I never thought that diet pills can have substances that may cause allergic reactions, hence it will not be good for people who has allergy. Some of the contents that can cause allergic reactions are: amphetamine, dextroamphetamine, ephedrine, epinephrine, isoproterenol, metaproterenol, methamphetamine, norepinephrine, phenylephrine, phenylpropanolamine, pseudoephedrine, terbutaline, or other appetite suppressants. Therefore, people who have allergy and want to take diet pills are suggested to consult their condition to physician so they can choose the best diet pills for them. Everyone will have different body reactions to diet pills, thus end result will be different from one person to other person. So, it’s always wise to do some research, e.g. by reading diet pill reviews to learn how they can get the most advantage out of diet pills and get the result that they want. The source for this information is available in the internet, magazines, newspaper, medical clinics, etc. By learning more, you will find diet pills that work and safe for your allergy condition.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Diet pills and allergy
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Learn About Allergies and The Relationship To Food
by Charles Amith
Allergies are the hypersensitive response of the body to foreign substances. These foreign substances are called antigens, which stimulate the body to produce antibodies, whose normal function is to combat antigens by destroying them or otherwise making them harmless. In allergic individuals, for poorly understood reasons, the body's antibody defense mechanism goes awry and injures the body instead of protecting it.
The most familiar allergies are hay fever and asthma, which are caused by a wide variety of inhaled pollens, dusts, and other agents. However, food can also be a cause of allergic reactions.
Food does not often cause allergic reactions. Food allergies are more common in infants than in older children and adults, probably because the infant's immature digestive tract permits more ready absorption of offending food molecules.
Manifestations of food allergies in adults are usually of the immediate kind, including hives, angioderma, eczema, gastrointestinal disorders, and general systemic reactions of the anaphylactic type. Systemic reactions occur quickly after eating.
They are most frequently caused by legumes, nuts, seafoods (especially shellfish), and berries, but carbohydrates, fats, food additives, and contamination by drugs may be implicated.
In infants and children, eczema is the prominent manifestation, and the most frequent causative agents include milk, wheat, eggs, fish, and soybean products.
Food allergies are diagnosed on the basis of the patient's allergic history together with trial eliminations of suspected foods from the patient's diet. Skin tests and tests for antibodies in serum are less significant, because the hypersensitive reaction may be provoked by the breakdown of products of the food resulting from digestion, and not by the food itself.
The management of food allergy is based mainly on the avoidance of the offending foods. An antihistamine taken before a meal may be helpful if a food to which one is allergic is to be eaten. Food allergies in children tend to lessen or disappear with age, but the anaphylactic types manifested in adults do not usually improve over time.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Seriousness of allergy rhinitis
By: AlexChong
What is actually allergy rhinitis? Allergy rhinitis is an allergic disease, which is caused by the sensitinogen that reacting on the mucous membranes in the nasal cavity. It consists two types that are perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis. Perennial allergic rhinitis occurs throughout the year; whereas, seasonal allergic rhinitis usually occurs during the blossoming or flowering season. In this season, plants start to release their pollen for breeding purpose. Pollen is one of the sensitinogens to the allergic rhinitis. Clinical features of allergic rhinitis are; itching in the nose, sneezing, watery nasal discharge and nasal obstruction. There are about 20 % of adults and children have seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis [Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 1986;94:470-5]. Although it is prevalence in most of the countries regardless tropical or seasonal, most of the conditions are not treated adequately and the consequence is that allergic rhinitis becomes chronic. The chronic state of allergic rhinitis usually will lead to more serious complications of the upper and lower airways such as asthma, sinusitis and otitis media with effusion. Otitis media is an inflammation of the middle ear. Fluid is built up in the middle ear and causes temporary lose of hearing. However, if this chronic disease is not treated properly, it may lead to permanent hearing impairment.
A few medical scientists had carried out surveys to study the epidemiologic links between allergic rhinitis and other airway diseases. What they had found out were, 78% of patients who had asthma were also had allergic rhinitis [Allergy 1983;38:25-9]. They also found out that 99% of adults and 93% of adolescents, who had allergic asthma, also had allergic rhinitis [J Allergy Clin Immunol 1997;99:S138]. Besides, the other study that had been carried out for 23 years was found out that college students who previously had allergic rhinitis had three times higher the possibility to have asthma compared to those students who had not had allergic rhinitis before [Allergy Proc 1994;15:21-5].
Many researches and works had been carried out to study the epidemiologic link between allergic rhinitis and sinusitis. The results had been well documented. The earlier study showed that 53% of children, who had allergic rhinitis, also had sinusitis [J Allergy Clin Immunol 1978;61:310-4]. They proved this from the children abnormal sinus radiographs. Whereas, recent study showed that up to 70% of children, who had allergy and chronic rhinitis, had abnormal sinus radiographs [J Allergy Clin Immunol 1988;82:935-40]. 78% of the patients who had recurrent sinus infection, rhinitis allergy was coming together with their extensive sinus disease. For the children who had otitis media with effusion, 40 to 50% of them had allergic rhinitis [J Allergy Clin Immunol 1997;99:S787-97.]. This was confirmed by positive allergy skin tests or increased serum IgE antibodies to specific allergens test.
Scientist had proposed a model for the development of sinusitis and otitis media. Their proposed model assumes that the earliest cause for sinusitis is not bacterial infection but it is due to the obstruction in the nasal cavity, which hinders the normal movement of air and secretions in and out of sinuses. Virus that causes nasal inflammation is upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) type, which is called rhinovirus. Research had been carried out to study the effect of this virus to the nasal diseases. The result showed that when rhinovirus is inoculated into the nasal passage of a group people, one third of these people would develop sinus abnormities and typical sinus disease symptoms [J Allergy Clin Immunol 1992;90:474-8]. Another study also showed that 87% of healthy adult, who voluntarily went through self-diagnosed colds, had maxillary sinuses illness [Engl J Med 1994;330:25-30].
Fluid inside the sinus cavity must be drained normally to keep the nasal healthy. When nasal being infected by bacteria or virus, or exposure to allergen, dust or chemicals, thicken secretion will be developed and it has higher possibility blocks the narrowed sinus ostia (opening that connect to the sinus cavity). Accumulation of these secretions in the sinus cavity will lead to further obstruction, mucosal swelling and also thicken the sinus mucosa. This will create an anaerobic environment that further favorite the bacterial growth and lead to infection. Congested sinus ostia must be resolved if not, it will lead to recurrent acute and eventually chronic nasal disease. This model also explained why chronic sinusitis is resistant to the antimicrobials treatment alone. To treat the sinusitis properly, antihistamines and corticosteroids have to be used as a combination with the antimicrobials treatment.
A similar model had been developed by scientist to explain the occurrence of otitis media with effusion. 83% of the children had at least once occurrence of acute otitis media by the time they reach 3 years old [J Infect Dis 1989;160:83-94]. This model hypothesizes that nasal inflammation that is caused by allergens or URTIs virus will further cause inflammatory swelling and obstruction of the Eustachian tube. Obstruction of the Eustachian tube will increase negative pressure in the middle area and without improper ventilation; fluids will accumulate in the middle ear. Obstructed Eustachian tube will open occasionally with an effusion and this will suck the inner nasal secretion, which contain bacteria, virus and allergens into the middle ear cavity. Consequently, this will cause acute bacterial otitis media.
From the information above that have been gathered from various scientific publications, we know that common nasal allergy should not be left untreated. This is because it will lead to obstruction, fluid accumulation, bacterial infection and acute disease. If these diseases are not treated properly or successfully, a chronic state of inflammation, nasal congestion, and sinus infection will be developed and it can cause mucosal damage and ultimately, chronic disease. If the disease spreads to the middle ear, it will cause permanent hearing impairment
Sunday, September 16, 2007
ROLE OF NONI IN ALLERGIC VASCULITIS
By WorldNoni.Org
Allergic vasculitis is hypersensitivity to a drug or foreign agent that leads to inflammation and damage to blood vessels of the skin. Vasculitis occurs because of inflammation and damage to blood vessels. The inflammation of allergic vasculitis is the result of an allergic reaction to a drug or other foreign agent.
Symptoms
- skin lesions usually located on legs, buttocks, or trunk
- palpable (able to be felt with the fingers) purpura
- multiple papules (small, solid, raised skin areas)
- purpura (bleeding into the skin)
- blisters on the skin
- urticaria (hives), may last longer than 24 hours
- necrotic ulcers (open sores with dead tissue)
Role of noni
Noni has been reported to have a broad range of health benefits for various diseases and complains.
Major components – Noni contains all the vitamins like Vitamin A , Vitamin B complex, vitamin C, Vitamin E. It contains aall the trace minerals. A number of major components have been identified in the Noni plant such as scopoletin, octoanoic acid, potassium, vitamin C, terpenoids, alkaloids, anthraquinones (such as nordamnacanthal, morindone, rubiadin, and rubiadin-1-methyl ether, anthraquinone glycoside), sitosterol, carotene, vitamin A, flavone glycosides, linoleic acid, Alizarin, amino acids, acubin, L-asperuloside, caproic acid, caprylic acid, ursolic acid, rutin, and a putative proxeronine.
Noni contains many active ingredients that have been shown to suppress allergic reactions. It relieves allergy symptoms by preventing the activation of immune responder cells
Noni contains several active constituents, such as flavonoids, polyphenols, catechins, and caffeine. Catechins such as epigallocatechin, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and epicatechin gallate are potent antioxidants. By studying mast cells that release histamine, researchers found that EGCG blocks the IgE receptor, which is involved in the allergic response.
Noni contains carotenoids, vitamin C, vitamin E, calcium, potassium, and flavonoids and rutin. It has anti-inflammatory effects
Noni has a powerful effect on raising glutathione levels in the body. Glutathione is a naturally occurring antioxidant that protects cells from the damage inflicted by free radicals. It prevents oxidative cell damage and is involved with immune system function. Glutathione depletion is linked to many chronic diseases.
Noni has been found to enhance T cell function. Noni increases the levels of IL-4. IL-4 enhances the ability of T cells to regulate pro-inflammatory cells, which further suggests that Noni can help reduce inflammation.
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is found abundant in Noni. It appears that vitamin C increases the function of many immune cells, including T cells, phagocytes (which destroy invader cells), and others. As an antioxidant, ascorbic acid can protect cells from reactive oxygen species known to cause tissue damage and disease. Vitamin C has antihistamine properties (Johnston CS et al 1996) that can help relieve allergy symptoms.
Vitamin E. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as a free-radical scavenger. It protects cell membranes and prevents damage to membrane-associated enzymes. Studies indicate lower levels of antioxidants such as vitamin E increase the risk of allergies threefold .
Magnesium. Magnesium is utilized by every cell in the body and participates in energy metabolism and protein synthesis. The body vigilantly protects blood magnesium levels, in part because at least 350 enzymatic processes depend on magnesium status for activation. As magnesium levels decline, the incidence of allergies and asthma increases, and magnesium has been used in the acute treatment of asthma attacks. Magnesium directly depresses smooth muscle activity, which may help relieve the broncho constriction seen in asthma. Noni contains this trace mineral in abundant quantity with a chealated form.
How Noni works
The natural integrity of Noni is only part of the reason for its effectiveness. There are two additional reasons contribution to Noni's effectiveness for a broad range of conditions:
1. Unique Combinations of Substances
For a fruit, Noni has an impressive combination of ingredients. It has a rich complement of vitamins and minerals; including A, B vitamins (including the rare B-12), C, E, Iron, calcium, sodium, potassium, zinc and several trace minerals. It also has 17 of 20 amino acids. Terpenes, fungicides, adaptogens, glycosides, polysaccharides and other unique ingredients that even in small amounts can have significant physiological effects can be found in Noni. Studies show that NONI stimulates the immune system, regulates proper cell function, increases the ability of cells to absorb and utilize nutrients, inhibits tumor growth, and regenerates damaged cells. Probably the most unique ingredient is an alkaloid called xeronine. Xeronine has several important functions including regulating the many proteins in the body, activating inactive enzymes and improving cellular function. Noni also contains a substance called proxeronine, which can be stored in the liver according to Dr. Ralph Heinecke. Proxeronine, in turn, can be used to make xeronine, as needed.
2. Synergy of its Substances
The many known, and even some of the unknown substances, come together in a way that supports the needs of many of our internal systems, concurrently. As the word synergy implies, these substances work far better in combination than they do separately. Many of the ingredients in Noni are found in varying amounts in other foods or herbs. There seems to be no known food or herb with either the rich list of substances or the high amounts of key substances all put together in one super food. Noni aids the body's natural healing abilities.
ROLE OF NONI IN ALLERGIC RHINITIS
It is also called Hay fever; Nasal allergies. Allergic rhinitis is a collection of symptoms, predominantly in the nose and eyes, caused by airborne particles of dust, dander, or plant pollens in people who are allergic to these substances.
When these symptoms are caused by pollen, the allergic rhinitis is commonly called hay fever.
Allergies are caused by an over-sensitive immune response. The immune system normally protects the body against harmful substances such as bacteria and viruses. Allergy symptoms occurs when the immune system reacts to substances (allergens) that are generally harmless and in most people do not cause an immune response.
When a person with allergies breathes in an allergen such as pollen or dust, antibodies are produced. When the antibodies are stimulated by pollen and dust, histamine and other chemicals are released. This causes itching, swelling, and mucus production. Symptoms vary from person to person. Very sensitive individuals can experience hives or other rashes.
Hay fever involves an allergic reaction to pollen. A similar reaction occurs with allergy to mold, animal dander, dust, and similar inhaled allergens.
The pollens that cause hay fever vary from person to person and from region to region. Large, visible pollens are seldom responsible for hay fever. Tiny, hard to see pollens more often cause hay fever. Examples of plants commonly responsible for hay fever include:
- Trees (deciduous and evergreen)
- Grasses
- Ragweed
The amount of pollen in the air can play a role in whether hay fever symptoms develop. Hot, dry, windy days are more likely to have increased amounts of pollen in the air than cool, damp, rainy days when most pollen is washed to the ground.
Some disorders may be associated with allergies. These include eczema and asthma.
Allergies are common. Your genes and environmental may make you more prone to allergies.
Symptoms
- Coughing
- Headache
- Itching nose, mouth, eyes, throat, skin, or any area
- Runny nose
- Problems with smell
- Sneezing
- Stuffy nose (nasal congestion)
- Tearing eyes
- Sore throat
- Wheezing
Role of Noni –
Noni contains many active ingredients that have been shown to suppress allergic reactions. It relieves allergy symptoms by preventing the activation of immune responder cells
Noni contains several active constituents, such as flavonoids, polyphenols, catechins, and caffeine. Catechins such as epigallocatechin, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and epicatechin gallate are potent antioxidants. By studying mast cells that release histamine, researchers found that EGCG blocks the IgE receptor, which is involved in the allergic response.
Noni contains carotenoids, vitamin C, vitamin E, calcium, potassium, and flavonoids and rutin. It has anti-inflammatory effects
Noni has a powerful effect on raising glutathione levels in the body. Glutathione is a naturally occurring antioxidant that protects cells from the damage inflicted by free radicals. It prevents oxidative cell damage and is involved with immune system function. Glutathione depletion is linked to many chronic diseases.
Noni has been found to enhance T cell function. Noni increases the levels of IL-4. IL-4 enhances the ability of T cells to regulate pro-inflammatory cells, which further suggests that Noni can help reduce inflammation.
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is found abundant in Noni. It appears that vitamin C increases the function of many immune cells, including T cells, phagocytes (which destroy invader cells), and others. As an antioxidant, ascorbic acid can protect cells from reactive oxygen species known to cause tissue damage and disease. Vitamin C has antihistamine properties (Johnston CS et al 1996) that can help relieve allergy symptoms.
Vitamin E. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as a free-radical scavenger. It protects cell membranes and prevents damage to membrane-associated enzymes. Studies indicate lower levels of antioxidants such as vitamin E increase the risk of allergies threefold .
Magnesium. Magnesium is utilized by every cell in the body and participates in energy metabolism and protein synthesis. The body vigilantly protects blood magnesium levels, in part because at least 350 enzymatic processes depend on magnesium status for activation. As magnesium levels decline, the incidence of allergies and asthma increases, and magnesium has been used in the acute treatment of asthma attacks. Magnesium directly depresses smooth muscle activity, which may help relieve the broncho constriction seen in asthma. Noni contains this trace mineral in abundant quantity with a chealated form.
ROLE OF NONI IN ALLERGIES
By WorldNoni.Org
Allergies are extremely common. Seasonal allergies (commonly called hay fever) is a common phenomenon. In children younger than 11 years old, allergic dermatitis (inflammation of the skin) is the most common skin condition. Allergies can affect people of all ages, although they tend to develop in childhood or adolescence. The leading risk factor for allergies is exposure to an allergen, even though there is a genetic component to allergies, and newer studies have linked them to obesity in women.
Allergies occur because of an exaggerated immune response to a substance called an allergen. To be effective, the immune system must operate within a narrow balance; a lack of immune response leads to easy infection, while an overactive immune system can lead to autoimmune diseases (in which the body attacks itself) or allergies (in which the body overreacts to otherwise harmless substances).
Common inhaled allergens include pollen, animal dander, dust, mold, and insect parts . Ingested allergens include medications (penicillin, for example) and foods such as milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, fish, wheat, and soy. People can also be allergic to plants, nickel, copper, and latex.
Symptoms of allergies include the following (NIH 2005a):
- Runny nose
- Tearing, burning, or itching eyes
- Red eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Swollen eyes
- Itching (nose, mouth, throat, skin, or any other area)
- Wheezing
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives
- Skin rashes
- Stomach cramps
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
The most severe form of allergic reaction is called anaphylaxis. This is a serious condition that results in respiratory distress and swelling of the larynx. It often appears within minutes of exposure to a specific allergen and should be treated rapidly because death can occur within minutes or hours after the first symptoms appear.
Relieving allergy symptoms represents a large and extremely lucrative business for drug companies. Medicines frequently prescribed or sold over the counter for allergy relief include antihistamines, decongestants, and corticosteroids. While these medicines work, they may have significant side effects. Antihistamines, for example, can cause drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, and many other unwanted effects. Oral corticosteroids taken for more than three or four weeks are associated with significant side effects, including a weakened immune system and many other unwanted consequences.
Fortunately, it is possible, by use of nutritional therapy, to reduce allergy symptoms through more natural methods. Additionally, antioxidants such as vitamin E, vitamin C, glutathione, and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) defend the body against oxidative molecules that are formed during the allergy response.
What Makes an Allergy Attack
In most allergy cases, the body is first sensitized to a foreign protein (allergen), causing the production of an antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE). The newly produced IgE antibody circulates in the bloodstream, where it attaches to another kind of white blood cell called a basophil. In addition, IgE binds to mast cells, a type of white blood cell located in the skin and the mucosal lining.
The next time the allergen is recognized, the IgE antibody provokes the release of chemicals that cause a typical allergy attack. These chemicals include histamine, prostaglandins, and leukotrienes. Histamine in particular is an important target for allergy medications. Produced by mast cells, histamine causes localized swelling and inflammation. Many conventional treatments block the action of histamine. Certain nutrients have been shown to depress the activity of mast cells.
Besides the release of histamine, activated mast cells cause inflammation in other ways. During the inflammatory response to an allergen, pro-inflammatory chemicals are released from mast cells. In response to the pro-inflammatory chemicals, leukocytes (white blood cells) are attracted. The result of this cascade is inflamed tissue and increased production of white blood cells—a runny nose and increased mucus secretion in the lungs.
Role of Noni
Noni contains many active ingredients that have been shown to suppress allergic reactions. It relieves allergy symptoms by preventing the activation of immune responder cells
Noni contains several active constituents, such as flavonoids, polyphenols, catechins, and caffeine. Catechins such as epigallocatechin, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and epicatechin gallate are potent antioxidants. By studying mast cells that release histamine, researchers found that EGCG blocks the IgE receptor, which is involved in the allergic response.
Noni contains carotenoids, vitamin C, vitamin E, calcium, potassium, and flavonoids and rutin. It has anti-inflammatory effects
Noni has a powerful effect on raising glutathione levels in the body. Glutathione is a naturally occurring antioxidant that protects cells from the damage inflicted by free radicals. It prevents oxidative cell damage and is involved with immune system function. Glutathione depletion is linked to many chronic diseases.
Noni has been found to enhance T cell function. Noni increases the levels of IL-4. IL-4 enhances the ability of T cells to regulate pro-inflammatory cells, which further suggests that Noni can help reduce inflammation.
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is found abundant in Noni. It appears that vitamin C increases the function of many immune cells, including T cells, phagocytes (which destroy invader cells), and others. As an antioxidant, ascorbic acid can protect cells from reactive oxygen species known to cause tissue damage and disease. Vitamin C has antihistamine properties (Johnston CS et al 1996) that can help relieve allergy symptoms.
Vitamin E. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as a free-radical scavenger. It protects cell membranes and prevents damage to membrane-associated enzymes. Studies indicate lower levels of antioxidants such as vitamin E increase the risk of allergies threefold .
Magnesium. Magnesium is utilized by every cell in the body and participates in energy metabolism and protein synthesis. The body vigilantly protects blood magnesium levels, in part because at least 350 enzymatic processes depend on magnesium status for activation. As magnesium levels decline, the incidence of allergies and asthma increases, and magnesium has been used in the acute treatment of asthma attacks. Magnesium directly depresses smooth muscle activity, which may help relieve the broncho constriction seen in asthma. Noni contains this trace mineral in abundant quantity with a chealated form.
Morinda citrifolia, natural remedy for asthma and allergy
Asthma Natural Treatment
A Summary by Mirna Sakina
It is commonly known as Great morinda, Indian mulberry, Beach mulberry, Tahitian Noni, or since recently: Noni (from Hawaiian), Nono (in Tahitian), Mengkudu (from Malay), Nonu (in Tongan), and Ach (in Hindi), is a shrub or small tree in the family Rubiaceae. Morinda citrifolia is native to Southeast Asia but has been extensively spread by man throughout India and into the Pacific islands as far as the islands of French Polynesia, of which Tahiti is the most prominent. It can also be found in parts of the West Indies.
The fruit is one such that more than suffices the requirements of a Nutritional Supplement of great advantage. Though in the ancient cultures this fruit was widely used for its health restorative properties, over the years us popularity diminished due to the unpleasant smell that eminates from the ripened fruit and so humanity lost for a while the amazing gift of Health and Well Being that Nature had endowed it with in the form of Morinda citrifolia.
Here are some researches and findings by the scientists:
1. Dr. Ralph Heinicke of the Pineapple Research Institute in the United States of America,
He was the first who isolated a crystalline material from this fruit Morinda citrifolia that is responsible for the synthesis of Xeronine, which plays the sterling role of helping the Human body properly assimilate Proteins and thus regulate the structure and function of the various Cells of our body. Healthy cells build healthy tissues which in turn build healthy organs and healthy organs contribute to healthy body systems and so helping the individual lead a life of Health and Well Being.
In 1993 Dr. Ralph Heinicke in his research on Morinda citrifolia isolated another component found to be present in Morinda citrifolia — Damnacanthal. This Damnacanthal was shown to introduce normal cell growth in pre-cancer cells.
2. Dr. Mona Harrison MD, formerly assistant dean of Boston University School of Medicine and Chief Medical Officer D.C.General Hospital
She found out that Morinda citrifolia enhanced the function of the Thyroid and the Thymus glands, thus helping the body fight off infections and other problems of the Immune System. She believes that the frequency modulations in the body’s Energy, brought about by Morinda citrifolia, helps to fight depression and also acts as a true Adaptogen - i.e. It enhances the body’s Self Healing Mechanism to restore normalcy rapidly. Further more scientific studies from the 1960’s to 1980’s revealed the Analgesic qualities of Morinda citrifolia and proved that Morinda citrifolia helped the Circulatory, Digestive and Respiratory systems of the body, in addition to improving the texture of the Skin and the growth and repair of Hair.
3. In 1994, Mr. A. Hirazumi, a scientific researcher from the University of Hawaii
Based on the finding of Dr. Ralph Heinicke in 1993, he established the Anti-Cancer activity of Morinda citrifolia on intraperitoneally implanted Lewis Lung Carcinomo Syngenic Mice. Later on a team of Japanese researchers studied the induction of normal phenotypes in RSA-Transformed cells by Damnacanthal from Morinda citrifolia. These initial studies indicate the potential of Anti-Cancer activity of the Morinda citrifolia fruit on laboratory animals and the possible mechanism of its action. Pioneering research work on Morinda citrifolia is being done at the University of Hawaii, Keio University and Osaka University in Japan, The University of Antwerp in Belgium and Rutgers University - NJ. U.S.A.. to name a few. In fact, research on Morinda citrifolia is presently being carried out in over 40 Universities around the globe.
4. It is interesting to note what Dr. Scott Gerson MD has to write about Morinda citrifolia and India:
“Several years ago, I was researching material for a book on Medicinal Plants of India and became interested in a family of plants known as Rubiaceae. Of particular interest was a plant known in Sanskrit as Ach which was attributed special properties by ancient physicians. The fruit of this Ach plant or as we now know it as Morinda Citrifolia has a rich history in India, where it has been used for tens of centuries in the system of medicine known as Avurveda. This holistic medical tradition was established in the north western part of India by people called Aryans who were reputed to be a rather cosmic civilisation. Morinda Citrifolia was especially esteemed by the ancient Aryan physicians because it protected the skin from becoming dry and cracked from the sun. My investigations of the published scientific literature on Morinda Citrifolia yielded more than 100 articles pertaining to this medicinal plant.”
This fruit finds place in our ancient medicinal texts or Ayurveda and Siddha and in Tamil Nadu at one time, this tree was a must to grow in even Temple along with the Tulsi and Bail trees, for it was believed that the Goddess of all Gods made her abode in it.
Morinda citrifoia widespread success is based upon the theory that it acts as an Adaptogen. In essence, Morinda citrifolia contain a natural food supplement that helps “Sick” cells return to normal. If the body is releasing too much or too little of natural substances, the result is weakened or sick cells. An Adaptogen helps regulate the amount of the substance the body releases.”
It is important however to remember that the adaptogens from Morinda citrifolia are food supplements and not a medicine or drug.
However, as seen from many of the testimonials, Morinda citrifolia can help medication to be more effective with smaller doses, thus decreasing the normal side effects from certain medications.”
Continuous research on Morinda citrifolia has established, that Morinda citrifolia in addition to being rich in the content of proxeronine which is used by the body to strengthen and revitalise its cells, is also rich in Vitamin A, B, B2, B6, B12, C & H, Calcium, Iron, Niacin, Folk Acid. Pantothenic Acid, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Zinc, Copper and other minerals like Chromium, Manganese, Molybdenum, Sodium, Potassium, Carbohydrates like Fructose and Glucose and also has the distinction of being the only known Natural Health Product to contain more than 150 isolated Neutraceuticals.
In China, Samoa, Japan, and Tahiti, various parts of the tree (leaves, flowers, fruits, bark, roots) serve as tonics and to contain fever, to treat eye and skin problems, gum and throat problems as well as constipation, stomach pain, or respiratory difficulties. In Malaysia, heated noni leaves applied to the chest are believed to relieve coughs, nausea, or colic.
The noni fruit is taken, in Indochina especially, for asthma, lumbago, and dysentery. As for external uses, unripe fruits can be pounded, then mixed with salt and applied to cut or broken bones. In Hawaii, ripe fruits are applied to draw out pus from an infected boil. The green fruit, leaves and the root/rhizome have traditionally been used to treat menstrual cramps and irregularities, among other symptoms, while the root has also been used to treat urinary difficulties.
Sources: WorldNoni.Org, Wikipedia
Read More......
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Allergies And Asthma - Differences And Similarities
Allergy Asthma
by Mike Herman
Allergies are the most common cause of the inflammation which underlies most asthma particularly in younger sufferers.
Allergy rates are on the increase especially in Western countries (compared to people in less affluent rural parts of the world) and there is a growing body of evidence that strongly suggests that asthma is an environmentally induced disease.
This raises the challenging possibility that we may be able to prevent asthma by altering our environment.
Treating asthma by removing the causes, aka triggers, may prove to be successful when the cause is easy to remove, such as a dust or vapors inhaled at the office.
This is also true when the cause is a pet such as a cat or dog, however the reluctance to not have loved pet commonly prevents this.
An allergy to house dust mites is one of the commonest cause of asthma but getting rid of mites sufficiently to make a significant difference requires such a major and expensive change in lifestyle for the sufferer that it is rarely successful..
Research is currently being carried out to develop future treatments which may be able to modify or diminish the allergic process in the body and help all asthmatics.
Asthma and Allergies
*The cause of the inflammation (of the airway) which underlies most asthma in younger sufferers is one or more allergies.
*More people in western countries suffer from allergies, compared to people in less affluent parts of the world, and allergy rates are on the increase.
Read more............
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
A Guide To Allergies
About Allergy
By Ken Marlborough
Allergy is a condition in which the body tends to react due to hypersensitivity to some substance such as food, drugs, drinks, pollution, flowers, and others. An allergen could be anything under the sun that might cause a reaction in one’s body if the body disagrees with that substance. Even a common thing such as sunlight and air might cause sever reactions in some if the skin is susceptible to allergies due to the same.
People suffering from food allergies are many. Although most of these individuals do not have very severe reactions, some might find instant severe reaction to some foods. Some of the allergic reactions are caused due to seafood, regular food such as rice, soy, wheat, nuts, flowers, sunlight, metals and many such items.
Certain allergic reactions that are caused can be given temporary treatment to sooth the itchiness and provide some relief to the patient. However, most allergies have no permanent cure and the individuals suffering from these will need to avoid coming in contact with certain items that might cause reactions.
Itchiness and irritation along with blotches are caused in most reactions. Body lotions can sometimes soothe these although severe ones need to be treated with immediate effect. Drug reactions must be immediately taken care of as they can turn out to be quite severe with delay and might even result in death of the patient if an alternative to stop the reaction is not immediately administered to the patient.
People suffering from respiratory problems such as asthma, sinusitis can use inhalers for temporary relief. Such individuals need to have the medicine on hand at all times in anticipation of an attack due to some reason or other. Other preventive medicines must be taken without fail for avoiding the attacks at inappropriate moments. Antihistamines and decongestants also help with respiratory problems.
Allergies tests must be taken to fist diagnose the problem. Although most of them do not have a temporary cure, allergy shots, supplements and other medication would help in stopping the attacks when least expected. Most allergy medication causes drowsiness and can impair driving. It is usually suggested to rest when on medication because of this. Allergy shots also help a great deal in the long run as they can reduce the chances of attacks drastically if proper care is taken.
Seasonal allergies are most common in children and even in a few percentages of adults. Taking a few precautions at the initial time of seasonal change can help a great deal in avoiding such allergies. Although spring is the most beautiful season, all that pollen in the air might result in respiratory and skin allergies. Children’s immunity system must be strong to be able to encounter these changes in the weather. Vitamins, particular the vitamin C can help a lot avoid respiratory allergies.
One important thing to consider before getting a prescription filled is to find weather the patient can take that medication without further allergy because of that medication, as many are allergic to sulfur and other ingredient in the medication composition.
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Saturday, June 16, 2007
Allergies And Asthma
Cause Of Asthma
by Patricia Davis
Asthma is a chronic lung affliction that is characterized by breathing difficulties. People who suffer from asthma have extra sensitive or hyper-responsive airways. In the course of an asthma attack, the airways suffer irritation and react by narrowing and constricting, resulting in increased resistance to airflow, and obstruction of the flow of air flow through the air passages to and from the lungs. The cause of the inflammation which underlying most asthma in younger sufferers is the result of one or more allergies. Compared to people in less affluent rural parts of the world, a greater number of people in western countries are affected by allergies. Additionally, allergy rates are on the rise. This is a concerning fact, particularly when allergies affect young children.
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Thursday, June 14, 2007
Allergies The Silent Disease
By: The Source
Allergies affect approximately 60 million Americans, which means one in every five adults or children suffer from them, and are common in men as well as in women. Thirty-five million people have upper respiratory symptoms, which are allergic reactions to airborne pollen. Around 10 million Americans have allergies to cats and two million present severe reactions to various insect stings.
Food allergies are less common in the family of allergies. About one out of three people pretend to have a food allergy and only about three to eight percent of children younger than three years old, and only one percent of adults really have an allergic reactions to food. Unfortunately, food allergies are blamed for close to 200 deaths every year. Scientists say that allergies have to do with genetics. If one parent has allergies, there are 33% chances that each child will suffer from a form of allergy. If both parents are allergic, it is very much possible (seven cases out of 10) that their children will be allergic, too. If we are to discuss about allergies, we should have in view the fact that allergies usually stay with adults, while children sometimes outgrow them.
An allergy is in fact the response of your body to something that it perceives as a threat. Your body fights the allergen in the same way it would fight a virus or a bacterial infection. We can take as an example the pollens of some plants that are small and light and can be taken away by the winds for miles. Ragweed pollen has been found 400 miles out at sea and two miles up in the atmosphere.
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All Information Which You Want To Know About Allergies
by Justin Foss
Do you know that the sixth leading cause of chronic disease in America is Allergy, with its annual cost exceeding $18 billion. Nearly 50 million children and adults are believed to complicate and even handicap their lives due to allergies.
So what are Allergies ? Allergies make overreaction of the immune system to substances that usually cause no reaction in many individuals. These substances can trigger wheezing, sneezing, itching and coughing. Allergies besides being bothering, many also have been linked to a range of serious and common chronic respiratory illnesses (such as asthma and sinusitis). Additionally, allergic reactions can be even fatal and severe. However, with patient education and proper management, allergic diseases can be controlled, and people with allergies can lead productive and normal lives.
The capacity to become allergic like in eye color, baldness and height, is an inherited characteristic. You are not automatically allergic to specific allergens although you may be born with the genetic capability to become allergic. There are a few factors which must be present for allergic sensitivity to be developed.
Reasons for Allergic Sensitivity Development
1) One or more exposure to allergens to which one has a rogrammed response genetically. 2) The specific genes from parents to their offspring. 3) The length and degree of exposure.
Types of Allergies
Food Allergies - Food allergies are difficult to make out with effort. Even if there exists then there is a difference between intolerances and food allergies, they both cause health problems in susceptible individuals.A wide range of symptoms can be evident from foods. The immune system, respiratory system, and the digestive system can all be affected. Any food additive or food can theoretically cause problems for certain people. Even rice can be a worry for some.
Contact allergies - Not all irritation in skin is allergy-related, but one would suspect allergy to be the usual reason. Skin Rashes, Contact Dermatitis, Hives Urticaria, Atopic Dermatitis and Photosensitivity. Besides these there is also the Nickel Allergy, Fragrance Sensitivity and Cosmetics Allergies.
Inhalant allergies - There are many things which can cause sensitivities or allergic reactions in the indoor environment, whether you are in the work environment, at home, or visiting other enclosed places. These are due to Cats, Indoor Allergens, Dogs, Molds, Dust Mites, Sick Building Syndrome, Formaldehyde, Latex, Indoor Air Pollution and Occupational Allergens.
Chemical allergies - Chemical ingredients in medicine, food and everyday household products can spell danger for those who suffer from allergies. Allergies cause many people become very sensitive to chemicals. These are caused by Formaldehyde Exposure, Secondhand Smoke, Multiple Chemical Sensitivities and Fragrances.
Insect Allergies - The insects most likely to cause strong allergic reactions are yellow jackets, wasps, hornets, ants and honey bees.
The main motive behind publishing the article is to educate others as understanding of the allergies surely can give a potential victim to protect himself to some extent.
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Allergies And What Are They?
By Jeffrey Meier
This probably isn't the first time you've heard of them. Allergies are so stereotyped 20% of Americans have some kind of allergic reflex or another to certain external stimuli whether food, water, or air. But what are allergies? And why do we get them?
Allergies (Stripe I Hypersensitivity) are very a malfunction of our not liable system so that our body becomes hyper sensitized and reacts immunologically to typically non-immunogenic mostlies. The substances that cause our bodies to become this way are called allergens.
In 1906, Viennese pediatrician, Clemens von Pirquet, first traced the term "allergies" after he observed that certain indications of his patients might have been a response to outside allergens, like dust, pollen, or certain foods.
Signs and Symptoms
You can differentiate your allergies if you experience swelling in parts of your body. This is called local or systemic inflammatory response, caused by the potentiality of allergens. For example, if your allergies affect you in the nose, you will experience swelling of the nasal mucosa (allergic rhinitis). During this condition, you will plausibly find yourself performing the "nasal salute" more than unavoidable as itching of your nose will urge you to wipe your nose in an upward position.
On the other hand, if the allergies hit you in the eyes, blooming and yearning of the conjunctiva ofttimes proceeds from. Other common signs of allergies are panting and dyspnoea, bronchoconstriction, and sometimes outright attacks of asthma. You may conjointly experience many rashes, such as eczema, series, and contact dermatitis.
Systemic allergic responses are more serious compared to local symptoms. Depending on the severity of your response, allergies can cause cutaenous reactions, bronchoconstriction, edema, hypotension, coma, and even death.
Hay fever is truly one example of minor allergies caused by airborne pollen. But beside from environmental factors, allergies may also be triggered by treatments.
Why do we get allergies?
Our immune theory is a fit-trained and disciplined bio-weapon that arranges our bodies from harmful substances. Its mechanics are so amazing that it can determine and destroy many different invaders. However, as amazing as our immune system is, it makes mistakes at times. And so we have allergies, which, as we mentioned, results from a hypersensitive not affected system.
The hyper sensitized immune system misidentifies an otherwise innocuous substance as harmful, and then attacks the substance with a degree of ferocity that is greater than required. As a result, we experience problems that can range from mildly inconvenient to uncomfortable to total failure of major organs of the body.
How does the immune system go into a hyper sensitized standing?
There are genuinely several thoughts on that. Some colleges are afraid that allergies are relatively always triggered by protein. Believing persons have faulty genetic codes so that their lymphocytes or the white blood cells (the raw material that your immune scheme is made of) are not able to property distinguish between the threatening and the non-threatening proteins.
So, for sample, when you ingest protein from shellfish, your lymphocytes think that the gob is trying to invade the body. As a result, they produce large amounts of antibodies which leash themselves to mast cells and basophils throughout the body. This is known as the sensitizing exposure and this is the very reason why you suddenly develop allergies.
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Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Allergy: Who is at risk and why?
Allergies can develop at any age, possibly even in the womb. They commonly occur in children but may give rise to symptoms for the first time in adulthood. Asthma may persist in adults while nasal allergies tend to decline in old age.
Why, you may ask, are some people "sensitive" to certain allergens while most are not? Why do allergic persons produce more IgE than those who are non-allergic? The major distinguishing factor appears to be heredity. For some time, it has been known that allergic conditions tend to cluster in families. Your own risk of developing allergies is related to your parents' allergy history. If neither parent is allergic, the chance that you will have allergies is about 15%. If one parent is allergic, your risk increases to 30% and if both are allergic, your risk is greater than 60%.
Although you may inherit the tendency to develop allergies, you may never actually have symptoms. You also do not necessarily inherit the same allergies or the same diseases as your parents. It is unclear what determines which substances will trigger a reaction in an allergic person. Additionally, which diseases might develop or how severe the symptoms might be is unknown.
Another major piece of the allergy puzzle is the environment. It is clear that you must have a genetic tendency and be exposed to an allergen in order to develop an allergy. Additionally, the more intense and repetitive the exposure to an allergen and the earlier in life it occurs, the more likely it is that an allergy will develop.
There are other important influences that may conspire to cause allergic conditions. Some of these include smoking, pollution, infection, and hormones.
Read More......Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Asthma At A Glance
about asthma
- Asthma is a chronic inflammation of the bronchial tubes (airways) that causes swelling and narrowing (constriction) of the airways. The bronchial narrowing is usually either totally or at least partially reversible with treatments.
- Asthma is now the most common chronic illness in children, affecting one in every 15.
- Asthma involves only the bronchial tubes and usually does not affect the air sacs or the lung tissue. The narrowing that occurs in asthma is caused by three major factors; inflammation, bronchospasm, and hyperreactivity.
- Allergy can play a role in some, but not all, asthma patients.
- Many factors can precipitate asthma attacks and are they are classified as either allergens or irritants.
- Symptoms of asthma include shortness of breath, wheezing, cough, and chest tightness.
- Asthma is usually diagnosed based on the presence of wheezing and confirmed with breathing tests.
- Chest x-rays are usually normal in asthma patients.
- Avoiding precipitating factors is important in the management of asthma.
- Medications can be used to reverse or prevent bronchospasm in patients with asthma.
Adverse Reactions to Drugs
Author: John Collard, Allergy UK Nurse Consultant - November 2006
There are a variety of ways in which people can experience adverse reactions to medications, whether prescribed or ‘over-the-counter’. Most of these effects are not ‘allergy’.
Increased effect of the drug
Some people are more affected by drugs than others; there is a large degree of individual variability. Some people excrete drugs more slowly than others, and levels of the drug may build up over time. This means that a dose of a drug that suits one person might be too much (or too little) for another.
There are unlikely to be toxic effects, as the doses prescribed take account of this variation and allow a wide margin of safety. However, it may be that a sedative that makes someone else sleep for a few hours, might make another person sleep for much longer. This would be an increased effect rather than an allergy or intolerance.
Side-effects
All medications have side-effects because of the way they work. The majority of people get none, or very few, but some people are more prone to them. The most common side-effects are usually nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea (or occasionally constipation), lethargy, rashes, itching, headaches and blurred vision. All the known side-effects from a drug are listed in the patient information. They are listed in order of frequency (most common will be first on the list).
If you suffer a rash and itching after taking a drug it can be hard to decide if this is a side-effect or an allergy. Morphine commonly causes itching but this is not an allergy and the drug can still be used. In children, many rashes experienced while taking antibiotics are thought to be due to the underlying viral illness.
Drug interactions
Many drugs interact in some way with others. Some interactions are so severe that the different drugs are never given together, but many are just ‘warnings’ – there may be some odd symptoms but not in most people. If you are taking more than one drug and experience odd symptoms, check whether an interaction could be to blame (ask your pharmacist or GP).
Contraindications
Some drugs are not supposed to be used in certain illnesses. This may be because they will not be eliminated properly, for example in people with kidney or liver disease; because they may cause problems for the foetus in a pregnant woman; or because they are known to cause side-effects in particular illnesses (for example, amoxicillin often cause a rash when given to someone with glandular fever, but not when used in other conditions).
Allergy
Some people are genuinely allergic to a drug, but this is quite uncommon. Most drug ‘reactions’ are due to the various mechanisms described above.
Some drugs, such as penicillin, some anaesthetics, vaccines and other injections used in, for example, X-ray techniques, are know to be more likely to cause allergic reactions. They are used more cautiously in allergic people. If you suffer a fairly severe adverse reaction to a drug, or a repeated reaction on different occasions, this will normally be considered to be an allergy. This should be recorded in your medical notes and you should not be given the drug again. In each group of drugs, there are some that are less likely to cause allergy problems.
If you suffer a reaction and are not sure what drugs you were given, ask your GP or hospital Doctor for the information (for hospital Doctors, contact their secretary). If you have any trouble getting the information, ask your local NHS PALS organisation to help (see the phone book or hospital / surgery noticeboards).
Blood tests are not usually very helpful in determining drug allergies. Most allergies are very specific – if you react to one antibiotic this does not mean you are more likely to react to other antibiotics, although you should not be given one of the same type. If you are concerned, ask for a small test dose of a new drug before you are given the normal amount. Some drugs such as anaesthetics and vaccines can be checked by skin testing.
If you are allergic to a drug, take responsibility for making sure everyone knows. Health services are still not very good at passing this sort of information on, or looking at it even when it is there. Ask whether the allergy has been recorded in your notes. Volunteer the information to everyone who is involved in your care, even if they don’t ask. Make sure you are given an allergy bracelet in hospital. If your allergy is severe, consider wearing your own allergy bracelet. If you are given drugs to take at home, read the label and contents carefully.
Inhalent sensitivities - Part 1
This group includes pollens, moulds, animal dander and housedust mites.
Housedust Mites are probably the most important inhaled allergen; reducing exposure to them is the most fundamental aspect of allergen avoidance. They are found in large numbers in most houses in the UK; they require a food source (shed skin scales), warmth, and humidity to survive.
Skin scales are found in abundance in bedding, soft furnishings and carpets. Each night we warm up our beds as we sleep, shed skin and provide moisture through perspiration and breathing (roughly a pint per person per night); therefore high levels of mites are found in bedclothes, mattresses and pillows. Each mite passes very small faecal pellets (about 30 microns); these are extremely dry as the housedust mite needs to conserve as much moisture as possible. These pellets fragment easily into particles, which become airborne very easily, and remain airborne for many hours. They are of a size that our defences find most difficult to keep out of our airways, and they are therefore easily inhaled. As they land on the surface of the airways they set up an immune response; because they will act as a repeated stimulus to the immune system, in the susceptible patient allergy may well develop.
Housedust mite exposure should be reduced even if you do not think it is a particular problem – almost every allergic patient is allergic to them, and this puts a constant ‘load’ on the immune system.
There are several ways of approaching the control of housedust mite exposure:-
- The most important area to tackle is the bed. Wash bedding regularly. Mites in bedclothes will be killed if you can hot wash them (60oC and above). Although normal cool washing does not kill mites, it does wash out the allergic component of the pellets that causes the problem, and it will be some time before the levels rise again. Pillows are supposed to be washable but in practice it can be difficult getting them dry, and mattresses can’t be washed at all. Therefore pillows and mattresses hold high levels of mites and every night their pellets are breathed in as we sleep. They should be covered with a special ‘allergy’ breathable barrier cover if possible. The duvet should also be covered in the same way unless it is washable and is regularly washed. Mattresses on slatted bases, which allow good air circulation, are an advantage if possible.
- Kill them with high temperature steam cleaning of carpets, mattresses etc (high-temp steam leaves things dry rather than wet); or by freezing (e.g. pillows, soft toys).
- Increase ventilation to lower humidity (i.e. have windows open as much as possible). One of the reasons for the increase in housedust mite problems in recent decades is poor ventilation leading to higher humidity, which encourages mite growth. Reducing humidity levels kill mites, and as it also controls mould growth and reduces indoor air pollution (often worse than outdoor pollution).
- The best option is a good air filter (and a dehumidifier if the house is particularly damp). There are many air filters on the market that will trap larger particles such as whole pollen grains and mite pellets, but fragmented pellets and pollens, and some mould spores, are of a size (up to one micron) which most easily get through our defences. Up to 95% of the airborne particles in a room will be of this size, and they are also the most difficult particles for an air filter to remove. Filters, which are specifically designed to remove these most difficult particles, are called HEPA filters, and these are the best ones to buy.
- Filter vacuum cleaners – the small size of the most troublesome particles means that they pass straight through the coarse filter and dust bag of a normal cleaner and are blown around the room (thus many dust allergic people are worse after vacuuming). Simple measures include getting someone else to vacuum, opening windows wide during vacuuming, and not doing it so often – damp dust instead (but not with a cloth that is too wet, or humidity will rise). Ideally an old vacuum cleaner should be replaced with one that is designed to effectively trap even the sub-micron particles which cause the problems. There are a range of options, from expensive but very effective purpose built machines, through to standard models fitted with special microfilters, to filter material which can be added to your existing vacuum cleaner if you can’t afford a new one. Whichever type you choose, you should be sure that the filter vacuum effectively removes particles down to half-a-micron or so. A more powerful machine will suck up more dust and therefore steadily reduce the ‘reservoir’ of housedust mite left in furnishings.
Pollens and Moulds
Grass pollen is commonly considered; tree and weed pollens are often ignored but as each has it’s own season ranging from January (Hazel) to October (Dandelion). Air filters are effective indoors (pollens are relatively large particles, although fragments are obviously much smaller). Filter vacuum cleaners will trap pollens.
Mould spores are usually ignored but are potent allergens – very few allergic patients are not mould sensitive. Different moulds spore at different seasons, so mould sensitivity (as with pollens) can lead to year long symptoms, usually worse in spring and particularly autumn, in damp weather, when raining or snowing, and in gardens, around compost heaps, and when cutting grass. Measures to reduce humidity, increase ventilation, and good air filters will help tackle mould sensitivity, as may avoiding ‘mouldy’ foods such as blue cheeses, mushrooms and yeasts.
If you have a damp house, particularly where mould is visible on walls and windowsills, it is important to determine the cause and tackle it (either structural faults, or condensation due to inadequate heating or poor ventilation)
Source: http://www.allergyuk.org
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
Indoor Allergens - Top Tips
If you are suffering from an allergy to house dust mite, pets or moulds have a look at our top tips that could help ease some of your symptoms.
- Allergic reactions to house dust mite cause sneezing, wheezing, runny nose, tight chest and skin rashes, avoidance measures are key as part of a management programme.
- House dust mites make happy bedfellows, did you know, it is estimated that 2 million house dust mites live in a double bed. By using anti-allergy bedding covers that have been scientifically tested, you can significantly reduce contact with the allergen.
- Using duvets and pillows that contain material in which house dust mites cannot live can play a major part in avoidance.
- The house dust mite thrives in a warm moist environment. An electric blanket containing anti-allergy material will not only keep your bed warm, but house dust mites will not thrive in a nice dry bed.
- Padded headboards attract and hold dust, vacuum them regularly or opt for a wooden one.
- Indoor air quality is often as much as 20 times more polluted than the air outside. Common allergens are house dust mite, mould spores, pet dander, and pollen, and chemical pollutants are pesticides from timber treatments, tobacco smoke and chemicals from household cleaning products.
- Keep your home well ventilated by opening windows and by slightly lowering the temperature of the central heating you can greatly improve the air quality and reduce indoor allergens.
- Air conditioning is becoming increasingly popular but it is important to remember that these systems must be properly maintained otherwise mould can become established in the system and will be spread around the building by the very action of the air conditioning system itself.
- House dust mites can survive at quite low temperatures and up to over 34C, but they need moisture to survive which is why our UK humid climate is so good. Almost all temperatures in our homes offer the ideal environment for house dust mites to live in but you can make your home difficult for them to survive by reducing humidity and taking the following steps: air your bed everyday by hanging your duvet or blankets over a chair, open windows and close doors on all steamy rooms like the bathroom and kitchen.
- To further reduce house dust mites and their allergen, vacuum carpets everyday and curtains, and fabric three-piece suites three times a week with a vacuum cleaner that has a Hepa filter.
- When replacing your three piece suite try to replace it with a leather or vinyl covered suite.
- It is quite fashionable nowadays to use cotton throws over fabric suites. These can be washed at least monthly on a 60-degree wash to kill any allergens gathered in the throw or you could use anti-allergy bedding that can be adapted to make covers encasing the suite.
- Soft toys are a favourite place for house dust mites to live in. By removing all but a favourite soft toy from the bedroom at night, you will lessen the house dust mites in your child’s room and bed. Every month, all soft toys should be either placed in the freezer for at least 24 hours and washed (in a pillow case) to remove the dead mites and their allergic droppings or washed at a temperature of 60C.
- Pollen can live in the carpet for three months, vacuum regularly with a cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter.
- Cat allergy is very common. Cat allergen is very light and sticky and stays around for months even after the cat is no longer around. Cat allergen sticks to carpeting, furnishings and walls, causing a problem for sufferers, regular washing down of walls and paintwork will help keep allergens down.
- Steam cleaning can make a great impact using a product that has been scientifically tested to ascertain its efficiency in removing allergens. Vacuuming the carpet after steam cleaning will completely remove dead mites and allergen.
- Regularly check and clean bathrooms. Kitchens and bathrooms are ideal breeding grounds for moulds to grow, as are windowsills, check these areas regularly. Rather than using chemical cleaners to remove mould try white vinegar or borax for cleaning, as this will remove the mould without increasing the chemical pollution within the home.
- Regularly check fruit in the fruit basket removing any aging fruit as this will be a target for mould.
- Indoor houseplants are another source of moulds. Place pea-shingle on top of the soil and this will stop mould spores from settling.
- Always use an electrostatic duster or damp dust, as this will stop dust particles becoming air-borne. Dust particles can remain airborne for several hours irritating the nose, eyes and chest.
Source: http://www.allergyuk.org
Monday, April 30, 2007
Allergy Asthma, What Can You Do?
30% to 35% of all North Americans have allergy asthma. These numbers have increased significantly in the past 20 years. As a result both the sufferer and the sufferers’ family have seen a reduction in both quality of life and productivity. The impact can be devastating and even life threatening.
The allergy asthma population is on the rise yet research is on the decline. That doesn’t make a lot of sense. If you suffer from allergy asthma depending on the level of severity you can try to make improvements on your own or you may have to seek medical assistance.
There are several natural medicines that have shown excellent results for allergy asthma that is considered mild to moderate. Anyone dealing with severe problems needs to consult their doctor. Sometimes changes in lifestyle such as what you are exposing yourself to can help. Other times boosting the immune system or reprogramming it will make all the difference in the world.
Allergy asthma is one of the fastest growing allergies and asthma is becoming the fastest growing hospital admission in children and it is killing hundreds every year.
Allergies in general are growing with 2-5% of children and 10% of adults developing food allergies with many able to resolve themselves with dietary changes and often the use of herbal supplements. A small percentage will be dealing with more life threatening factors that must be addressed immediately. And many dealing with allergy asthma will need to work with their doctors.
Hay fever now affects about 25% of the population and it often leads to sinusitis and although it is often trivialized it is like allergy asthma seriously impairing a person’s ability to function.
Many of you might not realize the eczema can be a result of an allergy. In fact 10% of all eczema is allergy related and like allergy asthma you may need the help of your doctor to find the best approach to reducing it. There are many excellent herbal and natural products that can work well to eliminate eczema and reduce symptoms.
Anaphylaxis is the most serious allergy asthma – this is a reaction that can kill so suddenly those surrounding don’t realize what is occurring until it is too late. Anaphylaxis affects around 2% of the population and what happens is when the allergy strike the air ways are restricted and the person cannot breath thus suffocating.
Thankfully we are becoming much better at recognizing allergies in both children and adults. That means those suffering from allergies, and allergy asthma are getting better diagnosis and thus better treatment. In some cases with a little bit of diligence you can do a lot to help yourself using natural and herbal products. In more severe cases you will have to work with your doctor for the best outcome.
If you believe you have allergy asthma it is important to diagnose and find out exactly what is going on treating it before it gets more serious or even life threatening. There are some excellent asthma medications on the market that help you breathe and they have very few side effects.
So don’t delay if you think you have allergy asthma. You want to deal with it before it affects your quality of life.
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