Seasonal Allergies. Part of the series: What Are Allergies?. Get tips on seasonal allergies in this free video clip.
When you think about allergy triggers, you probably think of pollen and being outdoors. Some of the worst triggers for allergies can be found inside a house, though. If you have allergies, making changes in your home, such as using hypoallergenic wood, can help you reduce your allergy symptoms.
Piercings smell due to bacteria. That does not always mean infection. Hygiene and body location can be culprits, too. You must learn the specific reasons why your piercings smell to correct the situation.
Mesh patches, made of synthetic material, are used often for large hernias. Mesh patches can also be used for any type of skin grafting when an injured area needs to be covered, such as bladder suspension surgery. Unfortunately, some mesh patches may erode, which involves the synthetic material breaking down and disintegrating.
Although insects do not view humans as prey, they still happen to bite or sting for a variety of reasons. In order to defend themselves, sustain life or act in aggression, an insect will bite or sting, and sometimes release toxins, venom or other chemicals. Different types of insect and their accompanying toxins will cause varying physical reactions to the bite or sting.
Beeswax is a common ingredient in many cosmetic and therapeutic products. Although harmless for some, for others it proves to be more of a problem. Beeswax reactions can manifest in several forms, and some can be severe. You can be exposed to allergy-inducing beeswax in two common ways.
Latex is a natural rubbery material made from the sap of the rubber tree. If you have a sensitivity or allergy to latex, you want to find out how to detect latex in the world around you. Of course you can read packaging ingredients for information, but you also can turn to experts for help. The Mayo Clinic explains that latex comes in three types, not all of them equally allergenic. Hardened rubber, which is found in athletic shoes, tires and rubber balls, doesn't cause allergies in most people. But dipped latex, found in products such as rubber gloves, balloons…
Belly button piercings are quite popular with young people, even though proper aftercare is a bit more complicated than it is with newly pierced ears. Your belly button piercing is much more susceptible to infection, mainly because a belly button generally gets far less air than your ears. In addition, a metal irritation or allergy will also cause soreness and infection. You need to monitor your belly button piercing daily for at least six months to check for infection and hardware rejection.
Lanolin is an oily substance produced by glands in sheep's skin. It is extracted from the wool or fleece after shearing, refined and used in the production of cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and cleaning products. Some lanolin remains in the wool that is later spun and used for textiles, such as rugs, blankets and clothing.
Combining the wrong medications can result in serious adverse reactions or even death. According to Drugs.com, Ultram and Motrin can be taken together as long as the person monitors for adverse effects. Both medications are used as pain relievers, but Ultram works in a completely different way than Motrin. Ultram is a narcotic-like pain reliever prescribed for moderate to severe chronic pain. Motrin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to treat fever, pain and inflammation. It is important to know how to mix Ultram and Motrin to minimize adverse reactions and gain the maximum benefit from both medications.
With over 300 species cultivated worldwide, bamboo (Bambusa vulgaris) is actually a giant grass. Bamboo has been used for more than 7,000 years for food and for making a wide variety of useful things, including weapons, paper and building materials. Prized for its hypoallergenic qualities, bamboo can be used indoors in its many forms by individuals who may be highly sensitive to other plants and natural fibers. However, houseplants commonly called "bamboo" are in fact unrelated to the common bamboo and can cause allergic reactions.
Canola oil is widely used as an inexpensive alternative to healthy cooking oils like olive, flax-seed or sunflower seed oils. Canola oil became available to consumers in the early 1980s, touted as containing large amounts of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Some consumers, however, have come forward in recent years with complaints of allergic reactions to canola oil. This has left most doctors scratching their heads.
Undergoing any kind of surgery carries with it certain risks. A patient could have an adverse reaction to anesthesia or develop an infection while recovering. If he has an orthopedic implant installed during surgery, he could experience an allergic reaction to it.
Tattoo inks, except for red, are hypoallergenic, so allergic reactions are extremely uncommon. However, since red ink is not hypoallergenic, you can still have an allergic reaction to it. Like any allergic reaction, your bodily response can range from mild to life threatening, so it is important to be familiar with risks, symptoms and implications before you let the needle touch your skin. Tattoo allergies are very rare, but for safety's sake, it is important to be familiar with the reactions and prevention.
Surgical mesh has been used to help repair all different types of hernias since 1958, according to Dr. Timothy Kuwada, assistant clinical professor of surgery at University of North Carolina. Even though surgical mesh helps hernias to heal faster and with less pain than just closing a hernia, allergic reactions, complications and recurrence rates still abound. Dr. Yuri Novitsky, director of the Hernia Center at the University of Connecticut Health Center, explains that the ideal synthetic mesh has to be durable and strong and not contract within human tissue. It has to be hypoallergenic, noncarcinogenic and resistant to infection. It…
The term allergy is not a true scientific word, according to Dr. Leo Galland, director of the Foundation for Integrated Medicine in New York. Galland explains that allergy means "altered reactivity." However, an intolerance to something is generally referred to as allergies or an allergic reaction. The list of possible allergens can be almost endless. Because some people have a reaction to eating salty foods, they consider salt an allergen.
Cold and allergy medicines treat symptoms of the common cold and seasonal allergies such as nasal irritation, irritated eyes and sneezing, according to the Mayo Clinic. They are especially popular during the winter and spring months, since that's when colds and allergies are at their peak. Although cold and allergy medicines are generally considered safe for healthy adults, you should take precautions and talk with your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medication.
Alpaca wool has long been used as a substitute for conventional sheep wool in the knitting of garments. The fibers are stronger and softer than sheep wool and contain no lanolin. Because of this, people with sensitivities to sheep's wool or lanolin find alpaca fibers to be easier on the skin. Despite the hypoallergenic nature of alpaca fibers, some still find them irritating to the skin and complain of allergic reaction. This reaction, however, may not be a true alpaca allergy.
Allergen masks, also called allergy masks or simply face masks, are designed to protect people from inhaling large amounts of particles that their immune systems are sensitive to. This prevents a wide range of allergy-related problems, especially sinus troubles and soar throats. While these masks can be made of different materials, there are common rating systems used to measure how effective they are. These masks can be worn indoors to protect against pet dander or outside to prevent against pollen and other allergies, as well as in a medical context.
In 1894, Doctor William Stewart Halsted developed and used rubber surgical gloves at Johns Hopkins Hospital. In 1964, the first latex gloves were manufactured. Since then, gloves have become the standard for use in all medical situations.
Most swimming pools have a high chlorine concentration, which helps keep pools clean and germ-free. However, many people are allergic to chlorine, and the chemical can cause skin irritations and even hay fever symptoms and asthma. In fact, even people who are not allergic can develop sensitivities to pool chemicals over time with regular exposure.
Citric acid, present in many manufactured foods as well as natural foods such as citrus fruits, can induce allergic reactions and food intolerances in some people. This syndrome does not occur very commonly but causes trouble such as skin rashes or digestive difficulties for those who experience it. The exact cause of these problems varies and few in-depth studies exist.
In order to maintain healthy swimming pool water, pool managers and homeowners often use chlorine as a sanitizing agent. WebMD and Healthy Child Healthy World report that for some people, normal chlorine concentrations in pool water can cause allergic reactions that range from minor irritations to life-threatening conditions.
The sword fern---also commonly known as the Boston fern or fishbone fern---is generally characterized as a nontoxic plant that is safe to have around children and pets. Still, the sword fern, like any other plant, can cause an unexpected allergic reaction in some individuals.
Polysporin antibiotic cream is used to prevent or treat skin infections in minor cuts, scrapes and burns. The cream kills bacteria that cause infections. Side effects and allergic reactions to this product are uncommon.
Nickel is one of the most common metals used by humans. It is commonly used in plating other kinds of metals and in producing numerous alloys such as nickel-titanium. Apparently, nickel is a common cause of contact dermatitis, particularly in the field of orthodontics, whereas nickel-free titanium is considered hypoallergenic.
Wood smoke poses a serious health threat to people with respiratory allergies. This presents a problem to homes using a woodstove. Not only does it produce offending smoke, but a woodstove also gives off irritating toxins.
Many times when you have a runny nose, you may blame it on dust or other allergens such as pet hairs. However, allergic reactions can also result from house plants. Allergic reactions include runny nose, breathing difficulties, itchy eyes, chest pain, coughing and even eczema.
Asthma and Allergy Information and Research reports that instances of allergies to seeds such as sunflower and sesame are less common than nut allergies.
Though Lysol Disinfectant Spray is usually used to control germs in the home and create a healthy environment, it can have some adverse effects on those with allergies to cleaning solutions or bleach-type products. Chemicals found in the disinfectant spray can trigger allergies in those sensitive to cleaning products.
According to Mayo Clinic, "sulfa allergy" usually refers to a drug allergy to one of the antibiotics in the sulfonamide class. Some of these medications are used to treat kidney infections.
Palmers Cocoa Butter is an ingredient used in several health care lotions and ointments. While commonly used to promote healthy skin, it has been known to result in mild allergic reactions. Allergic reactions typically consist of visible rashes on the skin that swell or itch when aggravated. Treatment for these allergic reactions is simple and involves the use of anti-itch products.
Acai berry is a widely touted antioxidant fruit with many health benefits. People around the world consume this Amazonian fruit in different forms. You will find acai berry juices, capsules and even acai tea on the market. If you're considering using the fruit as a nutritional supplement, you must first see whether you're allergic to acai.
Allergic reaction rashes are caused by an inflammation response from exposure to something that your body deems as a threat. They can be mild or severe and sometimes require emergency medical treatment. There are a few steps that you can try in your home for mild allergic reaction rashes.
Epsom salt, which is known as magnesium sulfate, is used as a laxative, bathing additive and even for soaking aching feet or hands. However, people can suffer allergic reactions to epsom salt when it is used for any of those purposes.
Fish oil capsules are often prescribed to people who want to lower their triglyceride levels in the blood and counter the effects of other medical conditions. Although this treatment can be effective, it's not for everyone. Some people cannot tolerate fish oil and must avoid its use.
Valerian is a popular medicinal herb, commonly used as a treatment for anxiety, insomnia and restlessness. While there are no documented case reports of people suffering allergic reactions to valerian, hypersensitivity is theoretically possible.
Mineral oil is a petroleum by-product used in many cosmetics and personal care items including baby products. Used for its supposed emollient qualities, mineral oil can have negative effects on your skin. Allergic reactions are not uncommon.
Medications for ADHD are generally split between two types: stimulants and non-stimulants. Allergic reactions can occur when starting any new drug, but these are a few symptoms of the most popular drugs for ADHD.
When teeth are lost due to decay, infection or injury, the only available options used to be a bridge, denture or leaving it empty. With the advent of dental implants, missing teeth can now be restored with prosthetic implants. Dental implants are the most ideal method of replacing teeth. Implants, made of titanium, are surgically placed into the jaw by an oral surgeon or dentist to replace the missing teeth; but research indicates that patients who may have sensitivity to titanium should be cautious.
Exposure to allergens in your environment can cause an an allergic reaction, which occur when histamines are produced by your cells and attack histamine receptor sites. During this reaction your body can respond to the allergic reaction in a number of ways, including sneezing, itchy eyes and skin, runny nose or skin rashes. Allergy symptoms usually subside naturally toward the end of allergy seasons in summer and fall, but medications and other sources of treatment can help alleviate allergies. Visit your doctor or allergist if a skin rash persists after attempting to treat it, as it may be a symptom…
According to the World Health Organization, TB is an airborne infectious disease which primarily affects the lungs. While a number of tests for TB do exist, they carry risks. The Gold Standard of TB testing is the Mantoux skin test, which does pose the most risk of a severe adverse reaction.
Hypothyroidism (low thyroid) does not cause allergic reactions. However, some symptoms of low thyroid are similar to the symptoms of an allergic reaction. Any side affects or symptoms should be discussed with your primary care physician or specialist.
Albendazole is an anthelmintic medication used in the treatment of infections of the body caused by tapeworms. The medication works by preventing newly hatched worms from growing and multiplying from within the body. As with most anthelmintic medications, there are certain side effects associated with treatment.
Allergic reactions to MRI contrast injections can range from an itchy rash or skin reddening to severe facial and airway swelling. Allergic reactions either happen immediately or at some point within the first hour of injection, according to the MCI Diagnostic Center in Oklahoma.
A skin test is given to individuals to determine if they have ever been exposed to tuberculosis (TB). The test is called a tuberculin skin test. The Mantoux tuberculin skin test is the standard way of determining if an individual is infected with TB. Occasionally, the individual who has received the skin test has an allergic reaction.
Doctors prescribe diabetes medications to reduce insulin resistance in the body and allow the body to properly use glucose for energy. As with all medications, however, diabetes medications are subject to beneficial effects as well as allergic reaction-type side effects that range from mild to severe. The five types of diabetes medications prescribed to lower blood sugar levels: sulfonylureas, biguanides, thiazolidinediones, meglitinides and DPP-4 Inhibitors. Each works in a different way to lower blood sugar and also has differing side effects.
The cosmetic industry is expected to reach $300 billion in sales worldwide by 2010, according to Equities Magazine. These products can include makeup, soaps, eyeliner, nail polish, perfume, deodorant, lipstick and other products. Many women and even men get allergic reactions to the ingredients in cosmetics, which can include certain chemicals and minerals, such as talc. These reactions can occur on the skin as well as within the body.
Amoxicillin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. Classified as a penicillin drug, amoxicillin must be prescribed by a physician. It is most often prescribed to treat strains of common bacteria such as Haemophilus influenzae, streptococci, Staphyloccus, Escherichia coli, and a few others. These bacteria create infections in the nose, throat, ears, bronchi, lungs and urinary tract. Some skin infections may also be caused by these types of bacteria. Because it is effective against a wide array of infections, it is commonly prescribed. Some patients may have an allergic reaction to penicillin drugs, including amoxicillin. Quickly identifying the symptoms…
Encyclopedia.com states that 267,000 total knee replacement surgeries are done each year in the U.S. Most of these surgeries are completely successful and add immensely to the quality of life for the patients. There are a number of side effects, however, that can afflict those who undergo knee replacement surgery. One of the most troubling and mysterious is an allergic reaction to the materials in the replacement knee.
Almost 10 million Americans are allergic to their pets, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI), and cats are a common cause of irritation in those with animal allergies. Allergic cat owners may struggle to decide if they should find a new home for their pet, and even if they do, allergens may linger in the home for months. Allergy sufferers without cats may have an allergic reaction after exposure to cat dander on another person's clothes or belongings.
Approximately 12 million Americans suffer from food allergies. Milk is one of the eight foods that cause 90 percent of all allergic food reactions. Living with a milk allergy is more complicated than just avoiding milk and dairy products. Avoidance is the safest choice for people with a milk allergy. However, it is impossible to avoid all reactions, so it's important to understand the body's immune system response during a reaction and know the proper treatment.
Milk allergy is a problem for many children. Nearly 5 percent of all infants develop a milk allergy. Twenty percent of these children never outgrow their allergy to milk. When a food allergy is suspected, milk is the first food to be eliminated from the diet.
Allergic reactions to tattoo ink are few and far between, but certainly are possible. Researching the tattoo shop and the ingredients of the inks that they use can prevent an allergic reaction from happening to you.
Thanks to bigger fears and more common phobias related to sitting in the dentist's chair, the last thing most people think about when getting a cavity filled is having an allergic reaction. It's not a common occurrence but it does happen to an unlucky few.
cure and prevent allergic reactions - This article will provide you steps to cure and prevent allergic reactions. As seasons pass everyone reacts differently to allergies based upon what they are allergic to. The following steps are here to help you ease your allergic reactions.
Allergic reactions to lobster and other shellfish are common in adults. Shellfish allergies are an important cause of severe allergic reactions including anaphylaxis. The allergic reaction usually begins as an adult and can happen in adults who have never had food allergies in the past. People who are allergic to lobster are usually allergic to other shellfish and may need to avoid all shellfish.
Osteo Bi-Flex, a supplement taken for the osteoarthritis condition, contains two key ingredients recognized for their positive role in improving osteoarthritis in some individuals (especially those with osteoarthritis of the knees): glucosamine and chondroitin. Both ingredients, working together, have been proven to help reduce degradation of the cartilage in joints, as well as stimulate synthesis of it and increase needed lubrication in that area. But not everyone can take Osteo Bi-Flex due to some possible side effects and allergic reactions it can cause.
Allergies are common. Most symptoms of an allergic reaction are minor and more of an annoyance. Symptoms can worsen with repeated exposure or come on suddenly making the allergy life threatening. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can come on suddenly. These types of reactions can occur within seconds of exposure with a quick onset of symptoms.
Bronchospasms are a condition where abnormal contractions and narrowing of the smooth muscle of the bronchi cause airways in the lungs to tighten. The condition makes breathing difficult, and it's presented by a rough cough with wheezing noises. Bronchospasms are one of the main symptoms of asthma. The airways into the lungs are normally controlled by the autonomous nervous system, but certain allergic reactions trigger the immune system, causing bronchospasms occur. While some narrowing is mild, severe asthmatic reactions can completely close airways, causing oxygen deprivation.
Yeast allergy--also known as chronic candidiasis, candidiasis hypersensitivity, and "yeast syndrome"--is assigned as a diagnosis by numerous practitioners who claim that allergic responses include a litany of diverse symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, bloating, anxiety, joint pain, infertility, impotence, and just plain "feeling bad." However, a true allergy to yeast is extremely rare; symptoms will typically include difficulty breathing, wheezing and drops in blood pressure that can lead to death. Numerous experts and professional organizations weigh in to debunk the "yeast allergy" myth.
Sunscreens are widely recommended when in the sun to protect against cancer and other skin damages. However, there is now evidence that suggests that the chemicals in sunscreen may do more damage to your body than the sun itself. There is also evidence suggesting these chemicals get stored in your body and may have long-term effects such as increasing cancer rates. There is also suggestion that these chemicals are entering the water systems, including the ocean, and causing a bleaching effect to coral reefs, thus causing them to die.
An allergic reaction is the immune system's response to antigens, or foreign substances, such as harmful toxins from bug bites, which invade the body. People can also experience allergic reactions to otherwise harmless substances, such as pollen and pet dander. These are often referred to as allergens. An allergic reaction is actually a hypersensitive response that can be mildly uncomfortable, or even deadly, for the affected person.
Allergic reactions to food may be an inconvenience or mild annoyance or could be severe and life threatening. According to the Cleveland Clinic, a small number of foods are responsible for the majority of allergic reactions to foods. Although most allergic reactions to foods develop during childhood, new allergies to food may develop in adulthood as well.
Men, women and children of all ethnic backgrounds and ages are affected by allergic reactions to the sun. The most common sun allergy, called Polymorphic Light Eruption, manifests itself as an itchy, painful rash, and it is the second most common sun-related skin problem after sunburns.
Many detergents contain perfumes and dyes that linger on clothes even after the rinse cycle. Unfortunately, these perfumes and dyes can cause reactions in sensitive people. Although most affected people experience only minor skin irritation, some experience severe allergic reactions of hives, swelling and wheezing. Minor reactions can be treated with oral antihistamines or topical anti-itch medications. After addressing these initial allergy symptoms, using dye-free, perfume-free detergents may prevent another allergic reaction.
Herbal remedies for allergic skin reactions all utilize aloe vera, which has powerful topical healing properties, and it can be applied directly from the stem of a plant. Treat skin allergies using the aloe vera plant or aloe vera juice with health advice from a professional wellness consultant in this free video on natural remedies.
Red ants, also called fire ants, aggressively attack their victims when disturbed or threatened. The venomous stings from these ants can cause both minor and major allergic reactions in victims. It is important to understand the symptoms of allergic reactions to red ant bites so emergency medical attention can be sought if necessary.
While it is not a common allergen, green tea may cause allergic reactions in some people. Learn the symptoms of food allergies from green tea and how to recognize them in yourself or others.
When some individuals take drugs to treat certain conditions, the body may create an immune response against the medication. When the body has such a negative response, the person is said to have an allergic reaction to the drug. People can be allergic to all different types of medications, and sometimes the effects can be life-threatening.
If you are allergic to chocolate, it is most likely that you are allergic to one or more of the additives that chocolate is made with. Allergies to raw chocolate and cocoa are very rare, but do occur. Additives in the manufacture of chocolate can include upwards of 300 ingredients including syrup, corn, nuts, gluten from wheat and caffeine. Usually, the higher the quality of the chocolate you purchase, the less additives have been used in its manufacture.
Are you tired of looking on a druggie with red, bloodshot eyes? Do you experience irritated bloodshot eyes everyday? Learn how you can treat your bloodshot eyes by following a couple easy steps!
Many people can imbibe alcohol within their limits and under control; however, some people do not have this ability. Alcohol can present numerous problems, including an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions can be frightening or surprising at best and paralyzing or deadly at worst. Keep in mind that people are not generally allergic to straight alcohol, rather they can be allergic to an ingredient in alcoholic beverages. If you think you know the symptoms that betray a certain allergic reaction, it's always best to consult with a doctor.
While the majority of spider bites will cause nothing more than a mild irritation, there are some people who may have allergic reactions to such bites that could lead to more adverse reactions. Light-headedness, vomiting, and even anaphylaxis could all be caused by an allergic reaction to a spider bite.
Hives are itchy, red, swollen welts on the skin that come and go, usually in a relatively short period of time. A single hive is usually a reaction to an outside irritant, such as an insect bite. Multiple hives are usually an allergic reaction to something internal, such as food, medication or infection. Stress or extreme cold or heat can also cause hives, as can exposure to sunlight or vigorous exercise. But among the most common causes are allergies to food like shellfish, berries, eggs and nuts; or medications such as antibiotics, sulfa and aspirin.Hives can vary in size and…
The best way to look for an allergic reaction to oatmeal in your baby is look for signs of a puffed up stomach little pimples or spots or the baby's belly as well, gas and discomfort is also a good sign.
Allergic reactions can be fatal. Find out when to seek medical care for an allergic reaction in this free video.
Any allergen can cause an allergic reaction. Find out the four ways you can be exposed to an allergen in this free video.
If your favorite necklace gives you an irritating rash, you need to see a dermatologist to get a diagnosis. She'll probably give you a patch test to see if you have allergic contact dermatitis, a fancy name for the burning sensation. Don't worry -- it's non-invasive. You merely get the probable culprits applied to your skin for two days. Once you identify the allergens, take steps to reduce exposure.