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.

Food Allergy Blood Test

We all know that most of us have an allergy to something. But finding out what the allergy really can be a discouraging job. Performing a food allergy blood test is something that you and your physician can do by eliminating foods from your diet and figuring out the symptoms of allergies.

However, there are 3 kinds of tests, it's the skin prick, CAP-RAST and ELISA test. Each test has its own pros and cons. Some tests are good for kids or people with skin orders such as eczema. Some may take longer than the others, and some perhaps may not include the allergens you have gone through. These tests look for particular antibodies within the blood to spot an allergy. There are 2 types of antibodies; IgG and IgE. IgG antibodies get longer to respond, normally for about 48 hours. IgE antibodies typically react faster, in about two hours or less.

The skin-prick food allergy blood test is an easy type of test that is done at the physician's office. This form of test is normally less costly compared to CAP-RAST or ELISA tests. It also takes a smaller amount time to determine outcomes. The skin-prick test is done through applying a small drop of allergen to a particular extort on the skin, then pricking it using a needle. In case an individual is allergic to that particular allergen, a wheal (looks like a mosquito bite) will form in 15 minutes. For the CAP-RAST blood test, it needs a blood sample, which is sent to a laboratory where it is being tested to determine if the blood has IgE antibodies to that particular food allergy. CAP-RAST test is best for small kids that were having hard time with skin-prick test. This is also good for individuals, which are suffering from skin problems such as eczema that tends to make it more difficult to read the outcomes. It takes about a week to obtain the outcomes from this test.

The ELISA test is another type of food allergy blood test. This test contains more allergens compared to other tests, for about 190 various food allergies. It helps detect the amount of IgG antibodies. On the other hand, if you haven't eaten a specific suspected allergen for the last three weeks, one downfall may produce a false negative. ELISA test sample is gathered and dealt with much like the CAP-RAST test.

The best test is indeed a lifesaver for people who continue suffering with strange allergy symptoms. Several people who have allergies never recognize that they could stay away from the symptoms through removing particular food from their diet. Nevertheless, one major problem to all food allergy blood tests is the fact that they cannot tell you the kind or severity of symptoms an individual will acquire. This indicates that two individuals could have each test positive for an allergy to peanuts. One individual may perhaps have the ability to eat peanuts, but includes a gentle reaction. Even though the other person would consume peanuts and go into anaphylaxis.

Penis Rash - Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

Penis discomfort as a result of inflammation, redness, discoloration and itchy skin and other rash-like symptoms can be caused by a variety of different circumstances.

STD'S - Various sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can cause rash-like symptoms on the penis and groin area. If a rash appears after recent sexual contact consult with your doctor. Chlamydia and herpes zoster may cause rash-like symptoms in some individuals.
Symptoms - Rash along base of penis and/or scrotum. May be accompanied by discharge, blisters, fever, sores or a burning sensation.
Treatment - Your physician can conduct a STD screening test and prescribe medication necessary for treating any particular infection.

Allergic Reaction - A variety of plants, soaps, detergents, lotions, jewelry, fabric and latex can all elicit an allergic reaction that may result in a penis rash. Some men are allergic to latex condoms and may decide to choose alternative materials such as sheepskin or non-latex based materials.
Symptoms - Penis itching, penis irritation, discoloration or dry penis skin or in the genital region.
Treatment - Cease contact with product or item that may have caused penile skin irritation. If you have recently switched to a new soap or detergent switch back to a more familiar brand. You can also use hypoallergenic products to prevent penis rashes from appearing in the future. Wash genital area with clean, cool water and dry thoroughly. Treat with penis health creme to keep area moisturized.

Infection - Impetigo is an infection caused by bacteria. Bacteria can affect your skin via a small cut or scratch. Scabies is a type of parasite that can infect your skin if you have been outdoors (hiking or camping). If penis skin has been exposed to a poison oak, ivy or sumac you can expect redness and irritation.
Symptoms - Redness, swelling, honey-colored, crusty blisters or sores.
Treatment - Your physician can conduct a screening test and prescribe medication necessary for treating any particular infection

Penis skin Problems - Acne, eczema, psoriasis or seborrhea dermatitis may cause a rash to reappear on a regular basis. Weather (either extremely hot or extremely cold) can also cause rashes and other skin problems as a result of drying of the skin. In some individuals skin problems, such as acne outbreaks, may be brought on by stress levels.
Symptoms - Rash like appearance, dry and flakey skin. Reddish discoloration of the skin. Itching, irritation and discomfort.
Treatment - For recurring rashes and other skin problems consult a general practitioner or dermatologist. You may consider a variety of lotions or penis specific cr癡me, like Man1, that may help minimize rashes and discomfort

Health practitioners recommend a penis health creme that helps many men suffering from penis skin issues. It contains penis specific vitamins and minerals plus select moisturizers, anti-bacterial properties and vitamin e to maintain healthy penis skin and treat penis rash.

Allergic Bronchitis - Treatments That One Should Know

Allergic bronchitis is a type of asthma, which causes the obstruction of the airways when the bronchi or the air passages of the lungs become filled up with mucous during an asthma attack. Respiratory illnesses have significant effects on the lives of millions of people. It can be acute, when it is a short term illness and easily treatable. In allergic bronchitis, both asthma symptoms and allergies are present which can cause hay fever and allergic rhinitis. By far, the majority of cases of bronchitis stem from viral infections.

Allergic asthma also known as allergic bronchitis is different from non-allergic bronchitis, which is often linked to a severe cold or flu. This condition is triggered when the overly active immune system identifies harmless substances as dangerous and then releases antibodies to attack them as they enter the body. Most allergic bronchitis is mainly caused by an exposure to allergens, while there are conditions that can be considered as a non-allergic bronchitis which is caused by a virus or bacteria.

Symptoms of it may include runny nose, shortness of breath, red or swollen eyes, rashes, hyperventilation, tickling in throat, constant sneezing, tight chest, headache, nausea, coughing, and other allergy symptoms. This type of bronchitis is often worse at night. Chronic bronchitis is characterized by a persistent dry cough without other symptoms.

Treatment of mild to moderate types includes, taking anti-histamine medications and avoiding allergens that can stimulate the allergy. It may also be treated with antihistamine medications to reduce the allergic reaction. Consulting your doctor is also important. They usually conduct an examination or skin test where in allergens are inserted beneath the skin that will identify specific allergens that cause allergic bronchitis. Your doctor may also recommend you to an allergist, who specializes in this condition and can give you more advice in preventing the occurrence of it. This can be cured after 25-35 days of treatment.

There are some cases that a person can be so sensitive to allergens that blocked airways caused by severe swelling of the tissue in the airway can cause hospitalization or death and this is considered as a dangerous situation that needs immediate medical assistance. But fortunately in most cases allergic bronchitis is considered as a mild to moderate condition. Awareness of this particular condition is important.

Allergic bronchitis is manageable, however if you have this illness you must also be aware that it can be dangerous at times. It is important that you know how to deal with it whenever you are exposed to unexpected allergen, like taking medications with you at all times in case of emergency.

HEPA Filters Vs Ionizers: Which Is Best For Allergy Reduction?

That's a good question. Many people suffer from allergies as a result of poor indoor air quality in their rooms and offices. The air in our rooms and offices is often loaded with all kinds of allergy-aggravating particles like dust, dust mites, mold spores, pollen, etc. So, the logical thing to do is clean up the air. But there is some confusion as to whether ionizers or HEPA filters are better for allergy reduction, keeping pet dander down, etc.

Well, the answer is 'yes': it's best to have both if you can, but if you can only choose one, choose the air purifier with a true HEPA filter. Here's why: a true, certified HEPA filter has dense fabric-like woven fibers that have very small spaces in between where only air can pass through-true HEPA filters trap the very smallest particles, everything larger than 0.3 microns, which includes dust, dust mite parts, pet dander / pet hair, human hair, pollen, mold spores, bacteria, and some viruses. Certified HEPA filters are designed to trap these particles that cause allergy problems, or allergy symptoms. Certified means AHAM certified (American Home Appliance Manufacturers Association), which means that the filter has been tested by this independent testing group and certified to remove 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns and larger.

Adding an ionizer is good because it can make the HEPA filter even more effective. As the ionizer releases ions in the air, the ions cause small particles (especially pet dander) to stick together, making them heavier and easier for the HEPA filter to trap. One thing to remember, however, is to choose an air purifier / ionizer that does not produce ozone. Ozone has been proven harmful to humans/animals over and over, and it's actually a respiratory irritant, which will only increase your allergy symptoms.

The best ionizers produce only an OH- or hydroxyl ion, which has the same effect on particles / airborne bacteria / organisms as ozone, but is not harmful to humans/pets, and has actually been found to even help depression! Negative ions also destroy bacteria/viruses in the air so they useful in a family's effort to keep colds and flu under control, as well.

The other very important thing to remember about HEPA filters is that you must replace them regularly, especially if you have indoor pets. Why? When a filter becomes clogged, 2 main things begin to happen: 1) backflow / leakage of unpurified, allergy-aggravating air because some of the air drawn in cannot pass through, 2) the air purifier is stirring up air-and allergens-and with a clogged filter, it is blowing around polluted air, which can actually make allergy symptoms worse, and 3) increased energy costs / higher utility bills--as the air purifier is having to work harder to get the air through the clogged HEPA filter, more energy is used. Replacement of your HEPA filters ensures that you will continue to breathe clean healthy air, reduces the chances of an allergy attack, and you'll probably see a reduction in allergy medication costs.

So overall, we recommend that you choose an air cleaner or air purifer with a true HEPA filter and a healthy negative OH- ion 'ionizer'. but definitely one with a HEPA filter if that is all that is available to you. Brands like Blueair and Winix offer air cleaners with the HEPA/ionizer combination. Together, HEPA filters and a good ionizer will do a great job cleaning up the air in your rooms/offices and can definitely play an imporant role in allergy reduction. And make sure to replace your filters regularly!

Identifying Common Allergy Symptoms

Do you have allergies? Whether you have seasonal allergies or you are allergic to certain situations, such as being exposed to animal dander, coping with allergy symptoms can be quite difficult. Not only are allergy symptoms uncomfortable, they can slow you down during the day and interrupt with your sleep cycle. Therefore, it is important to know how to recognize allergy symptoms and to know what to do in order to alleviate the symptoms you experience.

Recognizing Allergy Symptoms

Since there are so many different types of allergens and because everyone's body reacts differently to these allergens, allergy symptoms can differ from person to person. Nonetheless, there are several different signs and symptoms that are commonly associated with allergies and may signal that you have allergies.

Some of the most common allergy symptoms include:

o Abdominal pain
o Congestion
o Cramps
o Diarrhea
o Difficulty swallowing
o Dizziness
o Itchy and watery eyes
o Itchy skin
o Mental confusion
o Problems breathing
o Rash
o Vomiting

Whether or not you experience these symptoms will depend upon the type of allergy and how you make contact with the allergen. Physical contact with an allergen, for example, is more likely to cause rashes and itching, while inhaling the allergen is more likely to cause breathing problems.

Coping with Allergy Symptoms

Depending upon the type of allergy you have, you may be able to prevent allergy symptoms by taking certain types of allergy medicine. If you have seasonal allergies, for example, you might want to discuss the issue with your doctor and begin taking a prescription allergy medicine that will help prevent allergy symptoms from developing. If you are allergic to animals, on the other hand, you may want to talk to your doctor about prescribing an allergy medicine that you can take before being exposed to the known allergen.

Of course, you can't always prevent an allergic reaction. Sometimes, you may find yourself unexpectedly exposed to allergens. In this case, you will need to treat the allergy symptoms after they develop. It is important to keep in mind that you can only treat the symptoms when they occur rather than "curing" the allergy. Therefore, you should search for medication that will help alleviate the symptoms you are experiencing. If you have a rash, for example, you will need to use a topical ointment to treat the rash. If you are experiencing diarrhea and vomiting, on the other hand, make certain to stay hydrated and to seek medical attention if you cannot get the symptoms under control.

Dealing with Dog Allergies

Dog allergies are very similar to human allergies and also produce the same symptoms as human allergies. There are 5 types of dog allergies: food allergy, flea allergy, bacteria allergy, contact allergy and atopy. Here are some basic facts about each of these allergies.

Food Allergies

The most common symptom of food allergies is scratching, due to skin irritation. Dog foods contain a host of ingredients which can cause an allergic reaction to your dog. Some of these ingredients are:

Meats: Beef, Chicken, Pork, Lamb, Fish, Eggs

Diary products (Milk)

Grains (Wheat, Whey)
Corn

Most dog owners often scold their dog for scratching too much. Any obsessive behavior your dog demonstrates, such as constant scratching, chewing, licking, requires immediate attention. Never assume that this is just a new habit your dog picked up. Dog allergies can make your dog very uncomfortable.

Aside from scratching, some of the other symptoms dogs can experience are:

sneezing

coughing

eye and nose discharge

Itching around the anus

hair loss

loss of appetite

pawing at their ears or head shaking

vomiting

diarrhea

breathing problems

Isolating the allergen which causes the allergy is not easy because the dog is usually allergic to one specific ingredient in the food. Therefore, it is a matter of isolating that ingredient. You can try doing this with an elimination diet, which most people don't have the time or energy for. The elimination diet requires preparing specially-cooked meals consisting of a more exotic meat, like rabbit or venison, mixed with rice or potato, which wouldn't normally be found in dog food.

An easier and more modern approach to test for the presence of a food allergy is to try a dog food which contains hydrolyzed proteins, such as Purinas HA or Hills z/d. Hydrolyzed proteins are broken down into molecules so small, they can't affect the immune system, which is what causes the allergy. If the allergy goes away while your dog is on this diet (which would take about 8 weeks), then he most likely is suffering from a food allergy. At this point, you would start to re-introduce the possible allergens one by one (individual meats, wheat, corn, milk, etc.) for a period of two weeks each. If the symptoms return, it is most likely due to the ingredient being introduced at that time. You should look out for that ingredient on dog food labels in future purchases.

Atopy (inhalant allergy)

Atopy is the most common of all dog allergies, which is caused by environmental factors, such as dust mites, molds, house dust, human dander, feathers or pollen.

Signs of atopy include excessive chewing, licking and scratching at the face, paws, abdomen, armpits and genital area. Evidence of this behavior can be found in examining your dog's paws, armpits and genital area. Reddish-brown stains develop in these areas due to excessive licking. This may not be evident in dogs with dark coats.

Atopy is not easy to diagnose due to other dog allergies having the same symptoms. Once these other dog allergies (food, flea and contact) have been ruled out, your vet can proceed with testing for the root cause of the atopy. The most accurate method of testing for atopy is Intradermal Skin Testing.

There are many different treatment options for atopy. The best treatment would be avoiding the allergen altogether. If this is not feasible, other treatments include cool water baths with medicated shampoo, antihistamines, allergy shots, corticosteriods or a diet rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.

Flea Allergies

Dog allergies to fleas are not caused by the flea itself, but rather the flea's saliva. A common symptom of flea allergies is scratching at the tail area which causes hair loss, scabs and sores. Your vet can easily diagnose a flea allergy by checking for the presence of fleas in the coat. Fleas can be seen by the naked eye. Intradermal Skin Testing can also be used to test for this type of allergy. The most effective products for eliminating fleas are:

Advantage - Flea control for your Dog & CatFrontLine - Flea & Tick

Medication for your Dog & Cat

Capstar- Flea infestation on Dog and Cat

K9 Advantix Flea and Tick Medication (based on dog's weight)

Bacterial Allergies

A dog's skin normally harbors Staph bacteria. Usually, this bacteria does not have any affect on your dog but some dogs develop a sensitivity to it causing an allergic reaction. Your dog may develop crusts on the skin and patches of hair loss due to scratching, similar to ring worm. If these patches become infected, your dog will need to be treated with antibiotics.

Contact Allergies

Contact allergies are the least common of all dog allergies. This type of allergy produces swelling, redness, itching and hair loss. Common contact allergens include flea collars, plastic food bowls, pet sweaters, plants, grass or wool bedding. The best way to diagnose this allergy is if the symptoms continue after ruling out all other allergies. If this is the case, then you must pinpoint the allergen and remove it from your dog's environment.

This information is NOT intended to replace the advice of a veterinarian, dog trainer or pet care professional.

Mold Allergy in Food - The Cause and the Cure

At first, I never knew that mold allergy can come from food. My mother and I share the same allergy. Damp places, high humidity climate, old clothes or books always give us difficult breathing or other mild asthma symptoms. But when my mother was diagnosed to have the allergy from food, I just realized that there are many kinds of food that use mold in the processing. Who can have this allergy? Do both mold allergy in food and in air always come together? And how to cure it? Keep on reading...

Mold, as well as mildew, is included in the fungi family. They differ from other plants or animal by their unique reproducing methods. Their seeds are called spores. When an allergic patient is inhaling spores, they might have symptoms like sneezing and difficult breathing. Besides in the air, mold can also grow in foods. Although it's only in small percentage, people with respiratory mold allergy can have the same allergy from food too. My mother cannot eat foods that are processed with mold, such as soy sauce, 'tempeh' or fermented cassava, while I don't share the same allergy.

Although not a processed food, peanut can also cause the allergy from the mold alfatoxin, a toxin that can be found in corn, wheat, soy, and sorghum, as well as in peanuts. Other foods that might cause the allergy are mushroom, melon, berries, beer, smoked meats, and some grains, as well as some cheeses, like blue cheese. Other dairy products such as milk is believed to contain alfatoxin if it came from cows that is fed by moldy feed. The most common molds found in food are aspergillus and rhizopus.

So how can we avoid and cure mold allergy from our diet?

Just like any other food allergies, the best way is to stay away from foods you are allergic to. You need to have an allergy testing to confirm exact food products that cause your food allergy, and include those foods into your restricted diet. Some people try organic diet to stay healthier. However, as organic products lack of chemical fungicides, they can be moldy faster than non-organic products.

How to cure ?

Allergy is a body reaction against a toxic situation. Most of the cases, toxins that cause allergy come to non-natural substance. It happens as well in mold allergy. Therefore, the effort to cure the allergy by pharmaceutical medicines seem not appropriate, as those medicines are also toxic.

The best way to cure this allergy, and any other allergies, would be natural cure. Herbal therapy, homeopathy and acupuncture/acupressure are some of natural medication methods that you can try. Of course, sudden discontinuing of pharmaceutical medication would be unwise either. You should consult your doctor before slowly replacing your treatment with natural substance.

Allergy is a unique disease that we often cannot make disappear, however through a consistent and healthy diet and lifestyle, you can live normally with allergy, or even asthma.

Tree Nut Allergy

Tree nut allergy is categorized as food allergy. Tree nut allergic conditions are described as the hypersensitivity of people to dietary products from tree nuts, which result in an overreaction of their body's immune system. When this occurs mild to severe physical symptoms occur to those affected, some even result in death.

Affecting millions of people worldwide, tree nut allergy is often mistaken to peanut allergy. The difference of these two conditions is the cause of allergic reactions. While dried fruits cause tree nut allergy and there are many allergens causing peanut allergies of legumes. However the symptoms of these two conditions are alike, but a person with tree nut allergy is not necessarily allergic to peanuts and vice versa.

Tree nut products allergy mainly occurs in children but may also occur in adults. Just like other allergies, it is treated by avoiding the foods that came from the source of allergen - here, nut particles, oils and tree nuts. However in severe cases of tree nut allergies cause reaction called anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention and Epinephrine injections.

Tree nuts include all kinds of nuts that grow on trees like walnuts, pecan, pistachio, cashews, hazelnuts, filbert, hickory nuts, almonds, macadamia, beechnuts and chestnuts. Unfortunately allergies from these nut families are common and life threatening.

Since these nuts are usually found in candy bars, chocolates, drinks, cereals and other sweets that children love, it is important to be aware of what your child eats to identify if ever he or she experiences the symptoms of tree nut allergy.

Coping With Tree Nut Allergies

If you think something is wrong with your child then first check the symptoms of tree nut allergies to see if it has anything to do with what he or she consumed. Common symptoms of this condition include skin reactions like eczema, rashes, itching, swelling, inflammation and hives.

Tree nut allergies could also cause gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting, stomach pains and diarrhea. Some severe cases experience nausea, rapid heartbeat, loss of breath, wheezing, running nose and itching around the areas of the mouth.

If your child experiences more than four of these above mentioned symptoms, consult your doctor immediately for appropriate treatment. While the doctor could give your child epinephrine injections, it can not cure the allergies for good.

The most effective way to avoid these allergies is through your child's diet. Make sure that all his or her snacks, meals, sweets and other food items do not include any of the contributing factors of tree nut allergy. Unlike parents you have to ensure to read labeling ingredients to find hidden nuts sources in a food item.

Natural Allergy Relief - 4 Ways to Control Allergies Without Medication

Allergy symptoms range from hugely irritating sneezing and a constant runny nose to watery eyes, nasal congestion, itchy skin and or flaky skin, sore throats and post nasal drip. For many people allergy season means shutting the doors and windows and not opening them again until the first frost. But wouldn't you still love to enjoy warmer weather and the good health you otherwise have in spite of your allergies?

You may eventually need to augment the following suggestions with either over the counter medicine, or have an allergist prescribe medications that will help. But these 4 ideas are worth trying first as the chances are high that one or more of them will provide substantial allergy relief.

1. Alternatives to Medicine-If you are exploring options for relief other than medication, you're in luck. From herbal remedies to fragrances, and even acupuncture, there are many alternatives which have been proven to have a tremendously positive effect. You may not consider acupuncture as likely to do a great deal for your sneezing and runny nose, but rethink this. Results have been so well documented and substantiated that many insurance companies will actually pay for you to have acupuncture treatment for allergies. If the insurance companies are willing to pay, it's got to be worth a try.

2.  Eat Healthy-Your body is a well crafted machine - the better the fuel you put in it, the more efficiently it will work. Allergies are indicative of an imbalance in the way the body is coping with allergens. Many times addressing the body's needs by making small changes to diet will work. The key word to look for when deciding what to eat in order to find relief from allergies is antioxidants.

Antioxidants can be found in a wide variety of food and drinks, and can make a big difference in helping the effectively cope with defending itself against real dangers, but not over reacting to allergens. Tea is fantastically rich in antioxidants, and green tea one of the best varieties. Try drinking green tea throughout the day - you may be pleasantly surprised at the difference it makes; and observing tea time daily is wonderful way to relax and relieve stress-another way to help your body cope. Rev up the number of fruits and vegetables you include in your daily diet, including spinach, blueberries and be sure to include nuts such as walnuts and pecans.

3. Make the Weather Work for You-We are so lucky in this world of modern technology to be able to know before we go outside the estimated pollen count for the day. Use this knowledge to your advantage by planning indoor activities on days when the pollen count is high, and saving outdoor activities for days when the count is low. If you must go out on days when the count is high, avoid being out in the early morning and plan, if possible, to be out after 10:00 a.m. Wearing a mask may look a little strange, but it can really help if you have to go out when you know pollen levels are high. Also, a good rain generally clears the air of pollen for a while and makes it safer to be out.

4. Remove Indoor Allergens with a HEPA Air Purifier--Many allergy sufferers are miserable indoors even when the doors and windows are shut. The symptoms just don't seem to go away even when away from the pollen. That's because the pollen has come inside with you in your hair, on your clothes and packages, and on your pets if they're allowed outside. You can filter pollen and household pollutants that work in concert to aggravate allergies with a high efficiency particle arresting air purifier.

Designed to remove pollutants as small as .3 microns, HEPA purifiers can take out not only the pollen but household dust, dust mites, mold and mildew spores, pet dander, and numerous other airborne pollutants that often send allergies into overdrive. This in a natural, non-invasive, and proactive way to not only remove the allergens that cause the allergies but to eliminate the need to medicate the symptoms that result because of them.

Recognizing Symptoms of Mold Exposure

If you or someone you love has been exposed to mold, there are many symptoms that will present themselves. While obvious, they often go unchecked because they're very similar to the ones of health problems that aren't as serious like the cold or flu. Naturally any recurring health problem is usually a sign of a more serious problem, in this case it could mean that you have a mold infestation in your home.

The first defense you have in the fight against mold is to familiarize yourself with the symptoms. This is the biggest tool you have to protect yourself against the dangers of exposure to mold.

Prevention of mold exposure can be done through home testing by a professional. This can be a costly procedure, but it is an investment well worth the money. Mold can, in rare cases, cause death so it's very important to prevent recurring mold exposure since the problems tend to get more severe with each outbreak.

Physical Symptoms

There are numerous physical signs of an exposure to mold. Some them can be extremely mild like a mild allergy outbreak. Other signs can be more severe and include seizures and upper respiratory infections. The more toxic the mold, the more severe symptoms you'll experience. The same holds true if you're repeatedly exposed to mold for longer periods of time.

After mold exposure you may experience brittle nails and hair loss. Cold-like feelings like a stuffy nose, runny nose and sore throat are also common. You may experience frequent nosebleeds. On the more alarming end of continuing mold contact, you may get cancer, experience anaphylaxis (trouble breathing), have reproductive organ complications or loose large amounts of weight. If the more serious symptoms of mold exposure get worse, there is also the risk of death. This is rare, but not impossible.

Psychological Symptoms

Signs of mold contact can also affect your psychological health. You might loose your memory abilities. There's the possibility of an increased risk of anxiety and depression. Fatigue can be a problem, as can insomnia. These are often misdiagnosed and improperly treated. Medications used to treat these without dealing the cause will produce little or no results. Left untreated, there's the potential that they become more serious physical problems that could lead to death.

Treatment Of Symptoms

Symptoms of mold exposure have, in the past, been diagnosed as other health problems because they appear to be another non-mold related problem. Misdiagnosis will most of the time result in more serious health problems. You may be affected with mold fungi if you've been treated for any of the above treatments, but haven't received any relief.

If you're finding that you're constantly sick, or a family member who lives with you is regularly sick, you may have a mold problem, especially if the medical treatments don't seem to be working. It may be a good idea to get your home inspected by a professional mold inspector.

Mold doesn't need to be toxic to inflict you and your family with the symptoms. For your own piece of mind, it's always a good idea to have your home regularly inspected for mold. Doing so could prevent serious problems of mold exposure later on.

Is Child or 'Baby Eczema' An Allergy Symptom?

Infantile Eczema or baby eczema is a skin condition that occurs in infants and older children. It is usually caused by a combination of factors, from dry and highly sensitive skin to different types of skin diseases, or simply from allergies.

Baby eczema is thought to have a genetic component, as some people seem to be prone to allergies and dry skin. Many allergies in children occur during the first years of life and often seem almost impossible to prevent. This is why you should observe the factors - foods, chemicals, allergens or irritants - that might trigger your child's allergy, causing eczema rashes.

What are the triggers of allergies in children?

Beside heredity, hay fever and asthma are the most common factors linked with baby eczema, and these are all related to allergies. Excessive heat and emotional stresscan also cause eczema rashes. Many specialists believe certain fabrics, detergents or soaps; skin care products and perfumes also triggerbaby eczema. In order to prevent flare-ups of eczema, you should avoid using chemical products for your baby's hygiene, and opt for pharmaceutical or dermatological ones.

Allergies in children often develop due to dry air, so, while air-filtering devices can be useful, air conditioning devices in your child's room should be avoided. Pollen, mold, dust and smoke are common irritants, and can cause dry skin and eczema rashes. Some other triggers for baby eczema are animal dander, highly acidic foods or drinks, dairy products and sweating.

Which are the most common baby eczema symptoms?

Eczema rashes usually manifest through itchy, dry skin, with small, red bumps usually located on the cheeks, forehead or on your baby's scalp. This is why this condition is also called cradle cap. Occasionally, the rash can spread to legs and arms also, so it's possible to notice some small, slightly raised rashes on the backs of the ankles or wrists, or in the bends of elbows.

The typical symptom of baby eczema is the dry skin, often with a rough texture and small bumps. White, scattered patches can also be present, and from time to time some areas of the skin can become more irritated and flare-up.

This type of allergy occurs in 1 of 10 children and its symptoms usually disappear within few years. However, there are cases in which the signs of baby eczema are still present during adolescence or throughout early adulthood.

Can baby eczema be treated?

Yes. This illness is easy to recognize and the diagnosis is usually based on the medical history of the patient and the present symptoms. An allergy specialist might examine the distribution of the rash; its appearance and he might look for evidence of thicker skin, caused by itching and rubbing.

Treatment options for eczema rashes can include antihistamines, which help to control the itching sensation, and antibiotics for preventing or treating secondary infections, non-steroid medications and topical corticosteroids.

These can be found in different forms, usually creams and ointments. They should be applied directly on the affected regions of the skin, twice a day, until the skin recovers. Daily moisturizing lotions are very important for treating baby eczema, and they should be applied to the whole body, in order to prevent the re-appearance of dry skin.

For parents looking for 'natural' eczema and skin rash treatments, non-invasive (no shots and no drugs), electrodermal testing and natural supplements have proven very effective in reducing or eliminating many types of allergy symptoms, including skin rashes and eczema.

How to Determine If You Have a Gluten Allergy

How can you determine if you have gluten sensitivity? What are the gluten allergy symptoms that you are to look out for? How is this related to wheat allergy? What is gluten in the first place?

Gluten is a sticky protein found in bread that gives it its spongy characteristics. Gluten is a glue-like substance and is used in many other foods besides bread. It is also found in other products such as candy and ketchup and even in ranch dressing. Gluten allergy is when a person's body negatively reacts to an intake of gluten into their body or, simply put, gluten intolerance.

Someone with gluten allergy may feel the following gluten allergy symptoms- extreme fatigue, develop hives, asthma, skin problems, autism, diarrhea and abdominal pains. The most important symptoms to look out for are diarrhea, constipation, losing and gaining weight. Upon experiencing these symptoms though, do not immediately assume the person has Celiac disease as it may be simply gluten allergy. Either way, it is just proper to avoid foods that contain gluten and take a gluten free diet. Besides gluten free foods, there are non-gluten breads and cakes for the gluten allergic and this is highly suggested for those with the allergy for them not to miss the other nutrients found in bread and wheat. This may also bring them to avoid regular cereal and consume alternative cereals like those made of rice flour.

Gluten allergy does not specifically mean a person is wheat allergic or yeast allergic. A wheat allergic person may be able to consume some types of barley and rye but there still numerous other wheat products that the allergic person must avoid. A physician's list of consumables is always the best to follow as he or she will be able to determine what consumables are fit for the patient. This is where a diet consisting of gluten free foods best comes in.

It must be noted that gluten allergy is different from gluten sensitivity or the Celiac disease. Celiac is a disease where the body fails to identify the gluten in the body as a neutral particle and attacks the small intestine, damaging the villi in the process. Gluten allergy is merely a negative reaction that the body exhibits when gluten enters the body system. Those with gluten allergy do, however, usually have a tendency to develop the Celiac disease as their body is already weak to the substance and resists it from continuing into the system.

Another thing to note is that those with a strong gluten allergy or have already developed gluten intolerance may also develop lactose intolerance. This is caused by the poor bowel control that weakens the intestines therefore leading to a body intolerant to products rich in casein like milk and cheese.

Causes of Chronic Allergies - 5 Irritants To Avoid

If your allergy symptoms are continuous, you most probably have chronic allergies. Symptoms that persist day after day and week after week are an indication that you are constantly being exposed to irritants that cause your allergies to flare. Here are 5 of the most common culprits and an effective solution to the problem.

Dust--- Generally a combination of particles from indoors and outdoors, it can cause sneezing, wheezing, watery eyes, runny nose, and congestion to be a constant part of daily life. It can be made up minute pieces of lint from clothing and upholstery, dirt and sand from outdoors, small pieces of paper from magazines and mail, and even metal shavings that hinges sometimes generate as doors are opened and closed.

Dust Mites- These eight-legged bugs thrive in warm, dark, and moist places. They feed on dander (or flakes of dead skin). They are most commonly found in the bedroom, and mores specifically in mattresses, bed linens, and pillows. It is the protein in their feces that they leave everywhere that causes allergy sufferers so much grief.

Mites are not fussy about whose dander they feed on, so if you have a warm-blooded pet that has a favorite mat or special cushiony bed, the mites can be found there as well.

Mold and Mildew Spores- These microscopic fungi (much like plants but without chlorophyll) are a natural part of outside air, and are impossible to keep from entering indoor air. They need moisture to survive so they are generally found in kitchens, basement, bathrooms and laundry rooms.

When they find the least bit of water indoors they reproduce at an exponential rate clogging your air with even more spores. They are a potent allergen that can be detrimental to good health.

Pollen--- Most people associate this allergen with springtime. But there is a saying that there's always something blooming. And that means pollen is in the air. So depending on the climate where you live, tree pollen can go airborne as early as January, followed by flower pollen in the spring, grass pollen in the summer, and weed pollen in the fall.

Because it is impossible to keep pollen from attaching to hair, clothes, packages, and pets, pollen will find its way indoors. This makes it available to be easily inhaled and cause chronic allergy symptoms throughout the year.

Pet Dander--- If you share your life with a warm-blooded animal such as a cat, dog, bird, ferret, or bunny you have an invisible allergen called dander. This is a natural part of their growth and development and will be a part of life for as long as they remain with you.

The protein in their dander is an allergy-triggering irritant that can make keeping your pet a challenge if not impossible. Daily routines by you and your pet cause it to go airborne, adding yet another irritant to your air.

Without a way to manage the allergens above, your air continues to have a high volume of allergy triggers that you are constantly inhaling. It's no wonder symptoms can persist. The best way to minimize symptoms is to drastically reduce the number of allergens you are exposed to indoors.

Filtering your air continuously with a high efficiency particle arresting (or HEPA) air purifier is an effective solution to the problem. Designed to remove 99,997 out of every 10,000 airborne particles that are.3 microns or greater, it can easily eliminate allergens from your air, which will let you live your life without the burden of chronic allergy symptoms.

Allergies, Insomnia, and Constipation Are the Leading Symptoms of the Exhausted Nervous System

When these electricity bundles or pathways become jangled, clogged, under stimulated or blocked in anyway, the body loses its dynamic and ever changing balance - this balance effects and includes everything especially the nervous system, digestion, and circulatory system muscles and joints. Body pollution accumulates. Allergies are one of the many health imbalances that occur.

Integrative medicine employs electricity rebalancing as one of its most effective treatments to eliminate allergies. this treatment has many benefits, including being able to desensitize common and rare allergies

Getting to know your body is an aha! experience a big wow. Worry, anxiety, insomnia and constipation lead the symptoms that are caused by an electric system that doesn't work.

The nature of the energy in the body itself as a constant force, in continual state of movement and flux. You are like a human battery. Everything is electric. Everything has a charge. Your body is a field of energy that radiates out twelve feet according to science.

This electricity is organized in highly complex and specific pathways. In orthodox or allopathic medicine these are called tracts, in Chinese medicine, meridans, and in Ayurveda, chakras or marma points. When these electricity bundles or pathways become jangled, clogged, under stimulated or blocked in anyway, the body lose its dynamic and ever changing balance . This balance effects and includes everything especially the nervous system, digestion, and circulatory system muscles and joints.

Integrative medicine employs electricity rebalancing as one of its most effective treatments to eliminate allergies.

This treatment has many benefits, including being able to desensitize common and rare allergies.

Other benefits include relaxation of the nervous system, increased circulation and gentle detoxification, and increased efficiency of the electric and subtle energy systems. Again, when the allergic code is broken in the electric body, you become allergy free.

Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine believe that these meridians or microscopic pathways transport energy throughout the body and are its source of vitality.

This energy is called chi or Qi (pronounced chee), and is literally translated as air or life force. There are two main types of Qi: the life force you are born with and the Qi you get from sleep, food and fresh air.

Allergens can disturb and trigger reactions from the meridian system millions of times a day. When the reaction is big enough to jam the electricity in the meridian channels and cause chemical disturbances in the body, we call it an allergy. The meridian energy system is used to treat the problem, to bring the body back to normal as quickly as possible with least amount of invasion. Meridian treatments are given using acupressure -no needles! this is a big reason why these treatments are so effective on children.

Chinese medicine is based on Qi, yin/yang, and a belief in the five basic elements: fire, water, ether, earth and air. These are the five basic elements all humans, animate and inanimate beings.
In the British Medical Journal in 1937, Sir Thomas Lewis reported that he had found physical evidence of "unknown nervous system". This system, he said, was composed of minute lines. this energy lines branched from the surface of the skin connecting bowels and organs. What Lewis found for the West was the meridian system, known by eastern health practitioners for thousands of years.

When Qi is disturbed in the brain channels worry , anxiety, constipation and insomnia occur. This disturbances sets the stage for allergies.

Ayurveda (ah your-Vay-dah) also known as the science of life is a comprehensive medical system that is believed to be over six thousand years old. It focuses on the subtle energies in all things, but also in thoughts, emotions, and actions. Each persons' state of health is based in the relationship of the three vital energy systems called Doshas (DOH-shahs)which are the nervous system, digestive systems and the tissue of the body. Ayurveda does not present the idea that disease is caused by microorganism, germs and / or pollen. diseases state is caused when there is weakness or disturbance to one or more of the dosha energy systems, which locks the body into dis-ease.

Consider Some Of The Wheat Allergy Symptoms To Be Aware Of

Wheat allergies are fairly common; it is one of the big eight most common food allergies. Obviously there will be symptoms when you have a reaction but identifying wheat allergy symptoms can be a problem. Most allergies have the same symptoms so figuring out the cause can be a challenge. It is important that you do figure it out since some reactions can be very serious. People can and do die from a wheat allergy so determining whether or not you have one is important to keep yourself healthy.

The most common symptom of a wheat allergy is eczema. Eczema is a skin rash that most commonly appears on the cheeks, knees and the elbows although it can actually occur anywhere on the body. Eczema is usually a red rash that is often accompanied by oozing blisters. The blisters are mostly caused by scratching since eczema is very itchy. There are a number of other causes of eczema so it is not necessarily caused by a wheat allergy. However if you are susceptible to it eczema outbreaks are often triggered by allergies.

The other most common wheat allergy symptom is asthma. This is where your airway will become inflamed making it difficult to breathe. Asthma can be a very serious condition and it needs to be treated properly if you suffer from it. In almost all cases asthma attacks are the result of an allergic reaction and they can vary dramatically in severity. It is important that you talk to your doctor if you suffer from asthma to make sure that you keep it under control. Asthma attacks can occur at anytime so if you require medication you will want to makes sure that you keep it with you at all times.

The most serious wheat allergy symptom is anaphylaxis. This is an allergic reaction that affects the whole body. Your blood vessels will contract as the result of a release of the protein histamine. This will cause your whole body to swell up and your blood pressure to drop. This is a very serious condition and it requires immediate medical attention. If you know that you are prone to anaphylaxis when you encounter an allergen your doctor will usually recommend that you carry an epinephrine pen with you at all times. This will allow you to give yourself a shot of the medication needed to treat anaphylaxis in the event that you have a reaction.

The biggest problem when trying to use the symptoms to determine whether or not you have an allergy to wheat is that the symptoms are the same as for most allergies. Eczema, asthma and anaphylaxis are called the classic three allergic reactions for a reason; they apply to almost all allergies. In all likelihood you will need to see your doctor for an allergy test to determine exactly what is causing your reaction. Once you know whether or not you have a wheat allergy you can take steps to avoid having a reaction.