Tamiflu
Influenza disease is given to birds, cats, other species of animals and humans by the virus strain H5N1. This causes the influenza of type 'A', which is the most dangerous type of influenza and had caused problems of varying proportions like the epidemic of 1918, which is reported to have caused about 20 million deaths around the world!
The symptoms of influenza are initially mild and they usually start with a sore throat followed by body pain. You may experience high fever and dizziness. Most people learn that they have caught the virus at this time and then they go to a doctor and get blood reports.
Tamiflu is the latest influenza treatment. In fact, Tamiflu is the first and the most effective oral neuraminidase inhibitor ever developed. Buy Tamiflu online, as it not only prevents but also cure influenza. If you buy Tamiflu online, it will not only help shorten the time you have flu symptoms such as nasal congestion, cough, sore throat, aches and muscle pain, headache, fever and chills but also reduce their severity.
You should buy Tamiflu online and take it within 48 hours of diagnosis for effective influenza treatment. As it takes time for influenza treatment to work effectively, you have to follow dosage schedule strictly.
When you buy Tamiflu online, you will get a capsule that contains 75grams of the active ingredient 'oseltamivir'. If you buy Tamiflu online for influenza treatment, you will be recommended to take one capsule in the morning and one capsule in the evening. You are required to follow this routine of influenza treatment for a period of five days. If you are having kidney problems and undergoing treatment for the same, then you should take only one tablet a day.
This dosage of influenza treatment is recommended to most adults who buy Tamiflu online. For children the dosage is however a bit different. When you buy Tamiflu online, make sure you give all your details correctly. Especially if you buy Tamiflu online for children, take special care.
Before you buy Tamiflu online, you should also weigh its benefits and side effects and only based on that you should take your decision. After you buy Tamiflu online, you might experience some of the following Tamiflu side effects:
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Bronchitis
Abdominal pain
Dizziness
Headache
Cough
Insomnia
Vertigo
Fatigue
Most people who buy Tamiflu online do not experience any side effects from this influenza treatment. However, some people experience severe side effects. Whether it is because they buy Tamiflu online, that is generic or counterfeit or that they buy Tamiflu online from an illicit source is not known.If you buy Tamiflu online, make sure you buy Tamiflu manufactured by Roche, which is genuine and branded and from a reputed online source. If you buy Tamiflu online that is generic, it may raise unnecessary health complications.
Tamiflu is one of the best influenza treatments, so get it without much delay!
Monday, November 19, 2007
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Living With Metal Allergies
Living With Metal Allergies
Metal allergy, which is a form of contact dermatitis, is a rather common skin condition. Quite a few people may have this condition and not even realize it. There are plenty of people who believe they can't wear anything but gold, or platinum or even silver. Often this it not true and many people do not realize that in most situations they can find a less expensive alternative. It all depends on the metal content. For instance the most common metal that causes a reaction is nickel. Nickel is used in a wide variety of jewelry including gold, although not too often.
Signs and Symptoms of Metal Allergy
The symptoms of a metal allergy is reddening of the skin where there has been contact with the metal, note the kind of allergy it is classified as 'contact dermatitis'. Which there are many types of allergens that cause contact dermatitis, such as poison oak or even for some people wool. An itching and or burning sensation usually accompanies the reddening of the skin in the area that has been in contact with the metal. In some severe cases a blistering rash can occur and may resemble pimples. The skin may reveal scaly, raw and thickened, sometimes oozing, crusting or draining may occur. As well as swelling, tenderness or warmth of the skin exposed to the metal.
Complications and Treatment
Infections may occur so it is important that if you have broken out to keep the area clean and dry, but do not touch it too often as this can irritate it more. The best thing is to clean the area once or twice a day and keep it covered. If the itching or burning is too much to bear you can always use a cortisone cream, for swelling you can use cold compresses on the skin.
Severity
The severity of the reaction often depends on several factors such as the duration of the contact, whether or not the skin has been broken, how sensitive you are to the metal causing the reaction, and the concentration of the metal you are sensitive to. For example if you are allergic to nickel, and a piece of sterling silver that contains a small percentage may not break you out but white gold with a high percentage of nickel might. Not that all sterling silver or white gold contains nickel but some pieces might. There is no specific formula for alloying silver or gold and all manufacturers have their own recipe.
Prevention
Obviously the best method of preventing the uncomfortable results of a metal allergy is to avoid the metal causing the sometimes-painful reaction. This as we all know is not always possible. For instance what are we suppose to do when a belt buckle or zipper on some of our favorite pieces of clothing starts irritating our skin? Are we just supposed to throw them out?
Protecting Your Skin
The best thing is to see you physician and have a patch test done to identify the specific allergen, this can usually be accomplished with three office visits, or sometimes less if you have self tested by purposely exposing yourself to the alleged culprit. But sometimes it may be a favorite pair of earrings and the easiest fix is to apply a coating of clear fingernail polish to the metal that contacts the skin. Although this will eventually wear, on an item you use regularly it can last for 2-3 weeks before you need to apply another coat. Or if it is bra hooks you could just get a small strip of comfortable fabric and place is as a barrier. Some cases you can just take an antihistamine.
Metal allergy, which is a form of contact dermatitis, is a rather common skin condition. Quite a few people may have this condition and not even realize it. There are plenty of people who believe they can't wear anything but gold, or platinum or even silver. Often this it not true and many people do not realize that in most situations they can find a less expensive alternative. It all depends on the metal content. For instance the most common metal that causes a reaction is nickel. Nickel is used in a wide variety of jewelry including gold, although not too often.
Signs and Symptoms of Metal Allergy
The symptoms of a metal allergy is reddening of the skin where there has been contact with the metal, note the kind of allergy it is classified as 'contact dermatitis'. Which there are many types of allergens that cause contact dermatitis, such as poison oak or even for some people wool. An itching and or burning sensation usually accompanies the reddening of the skin in the area that has been in contact with the metal. In some severe cases a blistering rash can occur and may resemble pimples. The skin may reveal scaly, raw and thickened, sometimes oozing, crusting or draining may occur. As well as swelling, tenderness or warmth of the skin exposed to the metal.
Complications and Treatment
Infections may occur so it is important that if you have broken out to keep the area clean and dry, but do not touch it too often as this can irritate it more. The best thing is to clean the area once or twice a day and keep it covered. If the itching or burning is too much to bear you can always use a cortisone cream, for swelling you can use cold compresses on the skin.
Severity
The severity of the reaction often depends on several factors such as the duration of the contact, whether or not the skin has been broken, how sensitive you are to the metal causing the reaction, and the concentration of the metal you are sensitive to. For example if you are allergic to nickel, and a piece of sterling silver that contains a small percentage may not break you out but white gold with a high percentage of nickel might. Not that all sterling silver or white gold contains nickel but some pieces might. There is no specific formula for alloying silver or gold and all manufacturers have their own recipe.
Prevention
Obviously the best method of preventing the uncomfortable results of a metal allergy is to avoid the metal causing the sometimes-painful reaction. This as we all know is not always possible. For instance what are we suppose to do when a belt buckle or zipper on some of our favorite pieces of clothing starts irritating our skin? Are we just supposed to throw them out?
Protecting Your Skin
The best thing is to see you physician and have a patch test done to identify the specific allergen, this can usually be accomplished with three office visits, or sometimes less if you have self tested by purposely exposing yourself to the alleged culprit. But sometimes it may be a favorite pair of earrings and the easiest fix is to apply a coating of clear fingernail polish to the metal that contacts the skin. Although this will eventually wear, on an item you use regularly it can last for 2-3 weeks before you need to apply another coat. Or if it is bra hooks you could just get a small strip of comfortable fabric and place is as a barrier. Some cases you can just take an antihistamine.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Installation of UV Air Purifiers Offers Energy Savings
With all of the discussions surrounding rising energy prices, the need to be more environmentally friendly, and poor indoor air quality, it can seem like a daunting and expensive undertaking. However, with one simple, yet effective, product known as a UV clarifier or negative ion generator, poor indoor air quality can be significantly improved while offering substantial energy savings.
Dr. Kowalski, PE, Ph.D. at Penn State University has concluded that the costs associated with ultraviolet air purification systems can be "justified as a capital expenditure by the savings it provides." Throughout her studies she found that the installation of UV clarifiers provide savings in energy as well as maintenance costs-all while offering tremendous health benefits that are associated with a healthy and clean indoor environment. However, the savings and benefits of UV disinfection and negative ionizers do not have to be limited to places such as hotels, hospitals, or health care facilities. Rather, people can utilize ultraviolet air purification systems and air ionizers within their own homes and offices and experience all of the benefits without breaking the bank.
UV air purifiers that are able to be installed within the HVAC unit, provide the clean air we've all been looking for by altering the DNA of bacteria, mold, mildew, and other allergens in heating and air conditioning systems. Experts estimate that approximately 90% of pollution is inside buildings. Since heating and air conditioning or air conveyance systems have the ideal conditions for the growth of bacteria, mold, mildew, and other hazardous air pollutants and allergens, it is imperative that we keep it clean and functioning at its optimum capacity.
An ultraviolet air purification system addresses the issues of rising energy prices and energy efficiency by minimizing the amount of work that is required for your HVAC unit to conduct. Many are aware of the importance of changing filters; however, we fail to realize the wear and tear that bacteria, mold, mildew, and allergen build-up has on our HVAC system. UV light air purifiers eliminate the need to ever clean the mold off your cooling coil (evaporator coil) again. Additionally, it helps decrease cooling costs by keeping the cooling coil from plugging up with mold and other harmful particulate matter; thus providing a significant savings in energy and dollars by improving or maintaining the efficiency of the HVAC unit and extending the life of the coils.
UV air purifiers also address the need to be more environmentally friendly. The mold, mildew, and other hazardous air pollutants, found in most heating and ventilation units, as well as the culmination of fine dust, germs, mold spores, pollen, animal dander, and other allergens circulating throughout the air, can lead to a host of odor issues, not to mention numerous health concerns. Typically the way people deal with odor is with harsh chemicals, candles, or other methods that "mask" the odor rather than eliminating it. Unfortunately, although these methods may make you believe that the odor is gone, it really isn't. As a matter of fact, more harmful particulates have been made airborne due to the chemical and harsh materials found in these cleaning and scented products that can take a toll on our health as well as the environment.
Thankfully, UV air cleaners can be installed in the HVAC system to address all of these problems and result in cleaner, healthier air. UV sterilizers are able to cleanse the air, kill odors, destroy allergens, and prevent the transmission of sickness and disease as it generates safe and highly effective hydroxyl ions and negative ions.
Since the air in your home, office, school, or hospital circulates through the HVAC system between 200 and 400 times in a 24-hour period, it makes sense to ensure that it is emitting the cleanest air possible. Some air purification systems are able to produce 2,500 times more germicidal effect than the amount in the sunlight that reaches the earth's surface, using a carefully selected, optimum portion of the UV-C ultraviolet spectrum. Hence, it is crucial to compare ultraviolet air purification systems before making a purchase. However, with the right UV air cleaner/purifier, you can make your home or office the energy efficient, environmentally friendly, clean air space you've always desired.
Dr. Kowalski, PE, Ph.D. at Penn State University has concluded that the costs associated with ultraviolet air purification systems can be "justified as a capital expenditure by the savings it provides." Throughout her studies she found that the installation of UV clarifiers provide savings in energy as well as maintenance costs-all while offering tremendous health benefits that are associated with a healthy and clean indoor environment. However, the savings and benefits of UV disinfection and negative ionizers do not have to be limited to places such as hotels, hospitals, or health care facilities. Rather, people can utilize ultraviolet air purification systems and air ionizers within their own homes and offices and experience all of the benefits without breaking the bank.
UV air purifiers that are able to be installed within the HVAC unit, provide the clean air we've all been looking for by altering the DNA of bacteria, mold, mildew, and other allergens in heating and air conditioning systems. Experts estimate that approximately 90% of pollution is inside buildings. Since heating and air conditioning or air conveyance systems have the ideal conditions for the growth of bacteria, mold, mildew, and other hazardous air pollutants and allergens, it is imperative that we keep it clean and functioning at its optimum capacity.
An ultraviolet air purification system addresses the issues of rising energy prices and energy efficiency by minimizing the amount of work that is required for your HVAC unit to conduct. Many are aware of the importance of changing filters; however, we fail to realize the wear and tear that bacteria, mold, mildew, and allergen build-up has on our HVAC system. UV light air purifiers eliminate the need to ever clean the mold off your cooling coil (evaporator coil) again. Additionally, it helps decrease cooling costs by keeping the cooling coil from plugging up with mold and other harmful particulate matter; thus providing a significant savings in energy and dollars by improving or maintaining the efficiency of the HVAC unit and extending the life of the coils.
UV air purifiers also address the need to be more environmentally friendly. The mold, mildew, and other hazardous air pollutants, found in most heating and ventilation units, as well as the culmination of fine dust, germs, mold spores, pollen, animal dander, and other allergens circulating throughout the air, can lead to a host of odor issues, not to mention numerous health concerns. Typically the way people deal with odor is with harsh chemicals, candles, or other methods that "mask" the odor rather than eliminating it. Unfortunately, although these methods may make you believe that the odor is gone, it really isn't. As a matter of fact, more harmful particulates have been made airborne due to the chemical and harsh materials found in these cleaning and scented products that can take a toll on our health as well as the environment.
Thankfully, UV air cleaners can be installed in the HVAC system to address all of these problems and result in cleaner, healthier air. UV sterilizers are able to cleanse the air, kill odors, destroy allergens, and prevent the transmission of sickness and disease as it generates safe and highly effective hydroxyl ions and negative ions.
Since the air in your home, office, school, or hospital circulates through the HVAC system between 200 and 400 times in a 24-hour period, it makes sense to ensure that it is emitting the cleanest air possible. Some air purification systems are able to produce 2,500 times more germicidal effect than the amount in the sunlight that reaches the earth's surface, using a carefully selected, optimum portion of the UV-C ultraviolet spectrum. Hence, it is crucial to compare ultraviolet air purification systems before making a purchase. However, with the right UV air cleaner/purifier, you can make your home or office the energy efficient, environmentally friendly, clean air space you've always desired.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Buying the Perfect Allergy-free Gifts for Your Loved Ones
Allergies is a condition which affect thousands of people in the world. One of them could be your friend or loved one. Imagine how sad it is when you took time to carefully choose the perfect gift for your loved ones, only to learn soon after that your gift just trigger a bad case of allergy for him/ her. The last thing you want is to spoil someone's joy just because you did not take his/her allergy into consideration when buying gifts. Here are some tips and ideas for buying gift for someone who are prone to allergies. Your loved ones will appreciate the extra thought that goes into buying a gift for them.
(1)Toys for children
Stuffed toys are the favorites among children but they can be dangerous to the allergy prone. When buying toys for children with allergies, you have to be extra careful. These are some of the things you should bear in mind:
Avoid stuffed animals with real fur as fur is more prone to dust and mold. A safer choice is to choose stuffed animals with polyester filling that is easy to wash and dry. Avoid latex toys. Latex allergy is becoming more common recently and may even fatal in more severe cases.
Wooden and metal toys are a safer choice. Wooden toys are recommended for children with allergies as they do not collect dust or mold, thus are not a suitable breeding ground for dust mite . Some toys are certified as asthma friendly. Get these toys instead.
(2) Products for cleaner indoor air
A good quality vacuum cleaner that contains a true HEPA filter. A true HEPA filter captures over 99.9% of dust mites, pollens and ragweed. Controlling the humidity level in the home is important to anyone with respiratory sensitivities as well as skin disorder such as eczema. A good way to know what the current level is is through a hygrometer. Even those with allergies can enjoy the soft romantic glow of candles with Solar powered rechargeable candles that are soot free.
For someone with a green thumb, a plant 'watering' meter would come in handy to help reduce the chance of over watering plants that often leads to mould growth. A carbon monoxide detector placed near fireplaces, space heaters and garages, is a great gift and could save lives.
(3) If you are buying jewelry for someone with allergies, you have to be aware if the jewelry will trigger a reaction. Nickel is known to cause a reaction for those with eczema and psoriasis. Look for nickel free jewelry to be on the safe side.
(4) Conventional skin care products often contains chemicals which are too harsh for sensitive skin and might cause an allergy reactions. A totally natural skin care set made from only the purest organic ingredients is a great gift for someone who is prone to skin allergies.
(5)For those who have dairy allergies, a soy, rice or almond milk maker is a great gift. Soy, rice or almond milk have the same goodness as dairy and with the milk maker, one can enjoy the fresh non dairy milk as well as use it for baking and cooking. Soyquick soy milk maker is recommended as it can be used to make, not only soy milk, but rice, almond, and oat milk.
(6) Juicing is a great way to detoxify the body, and many believe large intake of fresh organic juice helps to relieve allergy symptoms. What can you get fresher juice than juice you make yourself? A powerful, easy to clean and handy juicer might be just what your loved one needs.
(7) Allergy free linens, covers or bedding
Down feather bedding is recommended for people with allergies as it is actually less allergenic than synthetic ones. Choose those which offers anti-microbial shield to protect against bacteria, mold, dust mites, pollen and mildew. The range of comforters and bedding from Allergy Shield is Allergist Recommended & Medically Evaluated, thus can be safely used. It can prevent symptoms of asthma, nasal allergy, sinusitis and eczema.
Dust mite protective covers for pillows, mattresses and box springs are also an excellent gift for those who are allergic to dust mites. Many individuals with asthma also have other conditions such as eczema, a skin condition that is made worse when in contact with some fabrics, such as wool. Cotton clothing and bedding is always a good choice for people with eczema.
(8)Books
Allergies and AsthmaBooks are great for books lovers. There are many great books on coping life with allergies. One of which should be in every home is Jeffrey C. May's My House Is Killing Me!: The Home Guide for Families with Allergies and Asthma.
Allergies are very common nowadays. Eventhough a person is allergy prone, it does not mean he or she deserves the right to celebrate any occasion like any normal person. It only take a little extra thought and considerations to avoid potential problems. I hope these allergy free gift buying tips have given you some valuable ideas of buying the perfect gift for your loved ones.
(1)Toys for children
Stuffed toys are the favorites among children but they can be dangerous to the allergy prone. When buying toys for children with allergies, you have to be extra careful. These are some of the things you should bear in mind:
Avoid stuffed animals with real fur as fur is more prone to dust and mold. A safer choice is to choose stuffed animals with polyester filling that is easy to wash and dry. Avoid latex toys. Latex allergy is becoming more common recently and may even fatal in more severe cases.
Wooden and metal toys are a safer choice. Wooden toys are recommended for children with allergies as they do not collect dust or mold, thus are not a suitable breeding ground for dust mite . Some toys are certified as asthma friendly. Get these toys instead.
(2) Products for cleaner indoor air
A good quality vacuum cleaner that contains a true HEPA filter. A true HEPA filter captures over 99.9% of dust mites, pollens and ragweed. Controlling the humidity level in the home is important to anyone with respiratory sensitivities as well as skin disorder such as eczema. A good way to know what the current level is is through a hygrometer. Even those with allergies can enjoy the soft romantic glow of candles with Solar powered rechargeable candles that are soot free.
For someone with a green thumb, a plant 'watering' meter would come in handy to help reduce the chance of over watering plants that often leads to mould growth. A carbon monoxide detector placed near fireplaces, space heaters and garages, is a great gift and could save lives.
(3) If you are buying jewelry for someone with allergies, you have to be aware if the jewelry will trigger a reaction. Nickel is known to cause a reaction for those with eczema and psoriasis. Look for nickel free jewelry to be on the safe side.
(4) Conventional skin care products often contains chemicals which are too harsh for sensitive skin and might cause an allergy reactions. A totally natural skin care set made from only the purest organic ingredients is a great gift for someone who is prone to skin allergies.
(5)For those who have dairy allergies, a soy, rice or almond milk maker is a great gift. Soy, rice or almond milk have the same goodness as dairy and with the milk maker, one can enjoy the fresh non dairy milk as well as use it for baking and cooking. Soyquick soy milk maker is recommended as it can be used to make, not only soy milk, but rice, almond, and oat milk.
(6) Juicing is a great way to detoxify the body, and many believe large intake of fresh organic juice helps to relieve allergy symptoms. What can you get fresher juice than juice you make yourself? A powerful, easy to clean and handy juicer might be just what your loved one needs.
(7) Allergy free linens, covers or bedding
Down feather bedding is recommended for people with allergies as it is actually less allergenic than synthetic ones. Choose those which offers anti-microbial shield to protect against bacteria, mold, dust mites, pollen and mildew. The range of comforters and bedding from Allergy Shield is Allergist Recommended & Medically Evaluated, thus can be safely used. It can prevent symptoms of asthma, nasal allergy, sinusitis and eczema.
Dust mite protective covers for pillows, mattresses and box springs are also an excellent gift for those who are allergic to dust mites. Many individuals with asthma also have other conditions such as eczema, a skin condition that is made worse when in contact with some fabrics, such as wool. Cotton clothing and bedding is always a good choice for people with eczema.
(8)Books
Allergies and AsthmaBooks are great for books lovers. There are many great books on coping life with allergies. One of which should be in every home is Jeffrey C. May's My House Is Killing Me!: The Home Guide for Families with Allergies and Asthma.
Allergies are very common nowadays. Eventhough a person is allergy prone, it does not mean he or she deserves the right to celebrate any occasion like any normal person. It only take a little extra thought and considerations to avoid potential problems. I hope these allergy free gift buying tips have given you some valuable ideas of buying the perfect gift for your loved ones.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Uncovering The Relationship Between Asthma And Allergies
You often hear the terms "asthma" and "allergies" lumped together. But do you know why?
Asthma is a chronic lung condition, characterized by difficulty in breathing due to extra sensitive or hyper-responsive airways. During an asthma attack, the airways become irritated and react by narrowing and constructing, causing increased resistance to airflow, and obstructing the flow of air to and from the lungs. Common early warning signs of asthma include fatigue, coughing (especially at night), wheezing, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, runny nose, and itchy throat.
Allergies, on the other hand, are immune system reactions to things that most people would experience as harmless. Certain foods, dust, pollen ... these are allergens that can trigger an allergy attack. When they're encountered, the body\'s immune system produces IgE antibodies to fight the allergen. These antibodies create the release of chemicals into the bloodstream, one of which (histamine) affects the eyes, nose, throat, lungs, and skin, causing the allergy's symptoms.
So now that we have a better picture of how these two health conditions function, the question becomes ... is there a relationship between allergies and asthma?
It's true that those with certain allergies (usually allergies that affect the nose and eyes, such as dust mites, animal dander, mold or pollen) are more likely to develop asthma than say ... those without allergies or those with allergies in other classifications, such as food allergies. But it's also true that many of those with allergies never develop asthma at all.
In addition, there are other factors that can contribute to a person's asthma. Unmonitored exercise, for example. Or other illnesses, such as colds or the flu.
Scientists aren't sure what lies at the root cause of asthma. Various studies are looking at a variety of factors, including air pollution, obesity, and as strange as it might sound, even the lack of exposure to viruses and bacteria in childhood (which may prevent the immune system from growing stronger).
What we do know is that exposure to indoor allergens, pollen, animal dander, grass ... in other words, allergy-related factors, are often found in asthmatics. Often, but not always. And it also appears that asthma tends to run in families. If both parents have asthma, there\'s actually a 40% probability their children will develop the disease as well.
Current research efforts have been exploring the influence of environmental factors, genetics (as mentioned above), and even stress on asthma. This creates the potential to dramatically reduce a person's asthma severity levels by altering his or her exposure to the aggravating factors. This can be particularly successful when the culprit is something that's relatively easy to control. Dust, for instance. Or something only encountered in a work environment. Or, though it's certainly much more difficult because of the emotional component, a family pet.
Unfortunately, the most common allergy that appears to have a direct influence on asthma is an allergy to dust mites. Eliminating these mites to the extent that it might make a difference in the severity of your asthma requires a major change in lifestyle and can often be quite expensive. That doesn't mean it can't be done, only that it's not as easy as simply staying indoors during the pollen season or switching to a less stressful job.
Of course, new treatments are coming along all the time, and considerable research is currently dedicated to finding ways to modify, abolish or diminish the affect allergies have on the body. It's believed that with the successful control of allergies can come the successful control of asthma, particularly in younger sufferers.
In the meantime, here\'s what we know ... asthma can be triggered by allergic reactions, but it can also be triggered by nonallergic reactions. Most asthma attacks result from exposure to allergens such as pollen, household dust, and mold. These attacks can be influenced by indoor or outdoor environments. Because a majority of asthma sufferers are affected by some form of allergies, it's worth the effor to work closely with your doctor to try to identify and control all potential allergens within your influence.
Asthma is a chronic lung condition, characterized by difficulty in breathing due to extra sensitive or hyper-responsive airways. During an asthma attack, the airways become irritated and react by narrowing and constructing, causing increased resistance to airflow, and obstructing the flow of air to and from the lungs. Common early warning signs of asthma include fatigue, coughing (especially at night), wheezing, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, runny nose, and itchy throat.
Allergies, on the other hand, are immune system reactions to things that most people would experience as harmless. Certain foods, dust, pollen ... these are allergens that can trigger an allergy attack. When they're encountered, the body\'s immune system produces IgE antibodies to fight the allergen. These antibodies create the release of chemicals into the bloodstream, one of which (histamine) affects the eyes, nose, throat, lungs, and skin, causing the allergy's symptoms.
So now that we have a better picture of how these two health conditions function, the question becomes ... is there a relationship between allergies and asthma?
It's true that those with certain allergies (usually allergies that affect the nose and eyes, such as dust mites, animal dander, mold or pollen) are more likely to develop asthma than say ... those without allergies or those with allergies in other classifications, such as food allergies. But it's also true that many of those with allergies never develop asthma at all.
In addition, there are other factors that can contribute to a person's asthma. Unmonitored exercise, for example. Or other illnesses, such as colds or the flu.
Scientists aren't sure what lies at the root cause of asthma. Various studies are looking at a variety of factors, including air pollution, obesity, and as strange as it might sound, even the lack of exposure to viruses and bacteria in childhood (which may prevent the immune system from growing stronger).
What we do know is that exposure to indoor allergens, pollen, animal dander, grass ... in other words, allergy-related factors, are often found in asthmatics. Often, but not always. And it also appears that asthma tends to run in families. If both parents have asthma, there\'s actually a 40% probability their children will develop the disease as well.
Current research efforts have been exploring the influence of environmental factors, genetics (as mentioned above), and even stress on asthma. This creates the potential to dramatically reduce a person's asthma severity levels by altering his or her exposure to the aggravating factors. This can be particularly successful when the culprit is something that's relatively easy to control. Dust, for instance. Or something only encountered in a work environment. Or, though it's certainly much more difficult because of the emotional component, a family pet.
Unfortunately, the most common allergy that appears to have a direct influence on asthma is an allergy to dust mites. Eliminating these mites to the extent that it might make a difference in the severity of your asthma requires a major change in lifestyle and can often be quite expensive. That doesn't mean it can't be done, only that it's not as easy as simply staying indoors during the pollen season or switching to a less stressful job.
Of course, new treatments are coming along all the time, and considerable research is currently dedicated to finding ways to modify, abolish or diminish the affect allergies have on the body. It's believed that with the successful control of allergies can come the successful control of asthma, particularly in younger sufferers.
In the meantime, here\'s what we know ... asthma can be triggered by allergic reactions, but it can also be triggered by nonallergic reactions. Most asthma attacks result from exposure to allergens such as pollen, household dust, and mold. These attacks can be influenced by indoor or outdoor environments. Because a majority of asthma sufferers are affected by some form of allergies, it's worth the effor to work closely with your doctor to try to identify and control all potential allergens within your influence.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Negative Ion Generators Provide Significant Health Benefits to You and Your Pets
Pets sometimes seem like another member of the family. However, we fail to realize how the indoor air quality of our homes affect domestic dogs, cats, and birds. Dr. Carolynn MacAllister, an Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension Service veterinarian, co-authored a paper based on how tobacco has significant health consequences to pets. The veterinarians from Oklahoma State found that "secondhand smoke has been associated with oral cancer and lymphoma in cats, lung and nasal cancer in dogs, as well as lung cancer in birds."
In order to protect the health of ourselves, family members, and our pets, it is imperative to take advantage of negative ionizers. Although not smoking is ideal, there is proven effectiveness of reducing indoor air pollutants through the utilization of negative ion generators.
Negative ions that are produced through air cleaners/ionizers naturally remove pollutants from the air. Since cigarette smoke contains some of the most carcinogenic (cancer causing) compounds known to man, it makes sense to minimize or eliminate the exposure to such toxins. Although you or someone in your household may not be a smoker, previous owners or tenants may have smoked and the residual contaminants are still prevalent. Thankfully, air purifiers/ionizers can put your mind at ease and promote a healthy indoor environment for your family and pets alike.
Negative ion generators remove contaminants such as smoke, pollutants, allergens, bacteria, and viruses which lead to a variety of health concerns that can be potentially fatal. While negative ions do not actually kill airborne micro-organisms, they do effectively eliminate these hazardous particulates from the air in the same way that negative ionization works in the earth's natural atmosphere. Upon being released from a negative ion generator, as in the case with a room ionizer, the ions attract to positively charged particulates, including smoke, various toxins, dust, mold, and germs. As these particulates and ions form clusters, they become heavy and fall out of the air to surfaces where they can be disinfected rather than causing infection, a host of diseases including oral and nasal cancers, as well as lymphoma.
However, it is not only the fact that negative ions effectively remove air pollutants that makes them so valuable in removing harmful particulates found in secondhand cigarette smoke. These powerful ions also promote healing of the body's systems and cells. As negative ions are released from the room ionizer, they circulate in the air, and as they are inhaled, the result is: increased oxygen levels in the blood, relaxed nerves, revitalized cell metabolism, and strengthened the immune system. Together, these effects revitalize the body; thus, reducing the likelihood of developing lung related cancers, numerous illnesses, and support the body's ability to heal.
When one lives alone, he or she often fails to recognize that their habit or choice in lifestyle affects others around them whether it be a household pet such as a dog, cat, or bird, visitors, or even people that will later occupy the dwelling. Tobacco and secondhand smoke has significant health consequences to all of us. However, with the frequent and correct use of a negative ion generator, you can minimize the health risks and increase indoor air quality.
In order to protect the health of ourselves, family members, and our pets, it is imperative to take advantage of negative ionizers. Although not smoking is ideal, there is proven effectiveness of reducing indoor air pollutants through the utilization of negative ion generators.
Negative ions that are produced through air cleaners/ionizers naturally remove pollutants from the air. Since cigarette smoke contains some of the most carcinogenic (cancer causing) compounds known to man, it makes sense to minimize or eliminate the exposure to such toxins. Although you or someone in your household may not be a smoker, previous owners or tenants may have smoked and the residual contaminants are still prevalent. Thankfully, air purifiers/ionizers can put your mind at ease and promote a healthy indoor environment for your family and pets alike.
Negative ion generators remove contaminants such as smoke, pollutants, allergens, bacteria, and viruses which lead to a variety of health concerns that can be potentially fatal. While negative ions do not actually kill airborne micro-organisms, they do effectively eliminate these hazardous particulates from the air in the same way that negative ionization works in the earth's natural atmosphere. Upon being released from a negative ion generator, as in the case with a room ionizer, the ions attract to positively charged particulates, including smoke, various toxins, dust, mold, and germs. As these particulates and ions form clusters, they become heavy and fall out of the air to surfaces where they can be disinfected rather than causing infection, a host of diseases including oral and nasal cancers, as well as lymphoma.
However, it is not only the fact that negative ions effectively remove air pollutants that makes them so valuable in removing harmful particulates found in secondhand cigarette smoke. These powerful ions also promote healing of the body's systems and cells. As negative ions are released from the room ionizer, they circulate in the air, and as they are inhaled, the result is: increased oxygen levels in the blood, relaxed nerves, revitalized cell metabolism, and strengthened the immune system. Together, these effects revitalize the body; thus, reducing the likelihood of developing lung related cancers, numerous illnesses, and support the body's ability to heal.
When one lives alone, he or she often fails to recognize that their habit or choice in lifestyle affects others around them whether it be a household pet such as a dog, cat, or bird, visitors, or even people that will later occupy the dwelling. Tobacco and secondhand smoke has significant health consequences to all of us. However, with the frequent and correct use of a negative ion generator, you can minimize the health risks and increase indoor air quality.
Friday, October 26, 2007
The Must know Info on Allergy
Peanuts could lead you breathless, a bowl of pulses may cause swelling of the tongue and throat, or a fish preparation may lead to redness of skin and an incessant rash. The list is endless, and these are just a handful of the common allergies that people suffer from. While their occurrence may be common, what really makes the task difficult is that there is no cure for an allergy, and the only way out is by preventing the intake of food that causes allergy.
Simply defined, an allergy is intolerance of the immune system to specific foods. You are allergic to food when your body reacts adversely to it, thereby producing excess histamine, which triggers a cascade of allergic symptoms that can affect the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, skin or cardiovascular system.
Although an individual could be allergic to any food, such as fruits, vegetables and meat, it's protein-rich food that more than 80 per cent of the people are allergic to.
You could either be allergic to specific food items, or preservatives. In case of food, allergies are generally caused by protein rich food stuffs like peanuts, fish, egg, soy, wheat and pulses.
While an allergy may develop at any age, there is no specific cure, which can be prescribed. Doctors prescribe anti-histamine drugs and may even have to inject steroids in severe cases, but these only subdue the effects after an allergy has occurred. There is no long-term cure or means to get rid of any allergy and the only way out is to prevent the intake of food that causes the allergy.
The symptoms vary from urticaria - red patches, indicating excess of blood supply to that region of the body, to general body rash and itching. In severe cases it may lead to breathlessness and angioneurotic oedema, where the wind pipe is blocked.
Patch test to find out the specific food that causes allergy exist. These are restrictive in nature and can only test allergy to 50 to 100 food stuffs. The method of exclusion serves best. Doctors recommend maintaining a diary. Once you know that you are allergic to something, start recording everything that you eat in a diary. It will be easier to detect the particular food whenever you develop symptoms next.
Once you determine what you are allergic to, it is important to learn to read food labels and thereby avoid eating food that you are allergic to. The dictum, prevention is better than cure, works best in case of allergy.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction
Symptoms typically appear within minutes to two hours after a person has eaten the food to which he/she is allergic.
1. Tingling sensation in the mouth
2. Swelling of the tongue and throat
3. Difficulty in breathing
4. Vomiting
5. Abdominal cramps
6. Diarrhea
7. Drop in blood pressure
8. Loss of consciousness
Symptoms may be mild or very sever, depending on how much of the food you have consumed and extent that you are allergic to it.
Simply defined, an allergy is intolerance of the immune system to specific foods. You are allergic to food when your body reacts adversely to it, thereby producing excess histamine, which triggers a cascade of allergic symptoms that can affect the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, skin or cardiovascular system.
Although an individual could be allergic to any food, such as fruits, vegetables and meat, it's protein-rich food that more than 80 per cent of the people are allergic to.
You could either be allergic to specific food items, or preservatives. In case of food, allergies are generally caused by protein rich food stuffs like peanuts, fish, egg, soy, wheat and pulses.
While an allergy may develop at any age, there is no specific cure, which can be prescribed. Doctors prescribe anti-histamine drugs and may even have to inject steroids in severe cases, but these only subdue the effects after an allergy has occurred. There is no long-term cure or means to get rid of any allergy and the only way out is to prevent the intake of food that causes the allergy.
The symptoms vary from urticaria - red patches, indicating excess of blood supply to that region of the body, to general body rash and itching. In severe cases it may lead to breathlessness and angioneurotic oedema, where the wind pipe is blocked.
Patch test to find out the specific food that causes allergy exist. These are restrictive in nature and can only test allergy to 50 to 100 food stuffs. The method of exclusion serves best. Doctors recommend maintaining a diary. Once you know that you are allergic to something, start recording everything that you eat in a diary. It will be easier to detect the particular food whenever you develop symptoms next.
Once you determine what you are allergic to, it is important to learn to read food labels and thereby avoid eating food that you are allergic to. The dictum, prevention is better than cure, works best in case of allergy.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction
Symptoms typically appear within minutes to two hours after a person has eaten the food to which he/she is allergic.
1. Tingling sensation in the mouth
2. Swelling of the tongue and throat
3. Difficulty in breathing
4. Vomiting
5. Abdominal cramps
6. Diarrhea
7. Drop in blood pressure
8. Loss of consciousness
Symptoms may be mild or very sever, depending on how much of the food you have consumed and extent that you are allergic to it.
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