Pool Chemical Allergies

Keeping fit and having fun in the pool is great and really something that you might love doing, but have you ever experienced changes in your body after a swim in the pool? If you answered a resounding YES then there is a distinct possibility that you are actually experiencing allergy symptoms and it's about time that you learn a thing or two about it.

There has been more than one report that swimming pool chemicals can cause allergies and actual studies have shown that this happens for a fact. The allergies can vary in intensity and type depending on the person being affected regardless of whether they are physically fit or not.

Chemicals and the allergies:

1. Chlorine - the most commonly used swimming pool and hot tub chemical sanitizer is also one of the most common causes of pool chemical allergies, although some of the symptoms are actually due to chlorine intolerance and not allergy. The allergies it causes include difficulty in breathing that can lead to asthma, watery and swollen eyes, skin itchiness, and nose stuffiness.

2. Bromine - used as an alternative to chlorine as a swimming pool chemical sanitizer. Bromine can cause allergic contact dermatitis.

3. Potassium monopersulfate - a chemical used when "shocking" the swimming pool or hot tub to allow greater chlorine efficiency. It can cause skin rashes and itchiness.

4. Calcium hypochlorite - used to disinfect and sanitize the swimming pool. Calcium hypochlorite allergy includes breathing difficulties that can lead to asthma and contact dermatitis.

Possible remedies:

1. If you are really allergic to chlorine, you may want to try swimming in a pool treated with bromine or one that uses natural products, i.e. there are public pools that have begun to convert swimming pools into saltwater pools. If you own the pool that you swim in you can first try decreasing the amount of chlorine that you add in the pool water until you reach a level that would not cause any allergic reactions. If this does not work, your only alternative is to try non-chlorine based pool chemicals, oxidation, and ionization treatments.

2. Bromine is not as frequently used as chlorine so identifying your sensitivity to bromine might be a bit difficult unless you notice that your allergies only appear after you have had your fun in the pool. Chlorine-based pool chemicals, natural products, ionization, and oxidation treatments may be your alternatives.

3. If allergic symptoms begin to appear despite making sure that you have properly washed and rinsed off after taking a swim it is highly recommended that you steer clear of the swimming pool for a while. Seeking the help of a professional with regards to the symptoms that you may be experiencing is also the best remedy to your problem.

Shellfish Allergies Symptoms & Treatments Help

Shellfish allergies are caused by two classes of foods- mollusks which include clams, mussels, and oysters and crustaceans which include shrimp, lobster, and crabs. This also includes things lobster and shrimp, as well as octopus and squid. So, many people who are allergic to any shellfish are advised to avoid all shellfish.

Along with nuts, this is the next most common food cause of anaphylaxis.

Shellfish allergies are the most common type among adults in America, and they are more likely than most other allergies to manifest for the first time in adults.

For some people, even a tiny amount of shellfish can cause a serious reaction. Shellfish includes animals with shells, such as clams, lobster and shrimp, as well as octopus and squid. Shellfish includes animals with shells, such as clams, lobster and shrimp, as well as octopus and squid.

Does Iodine Allergy Also Mean a Shellfish Allergy Too?

Although certain shellfish are rich in iodine, there is no evidence that this will increase the risk of an iodine allergy, nor that people with shellfish allergies need to take precautions to avoid iodine when undergoing medical tests. Iodine is not related to the protein that causes shellfish allergies.

For some reason certain allergies get linked together even though they may be totally unrelated. This is what has happened with iodine and shellfish. There is no actual relationship between iodine allergy and the various seafood allergies.

Symptoms

The symptoms are different from having a reaction caused by toxins or bacteria. This type of food poisoning is common and can cause problems similar to a shellfish allergy. The difference being, it does not involve the immune system and only occurs when you eat food that has been contaminated.

Although symptoms can range from hives, vomiting or nasal congestion to more-severe and even life-threatening symptoms it is a major cause of anaphylactic shock. People have even been known to go into anaphylactic shock after breathing in airborne particles of shellfish or fish allergen in open fish markets.

The most common symptoms are:

• Swelling of the lips, face, tongue and throat, or other parts of the body.


• Wheezing, nasal congestion or even trouble breathing.


• Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting.


• Hives, itching or eczema.


• Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting.


• Tingling in the mouth may also occur.

The proteins that are most likely to cause a reaction are not found in the shell, and recent studies have indicated that glucosamine is safe for people with shellfish allergies; however, if you are concerned, you can try vegetarian glucosamine.

Role Of The FDA

Because shellfish are one of the eight most common allergens in the United States, they are covered by FALCPA the FDA's Food Allergy Labeling and Consumer Protection Act . This requires that the presence of shellfish be listed on labels in clear English, either in bold type or following the list of ingredients after the word "Contains " However, FALCPA only refers to crustaceans, and not to mollusks. Shellfish are relatively easier to avoid in the diet than most of the other most common allergens.

Cross-Reactivity

Different types of shellfish have high rates of cross-reactions with other types of shellfish, as noted above. The protein that most commonly causes problems, tropomyosin is also found in dust mites and cockroaches as well, and there is some evidence of cross-reactivity between shellfish and some insects.

If the same pair of tongs is used to handle different types of fish and shellfish, or if you suspect one type of fish or shellfish may have spilled over and had contact with another, you should avoid buying or consuming.

Freshwater Shellfish Dangers

If you're like me, those of you out there with shellfish allergies may also need to avoid freshwater shellfish. Just be very careful because many things at restaurants are contaminated by shellfish cooking on the same grill.

How To Protect Yourself

Beyond not eating at some restaurants, the greatest challenge in living with this problem is likely the fact that shellfish allergies pose a greater risk of anaphylactic shock than many other food allergies. If you suffer from this, strictly avoiding shellfish and food containing shellfish is the only way to prevent a reaction.

If your doctor is able to identify exactly which type causes your allergies, then you need to eliminate that type of shellfish from your diet.

The fish and shellfish allergy necessitates not eating in seafood restaurants at a very minimum. This may include not eating where fried foods are prepared if fish and shellfish are on the menu. For the shellfish allergic, stay away from all shelled fish- crab, lobster, shrimp and snails.

Also, keep in mind that imitation shell fish may still contain shellfish as many manufactures add shellfish for flavoring Before you use it, read the label to be sure.

Dog Allergy Symptoms Can Be a Health Warning

Allergies can affect dogs as well as humans, and your dog's allergies can potentially impact your dog's well-being negatively. Food ingredients and chemicals, air pollution, fleas and their own fur can aggravate dog allergies. Rooting out the origin of these canine allergies is often wiser than giving medication to your dog, which has potential side effects. If your dog has multiple allergies, this might not be so simple.

Symptoms of your dog's allergy can include coughing, vomiting, wheezing, sneezing, runny eyes, tiredness, and patchy fur. So, how are the origins of dog allergy symptoms determined? Following that, how does one cure canine allergies? Fortunately, this is simply eliminated. Using your vet's recommendation, or by making a random choice, purchase a product that kills fleas. Since fleas aren't eliminated with just one use, apply the product with some regularity.

Canine food allergies are also common. It is possible that dog allergy symptoms are caused by a sensitivity to ingredient chemicals. There are certain ingredients that cause canine allergies more often than others. These ingredients include wheat, corn, chicken, beef, fish and eggs. Corn is the worst offender of these, and is very commonly found in inexpensive dog food brands. You can talk to your vet, or choose a dog food that is hypoallergenic, which will not include any common allergens.

It's also possible that your dog is allergic to his fur, which is common in dogs with long or thick hair. This situation is worsened when your dog grooms himself and swallows his own fur. Excess dander and hair can be removed through regular washing, every few weeks. Daily groomings using a stiff brush also help.

Home cleaning chemicals can also cause canine allergies. Natural products that omit bleach and harsher chemicals should be used. Your home can be affected by mold without your knowledge. Your family's health, as well as your dog's, can be improved by testing for mold and removing it.

Itchy skin, a common dog allergy symptom, can be alleviated with an oatmeal wash. Temporary, fast relief can also be provided by shampoos that contain aloe vera, tea tree oil or eucalyptus.

You can give primrose oils or omega 3 to your dog. These products have been shown to improve both human and dog skin conditions.

Anti-histamines are used to give immediate relief for severe allergies. Lethargy is one possible side effect.

Dog allergy symptoms can be indicative of larger problems in your dog's environment or health. Maintaining a hypoallergenic canine is mush easier than figuring out the cause of his symptoms. If you don't know where to begin, your vet can provide advice.

Asthma, Hidden Asthma, And Allergies

During the winter months, colds, flu, sore throats, and respiratory illnesses become more prevalent, outdoor activities decline, family members are in closer contact with one another, and our homes are sealed up against the wintry elements. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) declines as indoor airborne pollutants and indoor allergens increase. The accumulation of built-up antigens (allergens) within a home, typically cause family members to suffer adverse health effects. Recent research confirms the EPA's claim that indoor air quality can be 100 times, or even in some cases, 500 times worse, than the outdoor air quality. Those persons prone to allergies and asthma suffer severely at this time of the year. Until the general public becomes aware of the dangers of polluted indoor air and then begins to demand the services, Home Indoor Allergen Control services, specializing in improving indoor air quality, will remain limited in numbers. The EPA, utilizing public service announcements, is presently promoting campaigns to educate the public on the dangers to health from poor indoor air quality.

Coinciding with the energy conservation practices initiated in the late 1970's, including better insulated home-building construction methods, asthma (and asthma related deaths) among children has continued to increase, year after year, since 1980. Asthma cannot be cured, but it can be controlled through;

• patient/parent education


• allergy injections


• medications, and


• avoidance of "triggers"

Symptoms of Allergies

Symptoms ranging from itchy skin, stuffed up nasal cavities, runny noses, head or sinus aches, bouts of sneezing, sinusitis, irritated, watery and reddish eyes, puffy, swollen or discolored eyelids, wheezing, a "tight" chest, scratchy throats, raspy voices, dry unproductive coughs, feelings of lethargy, mental fatigue and even depression are not uncommon. These symptoms may only result in temporary, or day to day, discomforts for some. Yet these discomforts, even if minimal, can now be controlled, at a low cost and without over-the-counter allergy medications, a huge revenue source for the pharmaceutical companies.

More importantly, without utilizing the benefits of home indoor allergen control, the nearly 50 to 60 million American's (one in five) who suffer from allergies are at great risk of becoming afflicted with even more permanent, life long, ill-health effects including; asthma, bronchitis, perennial rhinitis (hay fever), eczema, dermatitis, sinus infections and other serious health issues, looming in their future.

Asthma and the Differing Types of Asthma

By overlooking the need for home indoor allergen control, children, the elderly, and persons with weak immune systems (even if just temporary) are at a high risk of developing long term medical afflictions. Although 4 to 5 million children, knowingly suffer asthma attacks yearly, asthma remains one of the more common chronic diseases of childhood and is often undiagnosed amongst children. There are as many types of asthma as there are "triggers" that can cause asthma attacks, but basically asthma is classified as either "intermittent or "persistent" asthma.

What is very important for parents to realize is the possibility of your child having "hidden" asthma a condition that exists before wheezing, coughing and rapid breathing become noticeable. Since infants and toddlers cannot verbalize how, or what, they are feeling, "hidden" asthma may be very hard to diagnose, even by your family physician. Irritability in very young children can mean many different things but, like a guttural cough or rapid breathing, could also be a sign of respiratory difficulties.

So how do you know if your child has signs of developing asthma or "hidden" asthma?

Pay attention! Become knowledgeable of the symptoms and alert to the possible triggers. Although it may be difficult to notice any tell-tale signs with children under the age of 18 or 24 months, there are definitive symptoms to look for in older children. Wheezing, for one you may think...but not necessarily so, is a prime characteristic found in asthmatics, yet it's not necessarily the most common symptom. Coughing is a particularly prominent indicator and wheezing may not be readily noticeable to parents or the family physician, even through a stethoscope. Children with a history of bronchitis, pneumonia, respiratory infections, numerous and constant bouts of coughing (particularly at night or in cold weather when asthma conditions tend to worsen) should be thoroughly checked for asthma. Coughing immediately after vigorous activities such as running, or even a long-lasting spell of crying, are also signs that should be noted and may require a physician's evaluation for asthma. Family history, especially a history of allergies or asthma, genetics, the child's moods and actions, responses to foods and possible allergy triggers, must all be communicated to a physician in assisting to determine whether a child may be susceptibility to asthma.

Infants and toddlers with a past histories that include chest colds, bronchitis, pneumonia, chronic coughing or unusual breathing patterns, either shortness of breath or rapid breathing, should be tested for asthma as well as other respiratory diseases. Keep in mind, as active as toddlers and pre-schooler's tend to be, it may be very difficult to discern the limitations of physical activities. Pulmonologist's, performing lung function tests on very young children, still find it difficult to ascertain an asthma diagnosis, but these tests may still reveal airway obstructions. Asthma, brought under control, allows children to live more active lives without frequent asthma attacks.

Common Home Indoor Air Pollutants Resulting in Asthma and Allergies

Through education and knowledge, basic common sense, and recent technological innovations, the removal, reduction, and control of the following worst pollutants and allergens, will greatly improve Home Indoor Air Quality and the health of the home occupants. Of the nearly 50 - 60 million American's suffering from allergies, 20 million or so, are allergic to household dust and/or the particulates that make up household dust. Guanine, a potent and harmful allergen produced by dust mites and found in their fecal pellets and exoskeletons, is a major contributor. The most common indoor allergens include:

• Dust and Dust mite allergens


• Second-hand cigarette smoke


• Pet dander


• Cockroaches


• Molds and mildew

Education will allow homeowners to gain the knowledge of just how these allergens accumulate. By simply changing practices and habits, methods can be easily integrated into the present home lifestyle to minimize the amount of unhealthy allergens and thereby improving the quality of health for the home occupants. To a degree, housekeeping practices have evolved over the past generation or two. Kitchen areas have tested to be the most bacteria ridden parts of a home.

Our bedrooms, especially within the mattresses that we sleep upon one-third of our life, are the dirtiest and nastiest. Mattresses and the micro-climatic ecosystem within them, provide all the creature comforts that allow dust mites to live, thrive and breed while producing the antigen guanine, the worst offender and most harmful of all indoor allergens. Our grandparents can recall the days when mattresses were carried outside to have the "dust" literally beaten out of them and then placed in the sunlight for a naturally cleansing. Nowadays, aside from both parents working full-time jobs, mattress technology has evolved to the point that mattresses are too heavy or too bulky, to tote outside even if there is an area that exists where the mattress can be placed for "cleansing". Carpeting accumulates many allergens as well, however carpeting does not provide the micro-climatic ecosystem that dust mites require. Regular vacuuming assists in controlling built-up allergens in carpeting, but only if the proper vacuum is used.

Home Indoor Allergen Control Technicians

Mattress cleaning technicians, trained in the removal, reduction, and control of home indoor allergens are in an excellent position to not only offer their much needed services, but to also help educate the general public on methods of improving and sustaining healthier lives by simply improving home indoor air quality.

The above information is not intended as medical advice. If you or your family members experience any of the above symptoms, please see a medical professional. Excellent information is available from either the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI) or the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI).

Spring Allergy Season - A Few Good Remedies To Stave Off Sneezing And Allergy Symptoms

Well, spring is in the air, noses are sneezing and it's allergy season. The trees are starting to sprout new leaves and with the new leaves and spring flowers comes the dreaded allergy season. My worst allergy enemy is pollen. In fact, this morning I had to hose down my car because it had yellow layer of pollen on it...despite it being kept in a closed garage.

I've had a few natural remedies that have really worked wonders against seasonal allergies. Ordinarily I would be sneezing, stuffed up and very tired. Instead, I can get the paper without a full on allergy attack all without the use of conventional pharmaceutical drugs.

An allergy is the result of your immune system's over-reaction to pollens, grass, airborne fungi and even certain foods and cosmetics. When an allergen is introduced, the body fights back by producing an excess of inflammatory chemicals, such as histamine, from mast cells. This attempt to seek-and-destroy the allergen brings on the familiar symptoms of runny nose, watery eyes and sneezing.

OTC antihistamines merely block the action of histamine at receptor sites. They only suppress the appearance of physical symptoms but do nothing to redirect the underlying cause. Antihistamines also often produce undesirable side effects, such as dizziness, drowsiness and even depression. Therefore treating allergies naturally gets to the root cause of the symptoms and side effects we detest.

During serious bouts with allergies, you may want to assume an all vegan diet, or at least consider reducing your consumption of meat and dairy products.

ESSENTIAL HERBS TO FIGHT ALLERGIES

Nettle (Urtica dioica): Nettle has enjoyed a long history as a treatment for seasonal allergies. Dr. Andrew Weil, author of Natural Health, Natural Medicine (Houghton Mifflin, 1998) reports success with this herb to treat his own allergies. Be careful not to confuse this herb with another species, U. Urens, which contains high levels of leukotrienes and histamine.

Ephedra (Ephedra sinicia): Also known as mahuang, the generic name of this herb may be familiar since a synthetic version of its primary alkaloid, ephedrine, can be found in many conventional remedies as pseudoephedrine. This herb has been used to treat bronchial and inflammatory disorders in Chinese medicine for more than 5,000 years. In fact, ephedra is often used to treat asthma. Note: Ephedra can raise both systolic and diastolic blood pressure and can cause excitability in some individuals.

Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea): Also known as purple coneflower, this Native American herb is one of the best immune enhancing supplements you can take. Echinacea has been the subject of more than 50 years worth of study and has clearly demonstrated an ability to increase the production of a number of T-cells and their distribution in the blood.

Garlic (Allium sativum): The antiviral properties of garlic have been well examined for many years. In Russia, the herb is known as "Russian penicillin" where it was once used to treat respiratory disorders in hospitals. Recent Japanese studies have found that aged garlic extract stimulates NK activity and a potent antimicrobial action against bacteria and yeasts. Garlic owes its efficacy to allicin, a byproduct derived from the amino acid alliin reacting with the enzyme alliinase. The biosynthesis of these constituents however, can be unstable in their natural state. Raw garlic is certainly good for you and has several health benefits to offer otherwise, but the enzyme necessary to produce allicin is usually destroyed in the stomach before the conversion can take place. For this reason, enteric-coated tablets of dried or powdered garlic tablets is the best form of supplementation to take advantage of this herb's immune-boosting qualities. Note: Garlic, and other alliums can raise or lower blood sugar levels. Consult your health care practitioner if you are diabetic or hypoglycemic.

Honey helps your body build antibodies to the allergens themselves. Using honey in teas or on bread daily can help ward off allergies. The key is to use locally grown, organic honey. The sames bees populating the plants near you will help you build up an immunity to the allergens in your area. (For more info about honey - read our article about the benefits of honey.)

Dosages:

Stinging nettle - 250 mg. freeze-dried extract every 2-4 hours or until symptoms subside

Ephedra: 12.5 - 25 mg. 3x day

Quercetin - 400 mg. 2x day between meals

Echinacea - 350 mg 3x day

Garlic - tablet equivalent of 10 cloves of garlic

Honey- 2 tbs daily

HVAC Service Can Help Prevent Allergy Symptoms

For people who suffer from allergies, it may seem like there is no escape from irritants. One study showed that indoor air quality can be up to 5 times more detrimental to one's health than air outside.

This can be caused by several reasons, or a combination of these reasons, with the most common problem being improper filtration. When allergy symptoms are at their peak, the problem is only exacerbated by this issue.

Sources of Indoor Air Contaminants

There are many causes of poor indoor air quality, and most of these problems can be detected and dealt with by professional heating and air technicians. Seasoned HVAC technicians possess the necessary knowledge, tools, and experience to identify and rectify most problems pertaining to poor indoor atmosphere quality.

Air Filters

As the air circulates throughout your home, the filter/s will remove harmful contaminates, dust particles, pet dander, and other allergens. Dirty, damaged, or poorly designed filters decrease the amount of contaminates that are filtered. Not only that, but clogged filters will also increase your HVAC system's work load and decrease the life of your equipment.

Duct System

Poorly designed, incorrectly installed, or dirty ductwork will greatly increase the amount of contaminants and allergens found in your home. Leaky ductwork can let mold, dust, and other particles into your home, because the leak will usually be located in an area that bypasses the filter.

HVAC System

Improperly maintained central heating and air systems will lead to problems over time, including the accumulation and spreading of allergens in your home. It is recommended that you have your home's HVAC system routinely inspected by a professional service technician at least once every other year. Also, improperly sized systems can lead to the same problems.

Other Sources of Indoor Air Contaminants

Improper ventilation is another leading cause of the issue at hand. This includes all areas of your home, including attics and crawlspaces. Inadequate ventilation can lead to humid or damp conditions, which increase the appearance of allergens and contaminants.

Along the same lines, poor humidity controls can lead to the same problems.

Negative atmospheric pressure can also cause your home to contain unhealthy levels of allergens and irritants. Negative pressure can cause mold spores, dust, and pollen to be literally sucked into your home through cracks in the foundation and walls.

Experienced and reliable service technicians can help you with your home's poor indoor air quality issues. There are many services and products that can provide easy solutions, such as purification devices, humidifiers, treatments, filters, and duct sealing and cleaning.

What Causes Mold Allergy and Asthma Symptoms?

Among the most common types of allergies is mold allergy, because mold can develop just about anywhere and can happen at any time of the year. We more popularly know and identify mold as that yellowish or greenish substance that results from our failure to throw out organic materials and clean out dark and damp spaces.

There are two plant groups in the family of fungi: molds and yeast, each of which has around a thousand permutations and versions to its name. While yeasts are characterized by single cells, molds are comprised of multiple cells that branch out when they grow. Both fungi subfamilies are allergic offenders, but only about a few mold species trigger allergic reactions in people.

Molds, when they multiply, also produce millions of spores. These spores are what cause allergies. When inhaled, these microscopic spores give birth to allergic rhinitis. And because they are so tiny and microscopic, escaping exposure to mold spores and susceptibility to mold allergy may be difficult to accomplish. Mold spores can easily bypass our bodies protective functions and lodge themselves into our respiratory organs.

Some people experience a more severe mold allergy attack when they take in food that has been processed with fungi, like cheese. There are also instances when dried food and some mushrooms, as well as yeast-related foods, like vinegar and soy sauce, help worsen the attack. We cannot say exactly the same for penicillin, however, though it is made from the mold Penicillium, because studies have not shown any blatant relationship between it and mold allergy.

Mold allergy or asthma symptoms related to molds can also come with the season, usually from spring to just before fall ends. Mold season is usually at its highest during the summer, because of the moisture and heat. Some molds thrive in cold temperatures, but most of them simply remain dormant until they are unfrozen and given the chance to grow again. Molds are particularly present just after the spring thaw because they feed on dead vegetation that that have been hit by the winter season.

Wherever there is moisture, you can be sure that molds will be there to grow. The best places they can thrive are damp closets and basements, unmonitored refrigerators, bathrooms, air conditioners, mattresses, house plants and uncleaned garbage pails, among others.

Given this information, households should make sure that all spaces are ventilated well and mold-attractive objects aired out regularly to avoid the development of molds.

The most common molds found in the United States are Cladosporium and Alternaria. Actually, there are many other mold species that they usually outnumber the pollen that spreads in the air. Worse than pollen, they can thrive both indoors and outdoors, and can be very tricky to detect at their early development stages. Most people recognize the presence of mold only after they have grown to annoying and smelly levels.

Continuous exposure to mold will not just bring about mold allergy but also lead to lung disease or asthma. If you have started to feel weird coughing symptoms and some wheezing, better have yourself checked immediately to nip the problem at the bud. Your physician will likely have you undergo a series of tests, including X-rays and blood sampling, to determine the cause. Needless to say, mold allergy, while seemingly temporary, is still not something that you should take for granted.

Help, I Am Allergic To Deodorants

If you are allergic to Deodorants then you suffer from Allergies Type 1, also called Contact Allergies. Deodorant allergies are fairly uncommon, but can be quite irritating, nonetheless. A great many people who suffer from this interesting allergy never have any idea what the problem is. Even if you don't believe that you suffer from a deodorant allergy, if you have experienced any of the following symptoms, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible. While certainly not fatal, the symptoms of deodorant allergies can become quite bothersome and painful if allowed to go untreated.

The most common symptoms that arise from deodorant allergies are a redness that spreads under the armpit along with the need to scratch. Both of these, if experienced, should warn you immediately of an allergy to your deodorant. Some deodorants will cause only slight redness, and perhaps a minor itching sensations or a bit of dry skin, while others can cause a full blown rash, complete with oozing blisters, and peeling skin. Neither of these symptoms of deodorant allergies are particularly harmful, but can become extremely painful if left untreated.

If you think you may be suffering from deodorant allergies, there are a few things that you should do. The first of which is to stop using that particular brand of deodorant immediately. If you have had the same reaction to several different brands of deodorant, you may be allergic to the aluminum contained in many underarm deodorant products. Be sure that you check the ingredients of the next type of deodorant you purchase, in order to make certain that it does not contain aluminum.

Next, rub a small bit of hydrocortisone cream over the affected area. This should clear up most of the symptoms associated with deodorant allergies within a few days, as long as you do not aggravate the condition by wearing more deodorant. If hydrocortisone cream doesn't resolve the problem, you will want to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. He or she can give you a more powerful steroid cream that should take care of the problem.

The most important thing to remember if you think you may be suffering from deodorant allergies is to stop using whatever brand of deodorant caused the reaction in the first place. If you do not, you may find yourself needing to take more than just a few days to recover, as more severe symptoms of deodorant allergies can take up to two weeks to heal.

Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with allergies caused by deodorants such as Aloe Vera, Green tea, Quercitin, Bromellain and zinc. Aloe Vera will help rejuvenate and tone skin all over. A naturally cooling gel, the Aloe Vera botanical ingredients work together to stimulate the blood circulation and naturally soften the skin.

Green Tea Contains antioxidants that may protect against heart disease, several types of cancer, and skin damage.

Quercitin is a well known flavonoid. Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants and can reduce inflammation boost the immune system and strengthen blood vessels and improve circulation. Quercitin is also known for its ability to block the release of histamines, thus reducing or preventing allergy symptoms. Take 500 mg twice daily.

Bromellain will enhance the absorption of Quercitin. Take 100 mg twice daily.

Zinc is needed for healing and maintaining healthy tissues. Amino Acids are the building blocks of protein and are the vital components of skin, hair, muscle tissue, the body's organs, blood cells, various enzymes and hormones. Zinc also has a profound influence on the body's ability to resist disease.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.

Help, I Am Allergic To Pickles

If you are allergic to pickles then you suffer from Allergies Type 1, also called Contact Allergies. Ahh, pickles. We all love them! From the big juicy dills that go just perfectly with a sandwich and chips, to the sweet gherkins that grace our dinner tables. Pickles are a commodity that most everyone enjoys. But sadly, many people suffer from pickle allergies, and they aren't even sure why. These allergies generally appear suddenly, and can be present in both children and adults. If you've started having strange reactions to your favorite snack, read on for more information about why pickle allergies occur.

The thing that most people don't realize about pickle allergies, is that they are typically caused not by the pickle itself, but by the preservatives used in the pickling process. These pickling agents often cause allergic reactions in people who are then unable to pinpoint the cause of their reaction. The worst part about it, is that these preservatives can be found in a great many more foods than just pickles. Many foods that contain any type of vinegar also contain these pickling agents that can cause pickle allergies.

The most common additives that cause pickle allergies are as follows: sodium sulfite, sodium bisulfite, and sodium metabisulfite. If you have previously experienced any sort of allergic reaction to pickles, then it is likely that you are probably having a reaction to one or more of these ingredients. The easiest way to prevent this from occurring in the future is to carefully review the ingredients in any preserved foods, to make certain that they do not contain any of these ingredients.

The most common signs and symptoms of pickle allergies are pretty much the same as with any other food allergy. Hives, or a rash can occur, which can generally be treated with an external steroid cream, as can asthmatic symptoms, such as wheezing or difficulty drawing a breath. Other signs of pickle allergies may also include gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, cramps and diarrhea. The most severe symptoms of pickle allergies can progress into what is known as anaphylaxis. This is a swelling of the throat, which can completely block a person's airway. This can lead to coma, and if untreated, even death.

The easiest way to prevent pickle allergies, is to set an appointment with your doctor so that he or she can perform allergy tests. These tests will let you know exactly which preservative it is that you are allergic to. To prevent future pickle allergies, simply avoid any foods which contain that particular preservative.

Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with allergies due to pickles such as vitamin A, vitamin C, beta carotene, bananas and pantothenic acid.

Vitamin A is a known antioxidant and can assist the human body in the healing process. Vitamin A is stored in the liver and fat cells of the human body and can reach toxic levels. DO NOT take more than the recommended dosage of Vitamin A.

Vitamin C is nature's protective nutrient, essential for defending the body against pollution and infection and enhances the bodies immune system.

Beta Carotene protects the mucus membranes of the mouth, nose, throat and lungs. It also helps protect Vitamin C from oxidation, which enables it to perform at optimum efficiency.

Many find Pantothenic Acid to be very helpful against allergy symptoms. It is another form of nontoxic B vitamins. Pantothenic Acid is critical in the metabolism and synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Bananas have long been recognized for their anti-acid effects that protect against stomach ulcers and ulcer damage. Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.

Bee Grass Pollen Allergy Symptoms: What's the Answer?

Do you have bee grass pollen allergy symptoms? Depending on where you live you might be suffering from severe allergies or not at all.

The real challenge is that there are still so many people that don't know where their allergies are coming from. If the allergies are stemming from the environment then there is no doubt that you can move, or you could try using bee pollen to relieve the symptoms.

Why Pollen Might be Good to Use to Treat Allergies

To say that pollen might be good to use to treat allergies is up for debate and has been for some time, but the fact remains that many are having success with it. The reality behind this is that people get flu shots to make them immune to the flu, but in order to do that you are being given the flu. So it is the same with pollen; you get pollen to free yourself of your allergies to pollen.

There is also a theory that claims that the only way to relieve the symptoms is by taking pollen from the region that you live in. This is because not all areas have the same climate, thus even growing flowers wild you can't get the same wildflowers in every state or country, so the pollen is different. Make sense?

What in Pollen Helps With Allergies

In order to understand how pollen helps with allergies, we need to talk about what is in it that counts. Pollen contains a lot of vitamin E, and we know that vitamin E is helpful with allergies because it's an antioxidant which helps prevent allergies or other viral ailments to get into the body.

Vitamin C is great for allergies because not only is it an antioxidant, but it stimulates white cell production which fights off bacteria and infection. People don't think of allergies as a bacterial problem, but they are. This is why moms always tell their kids to take plenty of vitamin C.

Zinc is another contributor to pollen because pollen is so rich in Zinc. Zinc is a great immune booster and it helps the body heal. Zinc is a pretty powerful mineral, and studies at the Mayo Clinic suggest that Zinc may help shorten colds and reduce the symptoms of nasal allergies.

This is a great thing to hear because so many people face spring and summer with dread, knowing that they are allergic to almost everything. Zinc can also be a substitute for those who are allergic to Goldenseal.

In conclusion, there are several theories about how to use bee pollen to get rid of allergy symptoms, but do they work?

Some say that you should take pollen that is native to your region, while others just choose to medicate. Pollen is loaded with vitamin A, C, and E which are all key in relieving allergies and colds. This is why pollen has been effective in helping so many get relief from their nasal allergy symptoms.

Visit my page on Bee Pollen Allergic Reaction, to learn if bee pollen is dangerous if you have allergic reactions.

Managing Fall Allergies - 5 Ways To Reduce Symptoms

If you're allergic, you know that fall allergy season can start as early as mid August. By using these 5 proactive and non-invasive ideas, you can make this the best fall of your life.

Stay On Top Of The Situation---Check your local pollen count each morning via internet, local news, or your local paper. Make it a habit to know what the pollen count is predicted to be and plan outdoor activities accordingly.

The best way to reduce allergy symptoms is still to avoid the trigger.. And with seasonal airborne triggers such as pollen, it can be tricky, but it can be done with careful planning.

Let Others Help---When those first grains of pollen go airborne, get out of their way and avoid them as much as you can. Be sensible about the activities that you choose to do. During the peak of the season, give up mowing, weeding and gardening particularly on days when you know the pollen count is high..

Say Yes To Medicine That Will Help---Depending on how severe your allergies are, you may be able to find relief with over-the-counter medication. Pharmacists are excellent resources and are happy to help you explore over-the-counter medications that might help.. However, most of these medicines treat the symptoms rather than the body's over reaction to the irritant.

Get Professional Help----Ultimately, if your allergies are severe enough and are not well controlled with the use of non-prescription meds you will need to seek the professional help of an allergist.

There are well over 50 million Americans who suffer from allergies, and chances are you know more of them than you think. Talk with friends and family to get the name of a doctor that they recommend. Using someone your friends and family have experience with is a lot better than trying to find a doctor from the phone book or on the internet..

Filter Your Indoor Air---Most people who suffer with allergies are sensitive to a number of allergens. Common indoor allergens include household dust, dust mites, mold and mildew spores, and pet dander.

Adding a seasonal allergen to the ever-present indoor irritants often creates just enough more aggravation for your body so that it starts to react with symptoms. By continually filtering the air with a HEPA or high efficiency particle arresting filter, you can keep allergen levels low even with the additional weed pollen that will make its way indoors through doors and windows, and on clothes, hair, packages and pets.

It's important to use a cleaner that can work 24 hours every day. That will insure that pollutant levels never reach a level that would cause flare-ups. Not only is this an important factor physically, but emotionally it will let you relax because you feel safe in your own home.

Can Air Duct Cleaning Really Reduce Allergy Symptoms?

Most people assume that if they stay inside, they can avoid allergy symptoms. This, unfortunately, is not true. Allergies live inside the home, which is why air duct cleaning has become popular for those who suffer from allergies or other respiratory illnesses.

Is Duct Cleaning Effective?

During a duct cleaning, a professional removes dirt, dander and mold from the surfaces of the vents and returns inside a home or office. This will reduce the number of allergens put forth by the HVAC system into the air. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, cleaning of vents and returns will not eliminate symptoms for those who suffer from allergies; therefore, when considering a professional cleaning allergen reduction should not be the number one deciding factor.

How the Cleaning is Done

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, cleaning should only be considered under specific conditions. These conditions can include, but are not limited to:

繚 When visible mold is present on the interior or exterior of vents, returns of the HVAC unit itself;

繚 When the homeowner is aware of rodents, vermin, or insects in the vents and returns of the home;

繚 When the homeowner can tell the vents or returns are clogged with buildup and dust;

繚 When the homeowner can physically see dust and dirt being emitted into the air through returns and vents of the HVAC unit

Studies are still out on air duct cleaning and whether or not it is effective in cleaning out the air and providing a better air quality for those who suffer from allergies and respiratory illnesses. Regardless, experts do agree that the amount of buildup inside air ducts can be overwhelming; therefore cleaning them out can reduce the amount of work an HVAC unit has to emit in order to push air through vents and returns.

Homeowners are encouraged to seek advice from the company that services or maintains their HVAC unit about air duct cleaning and whether or not they need it. Most HVAC services can inspect duct work and see whether or not excessive buildup is present. If it is, a cleaning can help remove that buildup and improve the function of the HVAC unit - this could potentially lower energy costs.

As with any service, air duct cleaning has multiple service providers. While most are reputable and will provide a quality service, it is important that homeowners shop around and make sure they are hiring an efficient and reputable provider before signing any contracts.

What Are The Treatments, Causes, And Symptoms Of Hives

Basically, hives, or urticaria, is an allergic reaction to some allergen or allergens. When exposing yourself to this allergen, the skin may begin to swell with red welts.

Hives Causes

One extremely common cause of hives is some foodstuff. Some of the most common ones include milk, nuts, as well as shellfish. However, there are lots of other foods that can cause the reaction also.

Other trigger items that can promote a hives response include medicines, pollen, psychological stress and more. Insect bites and dander from pets (especially cats) are factors.

It is also possible that the exact cause of hives can't be ascertained. For example, a person can have the symptoms a couple of times after eating nuts, but then that same individual don't ever have hives again when eating nuts.

When an individual is known to have an allergy or reactions to specific substances, they've the possibility of breaking out in hives at the very least once or twice in their lifetimes. Specifically people that experience other allergy symptoms like hay fever and nasal congestion are susceptible to hives from time to time.

Exactly What Happens in The Body When Having Hives?

In reaction to a substance that the body's immune system recognizes as an allergen or irritant, the body begins to throw into the bloodstream chemicals like histamine. One way the body manifests the reaction is by the swelling and red welts of hives on the skin.

Hives Symptoms

The most typical symptom of hives is red welts on the skin. They typically swell, and they can be extremely itchy. Sometimes these welts can also sting. Hives eruption is very uncomfortable, and the sufferer may feel the need to scratch it. However, this is not recommended since it can make the problem only more frustrating.

The medical expert diagnosing the condition may tell by the appearance of the skin that hives is the problem to treat. Then, a biopsy of the affected skin can render the diagnosis certain. In addition, a blood test can help to expose the allergen that caused the reaction.

Hives Treatment

First of all, if you have hives rash you should wear loose clothes. Also, since warmth can promote the development of hives, avoid direct sunshine and hot showers. These are very simple home remedies for hives. Nonetheless, they can be surprisingly effective.

Antihistamines are the medication utilized with success to lower the inflamed skin, and the hives generally disappear when the antihistamine starts to function in the body.

There are also more serious symptoms that need immediate medical attention. If the throat or tongue starts to swell, a call to the specialist should be done as soon as possible.

Three Asian Alcohol Allergy Facts You Need to Know

The condition called Asian flush is really just another term for alcohol allergy. Simply put, anyone who has this will experience a number of different symptoms after imbibing alcoholic drinks. If you suspect that you have this condition, there are a couple of important facts about it that you need to commit to memory.

#1- Asians aren't the only ones affected.

Statistics show that around 50% of Asians are affected by this condition. The term is a bit misleading though simply because Asians are not the only victims. People of Caucasian ancestry can also suffer from it. You'll know for sure if you have it if you drink a glass or two of anything alcoholic. If you begin to experience a couple of different symptoms, then you definitely have an allergy to alcohol.

Regardless of who has it, the condition can be a source of embarrassment and frustration. You don't want to look like a cherry in front of your friends or business associates when you're on a night out. The most common way to avoid it is not to drink at all but that would mean missing out on all the fun.

#2- The symptoms can be uncomfortable and disturbing.

The reddening of the skin, especially around the face is the first and most common symptom of the condition. It is not the only one however. The color quality can actually become splotchy and rashes that are elevated above the skin may appear. These will start to feel itchy and warm. Other than the common skin signs, other alcohol allergy symptoms include difficulty breathing, nausea and headaches. Pulse rates are also usually quick.

You can choose to ignore the fact that you have the condition. It usually isn't a good idea though. The symptoms are highly uncomfortable and you will hardly be able to ignore the resulting itchiness and heat. Even if you do manage to ignore what you're feeling, the people around you will surely notice.

#3- The cause is biological in nature.

The real key to getting a drink without incident is rooted in biology. Just like everything else we eat or drink, alcoholic beverages are metabolized by the body. If you have an allergy to alcohol however, the normal processing of alcoholic drinks is impaired. This is because the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 is inactive in Asian flush sufferers. The toxic substance acetaldehyde that then comes with alcoholic drinks remains intact. This is what can lead to the allergic reactions.

Because the root cause is biological, it isn't very easy to find an excellent solution for it. Some sufferers claim that aspirin or other forms of medication not originally intended for treating Asian flush have reduced their symptoms. Experts maintain though that these medications are not medically proven to cure the condition and may even do more harm than good by creating false confidence in sufferers.

There's nothing great about an alcohol allergy. If you have some symptoms showing though, you owe it to yourself to find out as much as possible about the condition. Being informed is the best start to finding a sensible and safe solution.

Dog Food Secrets - How to Stop Dog Food Allergic Problems & Double Your Dog's Life Span

Can your dog be allergic to his food?

The most common causes of canine food allergies are caused by these ingredients which include meat-by-products, corn, yeast, sale, sugar, and chemical preservatives. They are often responsible for allergic reactions. Dogs who suffer from food allergies will experience reactions such as itchy skins, weepy eyes, ear infections, flatulence, irritated anal glands (running bottom over carpet), rashes, hot spots, and excessive bodily licking, especially around the feet and belly. Repeated exposure to large quantities of allergens in food can cause long-term chronic illnesses, infections, and behavior problems.

How to find out whether your dog's food may be giving him allergies

If you suspect your dog's food may be giving him allergies, you can try feeding him a special diet to determine what is giving him trouble. The diet is composed of food that is scientifically created with very low-molecular-weight proteins. Proteins below a certain molecular weight are thought to be incapable of causing food allergies. You can find this food, in wet and dry formulas, online and at many veterinarians' offices. If after six weeks of feeding this special diet, you find that your dog's allergy symptoms are alleviated, it's safe to assume that his food is the cause of these symptoms. To determine which ingredient is the culprit (usually by-products from meat and poultry sources), reinforce each one into the diet to see if your dog's symptoms recur. Check the ingredients list on your regular dog food label, and add each item-chicken, turkey, corn, bulgur wheat, potato or rice, for example into the special diet one at a time, every three weeks. At each meal, add ten percent of the test food to the bowl, and reduce the special diet by ten percent. Obviously, you won't be testing the chemicals but you can eliminate quite a few ingredients once you have determined which ones caused the allergy. If your dog has no reaction to the added ingredients, the culprit is likely a chemical or by-product- which you will want to eliminate along with corn, wheat, sugar and salt from your dog's diet, indefinitely. Don't be surprised, however, if you find several ingredients cause a reaction. Once you have discovered the allergens, search out high-quality dog foods that do not contain these ingredients. Your dog may find an allergy-free or vet-recommended diet to be bland but a bland diet is better than a miserable dog! As long as he is drinking plenty of water, don't be alarmed of he doesn't take to it right away. When he gets hungry enough, he will venture into the new food for a nibble. Eventually, he will adjust to his new diet especially if you compensate with some yummy, allergy-free treats!

Sugar High

In addition to causing food allergies, a sugar high diet also affects your dog's mood, energy and hunger levels. A sugar high can cause a dog to be hyper and unfocused, and a dog must be focused in order to learn. Many owners mistaken their dogs to be ill-mannered and uncooperative when in fact, their behavior may be food-related.

Chemical Culprits

Many dog foods contain unnecessary chemical preservatives such as butylated hudroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and ethoxyquin. Although human food also contains BHA and BHT, we consume much less than a dog does in his average 15-year life span. Chemical preservatives are commonly used by large manufacturers in large dosage because their products are made in huge quantities and distributed all over the world, often sitting for long periods of time on store shelves or in warehouses where extreme temperatures can alter the quality of the product.

Dog foods containing natural preservative alternative such as Vitamin E does not hold up long. That is why all-natural pet food manufacturers produce smaller quantities so that their products are more likely to stay fresh till sold. Dog food preserved with mixed tocopherols (Vitamin E) generally has a shelf life of about six months, so use this kind of dog food right away. If you are looking for a new food for your dog, visit a pet food store and ask the employee to recommend a food devoid of the ingredients discussed in this article.

Less expensive dog foods generally include less meat, and more animal by-products and grain fillers. So as you can see, commercial ready made processed dog food contains many indesirable substances and strong chemicals that will cause a lot of health problems to your dog if being fed over a long duration of time.

So, technically yes! You can lengthen your dog's life span and sometimes as much as double its lifespan if you know dog nutrition and educate yourself of what is really inside a canned of dog food or pet food for that matter. There are many records that had proven a dog can live much more longer if we feed it the food it meant to eat in its natural environment.

What is a Gluten Allergy?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cilantro Allergies

Cilantro comes from the leaves of the coriander plant and is often compared to parsley, sometimes it is even called Chinese parsley. Cilantro is native to Asia and Africa although it has been cultivated in

North America for many years. The herb is used in mainly Asian and tex-mex cooking or as a garnish. Cilantro when used as a herbal seasoning can be finely chopped making it hard for people with cilantro allergies to spot when mixed into a salad. It is also used in combination with several other herbs so it can also be difficult to detect which herb is causing your allergy symptoms.

Cilantro Allergy Symptoms

Vomiting

Tingling in mouth

Itching

Hives or skin rash

Upset stomach

Anaphylactic shock is rare

Tightness in throat or swelling

Allergy symptoms from cilantro usually occur in a matter of minutes after eating it, although rarely stomach and digestion problems can happen hours after consuming it.

If you have cilantro allergies dining out can be very difficult. Most restaurants will not list cilantro as a ingredient on their menu and its almost impossible to guess what dishes it will be used in. The best thing to do is ask your waiter or waitress to let the chef know you have a cilantro allergy.

Though the allergy is not as common as peanut and other food allergies they are growing. Whether this is do to the fact that more people are becoming allergic or because cilantro is being used in more and more dishes. If you think you may have a cilantro allergy the best thing you can do is see a doctor and get tested.

How to Deal With Hives Allergy Symptoms

A hives allergy condition will normally happen when your body is allergic to something you've been exposed to. It could be caused by a medicine you're taking, or perhaps something you've eaten. You'll recognize the hives by their appearance - usually large, swollen red patches on the skin. They tend to come on various sizes and itch like crazy.

Such an outbreak could also be the result of an infection you have as your immune system overreacts and tries to fight it off. If this is the case, you may need the help of your doctor. However, hives caused by an allergic reaction can normally be treated with OTC medicines or natural remedies. Of course, avoiding the allergen will clear up your condition as well.

Any type of medicine containing antihistamine can work to relieve hives allergy symptoms. You should be aware however, that many of these types of pills will cause you to become sleepy. Avoid them if you're driving or in any situation where you must be completely alert. Sometimes a cream remedy will be the best option.

Until you've found adequate relief, do your best to avoid scratching your hives. They will itch and it will be difficult, but scratching only makes the condition worse and you could damage your skin in the process. Many of the creams designed to treat hives will work well for the itching symptoms in particular.

Hives tend to come and go - some outbreaks last longer than others. However, if your hives allergy appears to be chronic, you may want to have your doctor do an evaluation and determine if there may be something else going on. You may even want to undergo allergy testing to see if you can avoid the problem in the future.

Cat Food Allergies - Signs and Symptoms That Your Cat is Allergic to the Food You Are Giving It

You cannot exactly tell you that you are giving him or her the wrong type of food. In fact, your cat may not realize how the food that he or she is eating is making him or her uncomfortable. According to studies, cat food allergies is very common among cats in the country. There are many types of cat food being sold in the market today that does not really sit well the stomach of some cats. Most of these foot that cause allergies are meat based products such as those that are made out of beef. In some cases, it containing fish and dairy products could also make your cat sick.

Since your cat will not be able to tell you that the food you are giving him or her is making him or her sick, you better be alert to the signs and symptoms of food allergies. You quick attention to the condition of your cat may well save his or her life.

Signs and Symptoms

Allergies may be manifested in the dryness and flaking of your cat's skin. If you notice that your cat has flakes and that it constantly scratching itself in some parts of its body, it would be wise for you to investigate the cause of this behavior. Experts believe that there are certain ingredients that can cause allergies that may lead to balding of your cat. If you don't want your cat to lose its beautiful coat, you better switch to another type of food and see what happens. In most cases, cat allergies symptoms disappear once you discontinue giving your cat something that caused the allergies.

Another sign of cat food allergies is the loss of appetite on your cat. In some cases, you cat may experience irritable bowel syndrome where your cat will have loose stools or constipation. If you notice that your cat is less active that he or she used to be, observe your cat for a day and note the way he or she defecates. If your cat does not eat much, strains when passing stool or pass loose stool, you should take your cat to the vet at once. Cat food allergies can have some serious on some cats so make sure that your cat is okay by taking it to the vet immediately.

10 Surprise Allergy Symptoms

Quote of the month:
"The absence of disease, does not imply health just as physical fitness does not imply health"

Happy New Year to Everyone! Hope everyone received some much deserved time off!

People are always familiar with typical allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, hives or breathing problems, but have you ever considered these:

Bed-wetting
Arthritic pain
Conjunctivitis (pink-eye) - consider dust or pollen, contact lenses, makeup as possibilities
Tinnitus (ringing of the ears)
Ear infections
Weight Gain
Cataracts
Diabetes
Muscle pain
Fatigue

So why would these be symptoms at all? The reason is this, symptoms can occur anywhere in the body. It is determined by where the substance has been carried by the blood. In other words, they don't necessarily occur at the point of first contact with the body! Therefore, no part of the body is immune to allergy. As an example from above, bed-wetting can come from dairy, as can ear infections. How about tinnitus? Some can be triggered by dairy and to others WiFi may be the trigger (yes, someone can be sensitive to cell phones, cell towers and the like). And what about fatigue? If you were to think it over carefully, continued and repeated exposure to a substance you are sensitive to will eventually wear you down and you will feel more tired! How about weight gain? Many items the body perceives as a threat it will often store in your fat cells! Then there's Diabetes. What has that got to do with allergies? Diabetes and anyone having trouble regulating their blood sugar levels may have an issue with insulin (the hormone responsible for lowering blood sugar levels) and may even be sensitive to sugar (go figure). Arthritc and muscle pain is also a common symptom. There have been numerous studies showing that arthritis can appear suddenly when people are given foods which they are sensitive to. Symptoms also disappear when those foods are removed again from their diet. When muscle aches are common upon waking or keep recurring then you should start investigating!

Did You Know?

- 90% of food allergies are delayed onset. In other words, you may have symptoms up to 3 days later. Therefore skin and RAST tests may not detect them at all.

- Fatigue is one of the biggest symptoms of allergy

- Taking products to suppress your symptoms, actually pushes the issue deeper into the body

Allergy Causes - 3 Theories on What Really Causes Allergies

We spend so much time talking about allergy symptoms and allergy remedies that we often overlook the most basic question of all - that being what is the cause of allergies?

And in using the word, "cause" I do not mean one of the multitude of allergy triggers whether they are environmental triggers such as pollen, dust mites and pets or food allergens such as eggs or cow's milk.

The trigger starts the process of the inflammation and swelling that we see in the allergy symptoms but is not responsible for the tendency of the patient to react in such a dramatic way. Some of that tendency is genetic and some of it is down to lifestyle.

In just about every account of allergy we are told that the cause of an allergy is down to one thing, so let's look at that now and we'll start with an interesting question.

Is Your Immune System Really Broken?

We are told by expert after expert that the body is mistaking your corn or your beef for an enemy; that the immune system has been fooled and that your allergy is down to a mistake or malfunction. And that's what I mean by using such a blunt question. Let's ask some more questions.

If my immune system gets such a simple task so very wrong why is my general health good? Surely if my immune system was so easily fooled I would not be able to fight off germs and viruses that i come across every day. And if my immune system is so incapable why am I still alive?

Or Are You a Tad Leaky?

Whether we are leaky or not comes up mostly in discussing food allergies and the whole complicated area of indigestion and food intolerance. School science tells us that proteins are broken down to their building blocks, called amino acids in the stomach and small intestine. That sounds simple and it is but how come allergy is usually explained by saying that our immune system is fighting food proteins?

Where is the fight taking place? Because food proteins cannot get into the bloodstream according to normal ideas. The protein should be digested before they get into the blood.

But suppose you are just a bit leaky, not enough to wet the carpet, just a tad, then food proteins might be able to leak out of the digestive system into the bloodstream.

There the immune system will find these food particles and take care of them. You can call this a fight or a clean up, your metaphor is your business, but the body is properly, cleverly and correctly removing proteins that should not be in the bloodstream...only to be blamed by everyone looking on.

What is at fault here is not the immune system - that is actually doing far more work than it should. The fault lies with the digestive system for not containing food particles adequately until they are sufficiently digested.

And that is called "Leaky gut".

Leaky gut is commonplace and is easy to diagnose. There are simple laboratory tests which are low cost and non invasive.

It is equally easy to cure, but that is for another day. In my view "leaky gut syndrome" is the main cause of Food Allergy.

Or Perhaps You Are Just Intoxicated?

The word "toxin" means poison, so intoxicated means poisoned. This may not mean that you'll die. Whether or not we die when we take in a dose of a poison depends on how strong the poison is and how much we take.

Have you taken the LD 50?

When testing how powerful a chemical toxin is, doses are fed to laboratory animals. As the dose level is increased the animals die. The amount that kills half the animals is called the LD 50, where LD stands for lethal dose.

How About YOUR LD 50?

If some one consumes the LD 50 level of a toxin they may well die. Alcohol is a good example here and the word intoxicated is used to mean that someone has taken a lot of alcohol. If they consume more than the LD 50 they have a fair chance of surviving and whether they do depends on their liver.

The major job of the liver is to grab the toxins it gets and to change them into something else. This is called detoxification, often shortened to "detox" The word detox does not mean anything to do with street drugs and intoxicated does not just mean, "drunk".

The liver has to do something that sounds fairly magical - it has to take poison and turn it into something safe. It needs enzymes to do this and it needs amino acids and nutrients. Like any good construction worker it needs the right tools for the job.

You could be suffering from multiple toxins in your blood stream from industrial exposure, street drugs or pharmaceutical drugs - all of which have to be detoxified your liver is struggling already.

And on Top of That....

And if we add allergens from food allergies or from other sources we raise the demands on the liver. Like anything else it has a limit and we may begin to get allergy symptoms when the liver is working at full capacity dealing with a list of toxins listed above and has little or no spare capacity.

Removing any of the toxins would help the liver cope with all of its other tasks. Detoxification is a complex step by step process of assessing and helping the liver and other organs of detoxification gradually eliminate toxins from the body. Most references to "detox" are wide of the mark and show little real grasp of the science involved.

This is not rocket science but it is liver science and has to be approached carefully with all the right tools and preparation.

So what does cause allergy?

The 3 theories here all have some merit. The immune system is fighting food particles and the reason it is doing so is that allergy patients are somewhat leaky and toxic.

Rather than simply saying that the immune system is at fault or is over reacting it seems wiser to fix the leak and do some detox. Both of these need a Naturopathic Physician for you to get the maximum health benefits, but it can be done.

What Does Having a Corn Allergy Really Mean?

Living with a corn allergy isn't fun and games, that's for sure. There are the undeniable symptoms that set in shortly after eating anything with corn in it. I start to feel my ankle swelling first usually. A little tingle, then it's off to the races. My nose gets stuffy, and then I start to feel really tired. My breathing appears to slow down and I am down for the count. Others may have different symptoms such as shiners, bad breath, eczema, problems losing weight, stomach aches, constipation or more. Most people do not end up in the emergency room like a severe peanut allergy.

Having a mild to moderate corn allergy is much more insidious, in my opinion, than having a painfully obvious severe allergy. An undetected allergy whittles away at one's quality of life. It's just unbearable; always feeling tired, always struggling with overeating, sinus infections, moodiness or just basically feeling and looking rotten. In many ways, I think it's worse because it is most likely the most undiagnosed allergy in the United States. Why? Because it is in everything, people don't know how it feels to live without eating corn.

My symptoms cleared up within about three days. I must admit that I craved foods with corn in them for a very long time, however. Once I quit eating corn and all corn derivatives, it seems that my body was able to start healing. I lost about 40 lbs, I have a lot more energy and I am not struggling with the dreaded brain fog. It's not that my health is at 100%, but I am on my way to healthier living to be sure.

How do you know if you are allergic to corn? You can go to your doctor and ask for a test. That may be the fastest most accurate way to know. You can also just quit eating anything with corn in it for about a week and see how you feel. If you feel better, than it makes sense to omit corn. Of course, you can apply this concept to other foods too.

There may be a genetic component to all of this. I have received many emails from others who have similar backgrounds. Almost all appear to be of English, Irish or German decent. Many claim that their mothers or fathers are also allergic. One of my sons is also allergic to corn. Take a look around your family for signs that they might be suffering from the same symptoms. It may be a clue.

My point to writing all of this is that people need to take their health into their own hands. Your doctor is not responsible for your health. You are! Take charge and talk to your doctor directly. Insist on being tested or getting help. If your doctor isn't listening, find one who will. No one should have to live like I did. No one should have to suffer for years on end needlessly. If you don't feel like you are operating at 100% find out why, because you deserve to live well.

Respiratory Allergies - 8 Specific Symptoms and Causes

What are respiratory allergies? We must have all asked this question sometimes. We are all effected in one way or another, whether it is summer or we are cleaning our basements. These type of allergic reactions are those that affect the organs and the airways that help us to breathe. In this article, I will be sharing with you some specific symptoms and causes of this sensitive condition.

The thing with people with allergies is that they are overly sensitive to certain things that most people don't have a problem with. This would include pollen from plants, mold, dust, cockroaches and food.

When a person that is sensitive comes in contact with what causes them to be sensitive, the allergen, the immune system releases a large amount of a chemical called histamine. A large amount of this histamine causes tissue swelling or inflammation or the tightening of muscles.

Symptoms:

Some people are allergic to different things. One person may be allergic to pollen, somebody else may be sensitive to something else.

1) Itchiness
2) Watery or red eyes
3) Coughing
4) Sneezing
5) Stuffiness in the nose
6) Shortness of breath
7) Wheezing
8) Airways that are constricted and swollen (in extreme cases - called anaphylactic shock)

Common Allergies That Affect The Respiratory System:

1) Hay Fever - This affects many people all over the world. Hay fever usually happens in the summer from pollen such as from the grass or even flowers.

2) Food and Drug Allergies - You can get this situations from eating such things such as fish and shellfish. You will usually develop an upset stomach or even a skin reaction and breathing problems. Medications can also cause some problems. Sometimes, you may develop a reaction if you eat peanuts, milk or eggs.

3) Insect Allergies - Insects such as cockroaches is another major cause of problems. This usually takes place in cities. It also affects children in big urban cities. Bees stings for example can be very dangerous to overly sensitive people.

4) Allergic Asthma - Asthma is a fast growing disease all over the country. This problem is a major cause of hospital admission for children each year.

Causes Of Respiratory Allergies:

1) Family history
2) Exposure to air pollution
3) Exposed to some workplace substances
4) Second hand smoke
5) Some health conditions - If you had infections when you were a child growing up

Treatment:

The best way to avoid an attack is to prevent the allergen. Not always easy to do at times. You could place pets in another room where you are not in all the times. You should also make sure to regularly clean your home, so that you do not have a build up of dust. Also, make sure you do not spend a lot of time being in damp areas. This will definitely expose you to mold. If the problem gets worse, make sure to see your doctor or pharmacist.

Cat Allergy Symptoms Induce Cat Asthma Attacks

Many illnesses in children and adults are actually caused by a cat allergy symptom. The source of the allergy symptom is of course our feline pet friends. Today, one out of two households has a cat for a pet. This exposes millions who suffer from cat allergy symptom(s) to allergens that produce symptoms ranging from sneezing to severe asthma.

Cat asthma refers to the sudden reaction some people have to coming in close contact with a cat. The victim suffers from spasms and swelling of the respiratory tract due to the immune system rejecting the protein contained in the pet dander. This protein is carried in the cat's saliva and deposited on the feline's fur (to become pet dander) during a cat's constant grooming ritual. In severe instances the airway can be shut off and the person unable to breath.

The top four symptoms that contribute and may indicate an asthma attack is around the corner are as follows:

1. Acute Rhinitis.

Rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal passages in the nose. Acute rhinitis means it occurs suddenly. Many people who suffer from cat (and often food) allergies have an instant reaction when a kitty is brought near their face. This usually evokes a fit of sneezing, and an itchy runny nose. Often the person may sneeze uncontrollably. Allergy relief for this symptom may consist of an over the counter oral antihistamine and/or nasal spray to alleviate cat allergy symptom(s).

2. Itchy, red, watery eyes.

Some sufferers' eyes will water so much it may look like they are crying. Eye drops for cat allergy relief are available over the counter and by a doctor's prescription.

3. Skin Rash or hives.

The skin may have an adverse reaction if the cat saliva comes into contact with the skin (such as the cat licking or rubbing up against you). A raised red area called hives may occur at the point of contact. The body's immune system then takes over and continues to make the rash worsen. Washing the area may help give cat allergy relief from this symptom.

4. Difficulty Breathing or shortness of breath (dyspnea)

If the dander from the cat is inhaled via the air, inflammation and swelling of the airways may occur. If the irritation continues to cause the immune system to attack the mucus lining, an asthma attack occurs.

Anyone with asthma should discuss a treatment plan that includes a rescue inhaler if cat asthma symptoms need to be controlled suddenly due to an attack. Most individuals who know they suffer from symptoms carry and inhaler to counteract the swelling of the respiratory tract. Prompt treatment is crucial. If an attack does not improve quickly with on hand treatments; call 911 and request professional medical assistance to avoid fatality.

Suffering from a cat allergy symptom may be difficult if many of your friends are cat lovers and owners. Some things you can do to maintain your friendship while avoiding symptoms from occurring is to ask your friend to put kitty in a secure (and away from you) place. Do let them know it is not because you are a cat hater, but rather you want to avoid becoming seriously ill. Your friends should understand this.

Cat Hair Allergy Symptoms - Proper Prevention And Knowledge Are The Keys

Many people are experiencing symptoms of cat allergy. Most of the time, the main cause of cat allergy is their hair. They can come in tiny particles that can enter the body, cause irritation and show cat hair allergy symptoms.

Cat allergies can have lots of symptoms and if you have these feline pets at home so you must know them and what to do for relief. Here are these symptoms and what you can do.

Pulmonary symptoms like sneezing, runny nose and difficulty breathing are common among people with this allergy. The first two symptoms are generally milder so it can be treated with antihistamines that can be obtained even without prescriptions. In addition, lesser exposure to cats can also lessen the occurrence or these cat allergy symptoms. However, some symptoms like difficulty breathing and wheezing can be considered as more severe so it's highly advisable to get medical help once these occur. The physicians, aside from treating them, may even offer other methods that can help them be free from these symptoms like immunotherapy.

Itchy skin can also occur after being exposed to these pets. Usually, skin will not only be itchy but may also rise after being scratched. Once these cat hair allergy symptoms occurred, it's essential for them not to scratch it or touch it with their hands especially if they've touched their pet. Their hands may also have this dander and can make the irritation more serious than before. All they need to do is to wash these parts with hot water which the skin can bear in terms of temperature and soap. In this way, you can clean it out from all the dander. For more serious condition, topical medications coming from these physicians or over the counter will also work to alleviate them.

But if you want to totally prevent these symptoms but still don't want to dispose of your pet, what you can do is to assign a place where they should stay. Instead of letting them stay inside, you can set a place for them outdoors so their hair will not get into your upholstery and make you experience these symptoms regularly. In addition, keep your home and pet clean all the time to avoid this problem.

Cat hair allergy symptoms can happen but with proper prevention and knowledge about it, you can take care of these symptoms and live happily with your pet just like what you planned.

Can Hormone Balancing Improve Allergies Or Asthma?

If your allergies or asthma seem to worsen at certain times of the month or with age, the blame may lie in your hormones.

Research has shown allergies are often triggered or intensified by natural body transitions and cycles such as puberty, pregnancy and menopause. Hormonal fluctuations also cause more severe asthma attacks in many women, especially older women, usually before or at the start of menstruation and the risk of serious asthma attacks quadruples at menopause.

Progesterone levels rise just before the onset of menstruation and remain high until it ends, and are linked to worsening asthma in up to 40% of women. One study linked the development of allergies and asthma to irregular menstrual cycles.

During menopause, a woman's ovaries decrease production of estrogen and progesterone, and this has also been linked to worsening allergies. Some women, however, seen to experience decreases asthma and allergy symptoms with menopause. It appears that women's bodies can react differently to estrogen and progesterone, so that hormonal fluctuations can affect existing allergies or asthma differently.

Research also shows that autoimmune diseases like arthritis, celiac disease, Chron's disease, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and insulin-dependent diabetes are also affected by hormone levels. They are three times more common in premenopausal women than in the rest of the population.

One reason for hormonally-driven fluctuations in allergies and asthma is a reduction in cortisol. When this occurs, the body tries to compensate by producing more adrenalin, which causes inflammation and hence, an increase in allergic and asthma symptoms.

Low progesterone levels can also aggravate allergies and asthma, as can too much estrogen (estrogen dominance). That's why estrogen therapy and the Pill are of little help, and actually aggravate asthma. A 2004 Harvard study showed that women on Hormone Replacement Therapy (which increases estrogen levels), were twice as likely to develop asthma as women not on estrogen. Oral contraceptives, which contain estrogen, were found in a 2004 Norwegian study to increase risk of asthma by 50%.

Natural hormone balancing should therefore be considered a key element of allergy and asthma solutions. Patients whose hormones are brought into natural balance are often astonished to find that their allergy and asthma symptoms are also significantly relieved.

Yet it is not surprising. Hormones play such an important role in the health of our bodies and immune system that they are inevitably involved in allergies and asthma, either increasing their severity or helping to provide relief.

Your Guide to Cat Allergy Symptoms

My sister recently lost her cat Topaz. She had been a long time member of our extended family. As much as my kids loved her they experienced cat allergy symptoms whenever they went to visit their aunt. Both my children have mild asthma which typically means they are going to be allergic to cats. My sister actually has asthma herself but she loved Topaz enough to manage through her cat allergy symptoms.

You don't necessarily need to see an allergist to determine whether you are allergic to cats. The allergic reaction is usually immediate upon entering a room with a cat or cats. So it doesn't take much to put the dots together. Can you get rid of your cat allergy symptoms without getting rid of your feline friend? First we need to identify your symptoms.

• Common Cat Allergy Symptoms


• Uncontrollable sneezing


• Watery Eyes


• Wheezing


• Hives


• Eczema

An allergy to cats is caused by contact with the dander and the saliva that are in the air. They may also be on surfaces where you sit or sleep or even in the carpets around your house. Cats lick their fur when they are cleaning themselves and when that happens they deposit a protein on their fur that is the actual allergen. Cat allergy symptoms can be experienced in areas where you might not expect. Due to the nature of the allergen it can stick to clothes and hands and can therefore appear in the office or other places where cats are not allowed.

You can attempt to treat your symptoms with medications but for cat allergies it is best to consult with a doctor. Antihistamine medications and allergy eye drops may help. If your cat allergy symptoms can not be managed it may be time to consider giving your cat away. This is a last option but may be your only resort particularly if anyone in the family suffers from asthma. Their symptoms, like wheezing, are more serious and therefore be the bigger priority.

If your cat allergy symptoms are mild or moderate and you can't imagine finding a new home for your feline family member here are some tips that may minimize your allergic reactions.

1. Get an air purifier with a HEPA filter


2. Keep your cat out of your bedroom where you spend the most time


3. Try to contain your cat to certain areas of the house


4. Vacuum your carpets with HEPA Vacuum Cleaner at least 2 times a week


5. Wash your hands after touching your cat

Cat allergy symptoms can come between you and your cat but if you really care about him you can do everything possible to manage your symptoms. Please keep in mind that new treatments are always being researched and keeping up to date on these may help you find the ultimate cure.

Symptoms of Allergies and Homeopathic Remedies

Symptoms of Allergies:

o Sneezing, itching and irritation of nose, ears, throat, skin.

o Stuffy, runny or tingling nose.

o Burning, watering, itchy or red eyes.

o Cough, wheezing and shortness of breath.

o Flu-like symptoms

o Skin rashes--Eczema, Hives, etc.

o Feeling of sinus pressure in and around the nose and cheeks.

o Ear fullness and popping

o Difficulty swallowing, throat hoarseness with soreness

o Headaches and/or heart palpitations

o Fatigue, Joint aches, Muscle pains.

o Stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

o Swelling especially in the lips, other parts of the mouth and throat, eyelids, genitals, hands and feet (angioedema)

o Anaphylactic Shock is a serious allergic reaction, which requires immediate attention.

Homeopathic Remedies:

Allergies signal a defective or depleted immune system and are considered in Homeopathic parlance--the body's communication that something is not right. Homeopathic doctrine believes that the allergen is just the trigger to the problem and not the underlying cause. Homeopathic remedies can remove the underlying cause for the allergic tendency and eliminate it completely.

A Homeopathic practitioner does not treat the disease itself, but looks at the entire individual and how the whole body reacts. An appropriately selected Homeopathic remedy that is individually chosen to the totality of symptoms that the person is experiencing, not just the allergy symptoms, stimulates the body's vital force and immune system so that the body can heal itself. However, Homeopathic remedies can also be used to treat the acute phase of the allergic reaction.

Homeopathic treatment is safe and gentle, without any side-effects. Homeopathic remedies are prescribed on the basis of physical, emotional and genetic make up of the person. Therefore, unlike pharmaceutical or OTC medications--one pill doesn't fit all.

Homeopathy is very effective in managing all the symptoms of Allergies and also plays an important role in preventing relapse of the condition and improving the general health of the person. Another important aspect of Homeopathic remedies is that people on multiple remedies for other issues can safely take additional remedies without concerns regarding negative interactions. All Homeopathic remedies are natural substances that work with the body and not against another remedy.

Homeopathic remedies are non-habit forming; no addictive characteristics and have a proven 200 year safety record with the FDA. Since Homeopathy treats the body in totality, it leads to a permanent long-lasting cure, unlike the temporary suppression of symptoms created through pharmaceutical or OTC medications.

Homeopathic remedies are best used under the supervision of an experienced Homeopath. It is not advisable to resort to self-diagnosis for any body symptom--albeit something as common as allergies could signal something more serious than merely an allergic reaction.

5 Chlorine Pool Allergy Symptoms - How to Tell If You're Allergic to Chlorine

Swimming in public pools is a popular activity during the hot months of summer. An allergy to chlorine can really put a damper on things. It's important to understand the symptoms so you can tell if it's a treatable allergy or something more serious.

There are five major symptoms to look for that can be caused when exposed to chlorinated pools. These symptoms generally show up either while you're swimming or right after you get out of the water.

1. Respiratory Problems - The following breathing-related symptoms can be similar to an asthma attack and may be more severe in an indoor pool where the chlorine is constantly being breathed in.

o The sensation of not getting enough air
o A tight feeling in the chest
o Not being able to take a deep breath

2. Irritation of the Eyes - This is eye irritation that is more severe than the normal reaction experienced by most people who swim in chlorinated pools.

o Redness
o Itching
o Stinging
o Swollen eyes

3. Dry Skin - If the dryness is severe enough, it can lead to:

o Pain
o Scratching
o Peeling skin

4. Rashes - When the clothes you wear are exposed to chlorine, for example the bathing suit being worn while in the pool, a rash that resembles the skin condition eczema can affect the entire area where the clothing touches. Leaving that clothing on too long can cause the rash to spread.

5. Itching - Chlorine is an irritant and can cause severe itching. Showering after swimming to wash the chlorine off the skin should take care of the problem.

Child Allergy Symptoms - 5 Common Symptoms Associated With Allergies in Children

Allergies at any age can be difficult to diagnose, but are particularly complex in children because many allergy symptoms can also be indicative of other conditions. And children are often less able to accurately describe their symptoms. Here are 5 common allergy symptoms and ways they may present differently that make them suggestive of allergies rather than other conditions.

Dark Eye Circles - This discoloration under the eyes looks like raccoon eyes or black eyes and are called allergic shiners. The area under the eyes appears darker because of increased blood flow to the sinus area rather than due to a lack of sleep. Shiners related to allergies are often accompanied by an extra fold of skin under the lower eye lids called the Denni-Morgan lines. These lines take their names from the two physicians who first made the connection between allergies and its relationship to this facial feature.

Allergic Eczema - This may first appear as contact dermatitis that is the skin's reaction to contact with an irritant; but is most often associated with allergies and presents as a rash in folds of the skin-knees, elbows, eyes, and even on the face. The affected areas are often very dry, red and itchy skin. Unfortunately, those who have allergies often suffer with this condition as well.

Frequent Sinus Infections - When the body overacts to an allergen, it produces additional fluids. These fluids then block the sinus passages, and bacteria and germs that are usually able to pass through and leave the body are able to invade the tissue lining the sinus cavity causing infection. Infection tends to be more common with those who suffer from allergies because the body's attempt to fight off foreign substances weakens the immune system making the body less effective in freeing itself of germs. Sinus infections can cause headaches, nasal congestion, and fever.

Chronic Cough - A cough that does not go away, is mostly dry, and only sometimes brings up phlegm into the mouth is usually an indication of increased fluid in the sinus cavity. Additional sinus fluid is often due to a reaction to allergens. Since the cough is a symptom rather than a condition, and even though it can be treated, eliminating the cause is the only sure way to eliminate the cough for good. If a cough persists, seek medical advice immediately as it is a symptom of many conditions other than allergies.

Itchy Nose - The nose knows when there are allergens present, and it lets the body know with an itch. This one symptom clearly defines the presence of an allergen from just a stuffy nose associated with a cold. Many children with allergies rub their nose in a way that resembles a salute, and this action is often nicknamed, the allergy salute. The only way to eliminate allergy symptoms is to avoid contact with the allergen that precipitates the reaction. But knowing and being able to recognize these common symptoms will allow you intervene earlier and provide relief for your child sooner.

How to Treat an Allergy-Triggered Cough

It's springtime; the trees are budding, the flowers are blooming...and you're stuck inside, coughing and sneezing and hiding from the substances that trigger your allergic reactions. Having a cough or cold is bad at any times - having cold-type symptoms every year at the same times is even worse. There are various ways to treat an allergy cough and help you get back to enjoying life outdoors.

There are various substances that can cause an allergy-triggered cough. The most obvious one is pollen, which plagues thousands of people across the country. Others include animal dandruff, dust, and mold. Before you run out and buy a cough suppressant so that you can have a rest from coughing, it's good to remember that coughing is your body's way of clearing the respiratory tract and lungs. It may not be in the best interest of your health to stop the cough immediately. There are packaged drinks that can be bought at a drug store that contain calming ingredients like honey or chamomile which can help to control your cough without suppressing it altogether.

If you have been suffering from a cough for over a week, and you believe it is allergy-related, it is best to make an appointment with your doctor. The doctor can diagnose what is causing your cough, and can also prescribe what would be the best treatment. He or she can choose from a variety of products that are already available, or can write you a prescription. Your doctor may advise that you take a cough syrup that helps to calm the throat but also allows you to continue coughing to clear your lungs.

Once you have been diagnosed with an allergy, you now have a weapon you can use against the substances that cause your allergic reaction - knowledge. If you know what triggers a reaction, you can avoid it, or, in the case of an allergen like pollen, you can take allergy medication before stepping outside. Especially when you have a cough, one of the best steps you can take is to rest. If you have to work, take a nap when you come home. Give your body not only the medication, but the time it needs to recover and get you feeling healthy again.