Tips For Proactive Allergy Relief

Both over-the-counter and prescription medications can alleviate allergy symptoms, but if you aren't getting the relief you need, think prevention. By taking a pro-active approach to allergens in your home, you can often stop symptoms before they start. Some solutions are easy and offer instant relief, some will require a change in habits or take a bit more time. All are worth the misery they save by keeping allergies under control.

A great deal of pollen and outdoor contaminants travel into your home on people's shoes. Get family members into the practice of removing their shoes at the door, and store everyday shoes in a mudroom or breezeway if you have one. Bonus: You'll save cleaning time and wear and tear on carpets and floors.

Your home should be smoke-free. The dangers of second-hand smoke are well established, and allergy sufferers are particularly sensitive to smoke. If someone in your household still hasn't kicked the habit, insist they smoke outside, or at the very least, confine smoking to a single room of the home with an air purifier, with doors and registers of that room closed off from the rest of the home.
Dust with a damp cloth or special dusting cloth that magnetizes and traps dust, dander and pollen that have settled on household surfaces. Dry dusting simply blows pollen and dust around in the air. Avoid feather dusters.

Keep pets restricted to certain areas of the house, preferably in rooms without carpeting. Make bedrooms off-limits for pets. Wash and brush pets often, especially if they spend much time outdoors. If you are getting a new pet, research low-allergen breeds, as well as those that shed minimally.

Choose your vacuum system wisely. Vacuum often, and consider a system that transports dust, dirt and allergens to a central source.

Keep mold in check by maintaining the relative humidity of your home below 50%. Use a dehumidifier in the basement and don't forget to empty and clean the units often. Bathrooms should be equipped with fans that vent to the outside; always run fans while showering. Periodically check pipes, faucets, appliances, ductwork, ceilings and roofs for leaks that can cause moisture buildup in hidden places and create a breeding ground for mold.

Choose cleaning products carefully to avoid contact with Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) such as formaldehyde and ammonia. While a good air purifier will offset some of the harmful fumes of cleaning products, choose natural cleaners when possible, as well as products that do not contain artificial fragrances that can irritate allergies. Use proper ventilation and wear a mask when using paint, floor polishes or other substances containing chemicals.

Dust mites can be your downfall, though it's not dust mites themselves that trigger allergies, but their waste products. Starve dust mites by reducing their food sources: dead skin cells and perspiration. Your prime battleground in the war against dust mites? The bedroom, though dust mites live everywhere in the home, especially in upholstered or carpeted areas. Learn winning strategies in the war against dust mites here.

A few simple changes in your everyday way of life can help relieve common allergy symptoms for you and your family.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2756843

Natural Allergy Relief - 5 Allergy Relief Methods

If you're looking for natural allergy relief than hopefully by reading this article and trying some of the methods you will be able to get relief from allergies. Different allergens have an effect on different people, so by trying out different methods you should be able to find some that work for you. If you have chronic allergies, or very specific allergies like asthma allergies, you should always consult your doctor and ge their recommendation.

With the change of the seasons brings different types of allergens and irritants. For example, it's summer in America and there are all kinds of pollens floating in the air that can cause allergic reactions in millions of Americans. The different types of pollutants can cause nasal drips, sneezing, coughing, and various reactions varying in degree and harshness. It's important to note that some people can have fatal reactions, such as bee stings or people who suffer from allergic asthma.
If you are an allergic person you can get natural allergy relief from such irritants like mold, grass, certain foods, and pets. Here are five different allergy relief methods that you can try and see if they work for you.

1. When you've been outside during pollen season, be sure to wash your hair. Pollens and allergens can collect on your hair and then fall into your eyes. Washing your hair will prevent this from happening.

2. Take an occasional hot shower during the day if you get a chance. If you start to have coughing, wheezing, or sneezing fits that have been sparked by allergies, taking a shower will help remove the pollens and allergens from your body. This is an easy method for natural allergy relief and it feels good too.

3. Another easy allergy relief method is by simply wearing sunglasses when you go outside. During pollen season when the wind is blowing you can prevent these pollens from getting into your eyes just by wearing sunglasses.

4. Avoid smoking and being around people who smoke. If you're going to a restaurant stay away from the smoking section. If you have friends who smoke, ask them to do it away from you. The smoke that comes from tobacco is a huge irritant that can easily trigger irritating and annoying respiratory allergies.

5. Another simple method for natural allergy relief is to close the windows in your house during spring and summer season. A nice, fresh spring breeze is nice and usually feels good, so if you must have the windows open make sure your screen is small enough to prevent pollen from coming in.
Although there are many different natural allergy relief methods, these have proven successful for many people. Again, not all methods work for everybody, so try different options and see what works best for you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4796644

Penis Allergies - Recognizing and Preventing Latex Reactions

In this day and age, sexual health is not something to be taken for granted. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI's) are, unfortunately, a reality all sexually active adults need to be aware of and take precautions against. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates the incidence rate of new STI's in the United States to be around 20 million cases annually. About 50% of those cases are occurring in individuals ages 15-24, with the other half occurring in those 25 years and older. While these figures are staggering, using condoms can drastically reduce one's risk of transmitting such an infection. So what happens when doing the smart thing and using protection causes penis pain and discomfort? Unfortunately, penis allergies are a reality, so some men may need to find alternative methods of protection as part of their penis health care arsenal.

Condom Allergies: Are they for real?
While it may sound like a lame excuse to not use protection, some men - and women too - are legitimately allergic to latex. Lubricants, spermicides and diaphragms can also trigger allergic reactions in some unlucky individuals. A negative reaction to these products may be instantaneous in highly sensitive individuals, or they may appear a few hours later, leaving the unfortunate victim wondering what may have happened to their manhood.

What Are the Symptoms?
An allergic reaction on the genitals is about as unpleasant as it sounds. Some of the possible symptoms include:

• Breaking out in a rash in the genital area
• Hives/red blotches
• Itchy skin
• Burning sensation on any skin touched by the condom
• Skin is overly sensitive and may be painful to the touch
• Unexplained respiratory symptoms such as: coughing, wheezing, sneezing
• Sudden runny nose or nasal discharge
• Feelings of light-headedness
• Disorientation
• Anaphylactic shock - this only occurs in cases of extreme latex sensitivity

In addition, repeated exposure may trigger the occurrence of blisters, as the body's immune system tries to fight off the latex, and even men who have not previously had issues may develop a penis allergy over time.

A condom allergy may also lead to a urinary tract infection in some men. Symptoms of a UTI include:

• Burning during urination
• Itching
• Foul smelling urine
• Blood in urine

What to do if a latex allergy is suspected
Men who suspect they have a latex allergy should consult an allergist for testing to ensure the skin is reacting to the latex and not a different source. Since having unprotected sex drastically increases the risk of contracting an STI or resulting in an unplanned pregnancy, going au natural is not the best option. Men should seek out non-latex condoms in order to protect themselves - and their partners - from unwanted sexual side effects.

Two types of non-latex condoms exist as options for those allergic to latex. Synthetic condoms, made with polyurethane, are deemed to be as safe as latex condoms by the CDC. Lambskin condoms, also known as natural membrane condoms, are made from lamb cecum and do not contain latex. Natural membrane condoms are useful in preventing pregnancy, but it is important to note that the CDC and FDA has deemed them to be less effective in preventing the transmission of STI's including HIV/AIDS.

Caring for a Latex Allergy
If the allergic reaction is severe, is causing difficulty breathing, or is extremely painful, medical attention should be sought immediately. Anaphylactic shock can result in death if not treated immediately. Milder allergic reactions, though uncomfortable and unpleasant, should clear up on their own without any medical intervention. Washing the affected area with gentle soap and water is effective in removing the allergen and preventing prolonged exposure, which will worsen the reaction. Applying a penis health creme containing vitamins and minerals can also help soothe red, irritated skin while revitalizing the penis. Select one that contains vitamin E to help hydrate and repair itchy skin and quickly provide some much needed relief to the area.

Source: ArticleTrader.com 

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 crème 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.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7498010

Causes of Allergies

Symptoms of allergy depend on the form of allergy and allergen responsible for occurrence of allergy. Fatigue, headache, stuffy nose, tremor and collapse are some of the most common symptoms of allergy.

About 40% of us suffer from some form of allergies. And they're particularly bad during spring and fall, when pollens and molds are high. But allergies aren't just about a runny nose and scratchy throat. In fact, allergies are caused by a reaction in your immune system. When most people think of an allergy, they think of the sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes caused by pollen. In fact, allergies can be caused by just about any substance that you inhale or swallow, or that touches your skin. You can also be allergic to shots. Your body's immune system is designed to attack harmful substances like bacteria and viruses. But with allergies, your body launches an assault far beyond what is called for on substances such as pollen, mold, dust mites, pet saliva and dander, and even medications and insect sting venom. Immunity is helpful protection against a substance. An allergy, meanwhile, is harmful hypersensitivity to that substance.

People with allergies have an inherited (genetic) predisposition for developing hypersensitivity to inhaled and ingested substances (allergens) that are harmless to other people. A healthy immune system is balanced between the activity of 2 types of white blood cells, called Th1 and Th2. Genetic or environmental factors can cause a Th2 dominated response to develop which can lead to allergies. The use of immunizations and antibiotic therapies and increased pollution leads to Th2 dominance. Once an imbalance in T cells develops, it tends to be continued by production of chemicals (cytokines) that keep the imbalance in place.

Risk factors for allergies include family or personal history of asthma, eczema, hay fever, or hives. The total environmental load of toxic substances (environmental pollutants, chemicals, etc.) that we are exposed to in our lifetimes reduces our immune function and leads to an increase in or aggravation of symptoms. Chronic ingestion of allergenic foods ("food allergies") weakens our immune function and leads to an increase in or aggravation or symptoms. Dietary sensitivities create a state of hypersensitivity and congestion of the mucus membranes. This congestion decreases the immune function of these tissues. Histamines, the naturally occurring chemicals that are involved in allergic reactions, are present in many foods as well as the pollens of trees, grasses, and weeds.

Intake of saturated fat (meat, dairy) and refined foods (sugar, white flour) enhance the inflammatory reaction, which is created by histamines. Chronic stress in any form is detrimental to the immune system. Forms of stress include mental/emotional stress, inadequate nutrition, chronic viral, bacterial, parasitic, or fugal infections, and repeated exposures to antigens in foods, chemicals, pollens, molds. Chronic stress decreases the Th1 response and increases the Th2 response. Not having been breast-fed may increase the risk of allergies.

The common prevalence of allergies suggests that more emphasis on prevention of allergies is needed for reducing their incidence.

Source : http://www.articlesfactory.com

Sinus Allergy Relief - What to Do When Allergy Attacks

Sinusitis is a condition where the mucous membranes connecting the sinus cavities get inflamed and block air and mucous exchange. As a result air and mucous gets trapped inside the cavities or a vacuum is created. In either case a pressure is created against the sinus walls causing great pain and distress. This inflammation is often a result of allergy caused by various allergens. Some of these allergens are dust mites, pollen, second hand smoke, and perfume. Sinus allergy relief can be found by using drugs like antihistamines, decongestants, combination medicines and corticosteroids. Allergy shots are also prescribed.

However these medications often have harmful side effects and can be costly. However relief provided by natural remedies is effective, low cost as well as free of harmful side effects. The easiest natural remedy is drinking lots of hot water drinks with apple cider vinegar or Oregon oil added to it. You can also drink basil tea and hot lemonade, they both work very well.

For effective sinus allergy relief you can irrigate your nose with warm water and salt, you can also use powerful natural decongestant solutions like grapefruit seed extract solution. Try to sleep in air conditioned rooms as sir conditioners filter out allergens. Use humidifiers as dry air increases allergic reactions and is bad for nasal passages and avoid temperature extremes. Prohibit people from smoking inside your house and dust carpets and furniture regularly. Chewing papaya tablets can relieve the pain, by regulating mucus production. Pillow covers and bed sheets should be washed frequently, light colored polyester curtains can keep the air fresh. Pet dogs should be regularly bathed.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3598330

Natural Allergy Relief - 4 Ways to Control Allergies Without Medication

Allergy symptoms range from hugely irritating sneezing and a constant runny nose to watery eyes, nasal congestion, itchy skin and or flaky skin, sore throats and post nasal drip. For many people allergy season means shutting the doors and windows and not opening them again until the first frost. But wouldn't you still love to enjoy warmer weather and the good health you otherwise have in spite of your allergies?
You may eventually need to augment the following suggestions with either over the counter medicine, or have an allergist prescribe medications that will help. But these 4 ideas are worth trying first as the chances are high that one or more of them will provide substantial allergy relief.

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

2.  Eat Healthy-Your body is a well crafted machine - the better the fuel you put in it, the more efficiently it will work. Allergies are indicative of an imbalance in the way the body is coping with allergens. Many times addressing the body's needs by making small changes to diet will work. The key word to look for when deciding what to eat in order to find relief from allergies is antioxidants.
Antioxidants can be found in a wide variety of food and drinks, and can make a big difference in helping the effectively cope with defending itself against real dangers, but not over reacting to allergens. Tea is fantastically rich in antioxidants, and green tea one of the best varieties. Try drinking green tea throughout the day - you may be pleasantly surprised at the difference it makes; and observing tea time daily is wonderful way to relax and relieve stress-another way to help your body cope. Rev up the number of fruits and vegetables you include in your daily diet, including spinach, blueberries and be sure to include nuts such as walnuts and pecans.

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

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

Source: Debbie Davis, EzineArticles.com

All About Polyester Allergy

Allergies are absolutely an attention that can aim a extravagant deal of irritation and discomfort which build entity absolutely unbearable, whether not addressed effectively. An allergy is essentially a reaction or an outward manifestation of symptoms on story of an over or non-native substance that the thing is not able to tolerate. There are assorted kinds of allergies that afflict heads all over the world. Some of these are considerably gentle in nature, with minimal factor that end not bump general high spirits to any considerable extent. On the other hand, there are instances where one could compass such severe and fixed reactions that instant medical affliction may be required. Allergies can be caused by legion types of substances enjoy food, pollen, pollutants, clothing and diverse types of smoke or still scents and fragrances that accomplish not concur with the oppose of undeniable people. Among clothing allergies polyester allergy is totally common.

Polyester allergy occurs when humans wear trustworthy clothes that are untrue of synthetic info or polyester. Some of the clothes that are specious of synthetic carry nylon, polyester, spandex and the commensurate which are commonly used nowadays. However, some community accept an allergy to such synthetic materials that intention confident rashes as husky as inflammation on the skin as a response to the custom of such materials. Some of the regular symptoms that accompany allergy due to polyester, are crimson rashes on the legs or hives in the upper baggage of the body. There are further instances of severe itching which are caused due to contact with polyester. It is not according to each who uses synthetic materials is susceptible to allergies as such materials are not peerless positively inexpensive on the other hand extremely entirely fashionable. It is isolated those persons who are hypersensitive to such materials that are liable to purchase afflicted by allergy.


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Penis Skin Allergies - Causes and Solutions

Reddened, swollen and itchy penis skin is no joke, and it can be an alarming experience. Many men have been sent into a panic over the appearance of dry and irritated skin of the penis, jumping to the conclusion that they have contracted a socially transmitted disease. In fact, in many cases, red and swollen skin is simply the result of penis skin allergies. Adverse reactions to environmental irritants are common, but with appropriate penis skin care, these should be short-lived and should not cause any lasting damage.

Symptoms of a penis skin allergy
Skin reactions to irritants are commonly referred to as dermatitis, an inflammatory condition that results in redness, swelling and intense itching. After exposure to an allergen, the skin may develop a spreading rash and/or a dry, scaly appearance. Men with darker skin tones may find that the skin in the affected area appears lighter than the surrounding tissue.

Adverse reactions may occur almost immediately or within a few hours after exposure. Scratching the affected area is unlikely to make the itching better and may damage the surface of the skin, causing bleeding, scabbing and further irritation that contributes to ongoing discomfort. If the urethra, or penile opening, is affected, painful urination may also occur.

Potential causes of dermatitis
A wide range of environmental irritants can cause contact dermatitis. These include everyday substances such as laundry detergents and fabric softeners, as well as bath soaps and other personal care products. Some men may be allergic to certain fabrics and experience adverse reactions to undergarments or other clothing containing nylon, wool, or latex rubber (often used in "stretchy" materials).

Latex condoms are also a common cause of penis skin allergies; in addition, contact with an allergen on the surface of a sexual partner's skin may lead to dermatitis. Men who urinate outdoors may accidentally come in contact with plants such as poison ivy or poison oak, which are also known to cause rash, inflammation and severe itching.

Reducing allergy-related reactions
It is not always possible to avoid all irritants, but certain precautions can be taken to help men who are prone to dermatitis avoid exposure to the most reactive substances. For instance, rinsing clothing thoroughly after washing can help to eliminate traces of detergents. Using a mild natural cleanser such as an olive oil soap may be less likely to cause irritation than ordinary soaps and shower gels, and wearing cotton or silk clothing close to the skin is also recommended. Men who have a latex allergy should opt for latex-free condoms. It is important to keep in mind that even those who have not previously had an adverse reaction to latex may develop a sensitivity over time, so men who develop allergic-type symptoms should discontinue its use and look for an alternative.

Men who develop respiratory symptoms in addition to a skin reaction should seek immediate medical attention to avoid a potentially life-threatening scenario. Those who come in contact with a known allergen should rinse the area thoroughly as soon as possible to minimize exposure. Symptoms such as itchy penis skin, redness and inflammation that do not subside in a day or so should be seen by a doctor to determine the exact cause.

Caring for the penis skin
When allergic reactions do occur, the immediate goal is relief. Scratching the area is a bad idea, but as previously noted, washing the affected skin to remove any traces of allergen is recommended. Applying a cold compress to the area or soaking in an oatmeal bath may also help to relieve the itching and burning.

Source: ArticleTrader.com 

Try Acupuncture For Natural Allergy Relief

Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years, its exact origin is not known. Early cavemen may even have pressed sharp stones against their body for relief. One legend has it being discovered by Chinese warriors who were shot with arrows in battle and noticed that these minor wounds relieved pain. Fortunately western medicine has discovered its benefits. Acupuncture has been used for natural allergy relief by many who suffer from chronic allergies. Acupuncture is based on ying and yang and the goal of acupuncture is to try and restore balance to the body.

Patients who are looking into acupuncture for the first time will be surprised at the different types of acupuncture available to them. There are different forms of acupuncture that use different needles and work on various parts of the body. Acupuncture can be done entirely on a very small area of the body like the big toe. Where ever the meridians criss cross there is a point that the bodies energy or Qi can be adjusted.

Natural allergy relief can come from removing blockages and build ups of energy so that the immune system can function normally. As a form of natural allergy relief acupuncture can work well and in synergy with either Chinese herbal treatment or traditional western medicine. There are very few side effects associated with acupuncture, most common is the patient feels drowsiness after treatment. This is viewed as a positive sign that the treatment is working. On rare occasions there can be some bruising and a few drops of bloods but most patients find it pain free and experience very little discomfort. Sessions generally last between 20 and 40 minutes. It will take several sessions to make inroads against a serious chronic allergy so don't expect a miracle one session cure. If you do not see any improvement after a reasonable amount of time you may want to try a different type of acupuncture or another acupuncturist.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1021346