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ARE YOU ALLERGIC TO YOUR PET?

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Many people are allergic to the dander that comes off of cats and dogs and avoid them altogether, but some do not mind a little sickness if they get to keep their furry companions. Most people actually choose to continue to live with their pets even after they find out they are allergic to them because most allergies to dander are non-life threatening and can be treated with over the counter medication.

I know how important animals can be to a family, so I have compiled a list of simple things you can do to make living with a pet easier, even if you are allergic to them. First off, it is important to remember that people with pet allergies are not allergic to the pet hair itself but to the oils and dander on the pet hair. Also that there is no such thing as a non-shedding dog or a breed that people are not allergic to–these are myths!

Pet Tips

▪ Create a pet-free area

▪ Clean your house often; this includes dusting and vacuuming

▪ Bathe your pets at least once a week

▪ Be sure that it is actually your pet that you are allergic to; take an allergy test and be sure that you are not allergic to something that your pet is bringing into your home from outside

▪ Try to keep a hairless pet; like a fish or a turtle

Animals bring in all types of things from outside that can get trapped on their fur and eventually settle into your home. Even if you are not allergic to your pet it is important to maintain a clean environment for you, your family, and your pets to live in. Try using a HEPA air system in your home to remove any air born allergens. I hope these tips help you and your pets live in perfect harmony or at least in a sneeze-free zone!

References:

http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/allergies_pets.html

http://www.aafa.org/display.cfm?id=8&sub=16&cont=63

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SEASONAL ALLERGIES

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Seasonal allergies are probably the worst of all allergies and affect just about everyone. Whether the symptoms last all season or a few days, many of us get that congested itchy-eye feeling once a year due to the high amounts of pollen in the air ,and weeds sprouting up during the new season. As common as this allergy is, it is still a hassle to live with.

These allergies usually crop up during the spring and fall seasons. Symptoms range from itchy-eyes, runny nose, and congestion. In some cases, people may experience more severe symptoms and should speak with their doctor for ways to remedy them. I would suggest avoiding outdoor activities during the allergy season between the 5am and 10am. Studies have shown that these are the peak hours for high concentrations of pollen in the air. Try taking your daily walks later in the afternoon if you experience a lot of symptoms. Also, try to keep your windows closed at home and in the car to avoid excess pollen from entering your system. I recommend investing in a HEPA air system for your home to clear out any allergens from the air.

The only way to be sure if you have allergies is to check with your doctor. They can run a blood test or a skin test to check for any and all allergens. If you find these symptoms are affecting your everyday life and become a distraction, try taking some over the counter treatments like antihistamine nasal spray. As always, look for natural remedies first but if you need to, look for prescription medication from your doctor. Try not to fear the seasons because of allergies, just equip yourself with the right remedies so you can still enjoy each day!

References:

http://allergies.about.com/od/allergies101/a/seasonalallergy.htm

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COMMON FALL ALLERGIES

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Many people suffer from seasonal allergies, mostly during the fall and early winter months. The key is to figure out what is causing the allergies, and deal with them accordingly, rather than avoiding the outdoors altogether.

The number one contributor to seasonal allergies is ragweed. It is the most commonly found weed across the southern, northern and Midwest parts of the United States. Ragweed is an airborne allergen that can travel as far as 400 miles from its original location. It is most often found in vacant lots or on the side of the road and produces billions of pollen particles each season.

 The Santa Ana winds move in from October to March, greatly increasing the distance that pollen and spores travel. As most allergens are transmitted through the wind it is important to be aware of its movements. Wind travels furthest during the early morning from around 5am to 10am. During these hours it is best to keep your outdoor activities to a minimum if you are allergy-prone.

To protect against these allergens, it is also not a bad idea to keep all doors and windows in your house shut. Among the most common ways of avoiding winds, however, try using an air purifier in your home. I recommend getting one with a High Efficiency Particulate Arrestor (HEPA) as they remove up to 99.97% of allergens from the air

In addition to pollen, a great contributor to seasonal allergies are mold spores. These little devils typically start up in the fall due to weather change, cropping up in damp piles of leaves and stuffy basements. Try keeping track of those leaves piling up in your front yard, and clear all yard debris as often as possible to keep from growing mold and collecting other allergens.

Fall is a beautiful time of year. Try researching new ways to keep your family clear of allergies this season so you can enjoy a brisk walk with your kids or travel to that great family destination. If you have any concerns, contact your physician, but most likely that tickle in your nose are those pesky little pollen particles!

References Used

http://www.everydayhealth.com/year-round-allergies/most-common-fall-allergies.aspx

http://www.aircleaners.com/difference.phtml

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