Dyshidrotic Eczema

It is a form of eczema often seen on the hands and feet where tiny blisters of serum form just below the skin's surface. I refer to these as "tapioca seed vesicles". The presence of these blisters signals an acute flare that is accompanied by tremendous itching. Deep, painful cracks in the skin and superficial scaling tend to accompany this condition. Dyshidrotic Eczema must be distinguished from an allergic contact dermatitis, and I often patch test patients to see whether they have a contact dermatitis as the primary, or even a secondary etiology of their disease. Dyshidrotic Eczema tends to be a chronic condition that appears periodically throughout adulthood.

Dyshidrotic Eczema is a recurrent disease of the palmar and/ or plantar skin characterised by sudden eruptions of clear, mostly pruritic vesicles. Sweat gland dysfunction or sweat retention do not play the pathogenetic role that has been assigned to them in the past, although some degree of hyperhidrosis exists in many of the affected patients. Etiologic factors for Dyshidrotic Eczema include atopy, contact allergy, constant irritation, primary fungal infections and fungal id-reactions. An idiopathic form is also recognised. Smoking and excessive coffee consumption are believed to play an aggravating role.

The cause of Dyshidrotic Eczema is not known, but it occasionally appears to be seasonal. Small fluid filled blisters called vesicles appear on the hands and feet. They are most common along the edges of the fingers, toes, palms and soles. The vesicles produce intense itching. Scratching leads to skin changes with thickening. Scratching may also lead to secondary infections. Some individuals with Dyshidrotic Eczema are atopic (have an allergic predisposition). Some cases may be triggered by contact with substances causing allergic skin reactions. Dyshidrotic Eczema may occur in both men and women. Its onset occurs usually before the age of 40. Individuals experiencing emotional stress may be more likely to develop flare-ups of this disease.

The diagnosis is based on the patient history, the clinical picture and on the exclusion of other skin diseases. Patch testing is used to exclude underlying contact allergies. Possible etiologic factors such as atopy, contact allergy, irritation and fungal infections have to be ruled out before settling on the diagnosis idiopathic Dyshidrotic Eczema. Pustular psoriasis of the palms and soles, epidermolysis bullosa hereditaria, hand-foot-mouth-disease, acrodermatitis enteropathica and scabies in children are possible differential diagnoses for vesicles on the palms and soles.

Corticosteroid creams and ointments play an important role in the treatment of this disorder. Application of corticosteroid under plastic occlusion may increase their effectiveness. Severe attacks may require the use of oral or intramuscular corticosteroid. Oral antihistamines may help to reduce itching. Antibiotics may be necessary if infection is present.

Type 2 Diabetic Misdiagnosis and LADA, Finding Type 1 Diabetes in Adults

Type 2 diabetic misdiagnosis may happen to one in five people who have been told they have adult-onset diabetes. Doctors look at high blood sugar, age and being overweight as the top defining factors. And diabetes mellitus is a growing problem, no doubt about it.

Men and women who are normal or underweight and yet develop high blood sugar should be suspected of having latent autoimmune diabetes of adults, but they get misdiagnosed because they are not children.

Medical science has taught us all to expect type 2 diabetes, age and overweight to be found together. And two out of three is enough for some to give the diagnosis.

Type 2 Diabetic Misdiagnosis and LADA

Some doctors still do not know that type 1 diabetes can develop in a grownup. But Mary Tyler Moore was diagnosed with it when she was 33. That was many years ago, so some doctors have known about LADA for quite a while.

How can up to 20% of diabetics be misdiagnosed with diabetes mellitus when they really have type 1? And why do some have to end up in the hospital before someone catches it?

The most disturbing thing about this misdiagnosis is the mindset of medical doctors and nurses. If a patient over 20 presents with high blood sugars the first diagnosis is diabetes mellitus because everyone equates type 1 diabetes with infants and children.

The first line of treatment for a type 2 diabetic is oral medications. And these seem to work well for latent autoimmune type 1 diabetics at least for a while. The reason seems to be that it takes time for the antibodies to completely destroy every beta cell in the pancreas.

Some call this the honeymoon period in LADA because of the time it takes for your T cells to finish their job of attacking the pancreatic beta cells. If you want to see this attack in action, go to your web browser and type in a phrase - "T cells attack pancreatic islets."

You'll be directed to a video made with a proton camera at the La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology. It captures the T cells attacking a beta cell in a mouse in real time, and it is the first live proof of what is happening in a diabetic who loses the beta cells during or after childhood.

Why Type 2 Diabetic Misdiagnosis Is Dangerous

What's the big problem with diabetic misdiagnosis? If you are an unknowing type 1 diabetic you will lose more and more beta cells. You can change dietary habits and exercise but you will not stop this process.

Your body literally has an allergy to the beta cells, and there is no way science knows of to make it stop. If you are not already on insulin you will develop early problems with your eyes and kidneys.

Some cases of ketoacidosis and death or near death have been reported because doctors were treating LADA patients as type 2, refusing to give them insulin because they don't think it is necessary.

Later some patients found out that their doctors had never heard of this LADA, which meant they also didn't know there were tests to differentiate between this and type 2 diabetes.

The tests are necessary because judging by symptoms can give the wrong diagnosis. The similarities of the early stages of LADA to type 2 can fool a doctor who does not know what to look for.

Type 1 autoimmune diabetes caused by destruction of beta cells is a rapid onset disease in children, but in adults is quite slow. It is genetically linked and hereditary but the high incidence of type 2 diabetes in adults is muddying the water for too many medical people who are not well acquainted with the process of weeding out type 1 from type 2 in adults.

Once an adult onset type 1 diabetic is put on insulin and gets the hemoglobin A1C down below 7, the treatment for type 1 and type 2 looks pretty much the same. Exercise and a healthy diet help both, although most type 1's do not need to lose weight.

However, if you have LADA but are diagnosed a type 2 it may be harder to get approved for an insulin pump, although that is changing fast. As long as you are not on oral medications approval may not be an issue.

Diabetics who find out they have LADA seem to have a higher incidence of depression and eating disorders. Whatever the cause, they need good support and diabetes education to get them through the adjustment to their new diagnosis.

Clearing Up Type 2 Diabetic Misdiagnosis

There are things doctors can look for, things that don't fit the type 2 diabetic diagnosis. One is a normal or low BMI. Some type 2 diabetics do have a normal BMI but most are overweight. It is also true that some adult onset type 1 diabetics are also overweight.

So doctors need other things to look for, and cholesterol is one. Type 2 diabetes goes along with elevated bad cholesterol and triglycerides, and if yours is not high you may have adult onset type 1 diabetes.

If you are on oral medications and have a low BMI and yet your hemoglobin A1C stays high, you might be an adult onset type 1 diabetic, and it is time to get some testing done to find out what's going on.

Your doctor might perform the C-peptide test that measures insulin secretion. Numbers are higher in type 2 due to overproduction of insulin. They are usually lower in LADA since you are losing islet beta cells.

Antibody Tests Change Type 2 Diabetic Misdiagnosis

The GAD antibody test reveals antibodies that are found in type 1 diabetics whose beta cells are being distroyed by an autoimmune reaction. The ICA or islet cell antibodies tests will often come up positive in LADA diabetics, but type 2 diabetics seldom test positive for the antibodies.

Another test is the IAA or insulin antibodies test. It will help distinguish between LADA and type 2 diabetes. All of these tests will help clarify your diagnosis and separate type 1 from type 2, but the tests are not given routinely. There has to be a good reason to give them.

What is the message here? If you are not satisfied that the doctors have diagnosed you correctly, talk to them about what you have learned. If you do not get your concerns met, go to an endocrinologist who will do the tests that settle it for you.

Of course, if you are already on insulin it may not matter to you which kind of diabetes you have as long as your A1C is in a good range and you are not being plagued by complications. This is your journey. Please take care.

Which is Better - Skin Prick Test Or Blood Test

When it comes to allergies most doctors still will chose skin prick testing over blood tests. The main factor is price and accuracy. Skin prick testing is far less expensive than a blood test and the results are for the most part available on the spot compared to a allergy blood test. Most research also shows skin prick testing to be more accurate than blood tests, although companies who market allergy blood tests claim that new improved tests are just as good as skin prick tests or scratch tests.

Blood tests or RAST type tests are designed to measure the level of IgE anti-bodies as they are introduced to allergens. The greater the increase the more severe the allergy reaction. Originally IgE anti-bodies where labeled with a radioactive substance so they could be measured as allergens where introduced. The RAST test is probably most useful for people who are at great risk to suffering a severe allergic reaction that skin prick testing could result in. This may include infants, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems. The test is marketed by many pharmaceutical companies under several names including CAP, RIST and MAST.

Skin prick and scratch testing involves a small prick or scratch on the patients skin which allow a small amount of the allergen to be introduced. After the allergen is introduced the doctor can note if there are any signs of a allergic reaction on the skin. During the test generally several allergens will be tested on a patients body. This differs from patch testing which the allergen is only held against the skin and is usually used to test for allergens that cause contact dermatitis reactions.

When deciding which allergy test is best for you your doctor is still the best one to ask. If the results are not definitive from one type of test you may have to use another to get better confirmation result.

Hay Fever and Allergic Rhinitis Treatments and Relief

Hayfever and allergic rhinitis can cause misery to millions of people worldwide. In the U.S. it is estimated that as many as 30 million people suffer from these medical condition. My article explores these conditions in detail and lists the main treatments currently available.

What is hay fever and allergic rhinitis?

They are a disorder of the immune system where the body over reacts to harmless substances in the environment such as pollen, dust, mold, danders and food. Allergy producing substances are called allergens.

What causes hay fever and allergic rhinitis?

Allergens cause the activation of a certain type of antibody known as IgE. This antibody triggers the release of certain chemicals from cells in your nose, throat and eyes such as histamine, resulting in an extreme inflammatory response and the associated allergy symptoms. The main causes of allergies are as follows;

Hereditary (runs in the family)
Race
Sex (boys have a higher risk of developing an allergy than girls)
Age
Alteration in exposure to infectious diseases during early childhood
Environmental pollutants
Allergen levels
Dietary changes

What are the symptoms?

Hay fever and allergic rhinitis are the most common types of allergic diseases. Symptoms result from the inflammation of the nasal passages, throat and eyes after inhaling allergens such as pollen, mold, dust etc. The symptoms include;

Runny nose
Nasal congestion
Sneezing
Nasal itching
Itchy ears and throat
Post nasal drip (mucous runs down the back of the throat)
Earache
Sore throat
Sleep disturbances and snoring
Loss of taste and smell
Poor concentration
Headaches
Itchy, sore and puffy eyes

What are the types of treatment available?

OTC anti-inflammatories - Nurofen etc. can relieve inflammation and pain, however they can cause side effects. They are not particularly useful for allergies because they don't reduce histamine production.

OTC decongestants - OTC decongestants can take the form of tablets, liquids or nasal sprays. Examples of these are Vicks Sinex and Sudafed. These are not really suitable for allergies since they should not be used for a long period of time.

Steroid nasal sprays - Flixonase is useful for allergy sufferers since it can reduce nasal congestion etc. by reducing inflammation. It can however cause side effects.

OTC anti-histamines - Clarytin etc. can be used to reduce histamine production and subsequently allergy symptoms ie. nasal congestion, runny nose etc. They can cause drowsiness and other side effects.

Naturally formulated nasal sprays - SinuSoothe contains natural ingredients that reduce inflammation and the associated symptoms. It also contains an anti-histamine and decongestant therefore it can relieve a runny nose, nasal congestion etc. This can be used daily for an indefinite period of time.

Nasal irrigation and saline nasal sprays - Nasal irrigation and saline nasal sprays such as Sterimar can relieve sinus congestion and get rid of allergens trapped in the nasal cavities. The two types of solution that can be used are isotonic or hypertonic. Isotonic solutions contain a similar salt content to the human body whereas hypertonic solutions contain more salt. It is thought that hypertonic solution are better at reducing inflammation.

Steroid tablets - If you have severe allergies that are seriously interfering with your life (such as at exam times), very rarely your doctor may prescribe you a short course of steroid tablets. They can however cause side effects.

Natural anti-histamines - Butterbur has been proven to be just as effective as OTC anti-histamines. Quercetin is another excellent natural anti-histamine. Unlike OTC anti-histamines there are very littles side effects.

Anti-histamine nasal sprays - Astelin and NasalCrom can reduce the amount of histamine produced in the nasal tissue, therefore they can be effective at reducing nasal symptoms. They can however cause side effects.

Reduce inflammation naturally - Various supplements such as turmeric, ginger, omega oils, serrapeptase etc. can help reduce inflammation naturally and relieve allergy symptoms.

Pollen barriers - Pollen barriers such as petroleum jelly or special barrier gel inside the nostrils can catch pollen before it enters the nasal passages thus relieving hay fever symptoms.

Eye drops - If you suffer from itchy or sore eyes, eye drops that contain anti-histamines or sodium cromoglicate can help. Natural eye drops are also available.

Red light phototherapy - This involves inserting two narrow red light probes in to your nostrils. The light reduces inflammation.

Immunotherapy - This is often a last option. Very small amounts of the allergen you are allergic to is either injected in to your body or ingested in a tablet form, to gradually desensitise your immune system to the allergen. You have to be referred to an allergy clinic in order to receive this treatment.

Prevention of Hay fever

Keeping doors and windows closed when the pollen count is high.
Staying away from areas where there is more pollen such as grass parks, especially in the early morning, late afternoon and evening when the pollen count is highest.
Wearing wrap around sunglasses to keep pollen out of your eyes.
Taking a shower and washing your hair after going outside when the pollen count is high.
Not drying washing outside if pollen counts are high - pollen may get trapped in the fibres of clothes and bed linen.

Prevention of Allergic Rhinitis

The only way to prevent allergic rhinitis is to avoid the allergen that causes it, so allergy testing is important to identify the exact indoor allergen that provokes the allergy.

House dust mite eradication can help if special attention is paid to the bedroom.

Synthetic duvets and pillows are better than feather fills.
Old mattresses harbour up to 10,000 dust mites, so use mite impermeable barrier mattress covers.
Wash pillow cases and covers at 60 degrees centigrade.
Use a vacuum cleaner fitted with a HEPA filter.
Choose hardwood and laminate flooring, not heavy pile carpets.
Discourage soft toys and clutter.
Regularly air the bedroom to reduce humidity.

For severe pet allergies, unfortunately it's best to remove the pet from the home permanently. Cat allergen spreads in the air throughout the home, even if the cat is restricted to specific areas. Although short haired and female pets carry less dander on their fur, any furry pets can trigger allergies including rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils and mice.

For food allergies it is quite simply a case of eliminating the particular food causing the allergy from your diet. For allergies caused by mold and/or fungus, any signs of these in your home environment should be completely removed. As with all medical conditions you should always consult your doctor before undertaking new treatments.

Determining the Specific Cause of an Allergic Reaction With an Allergy Skin Test

Individuals who experience frequent or severe allergic reactions, of which they are unable to determine the cause, may be referred to an allergy specialist by their regular physician. An allergy specialist can usually determine the specific allergen, or in some cases multiple allergens, which are causing these reactions by a skin test.

There are three different types of skin test which can be preformed and typically only one of these is used. The determination of which test will be given is generally based on what type of allergen is suspected in causing the allergic reactions.

Allergy Tests

The most of common of these tests given is the scratch or puncture test which is done by introducing certain suspect allergens to the skin by lightly scratching or pricking the skin with very small amounts of allergen extracts. This test is generally used when trying to determine the most common types of allergies such as hay fever, mold, food, pet dander, and dust mites.

Another type of skin test which can be preformed is where the allergen is injected through the top layer of the skin with this injection being done typically in the arm. This test can be used to determine if allergic reactions may be due to certain types of venom caused by insect stings, or when taking certain medications such as penicillin.

The third type of skin testing which can be performed is called a patch test which is typically used to determine what is causing a contact dermatitis.

Contact dermatitis is an inflammation or irritation of the skin which may be caused by many substances some of which include perfumes, latex, metals, medications, and preservatives. Once the results of these skin tests are known, the allergist will then discuss with you the treatment options available which may include medications or allergy shots. However, in most cases once the allergen is known, these substances can be avoided which can decrease or stop the allergic reactions all together.

Allergy Testing: Have You Been Avoiding It?

If you have seasonal allergies then you know that spring has arrived. It's time to start dosing yourself, or your child, with nasal sprays, eye drops and antihistamines. The good news is that the products on the market today, both over-the-counter and prescription medications are more effective at treating your symptoms. The bad news is that your symptoms start earlier in the season and may last longer. Research on seasonal allergies has shown that due to global warming, the allergy season has gotten longer. In addition, the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has grown, which in turn has made more of us sensitive to the pollens in the air during the spring growing season, especially ragweed. More of us are suffering than ever before and one in ten Americans has a ragweed allergy.

So if you didn't have allergies before and think you may have a cold, think again! It is often difficult to tell the difference between a cold and allergies and in the past allergy testing was a painfully long, drawn-out process filled with skin pricks or scratches to determine what you were allergic to. Do I really need to know and does it really matter? Yes, it does. If you know exactly what your body is reacting to, you can avoid it, especially if it's food, or if it's a particular type of plant or weed, you can watch the pollen counts to know when you need to be sure you're taking your allergy medication and when you can stop. You can save money and skip on annoying side effects like drowsiness when your "evil weed" stops blooming, or sprouting, or blowing in the wind and irritating you.

You'll be glad to know that medicine has come a long way in the identification of allergies. Newer allergy tests require only one blood draw and can identify possible allergies for dozens of substances including 90 foods and 45 environmental allergens. The technology for this allergy test puts the allergens in the blood sample and then measures the blood to look for a specific IgE antibody that is a direct measurement of an allergic reaction. Each allergen produces a specific IgE antibody so the test results will clearly show which allergen caused the response. If there is no IgE antibody produced, there was no allergic reaction. You need to have been exposed to the allergen previously so that IgE can build up in your system, otherwise a possible allergy to something new won't show up on the test.

Additionally, food allergies, especially to nuts, have been making headlines across the country. Although researchers aren't certain why there are more of us with food allergies and specifically, children with peanut allergies, causing "nut-free" classrooms, the danger is real. Being able to take your child for a simple blood test instead of days of being pricked and scratched is safer for them and much less stressful for both of you. If you have been avoiding getting tested yourself, but know that something has been bothering you after you eat or after you spend time outside, take a deep breath. It's easier than ever to find out what's causing your suffering.

Semen Allergy

A lady brought her four-year-old daughter to see me for re-occurring ear infections. The daughter had several rounds of antibiotics, but the ear infections kept coming back, again and again. Through careful allergy testing, I was able to determine, that the little girl was lactose intolerant. The allergy testing revealed, that dairy products were triggering the condition. In a matter of four weeks, this milk allergy related infections were resolved.

Inspired by the prompt resolution of her daughter's problem, the mother decided to discuss a more personal problem. She stated, that she suffered from bouts of chronic vaginal infections, and was wondering if dairy was somehow triggering her situation. I informed the mom that there are several possibilities for repeated vaginal infections:

1 - candida (yeast)
2 - bacteria (bacterial vaginosis)
3 - trichomonas (parasite)
4 - HPV (human papillomavirus)
5 - synthetic tampon sensitivity
6 - latex condom allergy
7 - flora imbalance due to birth control pills

It was determined through kinesiology/muscle testing, that the mother had an allergy to semen. Semen is known to cause itching, burning and discomfort. Fortunately, through holistic allergy care (NAET technique), it was relatively easy to cure this allergy. The mother's symptoms completely cleared up in three sessions. Best of all, her husband never faced the accusation of causing his wife's discomfort.

Semen allergies are not common, but they do occur. Medications for the condition are available for temporary relief, but they often trigger new symptoms and side-effects. The holistic treatments are safe and efficient in eliminating allergies and irritations permanently.

Baby Eczema - 3 Reasons Your Baby Might Be Suffering

This article will discuss baby eczema and 3 reasons your little one might be suffering from this fairly common health issue. It may be common, but it is very bothersome and can be extremely difficult to see your baby suffering. The three reasons below can help you identify what might be causing your child's symptoms.

1. Food allergies: More often than not, people think an allergy to food means an immediate negative response. However, there are many hidden food allergies that present themselves in subtle symptoms that are overlooked, such as a headache or sinus congestion. Wheat and dairy are known to be fairly common hidden food allergens, but there are others including soy, tomatoes and more. By removing possible allergens and reintroducing them one at a time, you can find out if your baby's eczema is caused by a food allergy or perhaps another external factor.

2. Pet Allergies: Having an allergy to an animal can present itself in many ways; the most common and obvious symptoms is sneezing, itchy eyes and nasal congestion. But pet allergies can also manifest in the form of eczema. The best way to find out if a baby is allergic to an animal is to go through allergy testing.

3. Environmental Irritants: Detergents, cigarette smoke, house dust and more can also be an underlying cause for baby eczema. Allergy testing can also help determine what might be causing the symptoms, but keeping a log of what baby is exposed to might also help. Using hypo-allergenic detergents and a mild cleanser can help eliminate issues with these items.

This article discussed baby eczema and offered 3 possible reasons your child is suffering. Hidden food allergies, a pet allergy or even environmental irritants can all be an underlying cause for the dry, itchy skin that your baby suffers from. Eliminate as many of these factors as you can and you might see the baby eczema completely disappear.

The Real Cause of Gallbladder Attacks and How You Can Prevent Them

In 2008, my father had a gallbladder attack that landed him in the critical care unit of the hospital. This experience led me to research deeply into what causes gallbladder attacks and what can be done to prevent them.

Function of the Gallbladder:

The only function of your gallbladder is to store bile, which is produced in your liver and is necessary for the breakdown and absorption of fats and fat soluble vitamins in your small intestine.

Symptoms of Gallbladder Distress:

Abdominal gas, bloating and loss of appetite
Nausea or indigestion after meals
Discomfort is worse after eating, especially after eating fatty foods
Pain or discomfort in your abdomen, chest and back
Abnormal bowel movements, including diarrhea or constipation

Causes of Gallbladder Pain:

Diet. The bile that is stored in your gallbladder should be a thin, watery substance. If your bile becomes concentrated and turns into a thick sludge, gallstones and inflammation can result. If you did not change the oil in your car for several years, your engine would not run very well. A similar thing happens with your gallbladder when you consume a standard American diet. A recent study found that the incidence of gallbladder surgery went up by 600 per cent in Saudi Arabia as the people shifted from a clean, healthful traditional diet to a Western junk food diet consisting of sugary and fatty foods.

Allergy: In 1968, Dr. James C. Breneman, Chairman of the Food Allergy Committee of the American College of Allergists discovered what he called the real cause and cure of gallbladder pain. He selected 69 people who suffered from recurrent gallbladder attacks and put them on an elimination diet to determine their food allergies. Six of the participants had already had their gallbladders removed but continued to have symptoms. Dr Breneman found that all 69 people, or 100%, were totally free of gallbladder pain when they avoided their individual food sensitivities, and all 69 had a recurrence of their symptoms when they reintroduced the foods they were allergic to back into their diets. When you eat a food allergen, your body reacts by creating swelling. When food allergies cause swelling of the gallbladder ducts, the flow of bile is obstructed. The symptoms of allergy caused obstruction are the same as a stone being stuck in the duct. This title of this study was Allergy Elimination as the Most Effective Gallbladder Diet. It was published in1968 in the journal Annals of Allergy.

Cure for Gallbladder Attacks:

Identify and eliminate food allergens with an elimination diet or food allergy testing

Avoid fried foods and decrease your intake of saturated fats (red meats, cream, butter and cheese)

Limit your intake of sugar - a high intake of sugar has been associated with an increased risk for gallstones

Cook with olive or coconut oil

Increase your dietary fiber by eating fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, raw nuts and seeds

Take the following nutrients:

• Magnesium - deficiency is extremely common among people who suffer with gallbladder pain.


• Omega 3 EPA/DHA fish oil - it may block cholesterol formation in bile.


• Lecithin - it helps to emulsify bile and helps with the absorption of the fat soluble vitamins A, D, E and K.

Eczema - Itchy Skin That Hurts!

It is exam week. You have research papers to hand in and loads of studying to do. You are totally stressed, and exhaustion and the overall lack of sleep is playing havoc on your system. Just when you thought it couldn't get any worse, your skin is breaking out in rashes...Eczema.

Eczema is a skin condition that results in the skin becoming red, itchy and irritated, and sometimes develops small fluid-filled bumps that become moist and ooze.

There are many forms of eczema, but the one that is most common and severe is called atopic eczema. While doctors still have not found out exactly what causes it, they assume it could be the difference in the way a person's immune system reacts to things.

While researchers think it is passed through the genes, overall, it is fairly common and approximately one in ten people will at some point in their lives be affected by eczema.

It is possible that people with eczema may have asthma and certain allergies, like hay fever. For some, food allergies cause or aggravate it. For many, the itchy patches of eczema usually appear on the face, the neck, on the back of the knees, ankles and wrists and also where the elbow bends, although any body part can be affected. When eczema flares up, the skin may get hot and itchy, then red, inflamed and even blistered.

You would need to see a dermatologist if you have eczema. After a medical check-up, the dermatologist will prescribe the appropriate medication for the redness and irritation. For severe cases, ultraviolet light therapy is used.

In cases where normal treatment doesn't show any results, a doctor conducts allergy testing to check if something else is triggering off the condition.

While eczema cannot be cured, you can prevent a flare-up by using specific facial cleansers and moisturizers, avoiding substances that stress your skin, and too much exposure to water. Wearing cotton clothes, using fragrance-free moisturizers, taking your prescribed medication and trying to de-stress can go a long way in avoiding it.

Just don't let the condition affect your self-esteem or social life. By getting involved in school and extra curricular activities, it can help you get your mind of that itch. Meanwhile, the good news is that eczema usually clears up before the age of 25, so it is just a matter of knowing how to deal with it or finding ways to prevent it altogether, until then.

Allergy Gluten Symptoms

Food allergies can be some of the most troublesome of all allergies. Many times it's difficult to pinpoint exactly what you may be allergic to. Perhaps the worst is a gluten allergy.

Gluten is round in barley, rye and wheat. Since these ingredients are used to make so many of the foods we consume every day, it's easy to see how this can be troublesome. For parents gluten allergies in children can be a real concern. It's important to realize the exact symptoms so you can take preventive action.

Gluten allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe. Mild symptoms are generally fatigue, diarrhea or constipation. It's also easy to recognize the more severe symptoms. These include shortness of breath, cramps, hives, vomiting and swelling of the face and mouth.

Even though no one knows the causes of wheat gluten allergies, the good news is that there help is available. If you believe you have an allergy to gluten, it's important to see your doctor. After specific allergy testing, he'll be able to determine exactly what substances you should avoid. Many times avoidance is the best medicine. Simply put, if you're allergic to something, don't eat it! Your doctor will also be able to recommend prescription strength medication that you can take if you accidentally eat something that contains gluten.

Living with an allergy to wheat & gluten doesn't have to be the end of the world. With proper treatment and by knowing exactly what foods to avoid, you'll be able to live a happy health life.

Why You Need To Know More About Yellow Dust And How To Buy A Mask In Korea

Let's forget everything about the etymology of yellow dust in North America or South Korea and where it comes from and focus on the things that matter. Yellow dust can be very annoying to a foreigner in Korea who has never encountered it before. So what do you need to know?

To start, it doesn't matter where you live in South Korea you will come across it at some point. However, in Seoul the dust "attacks" are worst of all. Generally it is worse in the northern parts of the peninsula since it comes from China. Yellow dust comes from the Chinese desserts just above Korea. If you live in a city like Chuncheon or Suwon or even Busan your encounters with it are much less dramatic that if you live in Seoul or Incheon.

The first thing you must do is find out if you are allergic to it or not. Typically people who are allergic to dust have a strong negative reaction to yellow dust as well. How do you know if you are allergic or not? You go to Asan Hospital in Seoul or the public hospital that is closest in your city have an allergy test done. It will cost about 100,000won and then you'll know what affects you or doesn't. The irritations will range from making you cough and giving you a sore throat to inducing Asthma and Sinus infections in your body.

One hundred thousand won may seem like a lot to pay at a public hospital, but let's take a look at what it's costing you to avoid taking the test and not knowing how it affects you.

Yellow dust is said to irritate your throat. I know this is a fact because when I catch a cold in the winter, it's just a cold and it goes away soon. However when I have the same cold or virus in the spring when there is a lot of this dust in the air, my cold turns into a terrible sore throat. Unfortunately it doesn't stop there. A sore throat quickly becomes Asthma if not treated early enough. I know, Asthma is one of those things that people who've had it in the past, get it again. I never had any problems with Asthma until one spring I went to 3 doctors, 1 specialist and finally the hospital informed me I was having serious Asthma related problems with my throat. Take note that I mentioned it was the spring. Yellow dust is most prevalent in Seoul, in the North-West parts of South Korea and in the spring. By the time the heavy summer rain falls come the air is clean.

Yellow dust is a serious thing that if you don't have it checked out, it will affect everything you do. Speaking is very difficult when you have serious throat problems. Exercising is also difficult. Get yourself checked out so you avoid these problems right from the start.

Whether you're allergic or not, you should wear a mask when it comes anyway. Where do you get a mask? You can buy a mask at any pharmacy. However you need to buy one that blocks yellow dust, which you will need to ask for. Most Pharmacies recognize the words "yellow dust" but you should know how to say it in Korean. The pronunciation is "Hwang-Sa". You might also want to know how to say 'mask'; "Ma-Seu-Keu". It is very common to see someone wearing a mask in the spring, and sometimes during the summer to say healthy during yellow dust storms.

Botox Injections vs Restylane Injections - What is the Difference Between Botox and Restylane?

Restylane is naturally found in the skin. It is a clear gel-like substance known as hyaluronic acid. The treatment that involves it's products are performed through micro-injections. This gel-like substance is injected into the skin in very small amounts with the use of very fine needles. After injections, the skin will have volume and fullness will be restored.

Results of Restylane injections are immediate and provide natural looking benefits that are safe and gentle to the skin. It belongs to the criteria of cosmetic fillers. The market today is full of cosmetic products that fill to correct and enhance. This product is popularly used to fill and correct the signs of aging. Facial creases and lines such as furrows, wrinkles on the forehead, laugh lines, chin dimpling and crow's feet, start to appear as we grow old. It's a process of nature which is unavoidable but can be kept at bay for extended period of time.

In contrast to Restylane, Botox which is a botulinum toxin is considered a drug that usually works by preventing the nerve impulses of the body to reach the underlying muscles. With Botox, muscles are caused to relax. In simpler terms, it temporarily paralyzes the underlying muscles of the skin resulting to the reduction and elimination of wrinkles and other facial lines.

Botox has been used to correct and enhance for so many years now and many are pleased with the results delivered by this particular product. It is considered safe, non-surgical and non-invasive treatment that gives desired results.

Like all created medications, there are also side effects with the use of Botox. The side effects range from mild, transient to moderate. With injections, some of the patients may experience discomfort, swelling and redness at the area where the injection took place. Muscle weakness is also one of the side effects.

Restylane is considered very safe. With its natural components it is a fully biocompatible product. Skin testing for allergy reaction is not required with it's treatments. The most common side effects are temporary swelling, bruising and redness where the injection of the substance took place. Side effects are all temporary; they are bound to gradually disappear in a matter of days.

The achieved results of Restylane treatments can last up to six months or more. There are evidences showing that lasting effects are enhanced and extended when the area is maintained with occasional touch-ups. Multiple sessions are scheduled with intervals by your physician to maintain the desired effect.

Allergy Testing and Immunotherapy - Is Allergy Immunotherapy a Good Option? What to Consider

55% of Americans tested, test positive to one or more allergens; allergies rank 5th in the United States among the most common chronic diseases. More and more Americans are finding lasting relief from their allergy symptoms with the use of immunotherapy.

Allergies are caused by the body's immune system misclassifying harmless substances as potentially dangerous. When the body comes in contact with the allergen either by ingesting, inhaling or touching the skin, an allergic reaction occurs producing any number of symptoms such as runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, wheezing and skin irritations. Allergic reactions can range from barely noticeable to life threatening.

Pollens are the most common cause for allergy symptoms followed by Animal dander. Dust mites and insect bites are the next most common and mold rounds out the top 5 most common allergy triggers in the United States.

Determining a patient's allergies is not difficult; skin tests are the most common method of testing for allergies. Skin tests involve putting very small amounts of allergens on the skin; the body will respond to the allergens the individual is allergic to. With the results of the skin test, the allergist/immunologist can discuss treatment options available for the patient.

People with mild allergies may find that over the counter allergy medications are enough to deal with the symptoms. Individuals with more annoying cases may want to try prescription allergy medication or seek a more potentially permanent solution with immunotherapy (allergy shots)

Allergy shots work in a similar fashion as other immunizations; small amounts of the allergen are introduced to the body, the body over time gets used to the allergen and stops reacting to it. Allergy shots are administered over the course of a few months (in some cases years), but it's the only treatment currently available that has the potential to provide long term relief from allergies.

Risks involved in Allergy Immunotherapy are very rare but could include anaphylaxis which could be life threatening if not handled properly. Allergy shots should only be given at a facility equipped with the necessary staff and equipment to handle such a risk, should it arise.

A typical allergy shot regimen involves shots once or twice a week at first until the target dosage is reached which can take 3 - 6 months. Once the target dose is reached, the maintenance phase begins; shots are then administered once or twice a month. The maintenance phase generally lasts 3 - 5 years at which time some patients experience lasting remission while others may begin showing symptoms once treatment is discontinued.

Is allergy immunotherapy a good option? Several things to consider when deciding:

• The frequency and severity of the symptoms


• The effectiveness of medication


• The ability to avoid the allergens


• The desire to prevent long term use of medication


• The time commitment involved with immunotherapy


• Cost effectiveness

For someone dealing with allergy symptoms, the best place to start is with an allergy test. Once the allergen is identified, the person may find the allergen is avoidable; others may want to consider one of the other aforementioned options available.

Recognizing Symptoms of Mold Exposure

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

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

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

Physical Symptoms

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

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

Psychological Symptoms

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

Treatment Of Symptoms

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

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

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

What Exactly is Eczema?

What exactly is Eczema? Simply put, eczema refers to several different conditions that cause skin to become irritated, scaly and rough and itchy. There are several types of eczema, but the most common is atopic eczema, closely associated with allergies.

The most common symptoms of eczema are scaly, dry, itchy patches of skin. Depending on the sufferer's normal skin color, the affected area may appear red, brown, or lighter or darker than usual. The skin affected by eczema usually seems thicker than unaffected skin, and any area can be affected. Upon visual examination, a doctor can often diagnose eczema. Since the condition is often associated with allergies, many doctors will review family history and usually request that the patient be undergo allergy testing. Blood tests and scraping tests are also used to diagnose eczema.

The most common types of eczema are caused by the body's overreaction to some irritant. A reaction similar to an allergic reaction occurs, and the body's immune system responds by fighting the irritant. Eczema occurs when the immune system overreacts, producing irritated, itchy skin. Eczema also reduces the skin's ability to maintain moisture.

The itching carries a risk of infection, so antihistamines are often prescribed to control the itching and prevent infection. Topical lotions and creams are recommended to keep the skin moist, and hydrocortisone creams are used to reduce the inflammation. Other treatments for more severe cases of eczema include tar treatments, oral steroids and light treatments. Although new prescription drugs have been developed to treat eczema, they have been linked with an increased risk of cancer, and doctors have been warned to prescribe cautiously.

Although it may appear so, eczema is not contagious. The disease has no known cure, but can be managed effectively with prescription medications and topical lotions and creams.

Vega Therapy for Allergy

Probably the most exciting development to have evolved in recent years, is an electronic procedure for detecting all allergy conditions. It is of particular use in revealing masked allergies and is safe, fast, simple and efficient. It is called Vega Therapy and uses electronic equipment, manufactured by the VEGA Grieshaber Corporation, of West Germany.

In the early part of this century, Dr Hamish Boyd, of Glasgow, noted that if a substance was brought into series in an electrical circuit, to which the patient was connected, a change in skin impedance was produced. Boyd's discovery was the subject of a government inquiry, but nothing further came of it. Then, in the 1950s, a German doctor, Reinholdt Voll, developed Boyd's idea and, with the help of electronic equipment, evolved a useful, but highly complex, technique to diagnose disease. More recently, Dr Helmut Schimmel, also of West Germany, simplified Dr Voll's technique and improved the cumbersome equipment to that of a small portable, electronic unit, known as the VEGA TEST.

Dr Julian Kenyon, of Britain, has developed a highly efficient technique for diagnosing allergies, using the VEGA TEST equipment. He describes his technique as follows:

The observed fact of changes in skin impedance, provides a useful technique in the field of food and chemical sensitivity. Therefore, the technique can be used for allergy testing. In practice, a point is taken on the fingers or toes, (these are sites where major electrical exchanges happen, between the body and its environment, this being largely due to the geometry of fingers and toes, in that they are relatively pointed and, therefore, charge accumulation occurs at the tips of the digits). A relevant acupuncture point is chosen, although it doesn't appear important to choose any specific point. One by one, the suspected allergens are introduced into the circuit, and each time a new measurement is made. Any substance which causes a drop in measured resistance, is labelled as allergic, or more correctly, in the field of clinical ecology, as 'sensitive', as far as the patient is concerned.

In clinical practice, the techniques give the right answer nine times out of ten, which represents a better success rate, than the most successful method for diagnosis of food and chemical sensitivities, available so far, that of Cytotoxic testing. Immunological tests such as the RAST test, (IgE test) for diagnosis of food and chemical sensitivity; are notoriously inaccurate. Those doctors who adhere to these tests in a stubborn fashion, do not appear to be aware, that the results from such tests are often irrelevant, to the patient. The inaccuracy of skin testing, particularly for foods, has been amply demonstrated, by many studies carried out in America, as early as the 1950s.

The existence of electrical changes around biological structures,and their importance both in health and disease, is slowly becoming recognized, but in order for this important study to develop further, closer co-operation between physicists, electronic engineers and medical scientists will have to come about.

The important work done in this field is described by Dr Ion Dumitrescu, of Rumania, in his book, Electrographic Imaging in Medicine and Biology. To date, Dr Kenyon has trained several hundred doctors, in the United Kingdom, in the use of the VEGATEST for allergy diagnosis.. He has also lectured throughout Europe, America and Asia, to several thousand more doctors who are genuinely interested in helping patients overcome multiple allergy illness.

A great advantage of the VEGA TEST method is that it can detect any allergic substance, whether it be food, chemical, airborne, environmental or whatever. Not only that, but it can also measure the degree of sensitivity - something which no other allergy test can do.

Diagnosis is the key to allergy illness. Once the food/chemical substances have been detected, avoidance will usually enable the patient to recover quickly. It is absolutely impossible to comprehend, when you are staggering through life under the deadly weight of allergy illness, just how wonderful and alert it is possible to feel, within a few short days or weeks, of successful diagnosis and avoidance. Diagnosis is the key and, in Australia, for most people, it is a very elusive key indeed!

The good news for chemical allergy sufferers is that, once diagnosis is achieved, it is possible for clinical ecologists, such as Dr Kenyon, to switch off some allergies, by means of desensitizing drops or injections. However, this method is not very successful for treating food allergies. Avoidance is by far the best.

Some other practical food tests, which can be put to good use by suspected sufferers, are the pulse test, the kinesiology test and the urine test.

How to Save Your Kids From Allergies

It is so frustrating to get allergic reaction from almost anything. If you don't subject yourself to allergy testing, you will never know which elements are causing you allergic reactions so you will never really know which ones to avoid and you will just be surprised that you are fine at the moment and then suddenly the sneezing and wheezing starts.

Allergy is something that can be prevented. For as long as you know which elements you are allergic to, you can do something to avoid getting any allergic reaction. Allergy can sound like normal for a lot of people but this can be a serious problem especially for kids. The allergic reactions can get pretty bad and kids may not be able to handle them. For infants, especially, a runny nose can lead to difficulty in breathing which can actually lead to death. Although the percentage of danger is low, still there is that "percentage".

Protecting Your Kids From Allergy

Allergy is quite a tricky thing to prevent especially if you don't know what causes it. This is how important allergy testing is. Through allergy testing, you will be able to identify the allergens. Allergens refer to the substances or elements that cause allergic reactions. There are different ways to test for allergy and the most common is allergy skin testing. The person's skin will be exposed to several potential allergens and will be observed for any unusual reaction. If there is a reaction, the person is allergic to that substance. A person can be tested for hundreds of allergens. You will be surprised at how the results would be. Sometimes you would know that you are actually allergic to something that you least expect you would be allergic to.

Allergy testing is safe for people of all ages. Kids can undergo allergy testing and they will not feel uncomfortable as the skin testing is a painless procedure. You can protect your kids from the dangers of allergy if you have an idea of what to let your kids avoid. If you don't know that your kids are allergic to pollen, you wouldn't tell them to avoid flowers, would you? This is how important to consider allergy testing for kids. As parents, you should spend more time making efforts to ensure the health of your kids and allergy testing is one good step. Don't let your kids live through the shadows of runny nose, red eyes, sneezing and other types of allergic reactions.

What is Eosinophilic Esophagitis?

Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EE) is an inflammation of the esophagus as a result of the abnormal infiltration of eosinophils in an allergic reaction. Because many of the symptoms are the same as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) it is usually mistaken for reflux and misdiagnosed, sometimes for years. EE can be considered as food allergies and is usually classed as a blood disorder.

EE tends to occur more often in males, but is otherwise an equal opportunity disorder. With EE, you will see painful swallowing and digestion (if they can even get the food down), vomiting and abdominal pain making it very difficult to live with. Children with Eosinophilic Esophagitis will often experience weight loss that can lead to failure to thrive and hospitalization.

What are Eosinophils?

Eosinophils (pronounced: ee-oh-sin-oh-fillz) are actually a certain type of white blood cell, but just not as numerous as the regular white blood cells, and are a vital part of the immune response system. Eosinophils are designed to respond to parasites, or invaders that are too large to be absorbed by white blood cells. They attach themselves to the invader and penetrate the cell walls to kill and destroy the parasite.

When your body detects an invader (such as a parasite, or an allergic substance) that it decides is a harmful protein, it calls on the immune system which produces a substance called immunoglobulin E (IgE). These are the antibodies that are sent out to do battle with the intruder (which Eosinophils are a part) and when they contact the detected protein invader, they release reactive chemicals called histamines and leukotrienes and these chemicals are what produce the allergic symptoms such as shortness of breath, hives, swelling, rashes, itchy skin, nausea and diarrhea.

Eosinophils are not normally found in the esophagus, and the buildup and allergic responses are the result of the body deciding certain proteins (such as certain foods) are on the dangerous list when they shouldn't be. The eosinophils actually end up attacking the lining of the esophagus, causing damage which in the long term the inflammation could cause the esophagus to close up (stricture) and increase of fibrosis, which can interfere with swallowing.

Symptoms

Eosinophils congregating in the esophagus will cause problems all the way down the gastrointestinal pathway, which makes the normal function of eating and digestion difficult and painful. Here is a list of the symptoms:

• Difficulty swallowing


• Choking


• Nausea


• Vomiting


• Cramping


• Diarrhea


• Weight loss


• Abdominal pain


• Chest pain


• Failure to thrive


• Reflux not relieved by standard anti-reflux therapy

These conditions are usually present for many years prior to an EE diagnosis, so keep in mind that occasional reflux, stomach ache or even vomiting may be other common ailments that cause these same symptoms.

Diagnosis

An initial clinical diagnosis is usually made based on the history of symptoms and ruling out other possible causes. A number of tests are performed to try to determine the specific triggers or allergens causing the Eosinophilic reaction. These tests include:

• Elimination diet and food challenges


• Allergic skin prick testing


• RAST testing (radioallergosorbent test), a blood allergy test for specific IgE antibodies


• Patch testing where food substances are secured against the skin for a period of time


• Endoscopy and biopsy of the esophagus

The only way to confirm the clinical diagnosis is by counting the actual concentrations of eosinophils in the tissue samples taken by biopsy during the endoscopy procedure.

Treatment

Eosinophilic Esophagitis is usually treated first by avoiding the allergen causing the reaction. This is where all the allergy testing comes in to generate the "avoid at all costs" and "let's give it a try" food listing. Many EE kids are on an elemental diet taking an amino based formula as the major source of nutrients and possibly a few other foods that have tested successfully. Elimination diets and food trials are considered normal in the lives of kids (or adults) with Eosinophilic Esophagitis.

Some do quite well with an alteration in diet and removal of reactive foods, but for others, medication is needed. Antihistamines can help relieve the histamine produced allergic reactions, and reflux medication can help prevent acid damage to the esophagus. To help reduce inflammation that results from the eosinophil infiltration, corticosteroids are used. Recently EE patients have been treated with fluticasone without the spacer so that the drug is swallowed instead of inhaled.

If the esophagus becomes restricted, a procedure called dilation is used to open it back up so the patient can swallow food a little easier. Esophagial restriction is quite serious and could mean installing a G-tube to be able to get nutrition into the body.

What is the Impact of EE?

Having a diagnosed Eosinophilic disorder means that your life, and the life of your family will never be the same. It is a life altering diagnosis with implications that go beyond the pain and limited diet and extends into the social emotional arena in a society that is completely centered on food.

Helping those around you to understand what Eosinophilic Esophagitis is and how it affects you or your child opens the door to the support you need. Learn as much as you can, stay current on medical advances, work with your doctor and above all, keep a positive attitude. You can do this.

Flea Allergy Dermatitis in Cats Can Lead to Skin Infections

The most common allergy for cats is an allergy to fleas. It can be a difficult diagnosis for a pet owner as the constant grooming of cats removes evidence of fleas. For a feline allergic to the pest just a couple flea bites a week can cause a bad skin reaction that can lead to additional skin infections.

Some cats may have numerous fleas with little apparent scratching but that does not mean they can tolerate the fleas over a long term. Fleas are bloodsuckers and a high population on your cat can lead to anemia and other serious health problems.

For the unfortunate cat with an allergy to flea saliva, one or two fleas is too many to tolerate. The animal may scratch behind his ears until he has bald spots and the allergic dermatitis can affect his skin all over his body very quickly.

For a healthy flea, humidity is more important than temperature. In area of high humidity a flea can survive from three weeks to a year while temperatures in temperate climates do not cool sufficiently in winter months to kill fleas outdoors. Cats in humid areas of the country need monthly flea protection year round.

Symptoms of Fleas on Your Cat

* Chewing the base of the tail
* Chewing the back legs and perhaps front legs
* Lesions caused by licking and chewing the bumps left by flea bites
* Hot spots above the base of the tail or on the face

Diagnosis and Treatment

An examination for fleas is often the first step to take in diagnosing itchy or irritated skin on your cat. Fleas are the most common cause of itching rashes and perhaps on of the easiest to eliminate.

A diagnosis of flea allergy dermatitis may be accompanied by a secondary diagnosis of bacterial skin infection for which your vet may prescribe antibiotics. Fungal infections may also be present as a result of the scratching that leaves the feline skin open to further infection.

The primary treatment is to prevent any fleas from biting your cat. This involves using flea control on the animal but also aggressively eliminating fleas in the cat's environment.

In extreme cases of flea allergy dermatitis in cats it may be necessary for the animal to take a course of steroids such as prednisone to break the cycle of itching and provide fast relief from the discomfort.

Preventive Measures

Using flea control medications on your cat monthly should be a standard part of the health care of your pet. In cold climates, flea prevention topical products should be started a month before flea season begins and continued for one month after cold weather resumes in the fall.

In coastal and humid areas, fleas are a problem twelve months of the year and flea control must be a monthly routine of flea prevention all year long. Grooming your cat with a fine toothed flea comb will remove dead fleas and flea dirt.

For the cats living area, bedding should be washed frequently in hot water and a safe flea killing spray used on carpets and furniture on occasion. Frequent vacuuming of carpets will remove flea eggs and larvae from the environment. Lawn sprays may also be indicated if your pets spend time out of doors during summer months.

Your veterinarian may recommend diagnostic tests to determine whether flea allergy dermatitis is the cause of your cat's skin problems. Most vets, however, will advise you on eliminating the flea problem and reserve testing and skin scrapings for those pets that continue to have skin lesions in the absence of fleas.

Most topical flea treatments for cats are available at discount pet medication sites online without prescriptions. By ordering products from a reliable source cat owners can avoid receiving outdated meds or ineffective copies of popular flea treatments.

Whether you choose Advantage or Front Line Plus to keep your feline flea free or ask your vet for a prescription for the wider protection of Revolution for Cats, shopping for discount pet medications online will keep your cat free of flea allergy dermatitis at the lowest cost.

Allergy Testing - Different Ways to Test For Allergies

People who suffer from allergies should consider the different options that they have available. There are many different treatments that are available for people with allergies. Before getting any treatment, it is important to know what you are actually allergic to. Allergy testing is used to help find the specific allergen that is causing your allergen symptoms. There are many different allergy tests that are available from doctors and holistic practitioners.

The purpose of these allergen tests is to identify the presence of either IgE or IgG antibodies. The most common methods that are used to take allergen tests are blood samples, skin pricks, or patch tests. The test that you use will probably depend on the kind of skin that you have. The skin prick test is the most recommended way to initial see if you suffer from allergies. This method is a cheap and fast way to deliver quick results on for your allergies.

Blood tests are also very popular for different allergies. If you are looking to get a blood test it is usually carried out in a medical clinic. The will insert a small needle and extract a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm. This test is very valuable in providing good feedback for inhaled or consumed allergens.

Although these are not the only forms of allergy testing that is used, they are probably the most common tests that are taken. If you are suffering from different allergies, it is important that you find out what you are allergic to. Proper testing can ensure that you get the relieve that you need.

Home Allergy Tests Make Finding Your Allergies Easy

Taking an allergy test today is infinitely easier today than it was fifty years ago. Today all you have to do is to prick your finger with a pin, draw a bit of blood, place it in a specialized container, send it to the lab and wait a week of so for the results.

In years past if you wanted to have an allergy test, you would have to see a doctor, have him prick your skin with various allergens, and then see him again to get the results of the tests a few weeks later.

Things are a lot different today. Today you can literally have yourself tested by picking up one of the allergy home test kits. The prices for such a kit vary greatly, but at this time you can find them on the Internet in the range of $60-$110.

Typical of one of these at home food intolerance kits is one that will screen your reactions to over one hundred foods, including one of the more prevalent foods that causes allergies - gluten. You pick up the kit, test yourself in the privacy of your own home, and get your results back right away.

In fact, some of the newer kits don't even require that blood be drawn. A simple bloodless pin prick is all that is needed for the laboratory to test you against all one hundred plus allergens. When completed, the lab will send you a detailed report telling you which foods you tested positive for and which ones you had no reaction to. A positive test result towards a certain food means that you have an allergy towards that food.

Some of the laboratories, in addition to the detailed test results, will send you a sheet of dietary recommendations customized to your test results. But, even if you don't receive any food recommendations, you can take the test results to any registered dietician and have her set you up with a food elimination diet.

Such a diet will focus on eliminating the foods that you tested positive for from your diet. The hope is that once these foods are eliminated, the underlying allergy problems that you have been experiencing will be eliminated as well.

Once you have your test results back, check with your insurance company to see if they will reimburse you for the kit and the test, because some will. But whether they do or don't reimburse you, if you have been bothered all your life by bloating, skin breakouts, unexplained weight gain, or other food allergies, taking this test could be the best thing that you could do to regain your health.

Gluten Disorder On The Rise

A Minnesota study using frozen blood samples taken from Air Force recruits 50 years ago found that gluten disorder, a debilitating digestive condition, is four times more common today than it was in the 1950s. (Gluten is a protein composite found in grass-related grains such as wheat, rye, barley, spelt, and kamut.)

According to the Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist who led the study, he believed that the rising prevalence of gluten disorder is a result of the rapid changes in our eating habits and food processing over the last half century. Not only are we consuming much more bread, cereal, pasta, and pizza than previous generations, modern wheat is also very different from the wheat our ancestors ate. Due to hybridization or crossbreeding, the proportion of gluten protein in wheat has increased enormously.

Yet, our genetics have changed very little since the days our hunter-gatherer ancestors roamed the planet. Our bodies have not developed the capacity to handle these "foreign" proteins. A modern diet that is heavily grain-based is dramatically different from what our stone-age ancestors used to eat - fresh-picked greens, berries, nuts, seeds, eggs and whatever they could catch or kill. For some of us, eating a diet that deviates from our evolutionary blueprint can lead to dire consequences.

Wheat Allergy, Celiac Disease, And Gluten Intolerance

The three common disorders that arise from gluten are wheat allergy, celiac disease, and gluten intolerance.

Wheat allergy is one of the top eight food allergies in America. The immune system releases histamine (IgE antibody) in response to the wheat that you consume, much like a peanut allergy. One molecule of allergic food can result in anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening type of allergic reaction that develops within seconds or minutes.

Symptoms of wheat allergy may include tightening of the airway, rash, wheezing, lip swelling, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. People suffering from wheat allergy usually can identify it without testing. This is because the reaction occurs every time and shortly after they eat the allergic food.

Celiac disease, or celiac sprue occurs in people whose bodies cannot digest gluten. The undigested protein triggers the body's immune system to attack the tiny, finger-like protrusions called villi, which lines the small intestine. Normally, the villi allow nutrients from food to be absorbed through the walls of the small intestine into the bloodstream. But when the villi are damaged or flattened, a person is less able to absorb nutrients such as iron and calcium, which in turn may eventually lead to anemia, osteoporosis, infertility, and a whole host of other health issues.

Additionally, celiac disease is associated with leaky gut syndrome, also known as permeable intestines. Undigested gluten moves through the damaged intestinal wall into the bloodstream, creating systemic inflammation throughout the body.

Symptoms of celiac disease vary from person to person. They may occur in the digestive system and/or other parts of the body. Common digestive symptoms include abdominal bloating and pain, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, pale, foul-smelling, or fatty stool, and weight loss. Non-digestive symptoms include fatigue, bone or joint pain, arthritis, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, tingling numbness in the hands and feet, seizures, canker sores in mouth, and an itchy skin rash called dermatitis herpetiformis.

Currently, an estimated one out of 133 people suffer from this autoimmune disease. The number may be as high as one out of 33 in at-risk populations. You are more likely to have the disease if you have any of the following:

• a close relative with celiac disease


• European descent


• unexplained iron deficiency anemia


• premature osteoporosis and osteopenia


• unexplained reproductive disorders


• irritable bowel syndrome


• lupus


• type 1 diabetes mellitus


• rheumatoid arthritis


• autoimmune thyroid diseases (Hashimoto's, Grave's)


• microscopic colitis


• liver disease


• Down Syndrome

The onset of celiac disease can occur at any time in a person's life. Diagnosis of celiac disease includes antibody blood tests (IgA and IgG antibodies) for gluten and wheat, small intestinal biopsy (performed endoscopically), and genetic testing of the HLA DQ2/DQ8 genes.

Gluten intolerance, also called non-celiac gluten sensitivity, is very similar to celiac disease except that it is not immune-related. There is no clinical diagnostic test for gluten intolerance; however, if you go on a gluten-free diet and your symptoms disappear, you are likely to have gluten intolerance.

Going Gluten-Free

The only treatment for celiac disease and gluten intolerance is to abstain from any foods that contain gluten.

Grains to avoid:

• barley


• couscous


• farro


• kamut


• malt


• oats (unless labeled gluten-free)


• rye


• semolina


• spelt


• teff


• triticale


• wheat

Hidden sources of gluten:

• candies


• canned tuna fish


• cereals


• caramel coloring


• cold cuts


• coloring


• corn starch (may contain anti-caking ingredient)


• emulsifiers


• flavorings


• hydrolyzed plant protein (HPP)


• hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP)


• ketchup (vinegar may contain gluten)


• malt and barley malt


• maple syrup (unless labeled 100% pure)


• medications


• modified food starch


• preservatives


• rice syrup (unless labeled gluten-free)


• sauce mixes


• soy sauce


• soups, ready-made


• spices (may contain anti-caking ingredient)


• starches


• texturized vegetable protein (TVP)


• vegetable gum


• vinegar

Gluten-free grains, seeds, and flours:

• amaranth


• almond flour


• buckwheat


• coconut flour


• corn (only eat non-genetically modified corn)


• flax


• millet


• quinoa


• rice


• sorghum


• soy (not recommended as a health food)

Additional Tips

• Be patient. When you start out on a gluten-free diet, you may begin to feel better almost immediately. But for some people, it may take up to a month or two before the inflammation subsides. After all, it needs almost 9-12 months for the lining of your small intestine to heal.


• Probiotics. One way to expedite the healing process is to incorporate the use of probiotics, which are the beneficial bacteria that reside in your gut. Many people with leaky gut have a bacterial imbalance - too much of the "unfriendly" bacteria and too little of the "friendly" bacteria. Probiotics have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory potential and help alleviate the severity of celiac disease. Natural probiotics include fermented vegetables such as kimchee and sauerkraut, unsweetened kefir (fermented milk) and yogurt, and natto (fermented soybeans, a traditional Japanese food). Another option is to take a high quality probiotic supplement with your meal.


• L-glutamine. This amino acid is found in abundance in the entire gastrointestinal tract. It plays a key role in the metabolism, structure and functioning of the gut and its extensive immune system. Supplementation of L-glutamine will help promote intestinal healing.


• Digestive enzymes help to break down food into their smallest molecules and enhance absorption of nutrients, which is a major problem for people with celiac disease.


• Omega-3 fatty acids help to promote intestinal healing, support the immune system, and reduce inflammation. Good sources of omega-3 are found in cold water fish such as wild Alaskan salmon, sardines, and herrings. Another alternative is to take a high quality omega-3 supplement derived from mercury-free fish.


• Last but not least, when you go gluten-free, make sure you are not swapping whole grains for refined, processed foods. One study of people with celiac disease who followed a gluten-free diet found that over 80% gained weight after two years. Just because a food is gluten-free doesn't automatically make it healthy or promote weight loss. Instead, substitute your gluten grains with lots of vegetables and avoid gluten-free foods that are refined, processed, or loaded with sugar.

Gluten Sensitivity - A Common Problem Or a Myth

Many people today are going on gluten free diets. You can find extensive gluten free sections in Kroger, HEB, and Whole Foods. Gluten has been in the national spot light receiving recognition on Discovery Health, CNN's Larry King, Oprah, David Letterman, The View, Good Housekeeping Magazine and more. There is even a "dummies book" available for those with gluten sensitivity.1

So What is Gluten?

Gluten is a protein found in the following grains: wheat, barley, rye, and oats. It is also found in processed foods derived from wheat, barley, rye, and oats. Breads, cereals, and pastas are rich in gluten. Other foods and/or food additives can be derived from gluten containing grains. Examples include soy sauce, gravies, soups, whiskey, and modified food starch. Traditional medical thought is that the protein gluten interacts with some people's immune systems causing an autoimmune reaction which damages the intestine. However, newer research is identifying that the protein gluten is only part of the problem. Some scientists argue that many grains (including corn) can create similar reactions.

So what is gluten sensitivity?

It depends on who you ask. Many people use the term gluten sensitivity interchangeably with celiac disease (an autoimmune intestinal disorder). Some call gluten sensitivity a food allergy or intolerance. Both are correct to some degree. Gluten sensitivity causes celiac disease, but not all people with gluten sensitivity develop celiac disease. This is where the problem in traditional diagnosis can occur. The only way to confirm whether or not a person has celiac disease is to perform an intestinal biopsy. If the results reveal villous atrophy (flattening of the intestinal folds) then celiac disease is diagnosed. If the results are negative, then both celiac disease and gluten sensitivity may be dismissed. Newer research is finding that gluten sensitivity can exist independently without causing celiac disease. There are more than 180 different disease conditions, syndromes, and symptoms that have been linked to gluten sensitivity in the medical literature.2,3 Some common conditions include thyroid disorders, seizure disorders, vertigo, osteoporosis, irritable bowel syndrome, and PCOS. There have been two proposed names in the medical literature for this classification of gluten sensitivity. 1. Non-Celiac Gluten Intolerance4 and 2. Gluten Syndrome.5

Diagnosing Gluten Sensitivity & Celiac Disease

The proper tools must be used to accurately diagnose gluten sensitivity. Relying solely on a biopsy can delay a diagnosis for several years. I have personally seen cases of celiac disease where up to 8 biopsies were performed before a diagnosis was made. Blood antibody tests provide a better degree of accuracy but still have a great degree of false negatives. Genetic testing offers the greatest degree of accuracy and when combined with a patient's history and examination a diagnosis can be made early and accurately. However, the greatest tool is patient improvement. If a person starts to feel better on a gluten free diet it doesn't matter what blood tests or biopsies reveal. The proverbial proof is in the pudding.

Once Again, Common Sense Applies -

Several years ago, many Americans played an unknowing role in the social experiment known as the Atkin's diet. This diet, largely devoid of grain provided many with better health through weight loss and reduction of many generalized symptoms of poor health. However, there were also those whose health did poorly on the Atkin's diet. People are different and unique. Renowned Nobel Prize winning scientist, Roger Williams, wrote a book called Biochemical Individuality examining these individual differences. Bottom line: one diet is not right for everyone. Because going on a gluten free takes a great deal of education and commitment, it is recommended that proper testing be performed to identify whether the diet is right for you. Remember going gluten free is not a trendy diet; it is a permanent lifestyle that should be taken very seriously as even small amounts of gluten exposure can cause problems. This month I will leave you with a final thought on gluten and grains. When farmers want their cows and pigs to gain weight before going to market, they feed them more grain. In the past 100 years, grain consumption has dramatically increased, paralleling a rise in the incidence of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and cancer. Despite the above facts many doctors and dieticians continue to blindly prescribe "heart healthy" diets high in grain.

Want to learn more? www.TownCenterWellness.com

References:

1. Korn, Danna. Living Gluten-Free... Wiley Publishing 2006.
2. Libonati, Cleo J. Recognizing Celiac Disease. GFW Publishing Jan 2007.
3. towncenterwellness.com:80/webwellness_newsletter.html
4. gluten.net/about.htm
5. Ford, Rodney. The Gluten Syndrome. RRS Global Ltd publishing. Sept 2007.

Do Celiac Symptoms Signal the Death of Your Morning Porridge?

Celiac Symptoms and different glutens

Just because you have been diagnosed with celiac disease, does this mean ALL glutens are banned from your diet? Gluten is the name given to the protein in oats, barley, rye and wheat that affects people exhibiting celiac symptoms. The name Gluten actually represents several types of proteins -

• Avenin in oats

• Secalin in rye

• Hordein in barley

• Gliadin in wheat

Most people exhibiting celiac symptoms are allergic to wheat gluten. Few are allergic to all four proteins. The current tests for gluten can measure gliadin, hordein and secalin but not avenin in oats as it is a slightly different protein.

Unfortunately 20% of celiac sufferers react to pure uncontaminated oats, i.e. they exhibit the usual celiac symptoms after eating any food containing oats. The good news is that the other 80% of us don't. What this means is, we can have our morning porridge without having to resort to eating expensive rice porridge. Apart from the expense of rice porridge, oats based porridge has another very important benefit to our diet if we find we are not allergic to the avenin.

Fibre is required in our diet

Fibre originates from plant based foods. It helps our digestive system to process food, and helps control the release of sugar into the bloodstream, which in turn can help control appetite. There are two types of fibre -

• Insoluble fibre helps move food through your digestive system.

• Soluble fibre helps lower cholesterol re-absorption and helps control the release of sugar into the bloodstream.

Oats are high in fibre

Oats contain high amounts of fibre, both soluble and insoluble. Rolled oats have 9.2% fibre. A food with 6% fibre is regarded as a high fibre source therefore rolled oats is a high fibre food. One 45g serving of porridge will provide you with 17% (female) or 14% (male) of the fibre requirements needed by an average adult each day.

When gluten free oats are sold, what should be stated is that they are free from wheat, barley and rye proteins and that there is no measurable contamination. Avenin is an essential part of oats (as is gliadin in wheat), therefore oats will never be gluten free even if they are described or sold as such. Since we know that damage can occur in the absence of celiac symptoms, our advice is that oats should not be consumed without a biopsy prior to and during consumption.

Help I Am Allergic To Cosmetics

If you are allergic to cosmetics then you suffer from Allergies Type 1, also called Contact Allergies. Even with all of the testing that cosmetics must go through prior to being made available to the general public, there are still a great many women who suffer from cosmetic allergies due to certain ingredients contained in these products. Unfortunately, most women do not realize that they are having any allergic reaction until it is too late. Rather than chalking it all up to the price one must pay for beauty, we have put together a list of ways that you can learn to recognize the signs of cosmetic allergies before it's too late.

The first way to recognize whether you may be suffering from cosmetic allergies, is to pay close attention to any dermatological changes your skin may undergo. This is especially true if you experience sudden itchy, flaky, or severe dry skin. Many women experience no other signs of their cosmetic allergies other than dry patches of skin. But, left untreated, these dry patches can eventually become much more severe. More severe cosmetic allergies can present themselves in the form of hives and peeling skin. This rash can spread over the entire face and neck if not treated immediately, and can lead to such severe consequences as skin cancer if left to go unchecked.

Typically, cosmetic allergies can be treated with an ointment containing steroids, such as hydrocortisone cream. More serious allergic reactions may require skin peels, shots, or other equally invasive treatments, but can usually be cleared up within a few weeks. It is important that you discontinue using any product that has caused your cosmetic allergies, but be sure to save the package so that your doctor can look at the ingredients. This is especially important, as cosmetic allergies can be caused by a great many different ingredients. Your doctor will need to know exactly what he or she is up against, so as to narrow down the best method of treatment.

In order to prevent cosmetic allergies from occurring in the first place, it is important that you only purchase products that are specifically labeled as being hypoallergenic. These products have been specially formulated without any of the ingredients that normally associated with allergic reactions. If you have particularly sensitive skin, though, even these may cause an allergic reaction. If that is the case, you may be better off staying away from cosmetic products altogether.

Cosmetic allergies can be quite irritating for women who want to look their best, but they are treatable, and can be avoided if you take care. Always discontinue the uses of cosmetics at the first sign of an allergy reaction. Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with allergies due to cosmetics such as vitamin E, folic acid, olbas oil and tea tree oil.

Vitamin E accelerates healing from rashes and aids in the functioning of the immune system.

Folic Acid is a member of the B-complex family. Folic Acid participates in coenzyme reaction that is needed for cell growth and new cell formation.

Olbas is used to increase the circulation in skin by opening up the skin pores. Olbas oil has been used for its healing properties in cultures around the world for centuries.

Tea Tree Oil has natural anti-inflammatory properties and helps sooth and treat problem skin. It is used to help tighten pores and firm skin for a more youthful, healthy appearance.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

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

4 Vital Information About Cat Allergy Testing

There are some people who may love to eat or do something but find themselves experiencing negative reactions with it. Most of the time, they will think that they're just under the weather but the truth is they are allergic to something and are not even aware of it. The good news is there are lots of cat allergy testing centers that will help them get know if they have this problem with cats. Here are some of the things you must know about these testing centers and the main procedure.

When to get tested?

One of the things you'll ask about cat allergy testing is when to get tested for this type of allergy? The thing you must watch out for is your reaction to cat dander or presence of a cat right in your home. Their presence would also mean that they leave dander which generally causes allergic reactions. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes and even headaches at times. It's best to get tested if you think you have a cat allergy to know the next best procedure to do.

Why should you be tested for it?

Primarily, this is a way for you to know if you really have allergic reactions to cats. There are instances when people may experience these symptoms and relate it to other causes. This test is a way to rule out the main cause of your allergy symptoms.

What happens after testing?

An allergist can give you the right medications after finding out whether you really have this problem. They will prescribe the best medication that can treat cat allergy symptoms and even give you tips on what to do in avoiding its attacks even if you have pets at home. Remember that medications may have differences in terms of dosages and effectiveness so you need the help of an allergist to find this out.

How much do they cost?

Typically, these testing procedures would cost more than what you expect since they will focus on ruling out your allergens to get proper treatments. They have the best facilities that will help in giving accurate test results. But of course, you can find various service providers to find the price suitable for your budget.

So upon feeling these mild symptoms, you can get cat allergy testing in order to find out if you have this problem and deal with it accordingly using the right treatment and prevention methods.

How to Cure Allergy Naturally?

When the immune system in our body finds or realizes anything as foreign to the body, it immediately releases antibodies like histamines to fight against the foreign substance. This causes inflammation which is called allergy in our body.

There are many natural remedies for allergies available. Although natural remedies are easily available without prescription, it is better to consult a doctor before to take up any medicine as a remedy for allergies.

When a person is taking natural remedies or any other medicines for allergies, it is better to concentrate on the environment in which they live. Avoid moist environments. Moist environments aid the growth of molds that are one of the causes of allergies. Cleanliness of the beds and the carpet plays an important role in treating allergies. Food restrictions also help in treating the allergies well. Certain types of foods should be avoided and certain foods can be taken. A proper nutritional supplement to aid the treatment is also recommended.

Foods like wheat and chocolates cause allergy symptoms like headaches which can also be migraine in nature. Hay fever, hives, childhood allergies, asthma, and eczema are also caused by such foods. Garlic and Onion can be taken daily to treat allergies. It is found that these herbs contain Quercitin which is effective in curing allergies. This is found to reduce the production of histamine that causes allergies in us. Green tea extract which is rich in phytonutrients is used to ward off cellular attacks. It is an excellent anti bacterial and is used to cut down the cholesterol level and to regulate the blood sugar.

Bromelain is used to assist in digestion of vegetable protein. Papain contains an enzyme that breaks down protein is effective in curing allergies. The acidic stage of the allergic reactions can be controlled effectively with Magnesium (Citrate). This is also used in treating asthma which has strong bonding with allergies. Calcium (Citrate) which balances the acid and the alkaline levels in our body is good in curing allergies. Calcium also reduces the production of histamine in our body.

Air filters and dehumidifiers can be used to prevent mold that is present in the humid environments. It is known that onions, garlic, and citrus fruits contain natural antihistamines. Having these would help you prevent and cure allergies. Natural nasal rinses are also available for treating allergies. Allergy can be controlled with the help for a proper diet. You have to note down the food items that are taken by you. Avoiding certain foods and taking some foods would help you in controlling the allergies.

Certain food supplements would also help in treating allergies positively. Natural antihistamines are taken to control allergy. You should know that the histamine released by our immune system is responsible for the allergic reaction. It is also better to know what leads to allergies. It is found that in babies the eating habits during the first year play an important role in a baby's sensitivity to allergy. Lack of breast feeding and feeding babies with solid food too early may lead to such conditions.

Penis Rash Triggers - Four Common Causes of Penile Breakouts

For men with an itchy, red, uncomfortable penis rash, relief can't come quickly enough. The bumps are unsightly, and the niggling itch doesn't seem to abate no matter how much a guy might scratch. Unfortunately, rashes in intimate areas can spring from many sources, and each different rash type may require a slightly different approach to penis care.

A doctor is best qualified to determine the source of the discomfort and provide appropriate relief, but in the interim, learning more about what tends to cause skin eruptions might help. Armed with this knowledge, a man will be in a good position to help his doctor combat the rash and restore the skin to good health.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Of all penis rash causes, STDs are probably the most frightening to contemplate, and men with outbreaks of red bumps often scour their memory banks, trying to remember if they've had sex with an infected partner in the recent past. Condoms can provide protection from some STDs, but some areas of the skin are still exposed even with protection, allowing infectious agents to slip through.

A quick swab at the doctor's office could help to diagnose an STD, and appropriate treatments could keep future breakouts under control. Some types of STDs can be successfully treated with antibiotics or other medical therapies, while other infections remain in the body for decades, and they could be passed on to future partners. That's why a proper diagnosis is so important. By learning the source of the rash, a guy could keep future mates from contracting a contagious disease.

Friction

STDs often top the list of concerns for guys with rashes, but there are several other sources for penis problems, and not all of them carry such severe consequences. For example, men who handle their equipment with a firm, tight and dry grip during intimate moments could abrade their delicate skin cells and erupt in a rash in the hours that follow. Even sex could lead to a rash, if the receptive partner isn't providing adequate lubrication. Rashes like this can sometimes look like those caused by STDs, so it's always important to see a doctor, but friction abrasions do tend to heal with time and TLC.

Allergens

Landry detergents, perfumed soaps and slick body lotions can contain hundreds of ingredients, and even a small amount of a skin allergen could invade the delicate tissue of the penis and cause a ring of rashes to form. Intense itching might follow, and the welts might spread to other parts of the body. Identifying the allergen is vital, as outbreaks like this tend to grow more severe in time, so men will need to avoid the items that cause the welts to rise. Allergy testing can solve the mystery, but in the interim, sticking to products that have none of the following ingredients might be helpful:

• Dyes


• Anti-bacterial agents


• Perfumes


• Deodorants


• Lye

Inadequate Care

An unclean penis that is contaminated with bacteria and dead skin cells could quickly become an infected penis that swells, itches and feels terrible. Antibiotic creams can be vital here, allowing the inflammation to fade and the skin to resume its normal work. In the case of an infection, a doctor's care is generally necessary.

Cleaning with a mild soap and rinsing thoroughly is an excellent method to keep the skin of the penis from rebelling and erupting. A penis health cr癡me (most experts recommend Man 1 Man Oil) might also help to soothe penis skin and help it to resist infection, as it contains both vitamins and emollients that can soften skin and nourish the cells, providing a strong barrier against harmful contaminants. Wearing supportive undergarments that breathe could also be vital, as these items of clothing may discourage bacterial colonies from growing in the dark, humid area around the penis.

Autism Treatment and Seasonal Allergies, Yeast, Regression

Once we transition from winter to spring, I often see children in my practice who suffer from regression. I can share why I think this is happening. As we pass through winter and move into spring, we see a bloom in foliage and flowers and we see an increase in pollen levels in the air. This is true for people all over the country and the world for that matter. Where I live, in Southern California, we often see a quick start of spring and many things are all blooming within a 2 - 3 week time period and we see a steep rise in pollen counts. I see many children with Autism who suffer from seasonal allergies and big sensitivities to pollen. So when allergies flare, we can see these children have problems with itchy eyes, runny nose, cough, etc. And I have seen children also regress because an overgrowth of yeast in their bodies. So why is this happening?

When spring begins, I typically see some children face an increase in yeast which results in specific behaviors that we often see with yeast overgrowth, inappropriate laughter, goofiness, silliness, giddiness, increased self-stimulatory behaviors and very high sensory needs. Children can begin exhibiting many types of odd behavior in spring resulting from this rise in yeast which is secondary to the issue with seasonal allergies. I believe that our immune system works to keep the yeast at bay, once our body is exposed to additional allergens like pollen, our immune system shifts to focus on that rather than the yeast. The yeast begins to thrive since the immune system is more focused on addressing the allergies. I have seen this pattern many times so I believe this to be happening, although determining whether this is the exact mechanism is difficult to analyze.

If you see regression in your child, and specifically as the seasons shift from winter to spring, there could be an underlying allergy and yeast connection. And you may see these changes during anytime the pollen counts get high in your region. If you do witness a regression that occurs with seasonal changes, you can explore blood testing, like with an IgE test to confirm or you can try over the counter medications to help. Non-drowsy Claritin or other variations can be helpful. But you also should realize that this may indicate an underlying problem with yeast. Other testing can be very useful such as an Organic Acid Test which looks at yeast markers. I use this test frequently to give me an indication of what type of a yeast problem we have and how prevalent it is. So if you are noticing regression in the springtime and seeing behavioral changes, you may be seeing indications of an underlying yeast problem as a result of the seasonal allergens.