lake water allergies is tingling, burning or itching of the skin within a few hours after you waded or swam in contaminated lake water. Many people also develop reddish pimples all over their bodies within 12 hours after they went into contact with the water. If not treated properly, these reddish pimples may develop into ugly blisters. Yes, things can really get quite ugly when this happen and you could suffer from a lot of discomforts for around a week or two. Fortunately, applying anti allergy cream and ointment on the affected areas of the skin will make the blisters go away within the next few days so you need not go to the hospital.
On the other hand, there are some people who develop more serious lake water allergies symptoms. Continuous or prolonged exposure to contaminated water often aggravates the situation. If you develop more serious forms of allergic reactions to contaminated lake water such as shortness of breath, huge lesions in your skin, fever and the likes, you should see your doctor immediately. You may be suffering from complications so do not ignore your symptoms.
What Is Lake Water Allergies?
Lake water allergies also known as swimmer’s itch is the skins allergic reaction to infection cause by contaminated water. Contamination in the water does not mean industrial contamination or anything of that sort. What we mean here is the natural forms of contamination which is caused by birds and mammals that are living near the lake.
Note that many lakes in the country contain parasites of birds and mammals that can cause allergies. These allergens in the water are especially common during the summer time when more birds and mammals visit the lake. Since we cannot really prevent birds and mammals from getting into the lake and it would be downright inhuman to deprive these animals of their natural habitat, the only solution here is to avoid swimming into the lake especially if you are prone to lake water allergies.
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Lake Water Allergies?
The most common symptoms of lake water allergies is tingling, burning or itching of the skin within a few hours after you waded or swam in contaminated lake water. Many people also develop reddish pimples all over their bodies within 12 hours after they went into contact with the water. If not treated properly, these reddish pimples may develop into ugly blisters. Yes, things can really get quite ugly when this happen and you could suffer from a lot of discomforts for around a week or two. Fortunately, applying anti allergy cream and ointment on the affected areas of the skin will make the blisters go away within the next few days so you need not go to the hospital.
On the other hand, there are some people who develop more serious lake water allergies symptoms. Continuous or prolonged exposure to contaminated water often aggravates the situation. If you develop more serious forms of allergic reactions to contaminated lake water such as shortness of breath, huge lesions in your skin, fever and the likes, you should see your doctor immediately. You may be suffering from complications so do not ignore your symptoms.
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Understanding Common Allergies And Their Symptoms
If you have these sudden attacks of itchiness, asthma, sneezing, coughing, rashes and red spots all over your body, chances are, you are allergic to something. Common allergies and their symptoms can manifest anytime and anywhere so if you have allergic reactions to some types of foods, smell, pollen and others, you need to be very careful and avoid your allergy triggers. Note that some common allergies and their symptoms can cause some complications in your body. Once medical complications happen, danger comes in. To help you understand common allergies and their symptoms, read on.
Types Of Allergies And Their Triggers
Common allergies and their symptoms can be broadly categorized into outdoor and indoor allergy triggers. Both outdoor and indoor allergies can make your life really miserable so be aware of the things that could trigger your allergic reactions. For instance, the most common allergies and their symptoms may be caused by different kinds of pollen. Pollen may come from trees, weeds, grasses and shrubs.
Technically, pollen is a harmless powdery substance that is emitted by the male plants into the air to pollinate the female plants. In other words, pollen is necessary to make plants grow and bear fruits. Unfortunately, there are people who are allergic to this stuff. Since is made up of very tiny particles and can be inhaled by a person, a person who is allergic to this stuff may suffer from different forms of allergies and symptoms.
In most cases, people who are allergic to pollen will suffer from asthma, allergic rhinitis and others. The weather also contributes much to the degree of the sufferings of those people who are allergic to pollen. According to experts, humidity will amplify the allergic reactions of the person. Since the pollen could become trapped in the moisture, it will stay longer in the air and cause more sufferings to people who are allergic to it. During humid conditions the impact of common allergies and their symptoms could magnify, causing the sufferer to feel extremely uncomfortable.
On the other hand, while the outdoor allergens may be seasonal, indoor allergens can be an all year round bother. People who are living in windowless apartments and those who are living in polluted areas are especially prone to common allergies and symptoms. Molds and mites are usually the culprit. Since the air in the windowless apartment is recycled, allergens are trapped inside the apartment thus the sufferer may experience an all year round coughing and sneezing.
Types Of Allergies And Their Triggers
Common allergies and their symptoms can be broadly categorized into outdoor and indoor allergy triggers. Both outdoor and indoor allergies can make your life really miserable so be aware of the things that could trigger your allergic reactions. For instance, the most common allergies and their symptoms may be caused by different kinds of pollen. Pollen may come from trees, weeds, grasses and shrubs.
Technically, pollen is a harmless powdery substance that is emitted by the male plants into the air to pollinate the female plants. In other words, pollen is necessary to make plants grow and bear fruits. Unfortunately, there are people who are allergic to this stuff. Since is made up of very tiny particles and can be inhaled by a person, a person who is allergic to this stuff may suffer from different forms of allergies and symptoms.
In most cases, people who are allergic to pollen will suffer from asthma, allergic rhinitis and others. The weather also contributes much to the degree of the sufferings of those people who are allergic to pollen. According to experts, humidity will amplify the allergic reactions of the person. Since the pollen could become trapped in the moisture, it will stay longer in the air and cause more sufferings to people who are allergic to it. During humid conditions the impact of common allergies and their symptoms could magnify, causing the sufferer to feel extremely uncomfortable.
On the other hand, while the outdoor allergens may be seasonal, indoor allergens can be an all year round bother. People who are living in windowless apartments and those who are living in polluted areas are especially prone to common allergies and symptoms. Molds and mites are usually the culprit. Since the air in the windowless apartment is recycled, allergens are trapped inside the apartment thus the sufferer may experience an all year round coughing and sneezing.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
How To Cope With Seasonal Allergies
According to studies, around 40 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies every year. The causes of seasonal allergies vary but some of the most popular causes of these types of allergies are pollen, mites and molds. Pollen is especially hazardous to people who have allergic rhinitis and asthma.
Once the pollen gets into contact with the mucous membranes that protects the nasal passage, the membrane gets irritated and may become swollen, making it difficult for that person to breathe. In most cases, the inflammation of the nasal passage will result to itchy throat, runny nose, swollen sinuses and watery eyes. For some people, the reaction can be more severe. It is not uncommon for people to get hospitalized because of severe reactions to pollens. To cope with seasonal allergies, here are some tips for you.
Preventive Measures
One of the best ways to prevent seasonal allergies is to increase your dietary intake of the essential fatty acids. According to studies, fatty acids from fish and flaxseed can help prevent allergic reactions in most people. Taking increased dose of vitamin C can also lower the levels of histamine in the blood so make sure that you eat plenty of fruits. Fruits and juices are better compared to synthetic vitamin C in capsules. Most experts agree that fresh is best so do double you intake of those vitamin C capsules. Instead, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Another way to prevent seasonal allergies is to monitor the level of pollen and mold inside and outside of the house. If the pollen and mold level outside is high, keep your windows and doors tightly shut to ward off these microscopic things. Do not wander off outdoors too much especially when weeds, trees and shrubs around the area are in bloom. Note that trees, weeds, grass and shrubs release pollens into the air during this time. If you must go outdoors, cover your mouth and nose with surgical mask to filter the air that you inhale. The surgical mask can only hold so much of the pollen and molds at bay so try not to stay outdoors for too long. Let someone else do the yard work for you.
Once you get back indoors, take off your clothes and put them in the washer immediately to ward off seasonal allergies. Molds and pollen tend to cling to your hair and clothes so make sure that you wash your clothes or stash them away. Furthermore, you need to wash your hair before you hit the bed. Note that the pollen and molds that clung to your hair could easily find its way into your nostrils when you sleep.
Once the pollen gets into contact with the mucous membranes that protects the nasal passage, the membrane gets irritated and may become swollen, making it difficult for that person to breathe. In most cases, the inflammation of the nasal passage will result to itchy throat, runny nose, swollen sinuses and watery eyes. For some people, the reaction can be more severe. It is not uncommon for people to get hospitalized because of severe reactions to pollens. To cope with seasonal allergies, here are some tips for you.
Preventive Measures
One of the best ways to prevent seasonal allergies is to increase your dietary intake of the essential fatty acids. According to studies, fatty acids from fish and flaxseed can help prevent allergic reactions in most people. Taking increased dose of vitamin C can also lower the levels of histamine in the blood so make sure that you eat plenty of fruits. Fruits and juices are better compared to synthetic vitamin C in capsules. Most experts agree that fresh is best so do double you intake of those vitamin C capsules. Instead, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Another way to prevent seasonal allergies is to monitor the level of pollen and mold inside and outside of the house. If the pollen and mold level outside is high, keep your windows and doors tightly shut to ward off these microscopic things. Do not wander off outdoors too much especially when weeds, trees and shrubs around the area are in bloom. Note that trees, weeds, grass and shrubs release pollens into the air during this time. If you must go outdoors, cover your mouth and nose with surgical mask to filter the air that you inhale. The surgical mask can only hold so much of the pollen and molds at bay so try not to stay outdoors for too long. Let someone else do the yard work for you.
Once you get back indoors, take off your clothes and put them in the washer immediately to ward off seasonal allergies. Molds and pollen tend to cling to your hair and clothes so make sure that you wash your clothes or stash them away. Furthermore, you need to wash your hair before you hit the bed. Note that the pollen and molds that clung to your hair could easily find its way into your nostrils when you sleep.
Monday, November 5, 2007
The Most Common Food Allergies and How to Treat Them
Common food allergies occur most frequently with children, but it is possible for adults to develop them as well. Symptoms of food allergies might include tingling around the mouth, swelling of the lips or a skin rash. It might also include the more common allergy symptoms like a runny nose and congestion. Stomach upset is typical with many of the common food allergies, and might include symptoms like cramps or diarrhea. In some cases, dizziness may also be a symptom. More severe allergy symptoms, also known as anaphylaxis, may include swelling of the mouth and airways, difficulty breathing, vomiting or fainting. These symptoms require immediate medical attention, since anaphylaxis can become life threatening very quickly.
It is always a good idea to see your doctor if you think that you are suffering from a common food allergy. Even if your first reaction was mild in nature, it is possible that future exposures to the allergen can cause a more severe reaction to develop. Your doctor can use a number of different methods to try to determine whether you do indeed have a common food allergy and what exactly you are allergic to. This can be done through skin tests, blood tests, an overview of the things that you have eaten, and an elimination plan of taking certain foods out of your diet. Sometimes the exact culprit of a common food allergy can be identified, but other times it can be more difficult to pinpoint. One piece of information that makes precise diagnosis a little bit easier is a list of the most common food allergies. This is often a good place to start in the testing process.
The Top Eight
Eight foods have now been identified as the most common food allergies. These include milk and eggs, peanuts and tree nuts, fish and shellfish, and wheat and soy. This list of the top eight most common food allergies can explain around 90% of all of the food allergies that are diagnosed today. The good news is that the FDA has now required food manufacturers to list these eight allergens as ingredients in all food products so that people with these common food allergies can more effectively avoid their triggers in the food they eat. This is important because avoidance of allergens is generally the best treatment option for the common food allergies. If you know that you have an allergy to one of these foods, it is necessary to get in the habit of reading the labels on the foods that you eat, so that you can effectively avoid ingredients that you know you will have a reaction to.
It is always a good idea to see your doctor if you think that you are suffering from a common food allergy. Even if your first reaction was mild in nature, it is possible that future exposures to the allergen can cause a more severe reaction to develop. Your doctor can use a number of different methods to try to determine whether you do indeed have a common food allergy and what exactly you are allergic to. This can be done through skin tests, blood tests, an overview of the things that you have eaten, and an elimination plan of taking certain foods out of your diet. Sometimes the exact culprit of a common food allergy can be identified, but other times it can be more difficult to pinpoint. One piece of information that makes precise diagnosis a little bit easier is a list of the most common food allergies. This is often a good place to start in the testing process.
The Top Eight
Eight foods have now been identified as the most common food allergies. These include milk and eggs, peanuts and tree nuts, fish and shellfish, and wheat and soy. This list of the top eight most common food allergies can explain around 90% of all of the food allergies that are diagnosed today. The good news is that the FDA has now required food manufacturers to list these eight allergens as ingredients in all food products so that people with these common food allergies can more effectively avoid their triggers in the food they eat. This is important because avoidance of allergens is generally the best treatment option for the common food allergies. If you know that you have an allergy to one of these foods, it is necessary to get in the habit of reading the labels on the foods that you eat, so that you can effectively avoid ingredients that you know you will have a reaction to.
Friday, November 2, 2007
How to Live with Wheat Allergies
Food allergies are a common problem, especially among children today. There are many different types of foods that can cause allergic symptoms, and these symptoms can range from very mild to severe, and even life-threatening in some cases. One of the top eight foods that can cause these types of allergies is wheat, which is an ingredient that is found in many of the foods that we eat today. Wheat allergies, like other food allergies, are most commonly seen in children and are often outgrown. However, some adults can develop wheat allergies as well.
Symptoms
The symptoms of wheat allergies can occur anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of hours after eating a wheat product. These signs can range from mild to severe. In more serious cases, immediate medical care may be required, since anaphylaxis (severe allergy symptoms) is a life threatening condition. Wheat allergy symptoms can include nasal congestion, airway inflammation and swelling, hives or other skin irritation, or gastrointestinal problems. More severe symptoms might also be airway constriction, rapid pulse, dizziness and shock. These are the symptoms that will require immediate medical care because they can become life threatening very quickly.
Treatment
Treatment of wheat allergies will primarily include avoidance of wheat products once you have had an allergic reaction that can be attributed to wheat. Since wheat allergies can become more severe as you experience more reactions, it is important to see your doctor even if you’ve had a mild allergic reaction to wheat. Your doctor can test you to see if wheat was indeed the culprit of your allergies through a variety of methods. Once a wheat allergy is diagnosed, it will be up to you to ensure that you avoid all wheat products in the future. Fortunately, this has become easier in the United States since food manufacturers have been required to list wheat ingredients on their package labels.
If you have had a severe reaction with a wheat allergy, your doctor may advise you to carry an emergency treatment with you called an EpiPen. This is an injection that can be given if you are exposed to wheat, since it can be difficult to avoid this substance altogether. You may also wear a bracelet so that those around you will also know that you have a wheat allergy. For most wheat allergy sufferers, it is sufficient to try to avoid wheat products as much as possible, and to take an antihistamine if wheat exposure inadvertently occurs. And keep in mind that wheat allergies occur most often in children, and are often outgrown.
Symptoms
The symptoms of wheat allergies can occur anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of hours after eating a wheat product. These signs can range from mild to severe. In more serious cases, immediate medical care may be required, since anaphylaxis (severe allergy symptoms) is a life threatening condition. Wheat allergy symptoms can include nasal congestion, airway inflammation and swelling, hives or other skin irritation, or gastrointestinal problems. More severe symptoms might also be airway constriction, rapid pulse, dizziness and shock. These are the symptoms that will require immediate medical care because they can become life threatening very quickly.
Treatment
Treatment of wheat allergies will primarily include avoidance of wheat products once you have had an allergic reaction that can be attributed to wheat. Since wheat allergies can become more severe as you experience more reactions, it is important to see your doctor even if you’ve had a mild allergic reaction to wheat. Your doctor can test you to see if wheat was indeed the culprit of your allergies through a variety of methods. Once a wheat allergy is diagnosed, it will be up to you to ensure that you avoid all wheat products in the future. Fortunately, this has become easier in the United States since food manufacturers have been required to list wheat ingredients on their package labels.
If you have had a severe reaction with a wheat allergy, your doctor may advise you to carry an emergency treatment with you called an EpiPen. This is an injection that can be given if you are exposed to wheat, since it can be difficult to avoid this substance altogether. You may also wear a bracelet so that those around you will also know that you have a wheat allergy. For most wheat allergy sufferers, it is sufficient to try to avoid wheat products as much as possible, and to take an antihistamine if wheat exposure inadvertently occurs. And keep in mind that wheat allergies occur most often in children, and are often outgrown.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Symptoms of Allergies: When to Seek Medical Help
Nearly all of us have experienced them at one time or another. The runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, and sneezing. Symptoms of allergies can strike anytime or anyplace, depending on what the allergy trigger is for an individual. Most allergies are not serious, and can be easily treated at home with homeopathic remedies, over the counter medications, or simple avoidance of the triggers. However, there are some people who have serious allergies that can become life-threatening if they are not treated immediately. This is why it is important to understand the difference between mild, moderate and severe allergy symptoms, and when a health care professional should be involved in the treatment plan.
Mild Symptoms of Allergies
The milder symptoms of allergies are the ones that most of us will experience at one time or another. These symptoms might include itchy, watery eyes and nasal congestion. They can also include a localized skin rash or hives. In the case of milder allergy symptoms, the condition does not spread to other parts of the body. You can usually treat your symptoms effectively at home, using antihistamines or nasal decongestants. Other possible treatment options include eye drops, or topical creams for skin rashes. Most of the time, mild symptoms of allergies do not require a doctor’s care, unless the condition lasts for longer than a couple of weeks.
Moderate and Severe Symptoms of Allergies
When symptoms of allergies become moderate to severe, they can spread to other parts of the body. They can also become more dangerous and even life-threatening in some situations. Moderate symptoms of allergies can include itching and difficulty breathing. More severe symptoms might include swelling in various areas of the body, which can make swallowing and breathing difficult. You might also experience digestive symptoms like nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. In some cases mental clarity becomes compromised and you might feel dizzy, fuzzy or confused. If you begin to experience any of these symptoms of allergies, it is important to seek medical care immediately. These symptoms could be an indication of anaphylaxis, which is a potentially life-threatening condition.
In most cases, symptoms of allergies are mild and can be effectively treated with over the counter medications and home remedies. However, it is good to know what more severe allergy symptoms look like, so you will be prepared to seek medical help if the situation ever arises. Quick action can mean the difference between life and death for those who suffer from severe allergy symptoms.
Mild Symptoms of Allergies
The milder symptoms of allergies are the ones that most of us will experience at one time or another. These symptoms might include itchy, watery eyes and nasal congestion. They can also include a localized skin rash or hives. In the case of milder allergy symptoms, the condition does not spread to other parts of the body. You can usually treat your symptoms effectively at home, using antihistamines or nasal decongestants. Other possible treatment options include eye drops, or topical creams for skin rashes. Most of the time, mild symptoms of allergies do not require a doctor’s care, unless the condition lasts for longer than a couple of weeks.
Moderate and Severe Symptoms of Allergies
When symptoms of allergies become moderate to severe, they can spread to other parts of the body. They can also become more dangerous and even life-threatening in some situations. Moderate symptoms of allergies can include itching and difficulty breathing. More severe symptoms might include swelling in various areas of the body, which can make swallowing and breathing difficult. You might also experience digestive symptoms like nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. In some cases mental clarity becomes compromised and you might feel dizzy, fuzzy or confused. If you begin to experience any of these symptoms of allergies, it is important to seek medical care immediately. These symptoms could be an indication of anaphylaxis, which is a potentially life-threatening condition.
In most cases, symptoms of allergies are mild and can be effectively treated with over the counter medications and home remedies. However, it is good to know what more severe allergy symptoms look like, so you will be prepared to seek medical help if the situation ever arises. Quick action can mean the difference between life and death for those who suffer from severe allergy symptoms.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Skin Allergies Account For Most Complaints
One of the most common complaint people see an allergist for is skin rashes. Usually confined to small area that has come into contact with an offending allergen, it can spread and cause additional problems if left untreated. Similar to other types of irritations, skin rashes can be anywhere from inconvenient to debilitating and can be caused by a number of things, many that are found in a variety of products making isolation difficult except with patch testing.
Many skin rashes can develop later in life, while other become apparent at the first sign of exposure. Many of the items to which people are allergic are common and seem almost innocuous as to causing skin rashes. Products made of jewelry metal such as gold, silver and nickel are often cited as the cause of irritations, and in some people, and even the smallest trace of the element can trigger a break out.
While the most common cure for skin rashes is to avoid contact with the offending product. Corticosteroid cream has shown to offer relief for irritation on the skin, but of those used to test its effectiveness against skin rashes, three percent developed an allergy to the cream.
Common Items Cause Uncommon Problems
In addition to jewelry metals, ingredients in many common items are known to cause allergic reactions in some people. Thimeroral is a mercury compound often found in antiseptics and vaccines can cause skin rashes in some patients. A common ingredient in cosmetics, deodorant, soap and pet food, neomycin sulfate has also been know to cause rashes in some users.
Quaternium 15, commonly used as a preservative in self-tanning lotions, shampoo, nail polish and sunscreen can also cause skin rashes and bacitracin, used as a topical antibiotic is blamed for rashes on many users. The ingredients in products meant to protect most folks from irritating skin rashes can cause a reaction in others.
Formaldehyde is often used in medications, household cleaners and cosmetics and has been known to cause severe rashes in some people, and if used on an existing rash can exacerbate the problem. Cobalt chloride in hair dye, antiperspirant and alloyed with metals for buttons and snaps can also be a problem for allergic users. Figuring out the exact cause of skin rashes can be a time-consuming process and the current patch test is about the only way to narrow down the choices. Contacting an allergist for persistent skin rashes can determine if the test is necessary to isolate the offending product.
Many skin rashes can develop later in life, while other become apparent at the first sign of exposure. Many of the items to which people are allergic are common and seem almost innocuous as to causing skin rashes. Products made of jewelry metal such as gold, silver and nickel are often cited as the cause of irritations, and in some people, and even the smallest trace of the element can trigger a break out.
While the most common cure for skin rashes is to avoid contact with the offending product. Corticosteroid cream has shown to offer relief for irritation on the skin, but of those used to test its effectiveness against skin rashes, three percent developed an allergy to the cream.
Common Items Cause Uncommon Problems
In addition to jewelry metals, ingredients in many common items are known to cause allergic reactions in some people. Thimeroral is a mercury compound often found in antiseptics and vaccines can cause skin rashes in some patients. A common ingredient in cosmetics, deodorant, soap and pet food, neomycin sulfate has also been know to cause rashes in some users.
Quaternium 15, commonly used as a preservative in self-tanning lotions, shampoo, nail polish and sunscreen can also cause skin rashes and bacitracin, used as a topical antibiotic is blamed for rashes on many users. The ingredients in products meant to protect most folks from irritating skin rashes can cause a reaction in others.
Formaldehyde is often used in medications, household cleaners and cosmetics and has been known to cause severe rashes in some people, and if used on an existing rash can exacerbate the problem. Cobalt chloride in hair dye, antiperspirant and alloyed with metals for buttons and snaps can also be a problem for allergic users. Figuring out the exact cause of skin rashes can be a time-consuming process and the current patch test is about the only way to narrow down the choices. Contacting an allergist for persistent skin rashes can determine if the test is necessary to isolate the offending product.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Eye Allergies: Causes and Treatments
When most of us think of allergies, an itchy, runny nose comes to mind first. But allergies do not only affect the nasal and sinus cavities. These pesky conditions can invade the eyes as well, leading to symptoms like itchy, watery eyes that can become red and swollen. The good news is that just like nasal allergies, eye allergies can be effectively treated with over the counter and prescription medications. It can also be helpful to follow the principles of prevention when it comes to eye allergies. But before we discuss how to treat them, it is important to understand why they occur.
Causes
When you consider the cause of eye allergies, it is actually not surprising at all to realize how many people might suffer from allergy symptoms in this part of their bodies. Our eyes are exposed to our environment and its allergens every day. And unlike the nasal passages, there is no means to protect the eyes from many of these harmful substances. While the nose contains cilia, which are tiny hairs that filter out many of the environmental particles, the eyes have no such built in protection system. This leaves our eyes vulnerable to the effects of our environment and the allergens within it.
It is thought that of all of the people who suffer from allergies of one type or another, nearly half of these folks will also suffer from eye allergies. This means that if you experience seasonal allergy symptoms, you have a higher chance of having eye allergies as well. You might also have an increased risk of allergies to this area if you have atopic dermatitis or a family history of allergies. The good news is that there are options for treating eye allergies, so that you can find comfort once again.
Treatment
In many cases, the best way to treat eye allergies is through prevention. This means avoidance of known triggers. It also includes not touching or rubbing your eyes, especially if your hands have been in contact with an allergen. Rubbing can also bring on an allergic reaction in some people. If prevention and avoidance of your allergy triggers is not sufficient to bring relief from your itchy, watery eyes, there are medications available as well. Some are found over the counter and others are prescribed by your doctor. Most of these medicines are allergy eye drops that can be used once or twice each day.
Eye allergies can be difficult to cope with, but there are ways to reduce and even eliminate uncomfortable eye allergy symptoms. Talk to your doctor today about the best choices in allergy treatments for you.
Causes
When you consider the cause of eye allergies, it is actually not surprising at all to realize how many people might suffer from allergy symptoms in this part of their bodies. Our eyes are exposed to our environment and its allergens every day. And unlike the nasal passages, there is no means to protect the eyes from many of these harmful substances. While the nose contains cilia, which are tiny hairs that filter out many of the environmental particles, the eyes have no such built in protection system. This leaves our eyes vulnerable to the effects of our environment and the allergens within it.
It is thought that of all of the people who suffer from allergies of one type or another, nearly half of these folks will also suffer from eye allergies. This means that if you experience seasonal allergy symptoms, you have a higher chance of having eye allergies as well. You might also have an increased risk of allergies to this area if you have atopic dermatitis or a family history of allergies. The good news is that there are options for treating eye allergies, so that you can find comfort once again.
Treatment
In many cases, the best way to treat eye allergies is through prevention. This means avoidance of known triggers. It also includes not touching or rubbing your eyes, especially if your hands have been in contact with an allergen. Rubbing can also bring on an allergic reaction in some people. If prevention and avoidance of your allergy triggers is not sufficient to bring relief from your itchy, watery eyes, there are medications available as well. Some are found over the counter and others are prescribed by your doctor. Most of these medicines are allergy eye drops that can be used once or twice each day.
Eye allergies can be difficult to cope with, but there are ways to reduce and even eliminate uncomfortable eye allergy symptoms. Talk to your doctor today about the best choices in allergy treatments for you.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Understanding and Preventing Mold Allergies
Allergies are a common ailment among many folks today, and the substances that people are allergic to can vary greatly. For those who are suffering from mold allergies, it may be difficult to cope with the symptoms. The reason that mold allergies can be such a challenge is that there is not a set season for mold to appear, and some sufferers can experience symptoms year-round.
The good news is that these types of allergies are relatively rare; when you consider the number of molds that we might be exposed to every day. It is also possible to effectively treat mold allergy symptoms, so you that you do not have to suffer unnecessarily with the sniffling and sneezing that can arise with exposure to the dreaded substance.
Symptoms
The symptoms of mold allergies are similar to those of other allergic reactions, and can include nasal congestion, runny nose, watery eyes, and a skin rash. If you experience these symptoms while raking leaves or mowing grass, you might be suffering from mold allergies. Likewise, if you notice these symptoms when you enter a musty basement or other moist area, mold may indeed be the culprit. To determine if your allergies really are caused by mold spores, you can have an allergy test done at your doctor’s office. There are two types of tests that are done; a skin test or a blood sample. Either test can give your doctor a good idea about the substances that you might be allergic to so that he can treat your allergies in the most effective way.
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment for any type of allergy generally includes over the counter medications like decongestants and antihistamines. For more severe symptoms, your doctor can prescribe similar medications in stronger doses. You can also opt for steroidal nasal sprays to keep nasal passages clear, or inhaled medications if you also suffer from asthma. Many of these medications are safe to take over a longer period of time, making them a good option for mold allergy sufferers who might experience symptoms year round.
While there are numerous treatments for allergies that can be very helpful, another good way of reducing symptoms is by prevention. This usually entails an avoidance of the allergy triggers – which in this case would be mold spores. Prevention of mold allergies might include avoiding food that has a greater chance of harboring mold, like cheese and mushrooms, or staying away from damp areas like basements. It is also a good idea to change your furnace filter frequently to prevent mold from developing. With a combination of prevention and treatment options, you can successfully keep your mold allergy symptoms at bay.
The good news is that these types of allergies are relatively rare; when you consider the number of molds that we might be exposed to every day. It is also possible to effectively treat mold allergy symptoms, so you that you do not have to suffer unnecessarily with the sniffling and sneezing that can arise with exposure to the dreaded substance.
Symptoms
The symptoms of mold allergies are similar to those of other allergic reactions, and can include nasal congestion, runny nose, watery eyes, and a skin rash. If you experience these symptoms while raking leaves or mowing grass, you might be suffering from mold allergies. Likewise, if you notice these symptoms when you enter a musty basement or other moist area, mold may indeed be the culprit. To determine if your allergies really are caused by mold spores, you can have an allergy test done at your doctor’s office. There are two types of tests that are done; a skin test or a blood sample. Either test can give your doctor a good idea about the substances that you might be allergic to so that he can treat your allergies in the most effective way.
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment for any type of allergy generally includes over the counter medications like decongestants and antihistamines. For more severe symptoms, your doctor can prescribe similar medications in stronger doses. You can also opt for steroidal nasal sprays to keep nasal passages clear, or inhaled medications if you also suffer from asthma. Many of these medications are safe to take over a longer period of time, making them a good option for mold allergy sufferers who might experience symptoms year round.
While there are numerous treatments for allergies that can be very helpful, another good way of reducing symptoms is by prevention. This usually entails an avoidance of the allergy triggers – which in this case would be mold spores. Prevention of mold allergies might include avoiding food that has a greater chance of harboring mold, like cheese and mushrooms, or staying away from damp areas like basements. It is also a good idea to change your furnace filter frequently to prevent mold from developing. With a combination of prevention and treatment options, you can successfully keep your mold allergy symptoms at bay.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
With Allergies Skin Rash Degree Can Vary
One of the most common symptoms of allergies, skin rash can be anywhere from simply irritating to hives with a debilitating itch. There are some allergies in which a skin rash is present and is often confused as a skin rash, with the root cause of the rash overlooked. When it causes a misdiagnosis of allergies, skin rash can allow the real cause to get worse, causing a hypersensitive reaction to exacerbate into severe medical problems.
An allergy is believed to be caused when the immune system misidentifies an object entering the body as an enemy and sends out the troops to combat the intruder. This triggers many different symptoms of allergies, skin rash being one of the most common. When accompanied by a runny nose and watering eye or difficulty breathing it may become apparent the rash is not the result of a skin rash and other treatment made available.
Although there are many natural and synthetic products that can cause a skin rash, allergies often present them as a warning that something is not right. Typically, the first reaction a person experiences to an item to which they are allergic will be mild. However, there are some who suffer as severely as anaphylactic shock the first time their body reacts to a substance.
Close Examination Of Rash Can Identify Cause
There are many skin diseases that can be contracted that may appear as though they were caused by allergies, skin rash examination by a doctor or allergist can identify the real culprit and treatment can begin. In some cases with the sudden appearance of a skin rash, allergies may not be suspected unless the person has a history of allergies. If it is the first time and an allergic reaction is suspect, allergy testing may be needed to determine the cause of the allergic reaction and the subsequent rash.
While some skin rashes are the result of exposure to known allergens such as poison ivy and poison oak, the rash is easily identified and topical treatment can relieve the itching and the potential spread of the rash. Other causes of skin rashes may not be as readily identified and additional testing will be needed to correctly identify the culprit.
When a person develops a skin rash, allergies may not be suspected but they should avoid the natural reaction to scratch the rash as it could cause spreading of the rash as well as create cuts on the skin. Once the skin is opened it could allow pathogens in the rash to get into the blood stream, making the allergic reaction worse.
An allergy is believed to be caused when the immune system misidentifies an object entering the body as an enemy and sends out the troops to combat the intruder. This triggers many different symptoms of allergies, skin rash being one of the most common. When accompanied by a runny nose and watering eye or difficulty breathing it may become apparent the rash is not the result of a skin rash and other treatment made available.
Although there are many natural and synthetic products that can cause a skin rash, allergies often present them as a warning that something is not right. Typically, the first reaction a person experiences to an item to which they are allergic will be mild. However, there are some who suffer as severely as anaphylactic shock the first time their body reacts to a substance.
Close Examination Of Rash Can Identify Cause
There are many skin diseases that can be contracted that may appear as though they were caused by allergies, skin rash examination by a doctor or allergist can identify the real culprit and treatment can begin. In some cases with the sudden appearance of a skin rash, allergies may not be suspected unless the person has a history of allergies. If it is the first time and an allergic reaction is suspect, allergy testing may be needed to determine the cause of the allergic reaction and the subsequent rash.
While some skin rashes are the result of exposure to known allergens such as poison ivy and poison oak, the rash is easily identified and topical treatment can relieve the itching and the potential spread of the rash. Other causes of skin rashes may not be as readily identified and additional testing will be needed to correctly identify the culprit.
When a person develops a skin rash, allergies may not be suspected but they should avoid the natural reaction to scratch the rash as it could cause spreading of the rash as well as create cuts on the skin. Once the skin is opened it could allow pathogens in the rash to get into the blood stream, making the allergic reaction worse.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Common Peanut Allergies Can Cause Fatal Reaction
People suffering from peanut allergies need to extremely careful about just about anything they eat as many items made from peanut shells and oil can trigger as bad a reaction as experienced by eating peanuts. Many times people with peanut allergies do not understand that anything made from peanuts, even without the whole peanut being present can trigger a reaction, which could develop into anaphylactic seizure and death, depending on the degree of allergic reaction.
When most people of peanut allergies they think of the typical peanut, which in reality are legumes and many people with peanut allergies are also allergic to peas and beans, members of the same family. Although they are probably also allergic to nuts that grow on tress such as almonds, pecans and cashews. Some of the indications of peanut allergies include a tightness in the throat, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, diarrhea and vomiting. While mane people have developed an allergy to nuts, it is fairly common in children and more children are developing the allergy than they have in the past.
Contrary to popular belief, it is very rare for a person to outgrow an allergy. In some cases, a person may have been misdiagnosed as having peanut allergies and years later it is determined their immune system can, in fact tolerate its ingestion. An allergic reaction occurs when the body’s immune system sees a nut as a dangerous object and mobilizes its defenses to fight it off.
Nuts Often Hidden In Foods
Peanuts are a widely used food product and can show up in places many people would never expect them to be found. While peanut butter is an obvious source of peanuts and is taboo for those with peanut allergies, many may not realize that crushed nuts are often used in sauces and in Asian foods such as pad thai. Additionally, an Italian sauce called Pesto is made from crushed nuts.
Many health food and energy bars contain nuts as do bouillon some favoring sauces. When a person has been diagnosed as having nut or peanut allergies it can be a life-saving decision to stay away from all foods containing them Even if not listed in the ingredients, persons with a high susceptibility to peanut allergies can suffer an attack with even a trace amount in the product.
Many of the fruit flavored cereals also contain nuts as do many candy bars and salty snacks. Potato chips can also be fried in peanut oil, which can cause and attack of peanut allergies in just about everyone.
When most people of peanut allergies they think of the typical peanut, which in reality are legumes and many people with peanut allergies are also allergic to peas and beans, members of the same family. Although they are probably also allergic to nuts that grow on tress such as almonds, pecans and cashews. Some of the indications of peanut allergies include a tightness in the throat, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, diarrhea and vomiting. While mane people have developed an allergy to nuts, it is fairly common in children and more children are developing the allergy than they have in the past.
Contrary to popular belief, it is very rare for a person to outgrow an allergy. In some cases, a person may have been misdiagnosed as having peanut allergies and years later it is determined their immune system can, in fact tolerate its ingestion. An allergic reaction occurs when the body’s immune system sees a nut as a dangerous object and mobilizes its defenses to fight it off.
Nuts Often Hidden In Foods
Peanuts are a widely used food product and can show up in places many people would never expect them to be found. While peanut butter is an obvious source of peanuts and is taboo for those with peanut allergies, many may not realize that crushed nuts are often used in sauces and in Asian foods such as pad thai. Additionally, an Italian sauce called Pesto is made from crushed nuts.
Many health food and energy bars contain nuts as do bouillon some favoring sauces. When a person has been diagnosed as having nut or peanut allergies it can be a life-saving decision to stay away from all foods containing them Even if not listed in the ingredients, persons with a high susceptibility to peanut allergies can suffer an attack with even a trace amount in the product.
Many of the fruit flavored cereals also contain nuts as do many candy bars and salty snacks. Potato chips can also be fried in peanut oil, which can cause and attack of peanut allergies in just about everyone.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Skin Allergies Account For Most Complaints
One of the most common complaint people see an allergist for is skin rashes. Usually confined to small area that has come into contact with an offending allergen, it can spread and cause additional problems if left untreated. Similar to other types of irritations, skin rashes can be anywhere from inconvenient to debilitating and can be caused by a number of things, many that are found in a variety of products making isolation difficult except with patch testing.
Many skin rashes can develop later in life, while other become apparent at the first sign of exposure. Many of the items to which people are allergic are common and seem almost innocuous as to causing skin rashes. Products made of jewelry metal such as gold, silver and nickel are often cited as the cause of irritations, and in some people, and even the smallest trace of the element can trigger a break out.
While the most common cure for skin rashes is to avoid contact with the offending product. Corticosteroid cream has shown to offer relief for irritation on the skin, but of those used to test its effectiveness against skin rashes, three percent developed an allergy to the cream.
Common Items Cause Uncommon Problems
In addition to jewelry metals, ingredients in many common items are known to cause allergic reactions in some people. Thimeroral is a mercury compound often found in antiseptics and vaccines can cause skin rashes in some patients. A common ingredient in cosmetics, deodorant, soap and pet food, neomycin sulfate has also been know to cause rashes in some users.
Quaternium 15, commonly used as a preservative in self-tanning lotions, shampoo, nail polish and sunscreen can also cause skin rashes and bacitracin, used as a topical antibiotic is blamed for rashes on many users. The ingredients in products meant to protect most folks from irritating skin rashes can cause a reaction in others.
Formaldehyde is often used in medications, household cleaners and cosmetics and has been known to cause severe rashes in some people, and if used on an existing rash can exacerbate the problem. Cobalt chloride in hair dye, antiperspirant and alloyed with metals for buttons and snaps can also be a problem for allergic users. Figuring out the exact cause of skin rashes can be a time-consuming process and the current patch test is about the only way to narrow down the choices. Contacting an allergist for persistent skin rashes can determine if the test is necessary to isolate the offending product.
Many skin rashes can develop later in life, while other become apparent at the first sign of exposure. Many of the items to which people are allergic are common and seem almost innocuous as to causing skin rashes. Products made of jewelry metal such as gold, silver and nickel are often cited as the cause of irritations, and in some people, and even the smallest trace of the element can trigger a break out.
While the most common cure for skin rashes is to avoid contact with the offending product. Corticosteroid cream has shown to offer relief for irritation on the skin, but of those used to test its effectiveness against skin rashes, three percent developed an allergy to the cream.
Common Items Cause Uncommon Problems
In addition to jewelry metals, ingredients in many common items are known to cause allergic reactions in some people. Thimeroral is a mercury compound often found in antiseptics and vaccines can cause skin rashes in some patients. A common ingredient in cosmetics, deodorant, soap and pet food, neomycin sulfate has also been know to cause rashes in some users.
Quaternium 15, commonly used as a preservative in self-tanning lotions, shampoo, nail polish and sunscreen can also cause skin rashes and bacitracin, used as a topical antibiotic is blamed for rashes on many users. The ingredients in products meant to protect most folks from irritating skin rashes can cause a reaction in others.
Formaldehyde is often used in medications, household cleaners and cosmetics and has been known to cause severe rashes in some people, and if used on an existing rash can exacerbate the problem. Cobalt chloride in hair dye, antiperspirant and alloyed with metals for buttons and snaps can also be a problem for allergic users. Figuring out the exact cause of skin rashes can be a time-consuming process and the current patch test is about the only way to narrow down the choices. Contacting an allergist for persistent skin rashes can determine if the test is necessary to isolate the offending product.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
About Food Allergies
As much as most people like to eat, it can be depressing to learn they have developed food allergies. Despite how good a particular food may taste it is not worth the potential swelling, itching and the potential for death to consume a food product knowing it can ignite a reaction.
While different people may suffer food allergies from different foods, some of the most common are peanuts and shell fish. Most will learn of an allergy the first time they are exposed to it, but allergies develop later in life and may come as a surprise.
When a person consumes a particular food and has an allergic reaction, their best plan is to eliminate that item from their diet. The symptoms of food allergies are very similar other type of allergies and may include runny nose, watering eye as well as a skin rash and hives. Other reactions can include a headache due to sinus infections and pain in the ears as well as diminished hearing.
In some individuals, food allergies can also cause an anaphylactic reaction, which causes a sudden lowering of blood pressure as well as difficulty breathing and in severe cases can lead to death.
Finding The Cause Before It Kills
In most cases, the cause of food allergies can be easy to determine by maintaining a food diary and recording any adverse reactions related to specific foods. Once the list has been narrowed down, any food that causes an allergic reaction should not be eaten. To extract the exact cause of food allergies, the doctor may recommend and skin prick test to determine the cause of allergies before they cause serious health problems.
Many foods contain a multitude of ingredients and it could simply be one of the ingredient causing food allergies and if the product can be found without that ingredient, it will not continue to be a problem. Reading labels in the store can help identify any such ingredients, but can be a problem if eating out in restaurants and establishing the identity of all ingredients may not be possible.
The circumstances may be more difficult for children who do not always remember they have food allergies for certain edibles. If they ingest a food that causes a reaction, depending on the level of reaction, they will need to get help quickly to prevent permanent problems. In cases where a child has severe food allergies a medical alert bracelet may be needed to reduce the accidental ingestion of a problem food.
While different people may suffer food allergies from different foods, some of the most common are peanuts and shell fish. Most will learn of an allergy the first time they are exposed to it, but allergies develop later in life and may come as a surprise.
When a person consumes a particular food and has an allergic reaction, their best plan is to eliminate that item from their diet. The symptoms of food allergies are very similar other type of allergies and may include runny nose, watering eye as well as a skin rash and hives. Other reactions can include a headache due to sinus infections and pain in the ears as well as diminished hearing.
In some individuals, food allergies can also cause an anaphylactic reaction, which causes a sudden lowering of blood pressure as well as difficulty breathing and in severe cases can lead to death.
Finding The Cause Before It Kills
In most cases, the cause of food allergies can be easy to determine by maintaining a food diary and recording any adverse reactions related to specific foods. Once the list has been narrowed down, any food that causes an allergic reaction should not be eaten. To extract the exact cause of food allergies, the doctor may recommend and skin prick test to determine the cause of allergies before they cause serious health problems.
Many foods contain a multitude of ingredients and it could simply be one of the ingredient causing food allergies and if the product can be found without that ingredient, it will not continue to be a problem. Reading labels in the store can help identify any such ingredients, but can be a problem if eating out in restaurants and establishing the identity of all ingredients may not be possible.
The circumstances may be more difficult for children who do not always remember they have food allergies for certain edibles. If they ingest a food that causes a reaction, depending on the level of reaction, they will need to get help quickly to prevent permanent problems. In cases where a child has severe food allergies a medical alert bracelet may be needed to reduce the accidental ingestion of a problem food.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Reactions To Allergies May Be Nothing To Sneeze At
For reasons still unknown to researchers, some people develop a reaction to certain things, causing an abnormal reaction to foreign products in the body, which may not cause a similar reaction in others. Allergies are one of the most troublesome of afflictions as it can take time to determine what is causing the reaction as well as how to combat the symptoms. Different people may have allergies to different items and the symptoms can range from a runny nose to anaphylactic shock, leading to death.
It is commonly believed that allergies are caused by an immune problems that recognizes something as a threat in some people and not in others. When they immune system detects what it believes to be a threat to the body, it take steps to combat the perceived intruder. The symptoms produced by these allergies can include a runny nose, itching, watering eyes and skin rashes including hives. While most symptoms of allergies will disappear when the item leaves the body, others can be long lasting.
Most of time the time reaction to allergies is an inconvenience, but they can have life-altering affects. If a person has an allergic reaction to pet hair or pet dander, for example, they will not be able to own a pet or have on in their home.
Some Allergic Reactions Can Be Filtered Out
For some folks simple household chores such as sweeping or vacuuming can spark symptoms of allergies due to dust and dust mites. Pollen from indoor plants has also been found to cause allergies is some people. Filters built into vacuum cleaners can help prevent the dust from being broadcast into the air while vacuuming and whole-house filtering systems can capture a large portion of airborne particles and prevent attacks.
There are a few tests that help determine if a person’s symptoms are caused by allergies but the most reliable is the skin prick test, conducted under the watchful eye of an allergy specialist. Items known to cause allergies are injected into the skin through a series of needles and the reaction to the individual items are monitored to verify the reaction. Once a cause is determined, the person can take steps to avoid exposure to that item.
There is medication available, developed by allergists that can help people get through the symptoms of allergies while going about their daily routine. Additionally, there are pre-emptive medications can stop symptoms of some allergies before they appear. While more effective that reactive types of drugs, the specific cause will need to be learned before taking such drugs.
It is commonly believed that allergies are caused by an immune problems that recognizes something as a threat in some people and not in others. When they immune system detects what it believes to be a threat to the body, it take steps to combat the perceived intruder. The symptoms produced by these allergies can include a runny nose, itching, watering eyes and skin rashes including hives. While most symptoms of allergies will disappear when the item leaves the body, others can be long lasting.
Most of time the time reaction to allergies is an inconvenience, but they can have life-altering affects. If a person has an allergic reaction to pet hair or pet dander, for example, they will not be able to own a pet or have on in their home.
Some Allergic Reactions Can Be Filtered Out
For some folks simple household chores such as sweeping or vacuuming can spark symptoms of allergies due to dust and dust mites. Pollen from indoor plants has also been found to cause allergies is some people. Filters built into vacuum cleaners can help prevent the dust from being broadcast into the air while vacuuming and whole-house filtering systems can capture a large portion of airborne particles and prevent attacks.
There are a few tests that help determine if a person’s symptoms are caused by allergies but the most reliable is the skin prick test, conducted under the watchful eye of an allergy specialist. Items known to cause allergies are injected into the skin through a series of needles and the reaction to the individual items are monitored to verify the reaction. Once a cause is determined, the person can take steps to avoid exposure to that item.
There is medication available, developed by allergists that can help people get through the symptoms of allergies while going about their daily routine. Additionally, there are pre-emptive medications can stop symptoms of some allergies before they appear. While more effective that reactive types of drugs, the specific cause will need to be learned before taking such drugs.
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