Allergies + Original Articles

Can children be too clean? Some researchers say yes, and believe that an overemphasis on hygiene could be to blame for the rise in allergies among kids today. When it comes to living a clean lifestyle, it's important to recognize that not all germs are created equal, according to a study presented at the Excellence in Paediatrics conference in Madrid in November 2012. The researchers—who are affiliated with the International Scientific Forum on Home Hygiene—explain the difference.

Depending on your triggers, adding or removing the moisture in your bedroom air can lessen the risk of an asthma attack. If you live in a dry climate or heat your home during winter months, a humidifier can help moisten the air and reduce irritation in your bronchial tubes. And depending on what triggers your symptoms, a humidifier can also help reduce the risk of an asthma attack.

If you’re at risk of having a life-threatening reaction to something you eat or drink, a new cell phone device and app is about to make your life a lot easier. Most people with food allergies already know it's essential to read food labels and be vigilant about avoiding certain allergens. Yet it's not always possible to prevent cross-contamination that occurs during food manufacturing or preparation, so your efforts may not be enough to keep you safe.

If your child has a food allergy, her risk of suffering a reaction may increase as she gets older. Here's why. The pre-school and kindergarten years were difficult times for your child with food allergies. But as your child grows, so may her risk of having a serious food allergic reaction. It's not because the problem worsens as a child ages, but rather that...

Pro: It protects the face from too much sun. Con: It tends to trap allergens. Know the drawbacks and benefits of donning a beard. To grow or not to grow? This is the question that many men face when it comes to deciding whether to cultivate a mustache and/or beard. While the answer is a very personal one, Jessica Krant, MD, MPH, a board-certified dermatologist who is the founder of Art of Dermatology in New York City, and assistant clinical professor of Dermatology at SUNY Downstate Medical Center, weighs in on the pros and cons of having facial hair and offers some detailed explanations of each one.

What should you do in the rare instance this lifesaving treatment doesn't work the way it should? Anaphylaxis can be a matter of life and death. That's why carrying an EpiPen® is so crucial. But what if this emergency treatment fails to work? First, the Importance of Anaphylaxis Treatment "Anaphylaxis is a systemic allergic reaction that can...

Your head aches, your eyes hurt, and you're sneezing, coughing, and experiencing chills. Is it a bad cold, or could this be the start of the flu? It's often hard to distinguish between a cold or flu virus, but there are some important clues that can help you tell the difference, says Antoinette M. Cheney, DO, of Lone Tree, CO, a spokesperson for the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) and faculty member at Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine.

What do whole grains, nuts, seeds, seaweed, cacao, and leafy greens have in common? Magnesium, a mineral that can help eat away allergy symptoms. "Foods high in magnesium will help protect the immune system and detoxify the body, as well as work on hundreds of enzyme reactions in the body," explains Carolyn Dean, MD ND, a member of the medical advisory board of the Nutritional Magnesium Association.

There's an app for that! We checked out tons of free or low-cost smart phone apps and found the very best ones to support your health. Using your smartphone can be good for your health. It can help you learn how to choose more nutritious foods, lose weight, tone up, avoid gluten, evade food allergies, and help you find a doctor in your area. The right app can make it easier for you to do all of this and more from the comfort of your phone.

Far from a tame activity, doing the wash presents a plethora of potential allergy triggers. A three-year laundry study conducted by scientists from the Mackintosh Environmental Architecture Research Unit in Scotland revealed that people who hung up damp clothes to dry inside their homes were releasing excess moisture into the air. In damper and more humid climates, this can encourage mold growth and dust mites.

Whether you live in a new house, an older house, or in an apartment, your home may present specific allergy challenges. Did you know that your home's age, type, and style may hold the key to your allergies? Here are some of the factors to consider when it comes to the style of your home and the allergy triggers it contains: Older Homes It's no surprise that older homes contain more than their share of allergy triggers.

Take a bite out of your winter allergies and allergy-related inflammation with two tropical fruits. Just when you thought you were safe for the winter, your allergies strike. Often your furnace or heating system is to blame for releasing particles of dust, mold, pollen, and other allergens that become trapped throughout the year. The latest research indicates that papaya and pineapples are a natural way to manage allergies and allergy-related inflammation.

Cracking the code on this chicken-and-egg scenario could lead you to better treatment. Allergies and asthma can often occur together, but does one cause the other? While it can be difficult to know, the answer is probably allergies—especially if you suffer from the very common condition, allergic asthma. Understand the Allergy and Asthma Connection Allergic (also called extrinsic) asthma is another name for asthma that's caused by an immune system response to an inhaled substance in the environment.

Nasal irrigation can help with congestion. Learn the right way to do it and prevent common errors. When allergy medications alone aren't enough to provide the relief you seek, consider practicing nasal irrigation to clear your blocked nasal passages. A neti pot is an inexpensive tea-pot-like container with a long spout that's sold over-the-counter in most drugstores.

From decongestants to eye drops, keep these essentials on-hand wherever you go. You can't always predict when and where your indoor and outdoor allergies will hit. But when they do, the sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes, nose, throat, and skin can be hard to miss. Whether you take prescription medications for severe or ongoing allergies or find over-the-counter treatments enough to manage occasional mild flare-ups, you'll want to have the right allergy tools on hand to help you feel better.

It's so hard to give up your furry family member due to serious allergies. Make sure your pet goes to the right home. No one wants to give up a pet, but if you're at risk for having a life-threatening allergic reaction, this decision may be inevitable. It's difficult to make this sacrifice, but you can take some of the bite out of the situation by finding the best new environment your animal will thrive.

Dangers can lurk anywhere from the ball game to the dentist's office. Here's how to protect yourself. Here are five common settings where food allergies and other allergens can put you at risk. Use these tips to help you navigate through each situation safely: 1. Picnic in the Park Your family picnic at the local park can quickly take a turn for the worst if you have food allergies.

There are four different rashes you can develop from a sun allergy, but you don't need to hide inside to fix them. Your idea of a perfect summer day may include lounging on the beach, going for a swim, and soaking up the sun. But if you suffer from sun allergies, your symptoms could inhibit you from heading outside to partake in these and other activities. 4 Types of Sun Allergy Rashes You don't have to hibernate indoors or risk getting a sun allergy rash.

You've heard of histamine when it comes to allergies, but did you know it can also play a role in food poisoning? There are two ways to get histamine poisoning: Histamine toxicity, (or scombroid poisoning) food poisoning caused by an excess of histamine through improper food handling or spoilage, and an allergy to histamine, which causes a mast cell reaction releases histamine and sparks your symptoms.

This soil-based allergy can cause serious complications. Know the symptoms and learn how to treat it. An allergic reaction to a type of common fungus that's contained in the soil can cause serious consequences for those with asthma or cystic fibrosis. While everyone has some level of fungus in their lungs, the experts believe that in certain people with existing respiratory conditions, fungus called Aspergillus fumigatus can grow in the lungs.

This option could fix the issue that makes you reach for your allergy meds. Many people enjoy a good glass of wine with dinner. Research has shown that along with a healthy diet, drinking wine in moderation promotes heart heath and can prevent certain diseases and cancers. But if you're allergic to wine, this may not be an option, until recently.

If you're allergic to seafood, you'll want to double-check before popping this popular pill. In recent years the medical community has become increasingly aware of all of the ways fish oil supplements can improve your health. But if you suffer from fish allergies, fish oil can put you at increased risk for having a reaction. That's why it's important to learn more about the pros and cons before you take your next dose.

Does it seem like everyone's sensitive to gluten these days? Here's why. You've probably noticed a growing selection of gluten-free products on your grocery store shelves over the past few years. An increasing number of people today seem to have trouble tolerating gluten—a substance contained in wheat and other grains.

Itchy, ugly welts can show up when you least expect them. Learn how to deal with hives. Hives are skin welts that can range from tiny spots to blotches that span a dozen inches in diameter. These welts often itch terribly, and are occasionally painful. Hives commonly appear in clusters and may be accompanied by skin swelling. Most hives go away within 24 hours, though new ones can form in their place.

Surprise! The same allergies that make you miserable could also protect you from some serious illnesses. To understand the benefits of allergies, you need to understand how your immune system functions. When your body is working properly, coming into contact with various germs and substances should prompt your system to launch an attack to keep it from getting you sick.

Supplements like bee pollen can seem like a sure road to health, but user beware. Bee pollen supplements are believed to help relieve asthma, allergies, stomach issues, and rashes, among other health problems, although there isn't much clinical data at the present time to substantiate these benefits. However, there are numerous examples of people without insect allergies who've suffered from an allergic reaction after taking bee pollen supplements.

Ticks already spell trouble, and here's another reason why. Researchers now believe that a tick bite can lead to the development of serious meat allergies. Tick Bites and Meat Allergies While most food allergies occur when the body launches an attack against the protein contained in the offending foods, tick meat allergies work differently, according to scientists affiliated with the University of Virginia.

Take a look at five surprising causes for this common irritating skin condition. You may know it's easy to develop contact dermatitis from common allergens like perfumes, detergents, and—of course—poison ivy, but this skin condition can occur from other causes too. Contact dermatitis can manifest itself in different ways, including a dry and itchy rash, blistered skin, or even hyperpigmentation that can last for months.

Learn how two-time Olympic Gold medalist Misty May-Treanor manages allergies and helps raise awareness. Two-time Olympic Gold medalist Misty May-Treanor is a frequent traveler, hopping from country to country for training and beach volleyball competitions. And while her nasal allergies can worsen in certain climates, she never lets them slow her down. "I always team up with my doctor before peak allergy season instead of waiting for the symptoms to start," says May-Treanor, who will compete this summer in the 2012 Summer Games in London.

Is raw dairy a cure-all or a danger to be avoided? When it comes to this heated debate, both sides are passionate. If you've heard anything about raw milk and other kinds of raw dairy products, you may be tempted to try them. Raw milk is milk in its most natural state, straight from the cow or any mammal that produces milk for its young. It does not go through pasteurization, the process of heating food to a particular temperature for a certain length of time to get rid of disease-causing microbes, and it can be used to make cheese, butter, and other dairy foods.

These strategic dietary choices can minimize inflammation and other allergy discomforts. While taking allergy medication is a must to manage some of your worst allergy symptoms, eating an allergy diet that incorporates strategic choices can help you feel better. This is because many allergy-fighting foods provide properties that can minimize inflammation and address nasal congestion and respiratory symptoms.

Your symptoms reflect the type of asthma that you have. And knowing your type can help with treatment. While these formal names may not be familiar, extrinsic asthma and intrinsic asthma are technical terms for allergic and non-allergic asthma. Both forms of asthma present the same types of symptoms, but the way they occur is different. Extrinsic Asthma Also known as allergic asthma, this is the most common type of asthma.

Churg syndrome involves an overactive immune system that leads to inflammation of the blood vessels throughout the body. Churg syndrome occurs when your immune system becomes overactive leading to inflammation of the blood vessels throughout the body including the lungs, nerves, skin, and abdomen. When these vessels swell, it can hamper blood flow to the organs and tissue.

Despite its benefits, if handled incorrectly a humidifier can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Whether you suffer from seasonal allergies, asthma, or you simply cannot stand the sore throat that's associated with the dry heat from your vents, a humidifier can be a blessing. Dry air can pose a variety of problems ranging from dry nasal and throat passages to even asthma attacks.

A new asthma treatment device promises to reduce nocturnal attacks and improve quality of life. Scientists from the Imperial College London tested a new device designed to minimize patients' allergy exposure during sleep in order to head off nocturnal asthma attacks and improve quality of life during waking hours. Laminar Air Flow Asthma Device This asthma treatment device uses a process called controlled laminar air flow treatment, or TLA.

If you are looking for products to trust, which seals and certifications mean the most? To navigate through the multitude of allergy-safe choices, look for those that carry special allergy certifications or seals that indicate they've been approved by reputable organizations. This is important because some fly-by-night companies can also "certify" products without actually meeting any allergy-safe requirements.

While most people have slightly uneven nasal passages, a severe imbalance can aggravate allergy symptoms and cause discomfort. The septum is the wall that separates the two sides of your nasal cavities. Ideally, the septum would sit right in the middle of the nose, but for most people, nasal passages aren't symmetrical. A deviated septum is when the septum is out of alignment.

Consider these five things that could be making you feel worse, and find out what you could be doing better. A number of effective seasonal allergy treatments exist today, but the key to their success is in using them correctly. Therefore, when you find yourself giving up some of your favorite spring activities because your seasonal allergies are so severe, consider giving up these five health-sabotaging habits: Waiting too long to medicate.

You don't have to become antisocial to minimize incidental allergy triggers. When guests come to visit they will bring with them an array of allergy triggers. Household allergens such as pet dander, dust mites, and mold can easily stick on clothes, hair, and skin. However, you don't have to become antisocial or send your guests packing in order to steer clear of these household allergens.

If dust mites, mold, and pet dander are the cause to your allergy misery, relief could come by changing the interior design of your home. When indoor allergies are a concern, your design choices can have a big impact on your health status. Upholstered furniture, throw pillows, drapes, and carpeting may all be pretty to look at, but they can also be magnets for dust mites, mold, and animal dander.

Your reactions to certain foods could point to something less serious than a true allergy. Do you avoid certain foods because you're a picky eater or is it because you're allergic to a food item? It can be difficult to tell the difference since the symptoms of food distaste/ intolerance and a true food allergy can appear very similar. Navigating Food Allergies and Intolerances An article published in the Journal of the American Medical Association reveals that at least half of all Americans who think that they have a food allergy are mistaken.

Here's how to prep when you welcome someone who is prone to cough, sneeze, itch, and even have an asthma attack because of your pet. If you're a dog or cat owner, there's no avoiding pet dander, saliva, and urine that could appear on your floors, fabrics, and furniture. Although you often can't see these allergens, the animal proteins they contain are enough to spark an immune system response in people who are allergic to pets.

Learn to identify the most common culprits so you can breathe easier. For allergy sufferers, attacks can come on suddenly—and seemingly from out of nowhere. But experts are quick to point out that there are a host of hidden allergy triggers that may be causing your wheezing, sneezing, or other symptoms. According to the American Lung Association (ALA), allergy triggers can be hiding inside or outdoors.

If you use air fresheners and scented candles to create a welcoming atmosphere in your home, you might just make yourself sick. Many people rely on scented products such as sprays, plug-ins, and light-up items to keep their homes and workspaces smelling great. But for people with allergies, these products can lead to sneezing, coughing, and wheezing. Research on Air Freshener Allergies A study that appeared in the Journal of Environmental Health in 2009 took a close look at the growing use of scented products and explored the consequences.

Public places are magnets for germs that cause the flu, viruses, and other illnesses. But that doesn't mean you have to stay home to avoid being exposed. Learn where the germs roam so you can take the right precautions. Whenever you head out to the mall, the supermarket, or a restaurant, you're putting yourself at risk for getting sick thanks to sick people who go out when they shouldn't. It opens you up to their germs when they cough, sneeze, or touch communal surfaces along their way.

Allergens can attack almost anywhere, including your own home. Follow these tips to reduce your risk. Sitting in your living room shouldn't give you hives. Relaxing in your bathtub shouldn't make you sneeze. And cooking dinner shouldn't make your eyes and nose itch. If you find yourself in any of these situations, you may be allergic to your home. According to the American Academy of Family Doctors, allergies are overreactions to things that don't cause problems for most people, and these things are known as allergens.

While many food allergies begin in childhood, the fact is that at any age, you can suddenly find yourself dealing with an allergic reaction to something you've had to eat or drink. It's true, adults could develop food allergies. Both adults and seniors can experience food allergy symptoms for the first time. The symptoms can range from mild discomfort to serious or even life threatening.   Common Food Allergy Triggers ...

Care for your child with confidence with these 10 tips. Taking your child to the hospital for treatment can be a confusing and emotionally taxing experience. And as a parent, you're required to serve a dual role, as both loving family member and patient advocate. "Parents are an integral part of their child's health-care team, even in the hospital," says Karen Bergan, parent leader and chairwoman of the Family Advisory Council at Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital of New York-Presbyterian.

10 back-to-school tips. For nearly nine million American children, going back to school presents questions beyond what to wear or bring. Are there peanuts in that birthday treat from a classmate? Will running in gym class trigger asthma? Could a bee sting during recess cause anaphylactic shock? Despite all the things confronting them, you can take steps to ensure your kids don't fall prey to schoolhouse allergies and asthma.

How to keep allergies and asthma from traveling with you. When vacations kick into high gear, allergies and asthma often follow suit. The good news? "There are steps you can take to minimize your symptoms," said Dr. Richard W. Weber, an academy leader and allergist in Denver, Colo. He recommends following these tips from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology: Consider visiting your allergist or immunologist for a physical if you're planning to go on a long vacation.

As many as 15 million Americans suffer from some form of eczema. Here, 13 tips to help ease your symptoms. Eczema is a remarkably common skin condition, affecting some 15 million people in the United States. While not dangerous or contagious, the condition (also known as atopic dermatitis) is incurable and uncomfortable, usually causing red, swollen, and itchy skin.

The symptoms you experience after eating a food containing gluten hold the key to whether it's an allergy or intolerance. Do crackers give you hives? Does your stomach cramp from a slice of pizza? It could be the result of either an allergic reaction or intolerance to gluten. Unfortunately, it's often frustrating. What is Gluten? Gluten is a protein that's contained in a variety of wheat, rye, and barley products.

Does cold air cause nasal congestion? The answer may surprise you. Find out how to experience the best nasal congestion relief. Hate that stuffy-nose feeling you typically get with a cold or allergies? It seems like your nasal passages are clogged, yet no matter how hard you blow your nose, you can't seem to clear them. The next time this symptom hits, try heading outside into the cold, dry air.

Although the frost in the air is no environment for greens to ignite allergy triggers, indoor allergens can attack with a vengeance during the cold months. Here are ways you can banish its effect on you. Many people assume that the coming of winter provides a much needed break from their biggest allergy symptoms. But if you're allergic to indoor allergens, you could be saying goodbye to seasonal allergens only to find yourself coping with a new set allergy triggers.

Whether you live in a bustling city, the picturesque suburbs, or in the cozy countryside, each setting has its unique challenges to asthma management. Learn how to breathe well in any setting. Did you know that the kind of neighborhood you live in can have a direct impact on the health of your respiratory system? That's because lungs are one of the primary ways people's bodies interface with their surroundings, according to researchers from the World Health Organization (WHO).

Sometimes there's a thin line between determining what's a bad cold or a sinus infection. Thankfully, no guess work is needed. Here's what you need to know about this bothersome nasal condition. Your nose is congested and your head aches. Is it a bad cold or a sinus infection? It's often hard to tell the difference, but there are some telltale signs that can help you determine what's causing your symptoms. What is a Sinus Infection? When you have a cold that doesn't seem to get better, you could be suffering from sinusitis, which is another name for a sinus infection.

Created by Notre Dame scientists, see what this cutting-edge allergy treatment can do to eliminate your allergies without compromising the strength of your immune system. What if you could stop your allergy symptoms from occurring without having to shut off your immune system's functioning? That's the goal of a new groundbreaking allergy treatment that's being developed by researchers from Notre Dame. The Promise of This New Allergy Treatment Most allergy treatments today work by weakening the immune system's reaction to allergens, which means that in the process of avoiding your allergy-related symptoms, your body may not be able to fight off other illnesses.

If you're allergic to fruits and veggies, know that you can still get the recommended daily amount. Learn the tricks to be able to eat your greens without the itching and scratching. Does the itchiness that comes with eating an apple, peach, or carrot deter you from getting your necessary servings of fruit and veggies? If so, you may have oral allergy syndrome—or an allergy to fruits and vegetables. What's worse is that if you're also allergic to ragweed, grass, pollen, or birch, you're more likely to have this kind of allergy.

EoE can be commonly confused with acid reflux disease, but it's a condition that's believed to be caused by an allergic reaction to common food proteins. Eosinophilic Esophagitis (commonly referred to as EoE) often looks and feels like acid reflux disease, but it doesn't respond to the common treatments. Your doctor might not be able to tell the difference between the two conditions without running some telltale diagnostic tests.

Researchers from Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine have developed a groundbreaking strategy that can potentially end peanut allergies. Researchers from Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine have developed a groundbreaking strategy that can potentially end peanut allergies. In a preclinical trial performed on mice, they used a new type of immunotherapy to turn off the immune system response and this allowed it to tolerate the peanut protein with no ill-effects.

Many popular skin care and cosmetic products contain potentially harmful ingredients. Here's a roundup of ingredients to look out for, the products that may contain them, and why they can be dangerous. Many popular skin care and cosmetic products contain potentially harmful ingredients. Here's a roundup of ingredients to look out for, the products that may contain them, and why they can be dangerous: 1. Coal tar. Used in hair dyes and dandruff prevention products, this carcinogen is often labeled as FD&C or D&C on product labels.

Fluid retention is a common occurrence. Here are 10 lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce or eliminate excess fluids. Your body tries to maintain equilibrium at all times. However, sometimes pregnancy, premenstrual side effects, medications, or an underlying medical condition will disrupt the balance of water and chemicals, causing fluid retention. You may also hear this described as water retention, edema, or dropsy.

If you found out that you can no longer eat gluten, that doesn't mean your diet must be filled with dull food items from now on. Learn about your delicious gluten-free options so that your digestive system can function well again. You've probably seen the proliferation of gluten-free products at your local grocery store and wondered if you should be eating these foods. Gluten is a protein found in certain grains, including wheat, rye, and barley. Approximately one in 20 Americans is sensitive to gluten.

Chili peppers could hold the key to sinus relief. Got a stuffy nose or sinus problems? You may want to turn to hot chili peppers for relief. Scientists from the University of Cincinnati have discovered that an ingredient in hot chili peppers can effectively address certain types of inflamed nasal passages and clogged sinuses.

What if you could end your hay fever (allergic rhinitis) symptoms for good? A new hay fever vaccine could make this possible by preventing or reducing common seasonal allergy symptoms in just a few easy steps. What if you could end your hay fever (allergic rhinitis) symptoms for good? A new hay fever vaccine could make this possible by preventing or reducing common seasonal allergy symptoms in just a few easy steps. The Benefits Unlike medications that have...

If you live in an area affected by flood-inducing storms such as hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy snow fall, or other extreme weather conditions you could be left grappling with related water damage, flooding, and mold allergies. It's normal to feel under the weather every once in a while. But if you suffer from mold allergies, these words may have taken on deeper meaning in recent months. Weather disturbances in different regions have left behind a trail of health-related problems.

Acupuncture therapy may help you feel better if conventional treatment methods have failed in helping your manage allergies. Many allergy sufferers have found success using this alternative method to address their seasonal symptoms. Acupuncture therapy may help you feel better if conventional treatment methods have failed in helping your manage allergies. Many allergy sufferers have found success using this alternative method to address their seasonal symptoms. Acupuncture and Allergies Acupuncture is a form of treatment that originated in ancient China and has gained popularity in the United States in recent years to treat an array of health problems, including chronic allergies.

While grass, pollen, and mold are a few of the most common allergy causes, some people's reactions can be more complicated. In some rare cases, an allergic reaction can even be triggered by an unusual combination of events or factors. While grass, pollen, and mold are a few of the most common allergy causes, some people's reactions can be more complicated. In some rare cases, an allergic reaction can even be triggered by an unusual combination of events or factors. This means you and your doctor may need to play detective in order to determine what's leading to your uncomfortable symptoms.

A new laser device originating from Australia has recently become available in the United States. It claims to help patients zap away their allergies. But many experts question whether the results are for real. A new laser device originating from Australia has recently become available in the United States. It claims to help patients essential zap away their allergies. But many experts question whether the results are for real, so it's important to find out more before you invest in this unusual treatment form.

Researchers have discovered that smoke seemed to prevent certain cells from producing proteins that can lead to allergy-related inflammation. But does that mean you shouldn't kick this bad habit? You've already heard from Surgeon's General and a myriad of other credited sources the many reasons why smoking is bad for your health. And while their claims are still very true, there's actually one little-known health benefit that you can get when you light up a cigarette: a reduction in allergy symptoms.

Scientists have been able to pinpoint why you could be more susceptible to suffer from an allergic response to ragweed if you also have to manage pet allergies. If you suffer from pet allergies, you understand the far-reaching effects of being around these furry animals. But now researchers have found that people who experience an immune system response to common household animals can also be more susceptible to suffer from a severe reaction to ragweed in the fall when the pollen is out in full force.

If you think women get the short end of the stick when it comes to experiencing allergy symptoms, you may be right. The latest research confirms that women have a higher incidence of allergies than their male counterparts and it's due to hormonal differences. If you think women get the short end of the stick when it comes to experiencing allergy symptoms, you may be right. The latest research confirms that women have a higher incidence of allergies than their male counterparts and it may boil down to hormonal differences.

With one in seven adults reportedly experiencing occupational asthma, chances are high that work could actually make you sick. Does the thought of going to work make you sick? If you have asthma and you work around chemicals, fumes, or scented products, your job could be triggering your symptoms and causing you to feel pretty miserable. Even people who've never had asthma before may find that their workplace environment causes them to develop this condition.

Type 1 allergies occur when a foreign substance sparks your body to produce an antibody that combines with IgE (immunoglobin E) and causes a reaction. Your entire system will be affected by a type 1 allergy, although the symptoms can vary, including sneezing, itching, coughing, hives, itchy eyes, stomach ailments, and in some cases, an anaphylactic reaction. Did you know that allergic reactions come in different shapes and sizes? While many people assume that all hypersensitivities are created equal, the fact is that when your immune system overreacts to a trigger that typically doesn't bother most other people, the effect it has on your body can fall into several different categories.

Unfortunately, no matter where you plan to travel, your food allergies will always be with you. So don't just plan your vacation itinerary, plan on ways you can stay safe on your trip, too. Unfortunately, no matter where you plan to travel, your food allergies will always be with you. So don't just plan your vacation itinerary, plan on ways you can stay safe on your trip, too. Whether you're heading to the beach, the countryside, or the mountains, be mindful that you could come on contact with your allergens.

Whether you work in a controlled setting like an office, spend your days in a laboratory or manufacturing plant, or are outdoors working with animals or plants, there are many allergens that, with repeated exposure, can make you feel quite sick. Does your workplace do a real job on your health? Your place of employment may expose you to substances that can trigger an array of symptoms. Whether you work in the controlled setting like an office, spend your days in a laboratory or manufacturing plant, or are outdoors working with animals or plants, there are many allergens that, with repeated exposure, can make you feel quite sick.

You love your cat with all your heart, but if you suffer from pet allergies, the object of your affection could cause episodes of sneezing, coughing, itching, and wheezing. If the misery is more than you can bear, know that you can take action. You love your cat with all your heart, but if you suffer from pet allergies, the object of your affection could cause episodes of sneezing, coughing, itching, and wheezing. If the misery is more than you can bear, know that you can take action. Best Approaches to Treat Cat Allergies If you won't consider parting with your pet but don't want to suffer indefinitely, that's okay.

There seems to be an overlap between allergies and a variety of chronic illnesses and researchers are trying to explore why. See what connections have been identified so far. Why is it that some people can tolerate most allergens, while others find that the slightest contact with certain foods, pollen, and insects sets a motion of serious immune system reactions? The medical community is still trying to understand exactly what makes certain people's bodies more vulnerable to harmless triggers.

The cool, crisp days of autumn can be a refreshing treat after a hot, humid summer. Yet with the change of season also comes an increased risk of illness that can lead to fall asthma. The cool, crisp days of autumn can be a refreshing treat after a hot, humid summer. Yet with the change of season also comes an increased risk of illness that can lead to fall asthma. It's no coincidence that many asthmatics visit the emergency room in the fall and early winter.

When you have food allergies, organizing your kitchen and other food storage areas isn't just convenient—it's essential. Everyone can benefit from having a well-organized home. But when you have food allergies, organizing your kitchen and other food storage areas isn't just convenient—it's essential. An organized fridge and pantry can make it easier to locate your safe foods and can save you from making life-threatening mistakes.

A number of possible factors can make you more susceptible to having an asthma attack at night. Read on to find out what they are and what you can do about them. If you battle your worst asthma symptoms at night and wake up many mornings still feeling tired and out of sorts, you could have nocturnal asthma. As the name implies, this is when asthma strikes at night causing shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, and/or chest pressure.

While the concept of exercising away your allergies sounds appealing, in reality no amount of running, swimming, or lifting weights will make your allergies magically disappear. However, engaging in regular exercise can help alleviate bothersome symptoms. While the concept of exercising away your allergies sounds appealing, in reality no amount of running, swimming, or lifting weights will make your allergies magically disappear. However, engaging in regular exercise can help alleviate bothersome symptoms.

People who suffer from this condition have a strong sensitivity to chemicals contained in all sorts of items that are right in their living or work environment. These can be anything from water, certain fabrics, beauty products, and even medications. People who suffer from multiple chemical sensitivities, also called Multiple Allergic Response Syndrome (MARS), have a strong sensitivity to chemicals contained in all sorts of items that are right in their living or work environment. These can be anything from water, food, paints, gasoline, car exhaust, certain fabrics, cleaning supplies, beauty products, and even medications.

Do you think of allergies as an equal opportunity disease? If so, you might be surprised to know when it comes to immune system reactions to certain foods and drinks, there seems to be a strong sex difference. Do you think of allergies as an equal opportunity disease? If so, you might be surprised to know that there seems to be a strong sex difference—at least when it comes to immune system reactions to certain foods and drinks. Food Allergy Symptoms in Women When it comes to allergies and sex, women are more likely to suffer from food allergies than men—although researchers aren't sure exactly how or why such differences exist.

You may have considered participating in a clinical trial. But are you a good candidate? And what's in it for you? Reading about the latest miracle medication to hit the market after success in clinical trials, you may have wondered who are these people who offer themselves up to science? You may even have considered participating in a clinical trial yourself. But are you a good candidate? And what's in it for you? Advantages 1.

If your seasonal allergies have led to never ending nasal symptoms, you could have nasal polyps. These non-cancerous, grape-shaped growths form on the inside of your nasal cavity and often make it difficult for the mucus to drain. If your seasonal allergies have led to never ending nasal symptoms, you could have nasal polyps. These non-cancerous, grape-shaped growths form on the inside of your nasal cavity and often make it difficult for the mucus to drain. Allergies and Nasal Polyps Some people believe that having allergies can increase the risk of experiencing nasal polyps.

Have you ever grappled with the unexpected side effects from a medication? It's important to pinpoint the cause of these surprising reactions. Here's the right way to know if it's a true drug allergy. When you end up grappling with unexpected side effects from your medication, such as a rash, nausea, or stomach distress, you might think you're allergic to the drug. However, most of the time, the reaction is caused by a drug sensitivity and not a true allergy.

Taking an active role in your treatment is essential to receiving the care you need and deserve. Here's how you can guarantee a quality doctor's visit every time you enter the office. Taking an active role in your treatment is essential to receiving the care you need and deserve. Julie Silver, M.D., Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School and author of What Helped Me Get Through: Cancer Survivors Share Wisdom and Hope and After Cancer Treatment: Heal Faster, Stronger, Better weighs in on how you can guarantee a quality doctor's visit every time you enter the office.

Researchers at the University College Cork have developed a new device to detect three major types of food allergies in children, within seconds. A new tool developed by researchers from University College Cork may be just what the doctor ordered when it comes to diagnosing your child's food allergies. New Way to Diagnose Food Allergies in Children The Irish scientists have created a special "calculator" that allows you to input some important data to instantly identify if your child has an allergy to milk, eggs, and peanuts, which are three of the most common food allergies in kids.

The number of people affected by severe allergies has been on the rise recently, and the experts say that global warming could be to blame. The number of people affected by severe allergies has been on the rise recently, and the experts say that global warming could be to blame for the worsening allergies. The Effect of Climate Change on Allergies Global climate changes have led to an earlier onset of spring weather over the past few years.

The American Academy of Dermatology stresses the importance of using sunscreen before stepping outdoors to reduce your risk of skin cancer. But what if you're allergic to sunscreen? Does that mean you have to forego summer pleasures or put yourself at risk of getting burned? Absolutely not. The American Academy of Dermatology stresses the importance of using sunscreen before stepping outdoors to reduce your risk of skin cancer. But what if you're allergic to sunscreen? Does that mean you have to forego summer pleasures or put yourself at risk of getting burned? Absolutely not.

Wish there was a magic formula that could make your allergies go away? While no medication can completely erase your immune system's response to allergens, a form of treatment called sublingual immunotherapy may provide some welcome relief. Wish there was a magic formula that could make your allergies go away? While no medication can completely erase your immune system's response to allergens, a form of treatment called sublingual immunotherapy may provide some welcome relief. Sublingual immunotherapy is available as tablets or drops that you place under your tongue to build up your body's tolerance to allergens.

You may jog or take exercise classes regularly to help look and feel your best. But if you're one of the few people who suffer from exercise-induced anaphylaxis, participating in strenuous activities can put your health at serious risk. If you're one of the few people who suffer from exercise-induced anaphylaxis, participating in strenuous activities can put your health at serious risk. While this form of severe allergy reaction is quite rare, researchers believe that a particular food allergy could be to blame for setting the problem into gear.

Do you know exactly what triggers your asthma? If you notice that you're coping with increased flare-ups in your bronchial tubes during certain times of the year, it's likely that seasonal allergens such as mold, pollen, and ragweed could be sparking your symptoms. Do you know exactly what triggers your asthma? If you notice that you're coping with increased flare-ups in your bronchial tubes during certain times of the year, it's likely that seasonal allergens such as mold, pollen, and ragweed could be sparking your symptoms.

Timing is everything when it comes to suffering a serious allergic reaction. Timing is everything when it comes to suffering a serious allergic reaction. Until recently, most doctors believed that an anaphylactic response always occurred within minutes of exposure to an allergen. But now some experts from the medical community have discovered that for a small group of people, the window for experiencing an allergic response can be much wider than expected.

It's possible to manage your allergies so they won't interfere too much on your daily life. The key is to take steps to avoid your allergy triggers and manage your symptoms as needed. It's possible to manage your allergies so they won't interfere too much on your daily life. The key is to take steps to avoid your allergy triggers and manage your symptoms as needed. The First Step to Success When you're trying to find the best way to manage your chronic allergies, you'll need to know what sparks the reaction.

You'd think that water would be a safe bet for people with allergies, right? Yet for a very small group of people, this isn't the case. A rare allergy to water, called aquagenic urticaria, makes daily living extra challenging for them. You'd think that water would be a safe bet for people with allergies, right? Yet for a very small group of people, this isn't the case. A rare allergy to water, called aquagenic urticaria, makes daily living extra challenging for them. Swimming. Showering.

Allergies to the nickel metal contained in coins and costume jewelry are a common problem that affects about 10 percent of Americans. Here are simple steps you can take to minimize reactions. Allergies to the nickel metal contained in coins and costume jewelry are a common problem that affects about 10 percent of Americans. The Solution There's an easy way to get around nickel allergies thanks to the efforts of researchers from Harvard University who published their findings in the April 2011 issue of the journal, Nature Nanotechnology.

Covers are used to encase mattresses and pillows and protect against allergens, body fluids, and bed bugs. Here's what you need to know about safeguarding your bedding. Sure, you want to protect your investment, and mattress and pillow covers do just that. They encase the bedding to protect against allergens, body fluids and bed bugs.Before you start shopping, here's what you need to know, depending on what you need.

You may jog or take exercise classes regularly to help look and feel your best. But if you're one of the few people who suffer from exercise-induced anaphylaxis, participating in strenuous activities can put your health at serious risk. You may jog or take exercise classes regularly to help look and feel your best. But if you're one of the few people who suffer from exercise-induced anaphylaxis, participating in strenuous activities can put your health at serious risk. While exercise-induced anaphylaxis is quite rare, researchers believe that some type of a food allergy is probably to blame.

This cutting-edge vaccine will allow cat lovers and cat owners the chance to enjoy the company of their feline friends without feeling miserable. As many as 10 percent of people in the Unites States suffer from cat allergies, and exposure to these furry pets can cause itchiness, sneezing, and even wheezing To date, the only cat-allergy treatment options are allergy control medications and immunization therapy.

Camping is a perfect opportunity to get away for a few days and convene with nature. But if you suffer from allergies, heading out to the wilderness can expose you to a series of dangers. Here's how to stay healthy. Camping is a perfect opportunity to get away for a few days and convene with nature. But if you suffer from allergies, heading out to the wilderness can expose you to a series of dangers. Here's how to stay healthy. Camping with Allergies While activities such as hiking in the woods, sleeping under the stars, and toasting marshmallows over the open fire can be enjoyable, they can also expose you to series of allergy triggers, such as pollen, mold, stinging insects, and poison ivy.

Got a blistery rash on your skin after spending some time outdoors? That rash could be caused by an allergic reaction to one of these poisonous plants. Learn what to look for to steer clear from the unsightly rashes. Got a blistery rash on your skin? If you've spent any time outdoors in the past few days, that rash could be caused by an allergic reaction to poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac. In all three cases, it isn't the plant itself that triggers the problem but rather a special oil called urushiol contained in these plants.

Warm weather means heading to the beach, basking in the sun, or enjoying a hike or bike ride, but along with the outdoor fun come those pesky bugs. And for some asthmatics who have allergies to insect bites, being stung by a bug can have deadly consequences. Warm weather means heading to the beach, basking in the sun, or enjoying a hike or bike ride-but along with the outdoor fun come those pesky bugs. And for some asthmatics who have allergies to insect bites, being stung by a bug can have deadly consequences.

After finishing a delicious meal, you suddenly feel itchy and your stomach hurts. Could the problem be caused by a food allergy or a food intolerance? It can be difficult to tell at first, but there are signs that can help you get to the root of the problem. After finishing a delicious meal, you suddenly feel itchy and your stomach hurts. Could the problem be caused by a food allergy or a food intolerance? It can be difficult to tell at first, but there are signs that can help you get to the root of the problem.

Having a collection of spices could be the best way to get the right taste to your recipes. But exposure to certain spices could push your immune system into overdrive. Here's what you need to know. You probably have a collection of spices in your kitchen cabinet that you use to adjust the right taste to your recipes. But for a small number of people, exposure to certain spices can push their immune systems into overdrive. If you fall into this group, here's what you need to know.

You take your car to a qualified mechanic when you need maintenance or repairs, don't you? But do you also seek out the same excellent level of care when it comes to your health? If you're coping with allergy symptoms, it's important to rely on the expertise of an allergist who's specifically trained in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the immune system. You take your car to a qualified mechanic when you need maintenance or repairs, don't you? But do you also seek out the same excellent level of care when it comes to your health?  If you're coping with allergy symptoms, it's important to rely on the expertise of an allergist who's specifically trained in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the immune system.

A bouquet of flowers may put your allergies in full bloom, but you don't have to forego a pretty vase of buds on your table or steer clear of a garden all season long. There are a host of flower types you can enjoy without an unpleasant allergic reaction. A bouquet of flowers may put your allergies in full bloom, but you don't have to forego a pretty vase of buds on your table or steer clear of a garden all summer long. There are a host of flower types you can enjoy without an unpleasant allergic reaction.

Your allergies will begin blooming right along with the flowers and other greenery. Experts say that avoiding your triggers is always the best way to head off your seasonal suffering. But if you can't escape pollen, mold, and other allergens, it's essential that you find the right allergy medication to tackle your allergy symptoms. Your allergies will begin blooming right along with the flowers and other greenery. Experts say that avoiding your triggers is always the best way to head off your seasonal suffering. But if you can't escape pollen, mold, and other allergens, it's essential that you find the right allergy medication to tackle your allergy symptoms.

If you suffer from a common form of eczema called atopic dermatitis, which causes red, irritated, and itchy skin, you could be at an increased risk for developing food allergies. If you suffer from a common form of eczema called atopic dermatitis, which causes red, irritated, and itchy skin, you could be at an increased risk for developing food allergies. Until recently, it was assumed that people with food allergies were prone to experiencing typical eczema symptoms as a side effect.

Who would have thought that having allergies could actually be good for you? You may hate the sneezing, coughing, and itching that come with allergies, but researchers have discovered a new reason to appreciate this misery. Who would have thought that having allergies could actually be good for you? You may hate the sneezing, coughing, and itching that come with allergies, but researchers have discovered a new reason to appreciate this misery. They believe that your allergies may help prevent cancer.

The arrival of spring may warm your spirits, but if you suffer from seasonal allergies, it can also put a damper on your well-being. With milder temperatures comes rain, thunderstorms, and heavy winds, which can ignite uncomfortable allergy symptoms. Here, tips on how to keep your symptoms to a minimum during spring and every other season, too. The arrival of spring may warm your spirits, but if you suffer from seasonal allergies, it can also put a damper on your well-being. With milder temperatures comes periods of turbulent weather-rain, thunderstorms, and heavy winds-which can ignite uncomfortable allergy symptoms.

Not only does indoor and outdoor air quality affect asthma symptoms, but these foods can also wreak havoc on your lungs. See what people are saying about this article on our Facebook page! Scientists from National Jewish Health, a Denver, CO hosptial that focuses on respiratory health, conducted a comprehensive study on food allergies. They looked at blood serum levels among children and adults to determine their sensitivity to some common foods.

Ever enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, only to be marred by sneezing, a rash, or other aggravating symptoms? If so, you may be one of the millions of people coping with the effects of a wine allergy. Do you ever enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, only to be marred by a headache, sneezing, rash, and other allergy symptoms? If so, you may be one of the millions of people coping with the effects of a wine allergy. Wine Allergy Findings Wine allergies affect about eight percent of wine drinkers today, but the good news is that scientists may have uncorked some new findings that could make it possible for you to drink red or white wine in the future without ill effects.

If you're finding yourself itching, wheezing, and sneezing at night, your four-legged friend could certainly be to blame. Here's how to transition your pet out of your bedroom without causing heartache on both ends. If your four-legged friend sleeps with you at night, he could certainly be to blame for making you itch and sneeze. The Facts About Pet Allergies You might be surprised to know that it's usually not your pet's actual hair that sets your immune system into overdrive.

What if you suddenly found yourself in the throes of a severe allergic reaction, and were all alone? Would you know what to do? The difference between life and death depends upon you following these crucial steps. See what people are saying about this article on our Facebook page! What if you suddenly found yourself in the throes of a severe allergic reaction-all alone? Would you know what to do and how to help yourself? If you're at risk for anaphylaxis (severe allergic reactions), the experts say that the difference between life and death depends upon you following these crucial steps: Recognize the danger signs.

Sometimes allergies and asthma can go hand-in-hand. And here's why. According to experts, it's possible for indoor allergies to aggravate your airways. And while not everyone with asthma has allergies, there still exists a big overlap. For people with indoor allergies and asthma, common triggers such as dust mites, cockroach droppings, pet dander, and mold can certainly spark their symptoms.

You may think you only need to worry about managing spring allergies once the snow melts away and the air gets milder. But the truth is that seasonal allergies can begin brewing while winter is still going strong. You may think you only need to worry about managing spring allergies once the snow melts away and the air gets milder. But the truth is that seasonal allergies can begin brewing while winter is still going strong. Seasonal Allergy Facts Experts from the National Jewish Health explain that trees already begin releasing pollen through their buds before you even notice any growth or flowering.

Most people enjoy having sex, but for a small group of men, the very act of having an orgasm can make them sick. Most people enjoy having sex, but for a small group of men, the very act of having an orgasm can make them sick. Post Orgasmic Illness Syndrome This condition was first discovered about a decade ago and is relatively rare, causing some doctors to question whether it's psychological in nature.

Is it possible that allergy immunotherapy--a treatment that helps your body build up a tolerance to your worst allergy triggers--can simultaneously put you at risk for developing a new allergy? Is it possible that allergy immunotherapy-a treatment that helps your body build up a tolerance to your worst allergy triggers-can simultaneously put you at risk for developing a new allergy? The Growing Concern over Aluminum Allergy Cases According...

If you live near a busy roadway and find yourself short of breath or constantly wheezing, your address could be to blame. If you live near a busy roadway and find yourself short of breath or constantly wheezing, your address could be to blame. In fact, researchers now believe that there's a strong link between daily exposure to steady streams of traffic and allergic asthma.

The terms are so similar that it's easy to confuse being allergic to insulin with insulin resistance. The terms are so similar that it's easy to confuse being allergic to insulin with insulin resistance. But these days, an allergy to insulin is exceedingly uncommon. "It is extremely rare," says Shahla Nader-Eftekhari, MD, professor of internal medicine at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UT Health.

One of the benefits of getting older used to be the cessation of seasonal allergies, but many people are finding that their symptoms simply won't retire. One of the benefits of growing old used to be a reprieve from seasonal allergy symptoms. But many people are finding that the itching, sneezing, and coughing accompanied with allergies continues even with advancing age. The Connection Between Allergies and Age You'd think that in your golden years, you'd be able to count on your allergies to cease.

Mold tends to breed in all sorts of warm, damp, and humid areas both inside and outside of your home. But did you also know that certain molds can grow right inside your lungs? Mold tends to breed in all sorts of warm, damp, and humid areas both inside and outside of your home. But did you also know that certain molds can grow right inside your lungs? Researchers now believe that Aspergillus fumigates, a mold commonly found in soil and compost piles, can seep into the lungs and begin to grow, leading to long-term damage.

Many people consider kiwis to be their favorite fruit. Sweet and juicy, these delicious picks are high in fiber, potassium, and handful of essential vitamins. Yet as the popularity of kiwis grow, so do the number of people who are allergic. Do you enjoy the sweet taste of kiwi? This popular fuzzy-skinned fruit (which originates from China) is high in potassium, vitamins C, A, and E, and fiber. A growing number of people consider kiwis to be one of their favorite picks. Yet as the popularity of kiwis grow, so does the number of people who are allergic to this tart, Eastern fruit.

Looking for a better way to control your allergic asthma symptoms? If corticosteroid therapy isn’t effective enough to treat moderate to severe allergic asthma, it may be time to talk to your doctor about adding Subcutaneous Omalizumab. This injection is administered once or twice a month by a doctor so you can head off your allergic asthma. Looking for a better way to control your allergic asthma symptoms? If corticosteroid therapy isn't effective enough to treat moderate to severe allergic asthma, it may be time to talk to your doctor about adding Subcutaneous Omalizumab. This injection is administered once or twice a month by a doctor so you can head off your allergic asthma.

It's nothing to sneeze at. Millions of kids suffer from allergies and asthma. Here are some of the reasons why. These days you're more than likely acquainted with a child who has allergies. According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 3 million children under 18 had a food allergy in 2007—an 18 percent increase since 1997.

You go to the gym for health and wellness purposes, but this fitness-intense environment can intensify your allergic asthma symptoms. Head off these triggers before you head out. When you head to the gym, do you find that your nasal passages and bronchial tubes seem to get just as much of a strenuous workout as you? The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) estimates that as many as 80 to 90 percent of people with allergic asthma will experience symptoms when they engage in strenuous exercise.

Every once in a while, allergy symptoms can be overwhelmingly intolerable. But can it be so intolerable that thoughts of suicide emerge? There may be times when you feel so overwhelmed by allergy symptoms that you simply can't tolerate them for another minute. But have you ever felt so desperate that you thought about suicide? The latest research shows that a small link exists between severe allergies and suicide.

Love the look of tattoos and body piercings? While these forms of body art are great for expressing individuality, they can also start allergy symptoms. And cosmetic products are no exception. That is why you should proceed with caution when exploring any of these options. Love the look of tattoos and body piercings? While these forms of body art are great for expressing individuality, for some people they can trigger allergy symptoms. And many cosmetic products can also cause similar problems. That is why you should proceed with caution when exploring any of these options.

When talking on your cell phone for long periods of time, do you find that your cheek and ear seem to be irritated or blistered afterward? If this sounds familiar, it’s not a coincidence. When talking on your cell phone for long periods of time, do you find that your cheek and ear seem to be irritated or blistered afterward? If this sounds familiar, it's not a coincidence. Many cell phones contain nickel, which is a common allergy trigger.

If you find that traditional allergy medications cause too many bothersome side effects, perhaps these natural allergy remedies can give you effective relief without any negative effects. If you find that traditional allergy medications cause too many bothersome side effects, perhaps these natural allergy remedies can give you effective relief without any negative effects. Growing Interest in Natural Allergy Remedies Today, an increasing number of people are incorporating natural allergy remedies into their daily routine.

Kissing is a great way to show your affection. But did you know that a greeting from someone else's lips can spark a serious reaction if you suffer from a food or medication allergy? Learn how best to protect yourself from before you pucker up. Kissing is a great way to show your affection. But did you know that a greeting from someone else's lips can spark a serious reaction if you suffer from a food or medication allergy? Learn how best to protect yourself from before you pucker up. The Danger of Kissing Allergies If you're not familiar with the concept of kissing allergies, you're not alone.

If you’ve tried all you can to relieve your allergies but your symptoms still persist, consider these creative tips. They may be just what you need to get the relief you’ve been longing for. If you've tried all you can to relieve your allergies but your symptoms still persist, consider these creative tips. They may be just what you need to get the relief you've been longing for. Strategies for Allergy Relief You probably already know that cleaning your home, staying indoors on days when pollen count is high, and avoiding strong chemicals are important tactics to minimize your allergies.

Living your best life with allergies is easier than ever. Here, steps you can take to minimize your discomfort and maximize your quality of life. Sneezing, coughing, itching. These are just a few words that can describe your life with allergies. The good news is that you don't have to fall prey to this misery. There are steps you can take to minimize your discomfort and maximize your quality of life.

These small lifestyle changes can make a big impact in helping you manage your asthma effectively anywhere and anytime. Unfortunately, there's no magic cure for asthma. It is a lifelong chronic condition that requires you to master ways to avoid asthma attacks. But this doesn't mean that your respiratory challenges should hold you back from achieving your goals. These small lifestyle changes can make a big impact in helping you manage your asthma effectively.

Do allergy-free foods exist? The concept sounds appealing, but even though there isn't a "one size fits all" approach to deal with allergens, there are ways you can keep your allergens at bay. Wouldn't it be nice to have a list of foods that are safe for everyone with allergies to eat? While the concept may sound appealing, in reality, there isn't a "one size fits all" approach to deal with allergens. That is why it's essential to know which foods set off your immune system to help guide your own shopping strategy.

If you experience deep, painful aches, you may wonder if it could stem from allergies in some way, although it's possible for them to co-occur, experts say that joint pain and allergies are usually not related. Got joint pain? If you're experiencing deep, painful aches, you may wonder if it could stem from your allergies in some way. This is a reasonable assumption, but experts say that joint pain and allergies are usually not related, although it's possible for them to co-occur.

Your OBGYN has been there for you through thick and thin: from your first contraception to your last baby to even menopause. But should she also be your go-to-doctor for everything else? Your obstetrician-gynecologist has been there for you through thick and thin: from your first contraception to your last baby; maybe even through menopause. But is she always the best choice as a primary care physician? Your gynecologist as your go-to-doctor-for-everything might not necessarily be a good idea.

If you've lost access to insurance, you may be wondering how you'll survive. Is there a way to get good health care even if your finances are unstable? The cost of health insurance is scary, but having no health insurance can be downright terrifying. If you've lost access to insurance, you may be wondering how you'll survive. If you or a family member has a pre-existing condition, covering the costs of all of the prescription drugs and doctor's visits you need may seem impossible.

Are you allergic to grass? If so, the arrival of winter could provide relief. But what if you live in a region with a warm climate? Could you still escape from this allergy trigger? Are you allergic to grass? If so, the arrival of winter could provide you a welcome vacation from your allergy symptoms. But people who live in regions with warm temperatures year 'round might not be able to escape so easily from this troublesome trigger.

Your work environment could be making you sick. Wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath might be indicators that something at work is triggering your symptoms. Your work environment could be making you sick. Wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath might be indicators that something at work is triggering your symptoms. Workplace asthma (or occupational asthma) is one of the most common on-the-job health occurrences according to research presented at the annual meeting of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology in 2009.

Do you live for the satisfying taste of a decadent treat? Here are four safe gluten-free foods that can add some extra flavor into your week. Do you live for the satisfying taste of a decadent treat? If you have celiac disease (an intolerance to gluten, the protein in wheat), you know there are lots of limits on what you can eat. But the options for delicious wheat-free foods have also greatly increased in recent years.

You consider your pet to be an essential part of your family. Which is why you worry when you hear him sneeze. Can it be a cold, or is it allergies? It's not only people who suffer from allergies. Your pet is an essential part of your family and you want to do whatever it takes ensure she is healthy. Which is why you may start to worry about your pet's sneeze. Is it a cold or an allergy? It's not only people who suffer from allergies. Dogs can also respond to a variety of triggers, ranging from foods to fleas to environmental factors, explains Richard S.

This hygienic practice gently flushes the nasal cavity in order to remove excess mucus and debris from the sinuses. The cold and flu season is upon us, and with it comes the annoying, and sometimes debilitating, symptoms of the common cold. One treatment for congestion is nasal irrigation. This hygienic practice flushes the nasal cavity in order to remove excess mucus and debris from the sinuses.

What if you could head off your next allergy attack by simply adding black rice to your daily menu? When you're sneezing or suffering from excessive itching, you probably rely on antihistamines and other allergy medications to bring you relief. But what if you could head off your next allergy attack by changing what you eat? Scientists now believe that adding black rice bran into your diet can be a potential allergy treatment.

The thought of cuddling up on the couch with a dog probably warms your heart. But if you have a pet allergy, this close contact may be enough to make you cough, sneeze, and rub your eyes. The thought of cuddling up on the couch with a dog probably warms your heart. But if you have a pet allergy, this close contact may be enough to make you cough, sneeze, and rub your eyes. The Facts About Pet Allergies The Asthma and Allergy Foundation estimates that 15 to 30 percent of people with allergies find that animals trigger their symptoms.

If you suffer from allergies, this joyful season may bring many health challenges. Beware of these four common activities that can spark your allergy symptoms. 'Tis the season to be jolly. But if you suffer from allergies, this joyful season may bring many health challenges. Beware of these four common activities that can spark your allergy symptoms. Common Holiday Allergy Triggers Decorating the Christmas tree.

If you have any allergy sufferers on your holiday list, you'll need to shop with extra care to be sure that your holiday gift doesn't trigger their symptoms or make them sick. If you have any allergy sufferers on your holiday list, you'll need to shop with extra care to be sure that your holiday gift doesn't trigger their symptoms or make them sick. Many popular gifts like food, clothing, scented bath products, and stuffed animals can all pose a risk for people with allergies.

You go to great lengths to use your asthma medication exactly as directed in order to avoid triggers, yet you still can't seem to get the upper hand on your allergic asthma symptoms. If this sounds all too familiar, it may be time to try allergy shots. You go to great lengths to use your asthma medication exactly as directed in order to avoid your triggers. Yet despite your best efforts, you can't seem to get the upper hand on your allergic asthma symptoms. If this scenario sounds all too familiar, it may be time to try allergy immunization therapy, which is the formal name for allergy injections or shots.

What if you could keep your food allergies off the Thanksgiving dinner menu this year? If this sounds like an appetizing idea, read on to see how to minimize your risk. What if you could keep your food allergies off the Thanksgiving dinner menu this year? If this sounds like an appetizing idea, read on to see how to minimize your risk. You know all too well the dangers food allergies pose on a daily basis. When you socialize at holiday time, the problem can be magnified.

It may be too late for you to eliminate your milk protein allergies, but one study says it might not be too late for your newborn baby. Are you allergic to milk? It may be too late to change this fate, but according to researchers from Tel Aviv University in Israel, it could be possible to help eliminate this danger for your newborn baby with one simple step . Milk Protein Allergy Milk allergies are particularly common among children.

Has your doctor recommended you undergo allergy blood testing to determine what’s causing your allergy symptoms? If so, here's what you should know. Has your doctor recommended you undergo allergy blood testing to determine what's causing your allergy symptoms? Allergy blood testing, or the Allergen-specific IgE antibody test (also referred to as Radioallergosorbent test or RAST) is one of several popular methods used today to diagnose specific allergies.

It's that time again when the flu makes its unwelcome return. Although the flu shot is the answer to prevent this illness, will it only make matters worse if you have an egg allergy? It's that time again when the flu makes its unwelcome return. Although the flu shot is the answer to prevent this illness, will it only make matters worse if you have an egg allergy? In the winter of 2010, the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) recommend that everyone get vaccinated against several common strains of the influenza virus.

Does your mood take a sharp turn for the worse when your allergies kick in? It might not be "all in your head." Does your mood take a sharp turn for the worse when your allergies kick in? If so, it may not be "all in your head." In recent years, there's been growing recognition that many allergy sufferers experience depression along with the physical symptoms, causing researchers to explore the connection.

Do you want to keep your pet or do you want to breathe better? Thankfully, you may not have to make that choice after all. Sometimes your beloved pet can be the reason why you have respiratory problems. Now what? Do you want to keep your pet or do you want to breathe better? Thankfully, you may not have to make that choice after all. It's possible for your pet to co-exist in the same home without having your asthma kick in.

Did you know that allergic rhinitis is just another name for hay fever? If you suffer from this condition, relief is possible. While the name sounds complicated, allergic rhinitis is actually just the formal name for hay fever. Allergic Rhinitis Triggers   Allergic rhinitis symptoms occur when your body comes into contact with allergens such as pollen, dust, and mold, which can cause sneezing and congestion.

Your favorite fragrance may be giving off more than just a nice scent. The chemical composition of the fragrances you own may be giving off more than just a nice scent. According to the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics who recently published a report analyzing 17 name-brand perfumes, these chemicals may have inherent health risks that could lead to asthma, contact dermatitis, and hormone imbalances.

Ragweed allergies can consist of never ending itchiness and a terrible time of coughing and sneezing. But did you know it can also depress you? If you're allergic to ragweed, the onset of the fall can be a season of never ending itchiness and a terrible time of coughing and sneezing. Ragweed allergies affect as many as 20 percent of Americans. This common weed is prevalent in open fields and rural areas, but even city dwellers aren't immune to experiencing effects either.

If you've done all you can to manage allergies and all has failed, it might be time to consider allergy shots. Sometimes allergies can be too much to handle. If that's the case for you, it may be time to consider allergy shots or injections (also called immunotherapy). An allergy shot or immunotherapy helps build up tolerance and reduce your immune system's reaction to certain triggers.

If your allergy symptoms just keep getting worse, your relief could be in one vitamin supplement away. Did you know that vitamin D could be the secret to helping you get some relief? Researchers at Louisiana State University (LSU) in New Orleans shed important light on how this vitamin can help patients manage common allergies. LSU scientists pinpointed vitamin D deficiencies in patients with asthma and cystic fibrosis (both of which can affect the lungs).

Just because you have wheat allergies doesn't mean you have to give up all your favorite foods. It's simple to cook delicious treats at home, using allergy-free ingredients in exchange for wheat. Having a wheat allergy can place many limits on what you can safely eat. However, it doesn't mean you have to give up all your favorite foods. It's simple to cook delicious treats at home, using allergy-free ingredients in exchange for wheat. Since most recipes call for wheat flour, you'll need to find wheat substitutes that are safe to eat.

Could tick bites and red meat allergies have a common link? The connection between the two might surprise you. Could tick bites and red meat allergies have a common link? Quite possibly, according to allergists at a practice in Sydney, New South Wales. They discovered that a group of patients who'd experienced a rare allergic reaction to meat also had a significant reaction to a tick bite in their medical history.

If you love that tart rush you get when you bite into an apple, but find that it's usually followed by an itchy feeling in your mouth or on your tongue, it could be allergies. Do you love that tart rush you get when you bite into an apple, but find that it's usually followed by an itchy feeling in your mouth or on your tongue? If so, you might suffer from oral allergy syndrome. As many as one third of allergy sufferers experience oral allergy syndrome, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI).

Identifying causes for post nasal drip is the only way to find the best treatment. Though it can be difficult to decipher, consider these possible culprits. Post nasal drip is a common condition that happens when mucus from the back of your nose thickens and drips down into your throat. When this occurs, it can make you cough and try to clear your throat. This can sometimes be accompanied by bad breath and sinus pressure.

If you still feel miserable after many attempts to treat your allergies, you might want to retrace your steps to see what you can do differently. Have you ever felt like your allergies were an unruly pet, refusing to be tamed despite your best attempts? If you take your medicine and follow all the right steps to allergy-proof your environment, yet still find yourself feeling sick, you may question what you're doing wrong.

Do you look forward to autumn, or do you dread months of coughing and sneezing? Here, ten tried and true methods to prevent fall allergies. Do you look forward to autumn, or do you dread months of coughing and sneezing? Each year, more than 36 million Americans fall prey to seasonal allergies, and for many, fall can be the worst time of year. This is because ragweed pollen and mold spores are out in abundance and these triggers can make your eyes, nose, and throat itch.

Is your job making you sick? If you work in a soy processing plant and suffer from asthma, you certainly could be in danger according to a study. Could your job be making you sick? If you work in a soy processing plant and suffer from asthma, the answer could certainly be yes. This finding comes from researchers from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), who looked at the relationship between workers in a soy processing plant and their allergy and asthma symptoms and found some interesting connections.

If your eyelid is red, swollen, and inflamed, you may have a stye. Caused by an infected oil gland, styles may not be pretty, but they're usually not dangerous. Here, a step-by-step guide to treating it. If your eyelid is painful, red or swollen, you might have an eye stye. They're common, annoying, and not pretty but they're also not difficult to treat and usually aren't dangerous. In fact, most styes can be treated at home and don't require medical attention.

There are many benefits nursing can bring, such as a special bond with your newborn and a boost to his immune system. However, for a few women, the very act of breastfeeding can put their own health at risk. There are many benefits nursing can bring, such as a special bond with your newborn and a boost to his immune system. However, for a few women, the very act of breastfeeding can put their own health at risk,as it's possible that nursing can trigger mild allergy symptoms or even a serious anaphylaxis reaction.

Conjunctivitis or "pink eye" can be irritating. See whether or not your conjunctivitis is caused by allergies or is a contagious infection. You may love the color pink, except when it's used to describe your eyes. When your eyes feel particularly raw and uncomfortable at times, seasonal triggers can be to blame for causing allergic conjunctivitis. Allergic conjunctivitis often looks and feels very similar to bouts of infectious pink eye you had as a child; however, when the cause is allergies, it requires a different strategy to prevent and treat symptoms.

If you touched poison ivy, you might wonder if it's contagious. Find out what an allergic reaction looks like and what you can do to prevent it. Got a poison ivy rash? If so, you're probably wondering if this ailment is contagious. The answer is yes—at least somewhat. There's always a danger that poison ivy could spread to others. However, the method in which it's typically transferred is quite different from what you'd expect.

Does mold flare up your asthma or allergies? Preventing mold triggers and proactively keeping your home mold-free can be the best way to evict this pest. Got mold in your home? If exposure to mold triggers your asthma symptoms, you'll need to heed these important steps to evict this unwanted guest. Mold Allergies Household mold can grow on a range of surfaces, including walls, cabinets, garbage pails, houseplants, paper, and food.

Dealing with egg allergies can be difficult. Read on to learn about the latest findings and ways you can prevent an egg allergy from happening. Since eggs are a common ingredient in many recipes, if you're allergic to eggs, eating can be quite challenging. Here are some common symptoms of egg allergies: Hives, itching Stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting Runny nose Wheezing Research Findings If these symptoms sound familiar, you may be interested in the research findings published in the August 2010 issue of the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (JCAI).

Are you not sure if you have allergies or a cold? These signs will help you tell the difference. So you have a sore throat, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. Is this the beginning of a cold or could it be an allergy? Many people find it difficult to tell the difference. Yet if you know what to look for, there are some simple clues to help you know which ailment is to blame for making you feel so miserable.

If you think allergies are to blame for the situation, you might be surprised to find out you're wrong. Do you snore? If so, this problem is probably keeping you from getting some quality rest. The fact is that people who snore may wake themselves (and their parner, too) multiple times during the night. Such constant waking can prevent the body from going into "REM sleep, which is the deep stage of sleep that allows you to feel truly rested in the morning.

Is it a cold or allergies? Your mucus can help you differentiate. Got a stuffy nose or headache? Perhaps you're also very congested and have lots of mucus when you sneeze or blow your nose. While such symptoms can make you feel quite miserable, they're also very non-specific. As a result, you could be left wondering if they're caused by a cold or by an allergy.

As summer winds to a close, if there's no sign of your allergies cooling down, you may be one of the 36 million Americans that the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) estimates may suffer from a ragweed allergy. Are the heat of your summer allergies more than you can bear? As summer winds to a close, if there's no sign of your allergies cooling down, you may be one of the 36 million Americans that the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) estimates may suffer from a ragweed allergy.

If you're prone to seasonal allergies, you may find that the high pollen count that comes with the warmer weather leaves you coughing and sneezing. It's summertime and living should be easy, right? But if you're prone to seasonal allergies, you may find that the high pollen count that comes with the warmer weather leaves you coughing and sneezing. Worse yet, some doctors now believe that when your allergy symptoms are left untreated, you're at increased risk of them turning into pneumonia or another serious illness.

For the two million Americans with serious insect allergies, a bee sting is more than a nuisance. It can also cause a serious, or potentially fatal, reaction if not treated promptly. No one likes to be stung by a bee. But for the two million Americans with serious insect allergies, a bee sting is more than just a nuisance. It can also cause a serious, or potentially fatal, reaction if not treated promptly. Stinging Allergies The presence of bees, wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets are a common occurrence during the summer months.

If you suffer from seasonal tree pollen allergies, you may find that some trees can also make you feel pretty miserable. Here, tips on how to cope. If you love the outdoors and have an affinity for nature, you probably appreciate the trees in your yard and in your neighborhood. Trees bring a variety of important benefits, such as producing oxygen in the air, lowering carbon dioxide levels, preventing soil from eroding, and helping to control ground temperatures.

Could allergies kill you? Find out here. Do you go to great lengths to avoid germs and dirt? If so, you might be surprised to know that your efforts could actually be bad for your health. While this may sound contrary to your ideas about germs and illness, scientists have discovered that the cleaner the environment gets, the higher the rates are of allergies and related deaths.

Fungal allergies are common, and people with a mold or other fungal allergy are also at increased risk to experience allergic asthma, according to the latest research findings. Do you notice your allergies seem to be trigged by exposure to mold spores and other types of fungi? If so, you certainly aren't alone. Fungal allergies are particularly common, and people with a mold or other fungal allergy are also at increased risk to experience allergic asthma, according to the latest research findings.

Have you heard about the link between allergies and ear infection? If not, you may want to listen up. Few have heard about the link between allergies and ear infection, but many have experienced it. While it makes sense that the nasal congestion that goes along with allergies can cause your ears to feel blocked and/or painful, it wasn't until a decade ago that the full extent of how allergies and ear infection diagnoses relate was understood.

The majority of Americans who believe they're experiencing an allergic reaction to the things they eat may actually be suffering from some other ailment. Think you've got food allergies? You may need to think again. The majority of Americans who believe they're experiencing an allergic reaction may actually be suffering from some other ailment. This finding was revealed as part of a widespread effort by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) to weed through the many inconsistencies and misconceptions that exist in defining food allergies and create some standardized guidelines for diagnosing this serious problem.

If you've ever had a sinus headache, you know they're hard to miss. The good news is that a host of possible sinus headache remedies exist, and most of them are easy things that you can try at home to help yourself feel better quickly. If you've ever had a sinus headache, you know they're hard to miss. There's that telltale aching head, stuffy nose, and dizziness you have to suffer through. If this sounds like an all-too common scenario, you probably feel desperate for anything you can do to relieve the symptoms.

When your traditional allergy medications seem to cause too many side effects, you may want to try some natural allergy remedies that can help you get your worst symptoms in check. When your traditional allergy medications seem to cause too many side effects, you may want to try some natural allergy remedies that can aid even the most severe symptoms. Natural Allergy Remedies More people today than ever before are turning to alternative remedies to treat allergies and other health problems—many of which are having success.

You may be worried about mixing allergy shots and pregnancy and wonder if this practice will put your unborn child in any danger. Does it seem like your allergies have gotten worse since you've been pregnant? If so, it's probably not your imagination. During pregnancy, your body undergoes a variety of changes that can make you feel pretty miserable. For some women, this includes an increase in allergy symptoms.

Unfortunately, medication reactions are a common problem for many people today. In the ideal world, the medications you take would treat your pressing health problems effectively without causing any ill effects. But unfortunately, medication reactions are a common problem for many people today. What this means for you is that some treatment could make you feel worse instead of better; so it's important to take only medicines you know you can safely tolerate.

Are yeast allergies for real? Many conventional doctors are skeptical about this widespread diagnosis, saying that it's very rare and in most cases, doesn't really exist. Many people today believe they're allergic to yeast. This fact can pose a real challenge, since yeast is a common ingredient contained in an array of popular foods and drinks. To help those who fall into this category to safely navigate daily living, some alternative practitioners offer various treatment options.

When your traditional allergy medications seem to cause too many side effects, you may want to try some natural allergy remedies that can help you get your worst symptoms in check. When your traditional allergy medications seem to cause too many side effects, you may want to try some natural allergy remedies that can help you get your worst symptoms in check. Natural Allergy Remedies More people today than ever before are turning to alternative remedies to treat allergies and other health problems, and many of them are having success.

Dietary modification, environmental modifications, and allergy medications can all help in preventing the onset of allergy-related migraines. An estimated 28 million Americans suffer from migraine headaches, according to the International Headache Society. Migraines have been found to have a range of triggers, one of which includes allergies. If you suffer from migraines, below are some things to look out for.

Vaccine reactions are a reality, but should the possibility deter you from getting you or your child vaccinated? Before you consider skipping recommended vaccinations, you should weigh the pros and the cons. Vaccines are standard practice today to protect you from contracting diseases like the measles, mumps, chickenpox and polio. But since many of these illnesses don't pose much of a widespread threat anymore, you may wonder if getting immunized is really necessary.

Got a child with a peanut allergy? If so, you know all too well the serious risks that go along with it. While this condition can be life threatening, researchers have recently discovered that it might be successfully treated in some cases. Find out how. Got a child with a peanut allergy? If so, you know all too well the serious risks that go along with it. While this condition can be life threatening, researchers have recently discovered that it might be successfully treated in some cases. Find out how.

You may be thankful to your parents or grandparents for passing down your blue eyes or your long legs, but their genes may be responsible for your certain allergies as well. You know that certain traits such as hair color, body type and intelligence are often passed down from generation to generation in families. But are you aware that the same is true for the likelihood of experiencing a rare type of food allergy called eosinophilic esophagitis or EoE?  For people who suffer from this serious condition, a study published in Nature Genetics in March of 2010 now reveals that a master "allergy gene" could actually be to blame.

Do you feel like your allergy symptoms are getting worse every year? If you find yourself increasingly dealing with sneezing, coughing, itchy nose and throat, and all of those other miseries that go along with seasonal hay fever, climate change effects could be to blame. Do you feel like your allergy symptoms are getting worse every year? If you find yourself increasingly dealing with sneezing, coughing, itchy nose and throat, and all of those other miseries that go along with seasonal hay fever, climate change effects could be to blame.

Imagine being able to wear contact lenses despite any seasonal eye allergies. It's possible to weather your symptoms and still ditch the glasses. Eye allergy sufferers may fantasize about one day wearing contacts—without discomfort. But you may not be too hopeful, and for good reason. According to the findings of a recent survey conducted by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, the eye allergy discomfort respondents experience is enough to discourage almost half of them from wearing their contacts during allergy season.

If you recently experienced a life threatening allergic reaction and you aren't sure about the cause, you may want to talk to your doctor to find out if it could be a delayed allergy to meat. Many people have delayed anaphylactic responses and can't seem to trace them back to the triggers. But scientists from several institutions, including the University of Tennessee, University of Virginia, and the John James Medical Centre in Australia, conducted a study examining the experiences of 60 people who had unexplained reoccurring anaphylactic reactions to see if any patterns existed.

If you have seafood allergies, getting this common medical procedure without taking proper precautions could prove to be dangerous. Are you allergic to seafood? If so, then you may be concerned about having a Computed Tomography (commonly referred to as CT) scan done. This procedure often uses a contrast dye that can trigger a dangerous immune system response in some people. The Basics about CT Scans If you've ever had a CT scan performed, you know that this is a diagnostic screening tool that uses a computer-enhanced machine to analyze two-dimensional photos of your body.

Perhaps you're tired all of the time and your body aches, but your doctor can't find anything specifically wrong with you. If this sounds all too familiar, it's possible that you have a chronic condition called fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia affects about two percent of people today who live in the United States, and women are affected more often than men. If you fall into this group, you probably have pain in your muscles, ligaments and tendons, as well as highly-tender spots spread throughout your body.

Perhaps you had Chinese food last week and shortly afterward, you felt your tongue swell, you broke out in hives and started wheezing. If this sounds familiar, you could be allergic to soy beans, a common ingredient used in some of the popular dishes. Perhaps you had Chinese food last week and shortly afterward, you felt your tongue swell, you broke out in hives and started wheezing. If this sounds familiar, you could be allergic to soy beans, a common ingredient used in some of the popular dishes.

If you have sensitive skin resulting from eczema and also use scented soap, you probably know that the combination can make you scratch and itch. If you have sensitive skin resulting from eczema and also use scented soap, you probably know that the combination can make you scratch and itch. This is largely due to the fact that some of the popular cleansing bars on the market today contain fragrances and chemicals that can trigger the telltale eczema and soap rash.

An allergist can help you determine the extent of your allergies and even identify new ones. But knowing what to expect can help you make the most out of your visit. Are you planning to visit an allergist soon? If so, it can be important to know what to expect in advance. This will help you prepare for the appointment so you can get the most out of the experience. The Need for an Allergist Visit You probably already suspect that you have allergies, and you may even have some ideas of your biggest triggers.

Most people think of penicillin as a medicine that will help to cure them when they're sick. But if you have an allergy to this form of treatment, it can actually make you feel much worse instead of better. The Facts about a Penicillin Allergy Penicillin is an antibiotic that is often used by doctors to treat common bacterial infections. While most people tolerate this approach well, others find that this medication causes their immune system to overreact with some serious side effects.

If you're a chocoholic who also happens to have a chocolate allergy, you may feel cursed. But there are ways to get your fix—without risking your health. Who doesn't love chocolate?  Most of us do, but if you have a chocolate allergy, you've probably got a whole list of desserts that look and smell good but are completely out of reach. However, the good news is that these days, you may be able to find other safer, but equally tempting, treats.

If you suffer from asthma, you may occasionally need to take prednisone or some other type of corticosteroid to help give your airways a boost so you can breathe better. But did you know in some cases, prednisone could also be used to help you to manage your allergies, too? If you suffer from asthma, you may occasionally need to take prednisone or some other type of corticosteroid to help give your airways a boost so you can breathe better. But did you know in some cases, prednisone could also be used to help you to manage your allergies, too? Prednisone and Allergies When you think of steroids, you probably think of the kind that bodybuilders use to bulk up their muscles.

Even if you don't like bees, if you suffer from allergies, you may be grateful for the honey that they make. This is because some people who practice alternative medicine believe that using honey treatment can relieve nasal allergies and bring great relief. Even if you don't like bees, if you suffer from allergies, you may be grateful for the honey that they make. Some who practice alternative medicine believe that using honey treatment can relieve nasal allergies and bring great relief. Honey Treatment Benefits Honey is known for its anti-microbial properties and for being high in antioxidants.

When the flowers and trees start to bloom each year, do you find your allergies springing into gear? If so, you should read this. When the flowers and trees start to bloom each year, do you find your allergies springing into gear? Many people experience sneezing, runny nose, itching eyes and throat, and other allergy symptoms as the first signs of the spring season fill the warming air.

How can you be sure that the foods you eat are free from your biggest allergens? Thanks to federal food allergen labeling laws, food manufacturing plants are required to step up to the plate and tell you in advance what their pre-packaged foods contain. How can you be sure that the foods you eat are free from your biggest allergens? Thanks to federal food allergen labeling laws, food manufacturing plants are required to step up to the plate and tell you in advance what their pre-packaged foods contain.

Did you know that for a small portion of the population, the existence of these and other such modern electronic devices can cause a host of physical ailments? Are you utterly reliant on your cell phone, laptop and big screen TV? If so, you're certainly in good company. But did you know that for a small portion of the population, the existence of these and other such modern electronic devices can cause a host of physical ailments? Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity There's been increasing awareness in recent years about a condition called Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity.

Perhaps you've tried all of the time and your body aches, but your doctor can't find anything specificly wrong with you. If this sounds all too familiar, you could have a chronic condition called fibromyalgia. Perhaps you've tried all of the time and your body aches, but your doctor can't find anything specificly wrong with you. If this sounds all too familiar, you could have a chronic condition called fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia and Allergies Often Co-Exist Fibromyalgia affects about two percent of Americans, and women are affected more often than men.

Have you ever tried any alternative allergy treatments to help relieve your worst seasonal symptom? Some people with hay fever and other allergies find that traditional Chinese medicine techniques can be quite effective. Have you ever tried any alternative allergy treatments to help relieve your worst seasonal symptom? Some people with hay fever and other allergies find that traditional Chinese medicine techniques can be quite effective. Alternative Allergy Treatments...

Many allergy sufferers are spicing up their treatment by turning to their cupboard for symptom relief. Allergy Home Remedies When it comes to allergy home remedies, spices are getting high marks for their beneficial properties. Better yet, they're usually things you have right at home, so you may not even need to go anyway or spend any extra money for them.

Not all allergies are created equal. Some are a bit weirder than others. When you think of things that trigger your allergies, you probably conjure up images of pollen, dust, mold and trees. But did you know that some people's symptoms are triggered by much more unusual allergies? In fact, serious reactions can occur when they're exposed to the most common, and highly unlikely, culprits such as water, sunlight, sweat, cold and heat.

Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis syndrome is a rare allergic reaction that affects a small number of people every year and in some cases, may even be fatal. Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (also called TEN) is the technical name for a very severe type of drug reaction. Some researchers believe that the condition occurs when the body is unable to metabolize a medication. But because there is currently no way to predict such a reaction, and there are more than 100 types of drugs that can be implicated, prevention is nearly impossible.

So you have a food allergy. Or at least, that's what you think. But did you know that food allergy misdiagnosis is an extremely common occurrence today? Unfortunately, misdiagnosis possibilities can create confusion when deciding what you can, and cannot, safely eat. So you have a food allergy. Or at least, that's what you think. But did you know that food allergy misdiagnosis is an extremely common occurrence today?  Unfortunately, misdiagnosis possibilities can create confusion when deciding what you can, and cannot, safely eat.

If your allergies are causing you to lose sleep, you may find yourself suffering from a bad case of allergy fatigue. As the name implies, this is a form of extreme tiredness that can be linked back to your allergies-- and all of the discomforts that go along with them. Are your allergies causing you to lose sleep? If so, then you may find yourself suffering from a bad case of allergy fatigue. As the name implies, this is a form of extreme tiredness that can be linked back to your allergies─and all of the discomforts that go along with them.

World renowned sinus surgeon and Director of New York's prestigious Nasal and Sinus Center, Dr. Jordan Josephson, answers a desperate reader's question about how he can relieve his chronic sinus pain. Q: My sinus problems have gotten much worse over the last few years. I can't breathe through my nose, have headaches behind the eyes and ears and in my forehead, and am constantly sick and tired, despite getting a full night's sleep. The problems get worse when my allergies are acting up.

If you have a child who has been diagnosed with autism and also suffers from food allergies, you may wonder if there’s any relationship between these two serious conditions. If you have a child who has been diagnosed with autism and also suffers from food allergies, you may wonder if there's any relationship between these two serious conditions. In fact, some research does indicate that a link between food allergies and autism exists, yet the findings aren't consistent and exactly how the two topics relate seems to be a subject of great debate.

Are you allergic to dust? If so, at least you’re in good company. Dust allergies affect a large portion of the population today. What is Dust? Dust exists no matter where you go, despite your best attempts to remove it from your home and surroundings. As a result, your dust allergies may cause you to cough and sneeze all year long. The best you can do to protect yourself is to understand what dust is and figure out how best to minimize it in the spaces where so you spend the most time.

There’s no shortage of talk in the news media about global warming and how it hurts the environment. But did you ever stop to think that the effects of global warming might be having a direct impact on your personal health? Scientists studying global warming say it's absolutely true that global warming will have an effect on your health. So don't shrug it off as a bigger issue that doesn't concern you--global warming touches everyone in some way. Here, five of the major health problems it causes: Allergies and asthma.

Reading is a great way to familiarize yourself with a wide range of people and places without ever having to leave the comfort of your home. But if you suffer from allergies, your favorite books may contain mold that can interrupt your mental journey by causing you to cough and sneeze. Mold and Your Book Allergy If you find that stepping into the library prompts your allergies to flare, you could have a book allergy and may need to beware. For people who are allergic to books, mold contained within the pages is likely to blame for the reaction.

Have you ever wondered who discovered allergies or why they only affect certain people? While lots of information is in circulation today about allergies and how and why they're caused, a host of less-known information about this topic also exists and can be quite interesting to explore. Consider some of the following unusual allergy facts that may leave you wanting to know even more. 1. Dogs were instrumental in discovering the existence of allergies. French researchers back in 1902 were conducting an experiment with dogs that consisted of injecting them with an extract made from a sea animal.

Who doesn't love the seasonal smells candles bring to the home? Well, despite the intoxicating aromas, you may be putting yourself at risk. What could be more delicious than filling your house with the aroma of pumpkin spice at Thanksgiving, peppermint and pine at Christmas, and lilacs during spring? Scented candles have long been a popular and inexpensive way to infuse your surroundings with the fragrances of the season.

Is a steaming cup of fresh coffee the first thing you reach for every morning? If so, you're certainly in good company. But according to some researchers, if you suffer from a caffeine allergy, your java habit could actually be causing you harm. The Caffeine Habit You might feel that drinking coffee helps you feel more awake and alert, but according to the Caffeine Awareness Organization, the coffee habit can be putting you at risk for a number of unwanted consequences. While the scientific data about the prevalence of people with a caffeine allergy is slim, there's been increasing awareness about the fact that caffeine maybe at the root of a host of physical, mental, and emotional symptoms affecting many Americans.

Do you often find yourself feeling ill when you eat certain fruits, vegetables or other foods that are extremely acidic? If so, there could be one of several different culprits to blame. You could have an allergy to citrus or to citric acid, or even to foods that have a high level of acidity. A Range of Problems Various types of allergies and intolerances to citrus, citric acid and foods with high acidic properties do exist, but doctors say that they are usually quite rare. As a result, there isn't a great deal of information readily available about the topics, posing challenges for the people trying to get to the root of their problem, and for doctors who are putting all of the pieces together to make a proper diagnosis.

If your allergies cause your eyes to be red, itchy, and uncomfortable, have no fear. We have tips on how you can get relief. Allergy eyes (also known as allergic conjunctivitis) can occur when you're exposed to an allergy trigger that causes your body to release histamines and other chemicals into your blood stream. This can cause the blood vessels in your eyes to swell and can result in a host of eye symptoms.

With all of the available health information, it is easy to become overwhelmed and confused about what is fact—and what isn't. We've tried to help. These allergy facts are less true than you may have previously thought. Allergy Myth 1: Food allergies are a common problem affecting many children and adults in the United States. Truth: Much attention has been paid to the danger of food allergies today in order to raise awareness about their potential life-threatening nature.

If you love the long, warm days of summer, you may wish they would last all year long. But while you can't stop time from moving forward and you can't hold on to the 80 degree temperatures in the dead of February, you may find yourself grappling with your summer allergies long after August has come and gone. Summer Allergies that Never End If you think that the name "summer allergies" implies that your allergy symptoms will be contained to the summer months, you may be in for a big surprise when your sneezing, running nose, itchy eyes and throat and fatigue seem to go on for way too long.

Many people find that their allergy symptoms can be traced back to the fabric, treatment, or even color of the things they wear. Do you notice that your allergies are worse when you put on certain items of clothing? If so, it's probably not a coincidence. Many people find that their allergy symptoms can be traced back to the fabric, treatment or even color of the things they wear.

Few people enjoy the cold, but for some, it can be downright dangerous. There is actually a condition that causes individuals to have allergic reactions when the temperatures drop—could you have it? If you have a cold air allergy, once the temperature outside drops to about 40°F or below, your immune system may go into overdrive. Further, swimming in cold water, holding cold objects and even eating cold food can spark this effect. Please review the list below for some of the symptoms that people with a cold allergy might expect.

If your child is allergic to peanuts or tree nuts, even the slightest exposure can put him at risk for a potentially life-threatening reaction—making the safety of his environment critical. Nut Allergy 101 When you're dealing with a child who has a nut allergy, you probably insist on keeping your kitchen nut free. But what happens when he leaves the confines of your home? Other settings may pose many dangers that are out of your control.

Allergies don't just happen in the spring and summer, so being prepared for indoor allergies that are common in the winter can help ease your symptoms. While colds and flus are common during the coldest months, if your symptoms seem to linger longer than a week or two, winter allergies could be the culprit, since your house is likely filled with a wide variety of indoor triggers. That means that your discomfort may really just be your summer allergies continuing.

If you can't shake your cough, allergies may be to blame. Find out how these two conditions are related. Allergies and Coughing A new cough that comes on suddenly could be a sign of a cold, infection or other illness that will usually go away in a week or two. But when you seem to be coughing for weeks on end with no relief in sight, it's very possible that you aren't sick but have a bad case of allergies instead.

A revolutionary treatment for most allergies that is safe, highly effective, and non-invasive does exist. Nambudripad's Allergy Elimination Technique (NAET) has been in existence for more than two decades.  Dr. Nambudripad herself suffered horribly from multiple allergies her entire life and therefore, began a quest to discover how to improve her health by eliminating allergies and to dramatically improve her quality of life.

Have you or a loved one survived a life-threatening disease? Are you currently struggling with depression, chronic pain, heart disease, or other health-related condition? Have you gone to extraordinary lengths to help someone in a health crisis? If so, we want to hear from you! Would you like to inspire thousands by sharing your story? There are no better, more inspiring stories than those that are personal. At QualityHealth, we understand that you, our readers, have your own tales that are both unique and powerful, but most importantly, can serve as an inspiration to others.

If you've got a few extra pounds that won't seem to bulge no matter how much you diet and exercise, food allergies could be to blame. When it comes to food allergies and weight gain, there's been increasing attention in recent years to the fact that some people who're overweight may be able to trace the problem back to the way their bodies respond to certain foods they eat. A 2007 study published in The Journal of the American Diabetes Association explains that when people eat foods that cause an immune system response, this can set off a chain reaction.

If you're allergic to nickel, the reaction can be severe. If being allergic to money sounds far fetched to you, think again. Such an allergy does in fact exist—and it's triggered by the nickel coin. These silver five-cent pieces are created using a combination of metals, and one of these substances-nickel—can cause sensitive people to break out in an itchy rash called allergic contact dermatitis.

Holidays parties are an ideal time to splurge on delicious food--but if you suffer from food allergies, you need to proceed with caution. Why Worry? Holiday season is a time to be merry, but for people with food allergies, you also have to be prepared for anything. The fact is that when you cook meals at home, you know exactly what foods you need to avoid and you can take complete control.

If allergies are impacting your sleep, you can fight back. Don't Let Allergies Cause Sleepless Nights If you suffer from allergies, you know that the sneezing, runny nose, coughing and stuffy head can make it difficult to fall asleep. Further, even when you do drift off, you may wake up again, tossing and turning, trying to get comfortable without success.

These common allergens could be making you miserable. If you suffer from allergies, you probably also have a pretty good idea of the things that make you sneeze. But have you ever wondered if your allergy triggers are the same as everyone else's? And do you think there could be other things that could be causing a reaction that you haven't yet identified? Check out our list of the most common allergy triggers-and get some tips on how best to keep them from making you sick.

MSG is a common food additive that could could be causing you more harm than good. You've just enjoyed a delicious Chinese meal and suddenly you don't feel quite right. Could you be getting sick-or are you having an allergic reaction to MSG? Short for a food additive called monosodium glutamate, MSG can cause a host of uncomfortable, allergy-like symptoms in those who are particularly sensitive to it.

Manage symptoms so you can show your best face. When your allergies are in full bloom, are you tempted to hide inside until your most visible symptoms subside? If so, you certainly aren't alone. The less than appealing effects of allergies can make it very challenging to look your best. But with a little extra care, you can minimize the signs and put your most attractive face forward all of the time.

A new form of rice may be able to fight allergies and improve your health state at the same time. The Concept of Genetically Modified Rice If rice is one of your favorite staples to include with almost every meal, then you may be quite excited about the results of a study that shows that with some modifications, a special blend of rice can actually successfully fight your allergy symptoms.

If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you could be more prone to illness. Find out how to fight back against infection. Those who suffer from seasonal allergies often wonder whether their risk of getting sick is increased. And as if the discomfort of your allergy symptoms isn't enough, getting a cold or flu on top of them can make you truly miserable. But you don't have to succumb to the influx of germs that exists at this time of year.

Cooking when you have food allergies is difficult, but our tips help make it easier. If you or someone in your family suffers from food allergies, you probably go to great lengths to cook up allergy-free meals and treats. This can pose quite a challenge, though, since many popular recipes contain ingredients that could trigger allergy symptoms.

An uncommon condition in some women causes itching and burning during intimacy, but fortunately, it is treatable. Not tonight, dear, I'm allergic. This excuse sounds even less plausible than a headache but it can actually be a valid one: a small number of women actually are allergic to their partner's seminal fluid. In fact, between 20,000 and 40,000 women in the United States may have this allergy, Dr.

If you find that your symptoms get worse when you're around heavily trafficked streets, you're far from alone. Think you could be allergic to traffic? While this may sound like a joke, the truth is that some people actually do find that their allergies are connected to the fact that they live near a road with a high volume of cars and trucks. The Effects of Air...

If you suffer from fast food allergies, this meal option could serve up more than convenience. Wondering what to serve for dinner tonight? If you don't have time to cook, the convenience of visiting a fast food restaurant can be tempting, especially with the nutritious options some establishments have added to their menus. Yet for people who suffer from fast food allergies, the dangers of eating out may be more than they can stomach.

Carpeting makes your home warm and inviting--but could it also be aggravating your allergies? If you have carpeting in your home, did you know that this choice of floor covering could actually be making you sneeze? Carpeting has long been recognized as a major allergy trigger, in large part because dust mites, mold, and other common allergens can become trapped within the carpet weave.

If you're a fan of hot and spicy, your tastes in food might be easing your allergies. When you eat a particularly spicy meal, did you ever notice that it causes your nose to run? That's because the spice can actually serve as a natural decongestant. In fact, before you turn to allergy or cold medicines, you may want to try this all natural approach and forego some of the side effects that you might get with traditional medications.

If your allergies get worse at night--your bedroom may be to blame. Does it seem as if your allergy symptoms get worse at night when you try to sleep? If so, allergens trapped in your bedroom may be to blame for causing you to lie in bed awake. But you don't have to stay up until the sun comes up, sniffling, sneezing and itching.

Who would have thought that your allergies could be a blessing in disguise? If you suffer from severe allergies, you may find it hard to understand how your discomfort could actually turn out to be a real blessing.  But some researchers believe that the sneezing, itchy eyes, nose and throat and tiredness that go along with different types of hay fever and allergic reactions could actually be protective.

Stress is detrimental to most critical bodily functions--but it could be making your allergies flare as well. Have you ever noticed that after a bad day at work or at school, your allergy symptoms seem to get worse? Doctors have long recognized that this isn't a coincidence. Now, research is shedding more light than ever on the connection. In fact, the findings of an Ohio State University study reveal that when you experience even a small amount of stress, it can make your allergic reaction much stronger to your everyday triggers.

Learn what to do when your most treasured piece of jewelry is causing you irritation, soreness, and pain. You've said "I do," had the perfect honeymoon, and are finally getting used to being addressed as "Mrs." But while married life is fulfilling, there's something irritating you. No, it's not your husband (at least, not yet!). The problem? Your wedding band.

Surprising discoveries have been made about how to potentially eliminate milk allergies. If you or your child has a milk allergy, you probably go to great lengths to steer clear of all dairy products that can trigger a reaction. Therefore, the findings of a new study may go against your instincts. Researchers representing John Hopkins Children's Center and Duke University recently discovered that drinking milk can actually be helpful in overcoming a milk allergy.

If you enjoy having a glass of wine with dinner or a few beers at happy hour, you're certainly not alone. But have you ever found that even a small amount of alcohol causes you to have a negative reaction? If you enjoy having a glass of wine with dinner or a few beers at happy hour, you're certainly not alone.  But have you ever found that even a small amount of alcohol causes you to have a negative reaction?  If so, you might have an alcohol intolerance.

Offenders lurking in your kitchen might be aggravating your asthma symptoms, but with some determination, you can eliminate them for good. Remove Allergens If you suffer from hay fever, you may not think of your kitchen as a breeding ground for some of your biggest symptom triggers. But the fact is that allergens can lurk even in places where you least expect them. That's why the experts stress the importance of remove allergens in your kitchen.

Get the facts on this potentially dangerous, but manageable, reaction. If you have a serious allergy to peanuts or shrimp and have ever found yourself having a reaction to similar foods, you likely experienced food allergy cross reactivity—a problem that causes great concern for many people today. The Truth About Food Allergies According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, food allergies are relatively rare, affecting only about 2 percent of adults in the United States.

No one likes being stung, but insect allergy sufferers need to take extra precaution. No one likes being stung by bees or insects, but if you suffer from an insect allergy, you're probably worried about more than just the pain that goes with it. Today, about three percent of the population in the United States has an insect allergy, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.

Allergies and sinus infections usually go hand in hand—but they can be prevented. Allegies and Infections When it comes to allergies and infections, it isn't unusual for the nasal symptoms that accompany an allergy attack to linger and spread. In fact, you may find that when the sneezing and itchiness lessens, you're left with more intense congestion, a severe headache, and possibly tenderness or pain when you touch your cheeks or forehead.

So you’re considering starting allergy shots. But will they work for you to cure your worst symptoms or will they only offer a temporary reprieve? A Recognized Treatment Method Allergy shots, which are also called allergen immunotherapy, are a popular treatment method that many people rely on to help control or event prevent their allergies in the hopes that they won't need to continue taking allergy medication forever.

Try these tricks that can help you to manage and even prevent your next attack. If you suffer from hay fever, you will be all too familiar with the range of misery that goes with it, including sneezing, coughing and itchy eyes, nose and throat. Some people with hay fever experience only have mild bouts of these symptoms periodically.

Despite popular belief, raising your child with pets could be the best way to prevent them from developing allergies. Do you have a baby or young toddler who is at risk for allergies? Perhaps your little one is predisposed to the condition because of a family history of allergies that exists. If so, you may be going to great lengths to avoid your child's exposure to a host of allergens, including pets.

Find out how this condition can make more just your head suffer. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, as many as 36 million people in the United States suffer from seasonal allergies. And for those whose reaction to triggers such as ragweed and pollen is strong, the allergy symptoms can be debilitating and even interfere with his or her ability to perform well at school or at work and to participate in a variety of activities.

Find out if race really does affect your allergy risk. Does race matter when it comes to allergies? The experts say yes-- our ethnic background can indeed make a difference when it comes to how indoor and outdoor allergies affect you. In fact, a recent study shows that African American children are at greater risk than other groups for suffering from the effects of seasonal triggers.

Are you allergic to dust? Find out what you can do to beat the sneeze. If you suffer from dust allergies, you know that they are certainly nothing to sneeze at. In fact, dust mites, which are one of a variety of substances contained in household dust, are one of the most common indoor allergens. They lurk in most people's homes, no matter how often you clean.

If you suffer from allergies, could your home actually be to blame for making you sick? Read on to find out if your triggers are lurking in your living room—and how you can choose products that will help to ease your discomfort. Allergy Control Products A main source of allergies can often be found in the everyday items that people use to eat, sleep and play.  But if you think the things you use on a regular basis, such as your bedding, your pillows, your carpets and even your cleaners may be causing your most troublesome symptoms, you can learn more about some of the latest alternatives, which many users say makes a big difference in how they feel on a daily basis.

The symptoms are sometimes hard to decipher between. If your baby suddenly comes down with a runny nose, dry cough and red eyes, you may wonder if he or she is sick or whether the symptoms could be caused by allergies. Sometimes it can be very difficult to tell the difference, but there are a few telltale signs that can help you determine the cause.

If you woke up this morning with a runny nose and cough and have been sneezing and feeling an itch in the back of your throat and your nose, you may wonder if this is just your typical seasonal allergy attack or if you could have be coming down with a case of the Swine Flu. What Ails You If you aren't sure how to differentiate between common allergy symptoms and signs that you could have the swine flu, you're in good company.  But while you may not be sure which it is, the experts say that there are some telltale signs that can help you determine if you really do have swine flu.

Learn about this growing allergy--and if you might be at risk. Could you be allergic to sesame? If so, you are part of a growing number of people who have a reaction to products made from sesame seeds and sesame seed oil. And since sesame is contained in many foods and other products, this ingredient can be very difficult to avoid.

A new allergy vaccine on the horizon may be able to help you cure hay fever symptoms quickly and easily. Wouldn't you love an allergy treatment that would cure hay fever symptoms quickly and easily and would even last for a few allergy seasons without needing to be repeated? The good news is that a new allergy vaccine on the horizon may be able to accomplish these goals.

This popular music player could be aggravating your allergies. You've heard of being allergic to dust, pollen and pets, which are common triggers that can make you sneeze, cough and feel miserable. But did you know that even modern technology can be to blame for causing your allergies to kick in? Some people today who are reliant on the latest technological items such as iPods and cell phones are finding out the hard way that they are actually allergic to these favorite devices.

When your child attends camp, allergies can be hard to control. Read on to find out how. If you have a child with serious food allergies, you probably go to great lengths to ensure your home is free of any foods or ingredients that could trigger symptoms. But when it comes time for your child to go away to summer camp, it can be trickier--but not impossible--to ensure your child will be safe in a strange new place.

It's bad enough that you have asthma, but to make matters worse, do you also have to suffer from a variety of other illnesses? The Link Asthma is a chronic disease that affects your airways, making them more sensitive to a host of triggers that can cause them to become inflamed and make you cough, wheeze and experience chest pain. If you regularly grapple with the discomfort...

Don't cut corners when deciding on this permanent form of birth control. Here's what you need to know about the vasectomy procedure. Approximately 500,000 to 600,000 vasectomy procedures are performed annually in the America. Now sources such as the Cleveland Clinic and The New York Times report that the recession has sparked an increase in the number of vasectomies. The decision to have a vasectomy procedure shouldn't be taken lightly, even though vasectomy reversals are possible.

When your seasonal allergies are at their peak, planning a get-away to an allergy-free destination can be just what the doctor ordered. Leave Your Worries Behind If you suffer from allergic rhinitis, you know all too well that when the trees, pollen and grass spring into full bloom, so do your seasonal allergies and all of the misery they bring. This can include sneezing, coughing and itching eyes, nose and throat.

If you suffer from severe allergic reactions, it is likely your doctor has prescribed an EpiPen, or epinephrine pen, for you to carry with you at all times. When used properly in a medical emergency, this important device can save your life. Get the Facts Every second matters when you have a serious allergy reaction called anaphylaxis. This is a life-threatening occurrence that effects the entire body and can cause a host of symptoms, including difficulty breathing, hives, chest pain, and swelling or your lips, tongue and throat and sometimes unconsciousness.

Take these steps to minimize discomfort caused by pollen allergies. Pollen are tiny particles that are released by trees, flowers and grasses. They travel through the air, making spring, summer and sometimes even early fall miserable for people whose bodies react to this foreign invader by kicking the immune system into high gear.

Researchers are continually discovering new approaches to prevent and treat this chronic condition. If you suffer from allergies, your symptoms can be stopping you from getting the most out of your daily activities. That's why constantly being on lookout for the best allergy management tips for the utmost effectiveness. The good news is that researchers are continually discovering new approaches to prevent and treat this chronic condition.

Flying in an airplane can make nasal allergies worsen. Find out how to alleviate your pain. If you suffer from nasal allergies, you know that many simple activities can feel more difficult when your head is full and clogged. And this can be magnified when you step on a plane to fly, since at 30,000 feet in the air it is even more difficult to control your environment and changes in air pressure in the cabin can make you miserable as the plane begins to climb.

While the link between food and asthma is relatively rare, there are people who do experience it first-hand. The Truth about Asthma and Food When you consider asthma causes, you might be surprised to find out as few as about five percent of the 20 million or so asthmatics in the United States can actually trace their symptoms back to the things they eat and drink.

Find out how eating a diet rich in folic acid can help prevent allergies. Do you eat foods rich in vitamin B9? If so, you may be helping to prevent your allergies at the same time. Vitamin B9, which is also known as folic acid or folate, has long been recognized for its ability to help maintain healthy red blood cells and to prevent spinal birth defects.

If you go well out of your way to avoid the perfume counter at the mall and the mere thought of smelling potpourri makes your eyes water, chances are you have scent allergies. The experts say such sensitivities to different fragrances can pose a growing problem today and it is one that can cause a range of health problems. Further, managing the condition can be easier said than done, since fragranced products are hard to avoid in the course of your day.

Take these simple steps to allergy proof your room so that you can rest easier. If your allergy symptoms worsen at night and prevent you from getting a good night's sleep, allergens in your bedroom may be to blame.  But you don't have to stay up until the crack of dawn, sniffling, sneezing and itching all night long. Instead, you can take some simple steps to allergy proof your room so before you know it, your most bothersome symptoms will be gone.

If you fall ill after eating acidic foods, a citrus allergy could be to blame. Do you often find yourself feeling ill when you eat certain fruits, vegetables or other foods that have a high acidic content? If so, there could be one of several different culprits to blame. You could have an allergy to citrus or to citric acid, or even to foods that have a high level of acidity.

It's official: you have allergies and your doctor has even helped you to identify your biggest triggers. But what next? Keep a Healthy Perspective So you have a list of allergens that can make you feel sick. But you may feel overwhelmed when it comes to figuring out how to make the facts connect to your everyday situation. First, it can help to put things into a broader perspective.

Find out how this new treatment is helping thousands. If allergy shots aren't a good option for you, you may be interested in exploring the option of using allergy drops to build up your tolerance to allergens. This user-friendly method of desensitization is called Sublingual immunotherapy, or SLIT, and consists of placing drops (or tablets) that contain allergen extracts under your tongue on a regular basis in order to increase your resistance to these substances.

Find out if this popular treatment can help ease your symptoms. If nothing seems to give you relief from your severe allergy symptoms and you're desperate for something that could help you to feel better, you may want to talk to your doctor about getting allergen immunotherapy, which is more commonly known as allergy shots.

Do your seasonal allergies make you want to hide inside until the next frost comes? If so, grass pollen could be to blame for your discomfort. Grass pollen is a common allergy in the spring and summertime that can cause you to sneeze and cough, your nose and throat to itch and your eyes to water. Allergic Reaction There are as many as 1,200 different types of grasses that can be found in the United States and surrounding areas.

If you suffer from a range of uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms every time you eat foods containing wheat, rye, malt, barley and oats, a gluten allergy could be to blame for your distress. Is it a Gluten Allergy? Do you think you could have a gluten allergy? Or do you have a digestive problem called celiac disease? Both conditions are caused by eating things containing gluten and both have very similar symptoms, making it difficult to differentiate.

No matter how hard you scratch, you can't make the feeling go away. Here's some information you can use to help narrow in on the cause of this itch and some tips to help you keep it at bay. The Allergy Link If you have food allergies, you may be at greatest risk for also having itchiness, according to the experts. The latest statistics reveal that more than a quarter of all children with food allergies also suffer from eczema or a skin allergy.

What is chemical or environmental illness and how can you lower your risk? It’s now common knowledge that many toxins are linked to medical conditions such as allergies, asthma or migraines. This awareness is driving many of us to go green in our homes, workplaces and communities. While some people may not experience immediate symptoms due to toxic chemical exposure, many others aren’t so lucky.

Find ways to manage your allergies. At long last the warmer weather has finally come. But instead of packing a picnic lunch and heading outdoors to enjoy the sun, are you hiding inside with your windows closed? If so, you may be one of the estimated 40 million Americans who suffer from allergies that are caused by a wide range of triggers.

If certain situations always make your nose and eyes itch, make you feel congested and cause you to sneeze again and again, something you are coming into contact with may be causing you to have an allergic reaction. Environmental allergies occur all of the time and can be caused by numerous factors. But while the symptoms are certainly very hard to miss, figuring out what is triggering them can take some good detective work. Environmental Allergies An environmental allergy is really just an allergic reaction to something in the air or in the room.

If you started off with allergy symptoms that seem to have worsened into a headache, pressure and pain in your face that just won't go away, it may be time to visit your doctor. You could have a sinus infection that needs to be treated with antibiotics. A Sinus Infection A sinus infection, also known as sinusitis, is an inflammation of the sinus cavities that are located behind the nose, around the eyes and behind the check bones. This common condition is the cause of approximately 20 percent of all patient visits to an allergist or immunologist, according to research included on the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology’s website.

You’ve probably heard of hay fever, but do you know what it is? This common allergic condition, which according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology affects about 20 percent of all Americans1sup>, actually doesn’t have anything to do with a fever or with hay. Rumor has it that the name simply originated when farm workers experienced seasonal allergies while out in the field during haying season.

Pregnant women with allergies may find their symptoms get worse. Many pregnant women experience a host of discomforts as their bodies change. Those with allergies may also find their symptoms getting worse as their pregnancy progresses, making them feel quite miserable. If this scenario sounds all too familiar to you, the good news is that you don’t have to spend the next nine months suffering.

If you suffer from allergies, could your home actually be to blame for making you sick? Usually, there isn’t just one allergen that triggers your symptoms but a host of offenders that cause your immune system to react to them. And yes, many of these factors can occur right in your living space. Triggers like dust mites, mold, pet hair and dander and dampness can all be sharing your home and can be causing you to you sneeze, cough and itch.

Before you take your next dose of allergy meds, experts recommend that you get the facts so you can avoid mixing medications that can cause dangerous interactions. If the itchy eyes and nose, scratchy throat and sneezing that comes with seasonal or year-round allergies is getting you down, you may want to seek relief from one or more of the over-the-counter and prescription drugs available today that can make you feel better.

Research is finding that it is possible that allergies, like many other diseases and conditions, could have a strong genetic component. Your probably thankful to your parents for passing on their good looks, intelligence and perseverance. Yet when it comes to allergies, you may not be quite as pleased to find out they could be to blame for giving you their symptoms. But the fact is that allergies are often hereditary, which means they can be passed down from generation to generation within families.

Are your allergies inherited? You're probably thankful to your parents for passing on their good looks, intelligence and perseverance. Yet when it comes to allergies, you may not be quite as pleased to find out they could be to blame for giving you their symptoms. But the fact is that allergies are often hereditary, which means they can be passed down from generation to generation within families.

If you suffer from a skin allergy, you know all too well how much the severe dryness and itching can disrupt your daily lifestyle. You are probably willing to try anything that will offer some relief from the symptoms so you can feel comfortable in your own skin, literally. What is a Skin Allergy? When most people think of allergies, they likely think of sneezing, congestion and asthma symptoms. But the fact is that many people also suffer from allergies that affect their skin, causing rashes, hives and patches of irritation and extreme dryness throughout their bodies.

Find out what items you should avoid in order to prevent a reaction. If you have a latex allergy, you know all too well that even some of the simplest activities can put your health at great risk. That’s why it’s important to know what items you should avoid in order to prevent a reaction, which can vary from a very simple rash all of the way to a life-threatening attack.

Find out why it is essential to take the time to educate yourself about the signs of a seafood allergy. While many Americans look forward to eating out at a nice restaurant, if you’re one of the 7 million people who has a seafood allergy, such an occasion can actually be quite stressful. This is because eating at any dining establishment where seafood is served puts you at risk for being exposed to the proteins that can cause the allergic reaction, and the dangers involved in this scenario can be quite great or even potentially fatal in extreme cases.

Do your seasonal allergies seem to last forever? Do your symptoms remain even after the seasons change? If so, then you may actually be suffering from year-round allergies, not just seasonal ones. One out of every four Americans suffers from allergies and asthma caused by indoor and outdoor triggers, according to the Annual U.S. Prevalence Statistics for Chronic Diseases, and while the causes may be different, the symptoms often look and feel the same, making it had to differentiate between the two conditions.

There isn't much that can stop Eldrick Tont "Tiger" Woods — not even the troublesome symptoms of a full blown allergy attack. Woods, who is considered the best professional golfer of all times, was born in 1975 and has secured his reputation during the short course of his career by his impressive talent securing a win on the golf course. In fact, the golfer, who is currently taking a hiatus from the sport to recover from a knee injury, has won a record-setting number of major tournaments.

When most people have a fever or headache, they turn to aspirin or some other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAID) to relieve their pain. When most people have a fever or headache, they turn to aspirin or some other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAID) to relieve their pain. But if you are in the one percent of the population that has an aspirin allergy, you know that such medication may make you worse, instead of better.

Wish you could get your allergies under control once and for all? If so, getting regular shots to desensitize or "turn off" your reaction to various allergy triggers may be a worthwhile treatment option to explore. Wish you could get your allergies under control for once and for all? If so,  getting regular shots to desensitize or “turn off” your reaction to various allergy triggers shots may be a worthwhile treatment option to explore.  Some of the latest studies find that in addition to controlling allergies, this treatment method can even prevent asthma from developing in some patients.

Going green is easier--and more beneficial--than you thought. Having a hard time going green? Maybe you think it’s too time consuming, expensive, or not really worth it. Think again. There are hundreds of ways to be eco-friendly, which means it can fit into any lifestyle. Here are eight reasons why green living is worth it — none of them have to do with assuaging guilt.

Don't let the remedy make you feel worse. Are your allergies making you miserable? If the itchy eyes and nose, scratchy throat and sneezing that comes with seasonal or year-round allergies is getting you down, you may want to seek relief from one or more of the over-the-counter and prescription drugs available today that can make you feel better.

If you suffer from severe allergy symptoms and taking medication doesn't seem to help you feel better, it may be time to turn to the experts to undergo some allergy testing. This can be a valuable way to find out exactly what your biggest triggers are and to determine how best to avoid them. Who Needs Allergy Tests When medication doesn’t do enough to relieve your runny nose, frequent sneezing and itchy eyes and throat, you may need to seek the advice of an allergist, who can do some strategic testing to find out exactly what is making you sick.

Many of those who think they have a food allergy are, in fact, really suffering from a food intolerance or sensitivity, which can sometimes look very similar to food allergies but actually occurs in a different way. Have you experienced a negative reaction from something you ate? If so, you may wonder if you have a food allergy. A food allergy can be a serious condition that causes a host of symptoms that will make you feel miserable. But the good news is that food allergies are not nearly as common as most people think.

If you are allergic to peanuts, you know how crucial it is to steer clear of anything even vaguely in the nut family. Otherwise, you can be putting yourself and your health at great risk. Peanut allergy is the most common food allergy in the United States, affecting 1.5 million people, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. And while some people only experience mild symptoms, others suffer much more serious consequences.

Simple steps can make your home a much healthier place in which to live. Did you know that the air inside your home can be more dangerous than what's floating around outside? Since people tend to spend a lot of time indoors in cold weather, winter often brings with it a buildup of toxic particles inside the house. Think about it-you probably haven't opened windows in weeks, if not months, and you rarely leave the door ajar longer than it takes to bring in a few bags of groceries.

Your go-to guide for allergy medications. You're all too familiar with the discomfort that comes with an allergy attack all too well: the runny nose, red eyes, itchy throat and dry cough. These classic symptoms can prompt you to rush to your nearest drug store in search of relief, but the vast array of medications on the market today may be confusing enough to make your head swim.

A saving grace for allergy sufferers or a myth? Read on to find out. If you are eager add to a dog to your family but you suffer from asthma and allergies, you may be interested in checking out some of the "hypoallergenic" breeds. The only problem, according to allergists, is that there actually may be no such thing. Low-Allergy Pets? Today, as many as 15 to 30 percent of people who suffer from allergies find their symptoms triggered by cats and dogs, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

Your plants may not be as inconspicuous as you think. You may pride yourself on your green thumb, but if you find that your houseplants make your eyes and nose itch and turn red, you just may be allergic to them. The fact is that the soil contained in the plant pots can actually be a breeding ground for moisture and mold, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

Try these alternative treatments for asthma. Have you ever tried any alternative methods to treat your asthma systems? If so, you aren't alone. Recent statistics from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America show that one in four people use alternative treatments for various health conditions.

Your home is crawling with bacteria. Where are the biggest hotspots? The front doorknob, the staircase banister, the microwave door. What do these three areas have in common? They're in your home, you touch them every day, and they're likely infested with microorganisms. Or, in layman's terms, germs. By nature, germs spread through the air, but they can linger on surfaces for 2 hours or longer.

Is your city making you sneeze? High pollen and mold counts make some places worse than others. It's so uncomfortable. The watery eyes, the scratchy throat, the runny nose. The annoying (and sometimes, downright miserable) feelings associated with seasonal allergies are familiar to almost half of all Americans, according to a QualityHealth.com HealthOpin poll.

Although COPD triggers can vary by person, it's important to understand the ones that can most frequently lead to flare-ups. For COPD sufferers, flare-ups can come on suddenly-and seemingly from out of nowhere. But according to experts, there are a host of hidden COPD triggers that may be exacerbating your symptoms. In addition to talking to your doctor about your symptoms, it's important to identify your COPD triggers and avoid them.

'Tis the season for allergies. Learn how keep them from spoiling your holiday fun. "It's the most wonderful time of the year," legendary singer Andy Williams and many others after him have crooned about the holiday season. Well, it may not be so wonderful if you're a seasonal allergy sufferer. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), three out of four adults experience an increase of allergy attacks including headaches, eye irritation and sinus congestion during the period from Thanksgiving through New Year's Day.

With the slowly, but steadily rising temperatures, what does the future hold for our health? Killer heat waves. Fierce storms. Devastating floods. Natural disasters have been all over the news, and according to organizations such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and World Health Organization (WHO), the increase is no coincidence: It's actually a direct result of global warming.

Learn how to reduce the likelihood of COPD flare-ups. More than 32 million Americans are living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)--a chronic condition that has no known cure. Fortunately, there are treatments available to help you breathe easier. In addition, follow these tips to help manage your COPD symptoms and reduce the risk of flare-ups.

Find out if your weird rashes, twitches, lumps and bumps are signs of something serious. You're showering after a workout at the gym when you notice something strange. There's a weird rash on your leg, a bump on your navel or maybe just a couple of indentations on your nail. It definitely isn't normal. But is it a sign of something serious?   Knowing what your body is trying to tell you isn't easy, especially when it comes to more unusual symptoms like these.

Your child has a runny nose and bad cough. You want her to feel better, but is it OK to give her cold medicine? Cough and cold medicines for kids under the age of 2 have been pulled from drugstore shelves, and experts continue to debate whether the medicines should be given to children younger than 6 or 11 years old. But your son or daughter has a cold now you don't have time to wait for pediatricians and government officials from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to reach a consensus.

Want to soothe your pinkeye symptoms, or stop conjunctivitis before it starts? Check out our survival guide. Redness, swelling, itching, irritation. These are just some of the symptoms of conjunctivitis, an eye ailment that affects millions of adults and children at any given time, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Also known as pinkeye, the condition refers to an inflammation of the conjuctiva, the thin, clear membrane that covers the eye's white portion.

What's under that bow? Find out if the gifts you're giving this year are naughty or nice. When shopping for children's toys this holiday season, you may have to pay attention to more than just wish lists and price tags. Dangerous levels of lead in paint and toys that contain toxic chemicals have forced Mattel, Fisher-Price, Disney, and other companies to recall some of their most popular children's products.