Consider Natural Healing For Children's Allergies

The body is an amazing creation that is inherently strong and designed to be able to heal itself without synthetic intervention. People knew this long before Western medicine was developed and by strengthening the immune system and bringing balance to the body, a person could expect their bodies to heal themselves. While our American society relies heavily on the pills that our mainstream medicine is known for, other cultures still use the principles of natural and holistic healing with curative results for all sorts of ailments in adults and children, including allergies. Practitioners of natural healing techniques have successfully eliminated allergies in children which is wonderful, as it eradicates the need to give kids medicines that have untoward side effects. In addition, some of these natural techniques allow children to be tested for allergies in a painless and non-invasive way.

What is an allergy and what are the symptoms? When materials that are innocuous to the average person enter our bodies through inhalation or ingestion, we process and eliminate them without trouble. The immune system of the allergic person considers these normally harmless substances to be dangerous and reacts by going into overdrive, which results in common allergy symptoms people are familiar with. These include itchy skin, watery eyes, nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing, and many other symptoms that are not as evident. Some of the less evident symptoms can include emotional distress or lack of focus, asthma, or life-threatening conditions such as wheezing, facial swelling, and difficulty breathing. Indeed, it can be difficult to connect some of these symptoms to allergies, particularly in infants. A baby who cries incessantly or has frequent bouts of colic may have an allergy. A toddler who breaks out in itchy welts or who is frequently wiping her nose may be allergic to something in the environment. A child with asthma or difficulty concentrating in school may have an underlying allergy.

Parents who suspect that their child has allergies can have their child tested or they may wish to try some elimination and healing techniques first. Allergy testing usually involves pricking or injecting the skin with suspected allergens and seeing if the child reacts; other tests involve taking blood samples and having a lab analyze them for certain chemicals that are involved in the allergic reaction process. These tests can help diagnose allergies in your child but their reliability can be questionable, as false positive results do occur. Also, these tests can be stressful and uncomfortable for children. If a child's allergies are not severe, it may be acceptable to first try avoiding suspected allergens or using natural methods to strengthen and heal the immune system before putting your child through formal testing.

Some common causes of allergy symptoms in children are pollens, molds, dust mites, pet dander, insect stings and bites, and foods such as milk, wheat, peanuts, and eggs. Removing these things as much as possible from your child's diet and environment can decrease allergy symptoms but may not be enough. Strengthening your child's immune system using herbal remedies and energy techniques such as acupressure, acupuncture, chiropractic and kinesiology can result in amazing decreases or a complete reversal of your child's allergies. These methods are safe, non-invasive, and have been used successfully by practitioners of non-Western medicine for thousands of years. Some newer natural tests and treatments are available, too, such as the Nambudripad Allergy Elimination Technique (NAET) and the use of cold lasers to unblock stuck energy pathways in the body, which can restore balance in the energy meridians and contribute to greater harmony in the body and mind.

Parents may choose to use non-holistic allergy medicines for their kids and sometimes they are needed initially, especially in cases of severe allergies or asthma. Over the long term, however, these medicines may lose their effectiveness and cause harm to your children rather than help them. Natural healing methods can provide relief from allergies in your kids and can be used over and over again without the risk of long-term side effects. Thousand of years of natural healing around the world provide a firm testament to the efficacy and benefits of natural healing. If your child is suffering from allergies and sensitivities that are not severe or life-threatening, consider the benefits of holistic treatment.

Allergic Reactions Can Cause Confusion

An allergic reaction is a sign that something is wrong with our bodies. Many times throughout the course of life we have symptoms that seem like they can be something as simple as a cold only to find out later you were allergic to something in the air. It doesn't even have to be something in the air like pollen. Though many people consider that the definition of an allergy.

Hay fever type symptoms are not the only allergic reaction that you can have though it is the most common especially in the spring and fall. It is hard to miss the commercials for all sorts of nasal allergy sprays and pills. Various kinds of pollen are the culprit and what causes an allergic reaction in one person doesn't mean that another person with allergies will react the same.

Another interesting twist is that allergic reactions can change over time. As a child you may be allergic to specific pets, foods and even dust but your body can change and actually not react to the same allergic trigger in the same way. This is the good side of the twist because as you get older you may find that you are allergic to things in your older age. Some people get nasal allergies when they are older. Sometimes it can be attributable to a change in their bodies but sometimes their environment may have changed. As the weather has changed throughout the world it has affected the spread of pollen and the intensity of the seasonal allergy season.

Other allergic reactions may be to topical reactions to things such as hair dye and certain other chemicals. Different chemicals and even natural ingredients are used in shampoos and deodorants as well that can cause the skin to have an allergic reaction.

Given the range of causes getting your adverse reactions diagnosed is critical. The best person to do this is a specialist like an Allergy Doctor who based on your symptoms can administer tests to identify what you are allergic to. Though you may get loosely diagnosed as having an allergy by your general practitioner the more severe your allergic reaction increase the odds of being referred to a specialist. Though allergy testing is not full proof it can help narrow down your allergies by identifying what you are not allergic to.

Food allergies are usually considered the most serious because the most severe allergic reaction can be anaphylaxis. Your throat swells and you basically are asphyxiated. This of course can lead to death and since the most discussed food allergy of our time is peanut allergy it is critical to identify if this is a problem for you or your child. Peanut oils can be found in so many foods.

Though there appear to be hereditary factors in whether someone is allergic to certain substances and food the allergic reaction may not be the same. From an awareness perspective it is definitely good to discuss allergies amongst family members as it helps to clarify some of the confusion that may come from mysterious symptoms that are basically allergic reactions.

In conclusion you need to be sure not to dismiss strange symptoms that seem to occur consistently. Don't be afraid to bring up something that you consider small. It may be the clue your doctor needs to direct you to the right diagnosis and treatment for your allergic reaction.

Does Your Dog Need Hypoallergenic Dog Food?

Would you be able to tell if your dog needed hypoallergenic dog food? The main reason to feed hypoallergenic food is when your dog is showing symptoms of allergies. Some of the most common symptoms of allergies caused by foods are loss of appetite, sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, upset stomach, irritated skin, breathing problems and gastrointestinal difficulties. Foods that are the most frequent offenders include dairy products, yeast, wheat, soy, chicken, beef and eggs. Less common but worth mention is lactose intolerance as an allergen.

If your dog is showing signs of allergic symptoms such as throwing up, diarrhea or constant scratching and inflamed red skin, it is recommended that you quickly start them on a diet of hypoallergenic dog food.

How to Isolate the Allergen

If your dog was showing allergic symptoms and you put them on a hypoallergenic food, did the symptoms improve? Note: It can take up to 8-12 weeks for symptoms to disappear so be patient and give the hypoallergenic food a good trail period. If the symptoms disappear you can be certain there is an allergy involved and you will need to isolate it in order to avoid it in the future.

Isolating an allergen is easier said than done. After all, man's best friend doesn't talk much and thus, it is hard sometimes to ascertain how they are feeling. However, though it may not be immediate to find the offending allergen, it is not really all that difficult.

The method most commonly recommended is an "add-back" approach to your pet's diet.

After changing your dog diet to hypoallergenic food and eliminating all allergic symptoms, one at a time add back one ingredient of the allergy causing food. For example, add corn, wheat or a specific type of meat. Then you simply wait and see if any allergic symptoms return. If so, you are safe in assuming that the allergen is in the food you returned to the diet.

Never Ignore Altered Behavior

Whenever your dog shows new behaviors such as obsessive scratching and licking or digging at their ears, pay attention! This type of behavior change is often indicative that your dog is under some form of stress and is very uncomfortable; commonly the source of the stress is an allergy. Just like people, dogs can "grow into" an allergy by becoming sensitized to an allergen over time. Just because your Goldendoodle puppy does not have an allergy now does not necessarily mean they will live their entire life allergy free. Always be in tune to your dogs behavior so that if it changes, you will notice it sooner rather than later.

Testing for Allergies

Your vet can run allergy tests and determine what your dog is allergic to. However, it is an expensive alternative for making the determination, especially when compared to simply changing their food.

If your dog shows any of the classic symptoms of allergies, hypoallergenic dog food is the most highly recommended method to alleviate the problem.

Soap Nuts and Nut Allergies - They Are Actually a Berry, But a Simple Patch Test is a Good Idea

A soap nut is not a nut. It is a fruit - a berry to be precise. Many - particularly those in Eastern countries, more appropriately call it a soap berry. While on the tree the soap nut is similar in physical characteristics and appearance to a cherry. So, if you have nut allergies, do not be concerned. A soap BERRY is a far more botanically accurate description of it.

Nobody really knows when or where soap nuts caught on as the most popular term for them. When they are de-seeded, dried and ready for use they have a crinkled nut-like appearance. This is how most consumers first see and experience them. VERY few people see the soap nuts while still on the tree. If more people did they would be more commonly referred to as soap berries.

Given that the possibility of an allergy is the gist of this article, remember that virtually everyone can be allergic to something. From experience and hard data, I'll have to put soap nuts close to olives as far as human sensitivity to them. Documentation from a major US distributor shows that out of thousands of known users (as of July, 2009) only two individuals that experienced an allergic reaction. In both cases they resulted in a mild, itchy rash that lasted a short period (less than 24 hours).

If you knowingly have high sensitivities and many allergies, it is always a good practice to do a small patch test. Take a patch of cloth, get it wet and soapy by rubbing the soap nuts, and then place it on your arm or leg. You don't need to leave it on for long, but let it dry on your skin. Don't rinse or wipe it off. Your skin will absorb the saponin. It is the saponin that would be the cause of an allergy. Saponin is the active ingredient in the soap nut.

Allow an hour or two to see if you experience any reaction. If you have an allergy to soap nuts, this test will show you, and do so with minimal discomfort. Most likely the treated area would become red and itchy. Possibly small bumps could emerge. Of course at this point you should wash the affected area. It is only prudent to state that if there is any reaction more serious than described, you should consult your physician.

Be aware that a soap nut is NOT just a soap nut. There are many varieties. There are other specific articles on this topic. Sapindus Mukorossi is most frequently sold (the highest quality and most highly valued of the many varieties). However, Sapindus Trifoliatus is also common. It has been often sold as Mukorossi to unknowing sellers and consumers because of it's significantly lower cost.

Given that there are numerous species and differing saponins, there is a possibility to be allergic to one particular species and not another. This is unlikely, but a possibility. Much more study, research and testing of all the varieties of soap nuts is required.

There is a recent 2009 toxicology test that compares ocular irritation from a saponin-based detergent relative to other popular commercial brands. It should be noted that in this independent laboratory test the saponin detergent was the LEAST irritating of all brands tested. Particularly given that this was an eye irritation test (eyes being very sensitive), It is a good indicator of the very benign nature of soap nuts and saponin.

The odds of having an allergy to saponin (soap nuts, soap berries, etc.) are very remote. You should be able to freely partake in ALL the incredible wonders and benefits that soap nuts offer us.

Pet Allergies: Is Your Pet's Licking and Scratching Driving You Nuts?

Unlike people, our pets rarely sneeze or show signs similar to hay fever. Instead, our pets are itchy and they will do anything to relieve that sensation. It is important to remember that external parasites or even food allergies can cause very similar symptoms. Your veterinarian must help you distinguish between flea bite allergies, food allergies or atopy.

When allergies occur, the skin produces more sebum, which is an oily material that causes a musty odor. Once the itching and scratching are controlled, the odor and seborrhea also clear up. Skin odor may also be caused by a skin or ear infection, which may require antibiotic treatment in addition to the allergy treatment.

Many pets benefit from frequent bathing with special hypoallergenic shampoos. Research shows that some allergens are absorbed through the skin; frequent bathing may help reduce the amount of allergen that the patient absorbs. Some of the special shampoos incorporate omega fatty acids, which may be absorbed through the skin and help reduce the itching.

In order to determine the exact cause of your pet's itching, allergy tests will be required. Approximately 80% of allergy diagnoses can be confirmed by allergy testing. There are two primary methods of allergy testing. The traditional allergy test is called intra-dermal allergy testing and consists of injecting a tiny amount of allergen into the skin. If the body produces a response to the allergen, the body is said to be allergic to that substance. A more recently developed allergy test involves taking a blood sample, and is called IgE allergy testing. The blood is evaluated for the presence of IgE antibodies against specific food allergens. If it contains a high number of these IgE antibodies, an allergy to that allergen is presumed to exist. Your veterinarian will discuss the best type of testing for your pet's condition.

Once the diagnosis has been made, it may be possible to desensitize the pet to the offending allergens. This involves the use of specific allergen injections that will be formulated for your pet according to the results of the allergy tests. The theory behind hyposensitization or "allergy shots" is that the controlled injections of increasing amounts of the offending allergens will "reprogram" the pet's immune system and lessen its hypersensitivity. For most pets, these "allergy injections" result in significantly reduced itching.

General symptoms that require a visit to your veterinarian:

• Itchy, red, moist or scabbed skin


• Increased scratching


• Itchy, runny eyes


• Itchy back or base of tail (most commonly flea allergy)


• Itchy ears and ear infections


• Sneezing


• Vomiting


• Diarrhea


• Snoring caused by an inflamed throat


• Paw chewing/swollen paws


• Constant licking


• Discolored hair

Dogs with chronic skin infections or allergies should be tested for hypothyroidism. If your pet has hypothyroidism, desensitization therapy and anti-inflammatory medications will often fail to help your pet unless the hypothyroid condition is also treated.

ADHD Causes - Food Allergies

Did you know that many cases of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are due to food allergies or sensitivities? The connection between food allergies and ADHD was first discovered by Dr. Doris Rapp, a pediatric allergist who observed that many children went through significant behavioral and physical changes when they ate certain foods. Not only did they get dark circles under their eyes or red earlobes, they'd also experience drastic changes in behavior. One minute they were calm; the next minute they start becoming wildly hyperactive.

The typical allergic reaction operates when an antibody called IgE reacts with a provoking agent called an allergen. This reaction is actually the allergic response which many of us are familiar with - watery eyes, hives, swollen tongue, and so on. In the case of ADHD, the specific antibody mechanism involved is a type called IgG. IgG allergic reactions differ from IgE reactions in two ways: first, there is a significant time delay before any IgG reactions appear. (This mechanism will be explained in greater detail below.) Secondly, IgG reactions disrupt the brain wave activation patterns, making the nervous system either slow down or speed up, and can cause chronic hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. IgG food allergies can also explain the other health problems that occur with ADHD, like asthma, eczema, and insomnia. Although a wide range of foods can cause IgG food reactions, the most common ones are wheat products (which contain gluten), dairy products (which contain casein), citrus fruits (particularly oranges), soy, and refined sugar.

Due to the high-dairy, high-sugar content of our diets, food intolerances can explain a good number of ADHD cases. Unfortunately, most medical doctors will say that food allergies do not cause ADHD, and will waste no time writing a prescription for ADHD medications. Even if you do find a doctor or a health care practitioner who accepts this theory, it is difficult to identify what particular food your child is allergic to.

Traditional allergy tests are designed to account for IgE antibodies, which usually have an instant effect. For instance, if a child is allergic to shrimp, he or she experiences an immediate reaction if the child eats shrimp. Unlike IgE, IgG reactions experience a time delay; in some cases, it can take as long as 72 hours before any symptoms appear. To understand how this happens, view the child as a barrel being filled up by several allergens. Let's say that the child is sensitive to chocolate, soy, and seafood. As long as the child eats only chocolate and soy, the barrel remains partially full. One day, he has a dish with soy sauce for lunch, crab for dinner, and chocolate dessert. The presence of all these allergens will fill up the barrel in no time, causing the symptoms to appear.

Fortunately, there are tests that can determine which food allergies may be responsible for your child's ADHD symptoms. There are special blood tests and muscle testing via Applied Kinesiology that can detect delayed allergic reactions. If any allergies are found, all allergens have to be removed from the diet for at least a month to see if the symptoms improve. In most cases, the disorder is aggravated by gluten (from wheat) and casein (from dairy).

Since it is difficult for children to stay away from their favorite foods, another option is to make use of desensitization techniques. These measures will prevent IgG antibodies from being formed when an allergen enters the body, subduing the symptoms of ADHD.

Take Care of Aspirin Allergy With Medical ID Jewelry

There are many millions affected by aspirin allergy and general Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug allergy. Remember, there is a way to deal with it. You need to take all of the necessary precautions and wear Medical ID Jewelry in order to ensure that you are not accidentally given a potentially deadly dose of the drug by emergency personnel.

Aspirin is a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug first discovered from the bark of the willow tree. It has been proven to help reduce pain and inflammation in patients, and is now synthetically manufactured and distributed in generic form, prescription form, and over-the-counter form. The most well-known over-the-counter brand of aspirin is Bayer Aspirin.

Aspirin allergy affects approximately one percent of the general population, and is prevalent at a ten- percent rate among patients who have asthma. Thus, allergies to Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug such as Bayer Aspirin and other brands of this painkiller are relatively common. Make sure you avoid the drug. This does not mean you need to suffer. You can take acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) when in need of a painkiller or anti-inflammatory.

If you have an allergy to Aspirin, then it is very important that you wear a piece of Medical ID jewelry.

How Do I Know if I have an Aspirin Allergy?

The symptoms of aspirin allergy are quite simple to identify, so you shouldn't need medical tests to determine if you are a sufferer. The most common symptoms are skin conditions, such as the formation of hives or a general swelling in an area of the skin.

Other more serious symptoms include respiratory symptoms, such as rhinitis and asthma symptoms, and, in rare cases, anaphylaxis. If you have taken Bayer aspirin or any other type of aspirin-related Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, and experienced any of these symptoms, then you may have an allergy to Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and should avoid them completely.

Because aspirin allergy isn't a traditional allergy, you cannot determine if you have the allergy through traditional allergy testing. In fact, an allergy to Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug is not an allergy at all, but rather intolerance to the substance. When someone with this condition consumes aspirin, the body actually has a small overdose due to the fact that it cannot metabolize even the smallest doses of the substance.

What Steps Should I Take to Stay Safe?

After one bad encounter with an aspirin allergy, you will probably become aware of your condition. Aspirin is easy to avoid as long as you are aware of which medications contain the drug, such as Bayer aspirin and other generic brands.

However, you may not be able to inform if you are rendered unconscious and become unable to inform medical personnel of your condition. Hence, it's absolutely crucial that you keep some kind of medical ID jewelry on your person at all times. One of the easiest ways to do this is to purchase customized medical ID jewelry and wear it at all times. This way, you can guarantee that emergency medical personnel will not accidentally give you a potentially fatal dose of aspirin or any other Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Medical ID jewelry are reasonably priced, stylish, and completely customizable based on your various conditions and allergies.

Keep yourself safe.

Using STD Pictures to Your Advantage

TDs may or may not show signs and symptoms of infection. Moreover, some signs are confused for common ailments like allergies, blisters or the flu. If you suspect that you may be infected, it would be wise to refer to STD pictures as your source of information. This provides you with a visual idea of how an STD infection looks like and how it afflicts a person physically.

STD pictures can give you a clear visual display of sores, rashes, and blisters that are common manifestations of the disease. The nature and description of the symptoms vary from one disease to another.

STD Pictures of Syphilis usually show symptoms that commonly manifest a round, cluster like rash called Chancre which appears around the genital and rectal areas both in men and women. The rashes would disappear after a time only to reappear on different parts of the body, most commonly on the hands and soles of the feet. Cases of severe Chancre manifestations is the appearance of the skin looking it lost a lot of layers.

Sores and blisters appear on the skin often mistaken as insect bites or common allergy are the usual pictures seen with a picture of Herpes. The sores appear in small groups and often hurt. Even after these have healed, the scabs are still infectious. First outbreak of sores occurs during the first two to four weeks of transmission. Second outbreak will occur in greater intensity accompanied by flu like symptoms and swollen lymph glands.

One of the best ways to warn your child about sexually transmitted diseases is by showing them photos of different infections, such as pictures of genital warts, syphilis, and herpes so they know what it can do to them, their sexual health and their future. This is a great way to teach the younger generation about sexual health, not to scare them but to give them valuable information regarding STDs. This is important since adolescents are the ones that are more likely to get infected and is actually the majority of the statistics.

You can get these STD pictures from the internet, books, and other references. Of course, the best place to get them would have to be the place where you can seek consult when you think you may have the disease depicted in the pictures: STD clinics.

These STD clinics have at their disposal tons of STD pictures that they use to educate their clients on the would-be hazardous effects of STDs. Not only that, but they also help clients detect possible infections. After learning what the STD looks like, you can seek consult from them and ask to be tested since they have a lot of laboratory tests that will be able to determine the scope of the infection as well as the accuracy of your guess.

When going to STD clinics, be prepared to be asked various questions regarding your sexual life. However, do not hesitate to answer honestly since these STD clinics promises complete confidentiality.

Alopecia Areata May Require Change in Diet

Many people may not realize that alopecia areata can benefit tremendously from specific dietary changes. Because the most obvious symptom of alopecia areata is hair loss in the form of bald patches, there is a tendency to focus the entire treatment around re-growing hair within the patches.

Stimulating new hair growth with natural remedies such as essential oils is only one component to treating and healing alopecia areata. It is important to remember that underneath the bald patches lays a deeper problem that caused the bald patches in the first place. This problem is a faulty immune system. Keeping the immune system calm and balanced so it does not go haywire can help inhibit the severity and progression of the disease. This can be accomplished more through change in diet than in any other way.

The main components of diet would involve reducing inflammation, identifying and avoiding allergens, identifying and correcting deficiencies, nourishing the body with a wide variety of nutrient rich foods, and establishing healthy intestinal flora.

ANTI-INFLAMMATATORY DIET FOR ALOPECIA AREATA
Inflammation is involved with all autoimmune disorders and most hair loss conditions. Anti-inflammatory diet can help calm and support an overactive immune system, reducing the potential for flare-ups that could lead to attack on hair follicles.

FOOD ALLERGENS ASSOCIATED WITH ALOPECIA AREATA
Food allergies or sensitivities are a major component in autoimmune disorders. It is important to learn to recognize and avoid all possible allergens that may cause an autoimmune response. Various testing methods are available to assist in determining individual food allergies and sensitivities.

GLUTEN

Recent scientific research is revealing a strong association between gluten intolerance or sensitivity and alopecia areata. Testing positive for Celiac disease (gluten intolerance) would require eliminating all gluten. Some parents of children with alopecia areata have noted regrowth of child's hair, and also increase in height of child once gluten is eliminated. The growth spurt in height would be due to the increased ability to absorb nutrients once gluten is removed.

Gluten intolerance creates nutritional deficiencies if gluten consumption is continued. Eliminating or reducing gluten will naturally decrease inflammation in the diet as long as other unhealthy inflammatory gluten-free snacks are not being substituted. Many people choose to try gluten free to see how they respond, rather than going through diagnostic testing. Other common allergens associated with autoimmune conditions include dairy, casein, nightshades, eggs, legumes and other individual foods.

MEAT

Certain experts have found that avoiding or reducing meat is necessary or helpful. Those who are affected with autoimmune conditions show higher than normal sensitivity to animal food antigens. This may be because the amino acid sequence in animal meats is similar to those found in human tissues. The close resemblance may cause confusion and provoke an attack. Those who wish to consume meat may consider purchasing only clean, organic, grass fed meats and may also wish to limit consumption.

NUTRIENT RICH/LOWER CALORIE
Eating a wide variety of natural, whole, nutrient-rich food, including an abundance of fruits and vegetables will ensure fullness, satisfaction and adequate nutrition with the least amount of calories. This will allow the digestive system to relax, repair and regenerate. Faulty digestion is highly associated with autoimmune disorders.

Many people tend to eat the same foods over and over. Eating a wide variety of high quality foods will help ensure that a person does not eat too much of the foods they may have a hidden or unknown allergy to.
NUTRITIONAL DEFICIENCIES

It is not uncommon for persons with alopecia areata to have nutritional deficiencies such as zinc, vitamin D, iron, etc. that can contribute to hair loss. Supplementing should only be used when there is a definite deficiency. Supplementing haphazardly can create imbalances that can disturb the immune system and the hair growth cycle.

DETOX

Cleansing the body of excess yeast, bacteria, toxins, etc. will decrease inflammation and allow the body to function better. Having proper amounts of good intestinal flora will help the immune system to stay healthy and balanced. Avoiding processed foods, toxins, additives, pesticides, etc. is especially important for those with alopecia areata as any foreign substance can provoke an autoimmune response

What Foods Can I Eat If I Have Arthritis?

The link between food and arthritis has been difficult to prove because of the difficulty inherent in study design. However, observations made over the last several decades point to trends that may be important. Multiple studies have suggested that rheumatoid arthritis symptoms could be reproduced by the reintroduction of certain foods and ameliorated by excluding these foods from the diet.

More recently, rheumatoid arthritis has been shown to worsen when there is an excessive amount of Omega-3 fatty acids in the diet. Excessive ingestion of feedlot beef, refined cooking oils and margarines result in an increase of inflammatory symptoms. Some evidence has linked the consumption of saturated fats found in whole milk, cheese, as well as other animal products such as red meat and poultry to worsening RA symptoms. (O'Banion DR. J Holistic Med 1982; 4: 49-57)

An interesting connection has been proposed by some researchers that a food allergy to high saturated fat foods, meat, dairy, omega-6 fatty acids, and refined vegetable oils may be responsible for some rheumatoid arthritis flares (Hicklin JA, et al. Clin Allergy 1980; 10: 463-470.)

For centuries, nightshade foods such as potatoes, eggplant, and pepper have been claimed to aggravate arthritis. Firm data here, though, is not compelling. Study design has been a drawback. Doing a randomized double-blind study using foods is exceedingly difficult.

Small studies evaluating the effects of foods in rheumatoid arthritis sufferers have continued to make a case for food being a significant inciting factor in disease. Studies performed by researchers have demonstrated that partial fasting with avoidance of animal fat, refined sugar, citrus fruits, preservatives, coffee, tea, alcohol, salt, and strong spices which were associated with symptoms led to a reduction of symptoms.

Another study published by Beri et al showed that an elimination and rechallenge diet provided significant improvement in 71% of patients tested. (Beri, D, et al Ann Rheum Dis 1988; 47: 69-72)

In another study, Darlington evaluated 70 patients with rheumatoid arthritis. By eliminating foods deemed to provoke symptoms, he was able to eliminate symptoms as well as need for medications in 19% of patients. Darlington also identified foods such as grapefruit, cheese, malt, coffee, beef, eggs, rye, oats, milk, oranges, bacon, tomato, peanuts, cane sugar, butter, lamb, lemon, and soy as causative factors. (Darlington LG. Rheum Dis North Am 1991; 127: 273-285)

A recent study suggested that a diet high in vitamin D such as is found with salmon, tuna, shrimp, sunflower seeds, eggs, and vitamin-D fortified milk may prevent rheumatoid arthritis. (Merlino, LA et al. Arthritis Rheum 2004; 50: 72-77)

The upshot of these studies indicates that perhaps dietary manipulation should be considered as a possible therapeutic intervention. Elimination of all foods believed to be causing symptoms followed by single food reintroductions to determine which foods might be the culprits seems a reasonable course of action. Foods such as corn, wheat, cow's milk, pork, oranges, oats, rye, eggs, beef, coffee, malt, cheese, grapefruit, lemon, tomato, peanuts, and soy seem to be the most common offenders.

In our office we have found the Immunolab assay (Fort Lauderdale, FL) to be useful in excluding food allergies as a potentially important contributing factor to arthritis symptoms.

Is Your Dog's Itchy Skin Caused by Parasites?

When a flea bites your dog, its saliva gets under the skin and causes itching. And if a dog is actually allergic to fleas it may have a severe reaction, even to just one bite.

A dog flea allergy can result in the dog itching and scratching constantly. You may already know that your dog has fleas because you have spotted them in the fur. But if you're not sure, check at the base of your dog's tail - they tend to hide there because it's a difficult spot for the dog to reach. They may also be visible scuttling across the dog's tummy, where the fur is thinner.

If you can't see any fleas, check for flea poo. Comb your dog with a fine-toothed comb, looking for dark specks like grains of pepper. If these are flea droppings they will contain blood products, which makes them easy to identify - just drop some of the grains on a wet tissue. Flea poo will dissolve, creating tiny red stains and confirming that your dog has fleas.

Effective natural flea control

If your dog has fleas but you want to avoid using conventional flea treatments, which contain harsh pesticides, on your pet, choose a natural flea treatment such as Neem oil for treatment. Neem is a proven natural flea repellent that can be used safely even on dogs with sensitive skin. When you use a shampoo containing Neem oil, the effective compounds are absorbed by the dog's skin and spread through the sebaceous glands (microscopic glands that lubricate the skin). And the effect is cumulative, so the protection gets stronger every time you use it.

Alternatively, natural flea control can work 'from the inside out', through natural ingredients - such as Billy No Mates herbal flea repellent, containing mint, seaweed, fenugreek, Neem leaves and lemon balm - sprinkled on your dog's food, or a spoonful as a tincture. Once established in your dog's system, they naturally repel fleas. But they can take two to three weeks to build up so start using them at Easter to be ready for the flea season.

Natural treatment of dog flea allergy

It only takes one flea bite to set off a dog's allergic reaction that can last for hours or even days. It can be heartbreaking to see a flea allergy making your dog sore from scratching; some dogs end up nearly bald. If you know that your dog has a flea allergy, preventative measures are essential.

Treat the environment AND the dog

In addition to using a natural repellent to keep fleas off your dog, it's wise to take measures to control fleas in the environment. During the summer months of the flea season, vacuum carpets, rugs and furniture as often as possible to remove fleas and their eggs, and wash the dog's bedding weekly. Bear in mind that any flea eggs collected inside the vacuum cleaner can still hatch in the bag, so seal it well and throw it away after use, or put it in a plastic bag in the freezer overnight after each vacuuming.

So, to recap, my recommendations for Natural flea control

Ekoneem Organic Neem Oil Shampoo Bar

Billy No Mates Herbal Flea, Tick and Mite Treatment and Repellent

Billy No Mates Tincture - liquid form

Homeopet Flea Bite - An effective homeopathic remedy for Flea, Bug & Insect Bites

Hay Fever Season

With hay fever season just around the corner, now might be a good time to reflect on some of the important facts concerning the condition, including what it is, its causes and its impact on children and adults.

Rhinitis is the medical term for hay fever. In less technical lingo, rhinitis is simply an allergy to pollen. Hay fever is particularly prevalent among pre-teen children with studies showing figures of 2 in every 5 children as occasionally or persistently affected by the illness. Seasonal hay fever is at its peak during the spring and summer when pollen is at its most abundant.

Other than just the dynamics unique to the different seasons of the year, certain circumstances leave one more predisposed to a hay fever attack than others. The outdoors for instance, is a more fertile ground for an attack, than the indoors for obvious reasons: there is more pollen in the atmosphere outdoors, than there is indoors. In addition, hotter days that are accompanied by unusually strong gusts of wind, lead to increased incidents of hay fever.

Rhinitis is actually the result of the body fighting the inhaled pollen, leading to changes in the body's respiratory system, that then causes the sneezing, teary eyes and running nose that are the typical characteristics of this allergy.

In children, hay fever is sometimes as much a result of the exposure to pollen as it is genetic. If either parent had or still has problems with hay fever, then the chances of the son or daughter being particularly prone to the allergy, is a notch higher than the average.

When one looks at the high number of children that are affected by rhinitis each year, it is clear that it is quite difficult for a parent to completely shield their child from having to contend with this.

In order not to affect children's schoolwork, medication that is non drowsy is the best alternative. This of course must be coupled with appropriate behaviour change, and environment awareness e.g. keeping windows shut in the home during windy spring or summer days, and instead relying on the air conditioning to manage room temperature.

But adults are not immune to this condition. Actually, during the spring and summer seasons, the allergy is one of the medical conditions that have the most impact on productivity and the general work environment.

Since rhinitis is often not considered an illness strong enough, to lead to one taking the day off, organizations can easily end up with an office, where employees may be present, but their productivity is so hindered, that their absence might have been a more effective alternative.

Of course if you happen to be the employee suffering from hay fever, your work will not be the only thing troubling your mind. The continuous wheezing, sneezing and nose blowing is not only irritating for you, but downright embarrassing sometimes.

All is not lost though, as there is medication that one should always keep close at hand during these times, especially, if you have record of coming down with the allergy during the spring or summer.

Rosacea - Natural Treatment, Diet and Herbal Remedies

Rosacea is most common in white women from the age of thirty to fifty. Rosacea in men tends to be more severe and is usually accompanied by rhinophyma or an enlarged, chronically red nose. People with fair skin and who flush easily are more prone to develop rosacea. Rarely does it affect other parts of the body and it's not a dangerous condition but can become embarrassing for cosmetic reasons. Also, without the proper care, it could become a disfiguring condition.

There are some very important nutrients that help with the treatment of rosacea. Primrose oil contains linoleic acid and can be applied 3 times a day. Pycnogenol is a powerful antioxidant and helps reduce histamine production. Vitamin B complexes are anti-stress vitamins and have shown to be useful in the treatment of rosacea. Some other nutrients that are beneficial are Kelp for good skin tone, multivitamin and mineral complex for deficiencies and Zinc which enhances immune response and helps repair skin tissue.

Herbal remedies for rosacea can be a natural way to control the condition. A good source of chlorophyll is alfalfa. It helps to detoxify the body and provides many needed vitamins and minerals. Aloe vera has excellent healing properties for the skin and can be applied topically to treat dry skin. For skin tone, try borage seed, dandelion root, dong quai, parsley, sarsaparilla and yellow dock. Burdock and red clover are powerful blood cleansers. To nourish the skin and promote quick healing try calendula, cayenne, fennel seed, ginger, marshmallow root and slippery elm bark. Milk thistle helps the liver cleanse the blood and nettle and rosemary help with the skin tone, nourishment and healing.

Some other recommendations include, of course, the diet. Go heavy on the raw veggies and grains. Avoid saturated fats and all animal products. This list includes alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, cocoa, cheese, dairy products, sugar and spicy foods. Try keeping a food diary to narrow down the possibility of a food allergy. One simple test is to sit down, totally relaxed, and take your pulse rate (adults 60-100 beats per minute). Consume the food under suspect, wait about twenty minutes and take your pulse again. If the rate increases more than 10 beats, eliminate that food from your diet for one month and check yourself again. Always use the purest form of the food you are testing so you won't get other ingredients in the mix. Other things to avoid are extremes of temperature, makeup or cosmetics (or make sure they are all natural, water based products), topical steroid creams and wearing tight clothing.

There is no known cure but, again, it is not a dangerous condition. Prescription creams and oral antibiotics can help keep the inflammation under control. These prescribed drugs can have side effects so be sure to consult your physician if you are experiencing any symptoms. Vascular disorders may be involved in causing rosacea based on clinical studies. Structural abnormalities in the small blood vessels in the facial skin are common in people with rosacea. People that take drugs for dilating the blood vessels exacerbate the condition and people with rosacea tend to have migraine headaches that are linked to vascular malfunction.

More information can be found through The National Rosacea Society.

Mercury and Heavy Metal Toxicity

Mercury is a heavy metal that has had a variety of uses throughout history, evidence of its use being found in several ancient civilisations. However, perhaps the most controversial use is that in the dental amalgam. In the mid-nineteenth century, the mercury-silver-tin-copper-cadmium mix began to prove irresistible to dentists as a dental amalgam.

The reasons for this were simple; it was extremely easy to use, formed a strong repair and was cheap to obtain. There was only one problem - the toxicity. This was known at the time and the American Society of Dental Surgeons (ASDS) declared the use of dental amalgam as 'malpractise' and promised expulsion from the society. As too many dentists chose to use the mercury formula, the ASDS collapsed and, in the midst of widespread worry as to the consequences of using these fillings, the American Dental Association sprung up to soothe public fears regarding its use.

This has resulted in consistent and outright denials of any danger faced by the public in relation to these amalgams. Throughout the last century, these denials have been consistently questioned and, in recent years, even the AMA has admitted that mercury vapour is indeed released by amalgams (although they still insist that the levels of this toxic vapour are not high enough to cause harm).

This, like many other arguments relating to public health, continues to be debated. The line taken by governmental institutions and chemical companies still fit the traditional mould of reassuring the public until exposure or leak of hidden facts forces a change of policy. The patterns can be seen in relation to aspartame, DHT, PCBs, fluoridation. An example focusing more on mercury has been offered in the form of Gulf War Syndrome. This infamous syndrome first came to light after UK and US soldiers that served in the 1991 Persian Gulf War became ill following the conflict, and causes a wide range of ailments, including immunological and neurological problems, as well as skin, digestive and respiratory problems.

The collective Governments continued to dispute the findings of various organisations, even though all the groups that were susceptible to the syndrome had all received the mercury-containing thimerosal preservative in vaccines. (Those that did not receive the vaccine, such as French soldiers, showed no susceptibility). This has been suggested by some as proof that Mercury is the cause of Gulf War Syndrome. It is the very likely candidate, although I think that this immunological disorder is quite probably what happens to susceptible soldiers who are subjected to 17 vaccines (eg. assaults on their immune system) in the presence of toxic Mercury-containing preservatives like thimerosal. The populations of soldiers where no GWS exists had a significantly lower vaccination count.

Mercury can cause serious problems in a variety of ways. The reason for this is the way that it enters the body and bonds with a variety of biological structures, and in doing so interrupting, slowing and inhibiting normal function of the body. Studies show that mercury from amalgams is absorbed in vapour through the gums and in the lungs, and is deposited in the heart, brain, liver, kidneys and major endocrine glands.

There are a number of types of mercury to be aware of, the difference being in what the mercury is bonded to. These can be classified under two major types, one form being inorganic mercury, the other organic. Whilst inorganic (non-methylated) mercury is the normal form of mercury found widely in the environment, in thermometers and the form absorbed into the body through the vapour released from amalgams, there is a lot more danger posed to the body by organic mercury. This is mercury in a salt form (eg mercuric chloride, mercuric iodide) or mercury that has been methylated in the intestines. This methylation occurs in unbalanced guts, where there is an excess of bad bacteria. This is where ill health can bring about further ill health; once in the body, this methyl mercury is much more able to move through cell membranes and bond to a number of tissues, slowing, inhibiting and interrupting vital functions. It is for this reason that organic mercury is considered a lot more toxic than inorganic mercury.

It is primarily the organic form of mercury that will bond with numerous forms of body tissue; the phospholipid layer of all cells, compromising the permeability of the cells and therefore their ability to communicate and respond to hormonal messages; hormones like insulin, meaning the beta cells in the pancreas must produce more to do the same job; haemoglobin, which can result in the symptoms of anaemia; thyroxin, the hormone produced by the thyroid gland that is necessary for sufficient metabolic rate; all neurotransmitters, hormones and enzymes are potential pray to this bonding of the heavy metal. Because of the variety of ways in which mercury can create damaging symptoms and varying levels of sensitivity in different individuals, there is no set pattern to mercury toxicity.

One thing is beyond doubt - the effects of mercury in the body are both real and quantifiable. A 1984 study showed that presence of amalgams reduced T-cell numbers by 55.3%, seriously compromising the immune system. This disruption of the natural level of T-cells has grave consequences as it disturbs the delicate balance of T and B cells (both types of lymphocyte, a class of white blood cell) which can have dire consequences.

For example, T4 cells - also called T-helper cells - mark out antigens, singling them out to identify them to the B-cells, which make antibodies that neutralise them. If these are low, your immune system will not respond adequately to invasion from foreign microbes. However, if the action of the T4 cells is not opposed by that of the T8 cells (that calm the action of the B-cells), then the immune system can become over-active. This results in allergic reaction to dietary or environmental elements, or even in auto-immune reactions; this is where the immune system begins to attack its own cells (type I diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis are classic examples of auto-immune conditions). These auto-immune conditions are possible because the antibodies have an in-built flexibility with regards to what they attack to allow them to deal effectively with viruses that are constantly modifying their form - unfortunately, when an imbalance occurs between the level of antibodies and the amount of invading antigens (eg. the requirement), damaging reactions can occur.

Problems with mercury often seem to take some time to have an effect on an individual. This is explained by the composition of the metal and the way it interacts with the body. As mentioned above, there are two forms of mercury, the inorganic and the more dangerous organic form. An individual may not show sensitivity to the presence of the inorganic form of mercury (the type that leaks from amalgams) but, when combined with Hydrogen Sulphide gas (H2S) in the intestines, it can be methylated by a specific enzyme, Thiolmethl Transferase (THT). The important issue to be aware of here is that H2S is only produced by bad bacteria or fungi in the gut, so a compromised digestive function can be a trigger of mercury toxicity. Ironically, the way that mercury compromises the immune system has been linked to a disruption in the normal balance of intestinal flora. Probiotics (and prebiotics) are therefore an essential supplemental step for anyone with a dental amalgam, as is any step that maintains good digestion (sufficient quality food, healthy stress patterns).

Whilst we know that mercury is toxic and we know a number of ways in which it damages the body, the lack of governmental acceptance and the lack of pharmaceutical interest in this problem means we are left with an incomplete model when attempting to assemble a time-line of mercury-related symptoms that an individual can expect to experience.

Certainly, what does not help in any attempts to determine the effects of heavy metal toxicity is the incessant need for the medical community to label dysfunction as a specific illness, and treat it as such. Although this model of categorizing patients into convenient boxes makes the task of prescribing drugs a less taxing process, it fails to recognise that disease is a complex process which reflects the systematic conditions within the patient. Chronic fatigue conditions such as lupus erythematosus and fibromyalgia are perfect examples of this medical malady; this are considered acquired diseases in their own right and little, if any, consideration is given to the integrated involvement of the immune system, hormonal imbalance, adrenal dysfunction, liver and kidney overload, heavy metal toxicity in the individual. It is clear to me that there are so many manifestations of symptoms all lumped under the umbrella of lupus, and this label is quite restrictive as these sufferers have different problems (ie. different causes or, to be more exact, different combination of causes). Metal toxicity is clearly a factor in some cases, and not in others.

This uncertainty as to the level of the problem seems destined to continue. The powers that control the medical establishment (drug companies and industrial sponsors) have no interest in investigating this matter; it is simply not in their interests - a healthier population is one that requires less pharmaceutical products. With limited resources, those that do have this interest in uncovering the facts will struggle to make inroads in obtaining information on a bigger scale.

Although perhaps not given the mainstream coverage it deserves, concern as to mercury's negative effects in the body and the use of such a toxic metal in dental amalgams is nothing new. The first concerns were rationally voiced by the ASDS in 1845, although one reason that we do not hear such a balanced debate now is because the organisation set up to promote mercury, the ADA, have not only performed an excellent job in selling their side of the story but also enjoy support from high government. So, despite concern for the use of this substance first being registered more than 150 years ago, the majority of the facts regarding mercury remain in darkness.

Meanwhile, conditions associated with heavy metal toxicity include: Fatigue, Poor concentration, Hypoglycaemia, Migraines, Respiratory Disorders, Arthritis, Auto-immune conditions, Allergies, Depression. Naturally, these are more general disorders; mercury toxicity has also been linked with a long list of conditions from epilepsy to multiple sclerosis.

It is certainly possible that the whole population are affected to some extent, especially those with dental amalgams. A single dental amalgam can release up to 15mcg of mercury per day, and eating mercury-tainted seafood can provide up to 2.3mcg, a level that many scientists believe to be extremely toxic. A vaccine that uses thimerosal as the preservative delivers an dose of 25mcg mercury (The EPA say that this is an acute toxic dose for any animal less than 500lbs). Overall, the evidence for mercury poisoning from fish is not especially strong when compared to that of amalgams and vaccines, so I would not encourage too much panic in regards to the consumption of fish unless the individual in question appears to be especially sensitive to heavy metals. As with all foods, sensible selection and an awareness of where the food was sourced from remain paramount.

Genetic sensitivity and under-nutrition is perhaps the key as to whether or not mercury exposure will result in symptoms of ill health. As with many issues, such as stress and bacterial/viral infections, some people are heavily affected by exposure to a certain element, whilst others display no ill effects. A strong immune system, adequately supported by sufficient levels of anti-oxidants, zinc, iodine, vitamin D, etc, can deal with removing toxic compounds much better than a suppressed immune system and the susceptibility of the individual reflects this also. The effects of these genetic/nutritional factors were well demonstrated in Gulf War Syndrome.

Depending on the level and type of stress experienced by an individual at any given time, the workload of a specific gland will be vary greatly and this plays a big role in the response an individual is able to generate to a challenge to his/her homeostasis. Clearly, very low-level sensitivity would certainly fall below the radar, and indeed most people may struggle to distinguish the difference between tiredness caused by waking up 20 minutes too early and a very minor depletion in haemoglobin levels.

As I see in testing for allergies, an individual may have sensitivities to some elements but not to others, whilst his neighbour shows sensitivity to a totally different range of chemicals. With this in mind, I have no doubt as to the potential reactions that some people may experience when exposed to other heavy metals, such as aluminium, lead, and arsenic.

Aluminum has been shown to promote many diseases including breast cancer and anaemia as well as being heavily implicated and the onset of Alzheimer's Disease and depletion of potassium levels in the body. All anti-perspirant deodorants and Teflon pans contain aluminum, but it can also be found in kitchen foil, cheap table salt, antacid and painkilling concoctions - clearly we are more at risk of aluminum exposure that most metals. Significantly, aluminum has been shown to increase the damage reeked by mercury in the nervous system; however, the authorities do not consider this synergy is assessing safe exposure levels.

Arsenic can cause nausea and vomiting, a disruption in blood cell production, and a number of broad issues, from internal bleeding in the GI tract to skin cancer. Arsenic exposure is not especially high in the UK, although there are still numerous potential angles for exposure; it is used to treat disease in chickens, in fireworks, in wood treatment agents, in photocopier drum coatings and in metal alloy, amongst other things.

Cadmium is another toxic metal that we are not routinely exposed to. Cadmium damages DNA directly but can also cause other problems from liver, lung and kidney problems to neurological damage. Cadmium is used is battery manufacturing and in heavy industry such as mining and burning coal; it is also present in tobacco smoke.

So are we all affected to some extent by heavy metal toxicity? A more appropriate question may be whether there is anyone who is not affected by heavy metal toxicity. What is definitely relevant is the health of the nation continues to decline, despite medical advances and an increase in funding for healthcare, and there will inevitably be a number of reasons for this irregularity. I see heavy metal toxicity as one of the many pieces of the puzzle.

Mercury, aluminium and other heavy metals do harm the body, and they are an issue to the population at large. However, as highlighted at different points in this article, the pattern that heavy metal toxicity follows is one where symptoms present hand-in-hand with malfunction of various bodily systems (eg. immune system, intestinal flora) and is a health problem that, like so many others, is extremely complex and individual in its symptoms. This, combined with the industry's lack of willingness to examine the issue, ensures that it remains impossible to accurately calculate the severity of heavy metal toxicity across the population. Meanwhile, the key to avoiding problems clearly lies in staying as healthy as possible and avoiding exposure wherever possible and, if you feel that exposure may have occurred, taking action by supporting the liver and the immune system (eg. with an effective liver detox) in partnership with a suitably experienced practitioner.

Dog and Pet Allergies - Dirty Little Secrets Revealed and Simplified

Atopy and food pet allergies are among the top reasons why pet parents take their furry companions to see the vet. Allergies and their symptoms are usually first seen between 6 months and 4 years of age and as late as 6 or 7. These symptoms are the result of the all-important immune system being hyper-sensitive and over-reacting to allergens or antigens to which it's exposed.

The symptoms

The common observed reactions to these foreign substance irritants is the itching of the skin (pruritis), mostly affecting the face, paws, lower legs, armpits (axillae), and groin. Less common but not unusual is sneezing and maybe wheezing along with possible eye (ocular) and/or nasal discharge when the respiratory system is affected; diarrhea and/or vomiting when the G.I.T. (gastrointestinal tract) is involved.

Watching your pet being uncomfortable is very distressing, and finding the exact cause of the symptoms can be described as real detective work for you in concert with your vet. Itching that is subtle at the beginning and gradually worsens is more often associated with atopy, food allergy, bacterial or yeast infection, and seborrhea.

Symptoms that seem to come and go with the seasonal changes are a good indicator for being atopy; however, 70% to 80% of dogs with atopy will demonstrate continual, year-round symptoms. Scratching, licking the feet, chewing, and red irritated skin are all symptoms of atopy.

The Detective Figure-it-Out Stage

The veterinarian might suggest a hypoallergenic or homemade diet for weeks to months to see if there is any improvement in the symptoms; this will help rule out allergies associated with food that are responsible for roughly 10% of allergies diagnosed in pets, and will help narrow the possibilities pointing to atopy (the canine equivalent of hay fever affecting around 10% of dogs). However, 10% of dogs with atopy can also have food allergy, and up to 80% of the dogs that are diagnosed with food allergy also have atopy. This explains the high rate of failure that exists when treating food allergies with diet alone.

Dogs with food allergies react to one or more ingredients in their diet. Common culprits are milk, fish, wheat, whey, corn, beef, pork, chicken, eggs, soy, and, one of the biggest offenders, preservatives. Many animals have also shown to be allergic to lamb as well, once thought to be a hypo-allergenic food.

What Else Can It Be?

Besides the flea bite allergy which, as with scabies or drug hypersensitivity, typically begins suddenly and rapidly gets worse (one single bite can cause a reaction for five to seven days), atopy is by far the most common cause of allergies in dogs.

A dog with an allergic skin rash can develop further problems by scratching or licking the area, creating an opportunity for secondary bacterial skin infections (pyoderma), ringworm, and fungal infection such as yeast (Malassezia) that also itches.

Then What?

Conventional prednisone treatments can work to suppress symptoms and bring relief in 12-24 hours from the time of injection. Prednisone may also be given orally and may be medically necessary for some suffering dogs dealing with flare-ups. Prednisone is not without risk for long term treatment. Steroids may become less effective over long term use and can possibly cause complete immune system suppression and weakening, liver damage and diabetes.

Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine alone and, depending on the severity, along with steroids to lessen the amount of steroids used, can be implemented for relief. It is also accepted that the omega fatty acids along with any treatment can have a significant affect on improvement by reducing inflammation that may lead to skin sores. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids do not treat the allergy; they just offer relief from the uncomfortable conditions created by the symptoms.

However, be aware that there are holistic allergy care solutions that can deal with the problem at its root cause that work extremely well and can often alleviate symptoms or, even better, heal the problem without the risk of serious side effects a good percentage of the time. That information will be given at the end with a warning.

When to Test

Allergy testing leading to treatment should be considered when your pet is suffering from apparent allergies that occur for more than four months out of the year, and it does not respond to traditional treatment, after a complete diagnostic workup is performed. This is necessary for ruling out other potential causes of skin problems such as fleas, mites, bacterial, fungal and yeast infections as well as hypothyroidism.

The Blood Test

A customized solution starts with a blood test that checks for antigen-induced antibodies in the dog's blood. A blood sample is taken and sent to a lab where it is screened for a reaction to a broad range of allergens that are common to the geographical area where the dog lives to establish a positive diagnosis for a few contact allergies and those allergens that are breathed in (inhalant dermatitis) such as ants, dust mites, mite feces, mosquitoes, cockroaches, moths, dust, pollen, grass, mold, human dander, wool, feathers, and tobacco. Allergy testing is rarely done to diagnose food allergies.

There are two standard and very similar blood tests that are used. The first is called a RAST test (radioallergosorbent), and the other is called an ELISA test (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay).  Most veterinarians seem to prefer the ELISA test for more accurate results.

The ELISA test maybe more preferred over the RAST. However, neither is a perfect diagnostic tool without possible problems. Since both tests were originally developed for humans, there can be a lot of false positives, meaning allergens maybe identified that are not. Because of those possible limitations some veterinarians and especially those specializing in dermatology and allergies may prefer when possible to perform a third type of test that offers the most reliable results, called intradermal skin testing.

Intradermal testing does require sedation with an area on the dog's side to be shaved, exposing the skin, and it is best to be performed during the season when the allergies are at their worst. For the test to show accurate results, the dog must not have been treated with steroids or antihistamines for several weeks to months before the test. A small amount of antigen is then injected into the dog's skin and is then observed for a resulting reaction that must be evaluated by a trained eye.

There are circumstances where even the preferred intradermal skin testing would not be appropriate and the ELISA or RAST would be the best option. This would be the case where the dog is very young, and where a long period without corticosteroids or antihistamines cannot be sustained, to name a few.

Avoidance is the best method of control even with allergy shots; it is best to avoid the allergen altogether. Molds can be reduced by using a dehumidifier. Dusts and pollens can be controlled with an air cleaner with a HEPA filter. Air conditioning can reduce significant amounts of airborne allergens because windows are closed.

An Effective Weapon and Strategy to Fight Back

When an allergy to a specific substance can be established as the irritant, an appropriate immunotherapy serum is customized for that specific dog, and treatment can begin by receiving immunotherapy (hypo-sensitization injections) over a period of weeks, months, and even up to a year until the dog or cat develops immunity to the agents. Hypo-sensitization has shown good results in reducing the symptoms of allergies in many dogs. An occasional booster may have to be given during periods when the allergens are at peak periods and break-thorough of the desensitizing occurs.

Some allergens may be absorbed through the skin and frequent bathing will assist in lowering or eliminating the amount of allergen exposure by also minimizing the amount of antigen on the fur and skin. Using hypoallergenic shampoos strictly formulated for dogs that contain eucalyptus and aloe vera can help relieve the itching that your dog experiences until the skin heals. Note that shampoos for humans are not appropriate for animals because their bodies' PH chemistry is different.

Please do not be one of those people who is responsible for your pet's health and well- being and not put forth the effort or necessary expense to bring relief by solving the problem. If the frequent baths will help, you would want someone to do it for YOU. If food supplements might help because of therapeutic ingredients, such as bovine colostum and omega fatty acids, that are an added expense, you owe it to your pet as its responsible guardian. Whatever it takes, recognize that it is the responsibility of pet guardianship.

WARNING: Unless You Want a Natural Solution with Huge Success, Don't Read

Depending upon the severity of the allergies and the vitality of the animal, herbs and natural remedies do work; dosages may need to be adjusted and fine-tuned to the individual situation. Keep in mind, you will find many "alternative" treatments, holistic treatments and herbal treatments being advertised as the latest and greatest but be careful about what you believe. However, there are good holistic possibilities that will help you treat the symptoms while avoiding conventional pharmaceuticals along with their negative side effects.

What Has Shown Not to Work:

Aspirin, High doses of vitamin E and C, Doxycycline, Dilantin, Tetracycline, Zinc Methoinoine and many holistic treatments (but not all).

A Most Promising Way to Go with a Tremendous Record of Success

Here's what you can be doing RIGHT NOW to help your dog fight allergies, arthritis, vomiting, diarrhea, old age and disease... You would be wise to take advantage of this supplement, designed by a veterinarian named Dr. Jones to be the "be all, end all" solution for pet owners who truly want the best for their animals. See the difference in 30 days or less, guaranteed.

Dr. Jones' supplement contains every single ESSENTIAL vitamin and mineral that is most often lacking in commercial canine diets... along with a HUGE number of KEY ADDITIONS for Joint Health, Intestinal Support, and Immune System Strengthening, which is key to dealing with allergies.

It is a Powerful Natural Weapon in the Allergy War

Included, you should know, is nature's powerful gift -- "PRP" (praline-rich polypeptide).

"PRP from colostrum can work as a regulatory substance of the thymus gland. It has been demonstrated to improve or eliminate symptomatology of both allergies and autoimmune diseases. PRP inhibits the overproduction of lymphocytes and T-cells and reduces the major symptoms of allergies and autoimmune disease." -- Dr. Zoltan Rona, The American Journal of Natural Medicine, March 1998.

A Supplement Solution that is Benefit-Rich with Clinically Proven Ingredients.

PRP is one of the main components of colostrum that is responsible for eliminating or improving the symptoms of allergies. It can stimulate an under-active system into dealing with disease-causing organisms and it can also suppress an over-active system which results from autoimmune disorders and allergic reactions. In addition to allergies, the colostrum ingredient also helps with Asthma, Cancer, Chronic Infections, Conjunctivitis, Dental Problems, Most Viral Infections, Immune Suppression, Skin Parasites, Respiratory Ailments, Stomatitis, and Urogenital Problems.

Allergy Free Diets - Don't Panic!

Getting the news that you or a family member has a food allergy or maybe a whole raft of food allergies might well producing a sinking feeling if you do the cooking!

Preparing meals to be without some essential ingredients may seem to be impossible.

What do you do if they are allergic to some of the big 8 food allergens; wheat, milk, eggs, soy, fish, shellfish, nuts and peanuts?

Well, the first piece of advice is, "Don't panic!" and the second is simply to prepare other recipes. How you do the latter is a matter of family politics. Will the rest of the family like to try the new recipes or insist on their usual fare. This needs careful handling and tact.

Finding foods without some of the top 8 allergens may be difficult at first. Often an ingredient may be not listed on the label but included in another that is listed. Sometimes a trace of nuts is present in many foods prepared in the same packaging plant simply by being present in trace quantities on food conveyor belts or chutes or even in the air. Not all allergic people are that sensitive to trace amounts but some are and only an Allergy specialist can tell you how sensitive the patient is.

The general strategy to follow is that of substitution. And sometimes some lateral thinking can come up with a workable answer.

Wheat will exclude most bread and pasta but bread and pasta can be made without wheat. Gluten free does not mean "wheat free" because gluten is only one part of the wheat, although it is probably the part most allergy patient are allergic to.

Being allergic to milk does not automatically mean that all dairy foods are banned. Cow's milk is different from goat's milk and organic milk may possibly be tolerated when standard non organic milk is not tolerated. Milk may be swapped with many options including drinks made from soy, rice, nuts and many others. Some of these may be made of other foods to which you or your family member may be allergic to. But there are many options and I'm sure you will find one that works.

In addition being milk allergic does not mean being allergic to yogurt or to cheese. These are totally different in structure and may be tolerated even when milk is not. Only proper allergy testing will make this clear.

Nasal Allergies - Time To Sneeze

The definition of allergy is a hypersensitivity to an otherwise harmless substance. That's why it's often hard for people not affected by this sensitivity to understand how somebody can react so violently to a substance that they use on a daily basis. This can include anything from hair spray and cleaning products like bleach to those pretty flowers. Sometimes people think the allergic person is overreacting, exaggerating but it's real suffering. That's why more and more offices ask their employees and in doctor's offices, patients, not to use perfumes or sprays.

The most common nasal allergens are animal dander, dust, smoke, scents like perfumes or sprays, cold air, dry air, humidity, smog, mold, pollen, dust mites, insects like cockroaches and many, many more.

For those who don't know what it feels like to have nasal allergies, the following about sums it up: it's like having a nasty cold year round. It's most common symptoms are sneezing, stuffy nose, itchy eyes and nose, clear discharge from the nose, headaches and feeling tired all day and it can seriously affect the quality of life.

Though not fatal (though blurry sight and fits of sneezing have probably caused one car accident or another), untreated nasal allergies can develop into sinusitis, a painful infection of the sinuses. This painful infection can last 4 weeks or make its return on a routine basis over years and if you thought allergies were bad, it's nothing compared to this. In some cases, allergies also develop into asthma, which can also be very dangerous.

There's a nasal allergy for every time of the year. In the winter, you have allergies to indoor allergens like your pet's dander, dust and mold. With spring comes the pollinating of trees, which sets of another round of sneezing and teary eyes. The long awaited arrival of summer also brings with it weed and grass allergies and finally, in autumn you have ragweed season.

Luckily for the person suffering from nasal allergies, it's quite easy nowadays to get medication for them. Nasal sprays and allergy medication can be bought over the counter. It used to be that most allergy medication made the person drowsy, but brands like Claritin now make non-drowsy-pills. The downside with most nasal sprays is that the person using them over a longer period of time will most likely experience a reverse reaction. That means that the nasal sprays will actually aggravate the situation.

If the over the counter medication isn't helping, it's time to see the family doctor or an allergy specialist. The testing consists of injections of a multiple amount of allergens under your skin to see to which ones you react. After that has been established, the specialist will prescribe allergy medication that the patient will use long term, like Flonase and Nasacort. The problem with these is, that if a women suffering from nasal allergies becomes pregnant, she can't or at least shouldn't use them anymore.

There are some "natural" things you can do around your home to minimize the allergies. Clean the house often, including the walls. Frequently vacuum the mattress, keep the furnace and ducts clean and remove carpeting. Instead of using nasal sprays too often, rinse your nasal passages with warm salt water by aspiring it through the nose. This is not pleasant, but quite effective.

Top 5 Allergy Concerns for the Winter

The brutal summer is over, a relatively mild fall is upon us; allergy season must be long gone as winter descends. Okay, that should be it, right? That is the hope for the millions of Americans that suffer from allergies to pollens, plants, dander, and the gamut of other allergens that could negatively affect their quality of life. However, the winter is by no means the time to relax in regards to allergy relief; in fact, quite the opposite.

While your environment may change, sensitivity to harmful allergens does not. There are a whole slew of potentially harmful allergens in the winter that allergy relief must address. The following breaks down the top five allergens to protect against this winter season.

Summer Allergens

Just because the ground is covered in snow doesn't mean that that summer allergens are gone. Dead insects, dust, dirt, fungi, and other allergens can compile in unused air ducts and ventilation systems. When you turn the heater on for the winter, it could potentially kick up the allergens and circulate them around your home through the duct system. Enlist an HVAC service that offers duct repair and cleaning for optimal allergy relief.

Mold

The dampness of the season, especially in poorly repaired basements, makes the unequipped home a breeding ground for mold. Mold is a powerful allergen. Clean mold out of corners with your strongest disinfectants; be as thorough as possible. Also, pay particular attention if you own a real Christmas tree. While many people believe they are allergic to the evergreens, they are in fact having a reaction to the molds that may remain on the tree from the outside, or grow at the watered base.

Dander

People aren't really allergic to a pet per-say; it's the pet's residue (to put it bluntly) that is the allergen. You're going to be spending a lot of time in confined spaces with your pets during the winter. Make sure that they stay clean and healthy so that the dander they produce doesn't make the winter any worse. Dead skin, dead fur, urine, all of that needs to be cleaned and managed while you spend the long winter indoors.

Perfumes

The holiday season is a big time for parties and socializing. You're going to be seeing friends and family that you do not see often, and you're probably going to be meeting many new people too. Take it easy on the cologne, perfume, and lotions. Some people have allergic reactions to these cosmetics, and isn't subtlety the way to go anyways? Use the minimal amount to make sure you don't set off anyone's reaction at a holiday function.

Food

Food allergies can be very hard to plan for. If you're unsure if you have a food allergy, consult an allergy doctor immediately for allergy testing. Allergy testing will let you know what substances, if any, you should avoid at holiday parties. When planning a party, make food options available for people that are allergic to some of the major concerns; e.g. egg whites, gluten, peanuts, and seafood.

Asthma and Allergies - Fresh Air

During the last 15 years of testing homes, I have come to the conclusion that Fresh Air leads to a healthier lifestyle and longevity. Of all the homes that we have tested for mold and allergens, 90% have have polluted air due to mold, fiberglass, dust mites, cat dander and allergens. This is sad but true when dealing with Indoor Air Quality and people with Asthma and Allergies. We have concluded that the cause is is our poor quality building and cleaning practices. Even recently, the latest problem with "Chinese Drywall" is a prime example of mistakes being made that have long term health effects on people.

We live in artificial air and wonder why our children have Asthma and Allergies. During the majority of our Indoor Air Quality Inspections of homes, we have found the Air Conditioning Systems are contaminated with mold, algae and allergens. This is strange because people always try to keep their homes clean but totally ignore their Air Conditioning Systems. If you want to live healthy, you must maintain your Air Conditioning System. It is the lungs of your home and has to be kept clean.

The thing I do not understand is that some people are consumed with pollution outside their homes but never really give two seconds of thought or concern with their own Indoor Air Quality Environment. I constantly hear the mantra of Go Green for the Planet but never ever see a commercial about Indoor Air Quality and its importance. I believe our priorities are off and need to be changed to think about our Family's health first. What good is getting rid of outdoor pollution when we are polluting ourselves in our own homes, schools and public buildings. I am not saying stop being concerned with the Planet but we need to get real concerning our own personal lives also.

Our children are being exposed constantly to toxins from Indoor Air Quality pollution but what is being done. We are being told to plant more trees or drive a more economical car. The incidence of Asthma and Allergies in children is skyrocketing and we are told to worry about some species of caterpillar in a far off land. What is wrong with this picture? Plenty, your family's health comes first, then you worry about everything else. Clean your own backyard up first before getting involved with some community program to plant trees or save the caterpillars. Remember, your family comes first.

In conclusion, people have lived on Planet Earth for millions of years and have gotten used to clean and fresh air filled with the sweet smell of flowers and the ocean. Taking a walk every day will help us get fresh and clean air into our lungs. This fresh air will help us detox our bodies of the pollutants we pick up during every day living. Clean up you own home first before getting involved with some type of community program to plant trees. Family comes first, then you plant a tree to help the Planet.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us by phone or on our website.

The Many Causes of Fatigue - Part II - Adrenal Fatigue

Has Chronic Stress Led to Adrenal Exhaustion? When you think about the adrenal glands, you should think about stress. Stress can take many forms: taking an examination, recovering from a broken bone, running away from an invading army, or maintaining proper levels of energy substrates in the face of even mild starvation. For human males, there is even considerable stress associated with shopping. The adrenal produces three major classes of hormones, each of which aid in dealing with the multitude of small and large stresses faced by animals and people almost daily. There is no doubt that at least two of these groups - glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids - are necessary for life. Stress takes its tole on the adrenals leading to Stage I to Stage IV adrenal exhaustion. The following products and programs have proven successful in rebuilding the adrenal glands and restoring energy levels. We strongly recommend the Adrenal Stress Index Test to see the current state of your adrenal glands. A second option is to combine Adrenal testing with Neurotransmitter testing. We find re-balancing and restoring the neuro-endocrine system and dramatically improve quality of life. Really. Importance of Adrenal Function The Adrenals are two small endocrine glands, whose location is directly above each of the kidneys. The proper functioning of these glands is essential to our overall health and sense of well-being. They are of primary concern in matters of energy production, stamina, blood sugar regulation, emotional balance, ability to cope with stress, thyroid activity (indirect effect on metabolic rate), sensitivity to allergens (allergy producing substances) and the regulation of inflammatory processes. Fatigue Many people complain of fatigue as a primary symptom, often complicated by other health concerns. When the attention is focused to the endocrine system in fatigued individuals, eight times out of ten the signs and symptoms are a result of insufficient adrenal reserves. In simple terms, weak or tired adrenal glands. In most cases this condition develops gradually, due to a host of factors.

Causes of Adrenal Fatigue Excessive long term stress, insufficient rest, insufficient consumption of protein, insufficient consumption of vitamin C, overuse of caffeine, sugar and other stimulants, long term or frequent use of Canabis, history of Cocaine or Amphetamine abuse, chronic illness or congenital adrenal insufficiency. Of the above, the most common causes of adrenal insufficiency by far are excessive stress, over consumption of stimulants and late bedtime.

Other Considerations Chronic unresolved stress has a predictable result in our body. In our clinic we see this every day and have found these conditions to be easily treated when proper testing and targeted treatments are used.

Testing for Adrenal Function Over the years the natural healing community has come to regard salivary testing as an excellent and reliable way to asses adrenal activity. Four separate samples are taken throughout the day to see the diurnal rhythm. The The Adrenal Stress Index(TM) (ASI(TM) is one such test that we often have used. Four saliva samples are used in the ASI(TM) for the following ten tests:

1. 4 x Cortisol- Helps evaluate stress response


2. 2 x Insulin- Helps investigate blood sugar control


3. DHEA- Helps determine stress adaptation


4. Secretory IgA- Helps evaluate toll on immunity


5. 17-OH Progesterone- Helps determine adrenal reserve


6. Gluten Antibodies- Helps identify grain intolerance

Advantages of the ASI(TM)

• The test is non-invasive & can be performed wherever you are.


• Saliva is collected under real life conditions. There are no stressful blood draws and no gallon sized urine containers to carry around for 24 hours.


• With blood and urine testing, a number of borderline adrenal conditions are missed due to lack of sensitivity. This is not the case with the ASI(TM) because samples are taken within one circadian cycle and the more definitive free fraction is measured.


• The ASI(TM) is an in-depth test, such that options for treatment are expanded by 400-500% over serum and urine test results.

(Note: The ASI(TM) was invented and introduced by Diagnos-Techs, Inc. in 1989. All other panels offered on the market are copies.)

Abnormal adrenal rhythm can influence:

• Energy Production


• Bone Health


• Immune System Health


• Sleep Quality


• Skin Regeneration


• Thyroid Function


• Muscle and Joint Function


• Do you need the ASI(TM) Test?

To determine if the ASI(TM) is the appropriate test for assessing your health condition, ask your physician for a stress questionnaire. The score can help your doctor determine a course of action.

Adrenal tests are mostly ordered for individuals that suffer from:

• Chronic stress and related health problems


• Lack of vitality and energy


• Muscle and joint pain


• Hypoglycemia


• Migraine headaches


• Osteoporosis


• Sleep disturbances


• Poor memory


• Alcohol intolerance


• Stress maladaptation


• Low sex drive


• Low body temperature

Products and Programs that May Help. Chronic unresolved stress has a predictable result in our body. In our clinic we see this every day and have found these conditions to be easily treated when proper testing and targeted treatments are used. There are many recognized natural therapies that support the bodies ability to cope with stress. These generally fall into several categories

1. Direct hormonal support with products containing cortisol - Very useful for short term therapy.


2. Adrenal glandulars - useful but not as effective at rapidly raising energy levels.


3. Herbal adaptogenics - very useful for long term use.


4. Herbal supplements to prolong the existing cortisol levels


5. Anti-stress products - helping the body to cope with the various types of stress that we experience.


6. Sleep aides - a good nights sleep is necessary to restore adrenal function.

The Many Causes of Fatigue Fatigue can have many causes. Overcoming fatigue, on a consistent basis requires that the underlying causes be understood and addressed.

Below you will find the most common causes of fatigue. Generally when these areas are addressed energy levels come up and the feelings of vitality and well being increase. In our clinic we ask a number of questions on every visit to asses the overall subjective experience of health and well being. These questions are on a scale of 1-10 with 7 being what we consider good health. Many of our patients come to us because their subjective experience of energy and vitality is below 7, often below 4. If your energy levels are below 7/10 or if you want to raise your energy levels even higher then you may want to consider the following areas. The list is not exhaustive but does cover the vast majority of cases.

• Adrenal Fatigue & Adrenal Exhaustion


• Blood Sugar Imbalances


• Food Allergies and Gluten Sensitivity


• Heavy Metals


• Hormone Depletion


• Hypo-Thyroid


• Mitochondrial Dysregulation


• Neurotransmitter Exhaustion


• Parasites


• Vitamin/Mineral/Fatty Acid/Amino Acid Deficiencies


• Yeast and Fungus Infections

Fortunately these can all be diagnosed and treated.The first step is to determine the underlying cause of the fatigue and then to address the specific systems involved. The following products and tests can be of great help to you in overcoming fatigue so that you can feel good again.  

What We Recommend:

1. Adrenal Testing - to determine and monitor adrenal function


2. Comprehensive adrenal support programs.


3. Stress reduction.     

Allergic Reactions to Wool Carpets and Rugs?

The natural performance of a wool fiber and it's durable qualities have protected man for over 25,000 years. Wool is actually a hypoallergenic fiber. Those who say they are allergic are most often referring to the prickle and tickle effect of an old wool sweater. Sitting or laying on wool carpets and rugs rarely, if ever, can cause the same effect. No one has ever been treated or diagnosed for anaflactic shock when coming into contact with wool.

Allergies are widespread in the developed world and that problem is increasing for two main reasons:

A great number of synthetic substances and petroleum based products are being used in the home.

The improved diagnosis of allergic conditions are now available to those suffering from allergies.

There is no reason why asthmatic or allergy sensitive people should not enjoy the comfort and good looks of carpets and/or rugs. Wool is non-allergenic and does not promote the growth of dust mites or bacteria. Wool carpet fibers are too long and too coarse to be inhaled and therefore do not affect asthma sufferers. In fact hard surface floors allow airborne particles to be disturbed and whirl into the air causing more irritation for hay fever and asthma sufferers.

Recent data from Swedens Central Statistics Bureau, Army, and Flooring Association shows that over the past 20 years while the installation of carpet went down with the increase of hard surface installations, the number of allergic people increased dramatically over the same period.

Wool fibers actually purify indoor air by absorbing air pollutants and gases. Wool fibers absorb common contaminants in indoor air like formaldehyde, nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide, while not releasing VOC's (Volatile Organic Compounds). This is one of the reasons why the LEEDS (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) environmental program accepted wool carpets as the only soft surface floor covering in the initial testing of accepted floor covering products. The approved products are rubber, bamboo, linoleum, cork, and, of course, wool. All of these products are also rapidly renewable, biodegradable, and carbon neutral.

Not only does wool keep the air free of many harmful pollutants, it will not release them, even when heated. It has been estimated that wool carpets can continually purify indoor air for up to 30 years. What a natural and beautiful way to help the earth and improve the comfort in your own home.

If you hear someone say "I'm allergic to wool", just keep in mind that another man made myth is now explained and hopefully put to rest.

Seasonal Grass Allergy - What to Know

Spring and summer are peak times to develop a seasonal grass allergy. A grass or tree allergy is a common and prevalent allergy that affects people throughout the spring season and during the onset or ending of the summer season. Grass allergy is often directly linked to hay fever, because their symptoms and causes are somehow similar to each other. Seasonal allergies are fairly common in children age 5 and up: According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, about 10 to 15 percent of school-age children have seasonal allergies.

Symptoms of Season Grass Allergy

The common symptoms of grass allergy are sneezing, a runny nose, watering and itchy eyes. If these symptoms sound familiar, and they occur at the same time each year and last longer than a cold would, then you could be experiencing seasonal allergies. Monitor your health. If you tend to have few allergy symptoms on days that are rainy, cloudy, or windless, that may tell you something. Grass pollens don't move around much on those days. To be sure, schedule allergy testing by a physician. If the symptoms are severe or you experience or long-lasting allergy symptoms, medical testing is vital.

The decision about which individual allergens to test for is dictated firstly by the patients history, and taking into consideration his geographical location (particularly with respect to aero-allergens). Symptomatic medications for treating the eye and nose symptoms of allergy are generally available to grass allergy sufferers. Not everyone who has seasonal allergies needs allergy shots, but if your life is being impaired by seasonal allergies, you should discuss this with an allergist.

With a few preventative measures, and knowledge of how to handle allergic symptoms, you can make your life significantly easier. Histamine inflames the nose and airways, and the chemicals cause the well-known symptoms of hay fever: runny nose, watery eyes, and frequent sneezing to flush the allergen from the body.

Sources of Grass Allergens

Typical allergic symptoms caused by airborne allergens include sneezing, runny nose and nasal congestion (allergic rhinitis or hay fever). Grass pollen allergens cross-react with food allergy proteins in tomato,lettuce, onion, celery, corn and sometimes carrots. There is a Chrysanthemum allergy that originates from flower pollen. The cousins of birch pollen allergens (apples, grapes, peaches, celery, apricots), produce severe itching in the throat and ears. The cypress pollen allergy can require identifying allergens and cross reactivity between divergent species, such as olive, ash, privet, and Russian olive tree pollen allergens.

Another form of seasonal grass allergy, is the combination of airborne particles of pollen mixed with mold. This tends to occur around rural areas and farms where the soil is plowed and molds become airborne with the dust of the land.

Conclusion

Antihistamines are usually prescribed to curtail grass allergy development among patients. The most effective treatment for tree or grass allergy is preventing the occurrence in the first place by avoiding exposure to outdoors or wearing a mask to prevent inhaling grass pollens.

Simple Testing Procedures For Black Mold Toxicity

It may never come to your thoughts but the more time that you spend indoors means the higher the probability that you might be breathing air that is harmful. Black mold toxicity will measure the extent of the influence of the airborne fungal spores that is found in your home. Mould fibers are potential killer bacteria that will harm your body. The most common symptoms of the infection to the body include allergy, eye irritations, diarrhea, and even death. Those that have recorded medical histories of respiratory problems are prone to being victims to the disease.

The best way to avoid health complications is to test your indoor residential air quality. Testing equipment and tools are needed to have the correct procedure. You do not need to hire a professional tester immediately nor does it need to be expensive and time consuming. Self-testing methods are the best way to go about the operation. You can begin the procedure by collecting at least one large volume of air sample from both the outdoor and indoor area. These sections are referred to as the concerned spaces that need attention and testing.

Use an air pump with a specialized attached cassette filter to gather the needed samples. Gather air samples outside to determine the normal measurement of the spores outside. The second sample taken inside is needed for the comparison and analysis of the exposure of the black mold toxicity in the concerned area. The sampling pump and media should be properly installed. If you have the device, verify the process that is included in the manual. This will help ease the process of test substance gathering.

Find your areas of consideration and concern. If you feel that the room is inhabited by large volumes of black mold toxicity then you must test it. If you want to be sure, conduct the sampling in all rooms. Self-test kits like those produced by Mold and Bacteria Consulting Laboratories will help analyze the mould samples. The most basic result that will determine the risks of fungal infestations are higher mold presence inside in comparison to the outside area. Once the exposure is detected, it is essential that consider getting a professional cleaner to get rid of it.