What
is an allergy? An
allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to certain substances. These substances
can trigger coughing, sneezing, and wheezing. Allergies are not only bothersome,
but many have been linked to serious chronic respiratory illnesses (such as sinusitis
and asthma). There is hope, allergic diseases can be controlled. Consider
some of the substances that cause allergic reactions POLLEN
Pollen is one of the leading causes of seasonal allergies.
In spring and summer pollen particles are released into the air we breathe, causing
seasonal rhinitis, commonly referred to as hay fever (nasal/sinus allergies).
A single plant may produce millions of pollen grains per day. Individuals with
pollen allergies can develop sensitivities to other allergens such as dust mites,
pet dander, and mold spores. Back to Top MOLD
Molds are a leading cause of seasonal allergic rhinitis. There are thousands of
types of mold. It is usually mold spores that actually cause mold allergies. A
single mold growth can spawn millions of spores. Back
to Top Molds
can be found wherever moisture and oxygen are present. Inside your home, molds
can be found in basements, bathrooms, air conditioning, humidifiers,and anywhere
damp like walls or carpet. Mold
allergies are caused by inhaled mold spores. Spores lodge in the upper respiratory
system or in the lungs where they cause irritation. DUST
MITES AND HOUSE DUST
In the home, the most significant contributor
to allergies is the dust mite. In fact, clinical studies show that allergic sensitization
to the house dust mite is the most common cause of allergy in asthmatics. Dust
mites are microscopic relatives of ticks and spiders that thrive in warm, humid
places. The harmful allergens are actually found in the dust mite's fecal matter.
These allergen become airborne and are easily breathed into the lungs. House dust
mites primarily live on dead skin cells regularly shed from humans and their animal
pets. Dust
mites thrive in mattresses and carpets. The average bedroom can be infested with
millions of mites. Given the amount of time the average individual spends in bed
each day, dust mites account for the allergy misery of millions of Americans daily.
Back to Top
PET
DANDER Symptoms
of pet allergies include sneezing, watery and itching eyes, hives, coughing, soar
throat, post nasal drip, stuffy nose, and breathing difficulties.
Surprising, pet hair is not considered to be a very significant allergen . Most
pet allergies are caused by proteins secreted by oil glands in the animal's skin.
These proteins are shed in skin flakes or dander as it is often known. Dander
becomes airborne and causes respiratory difficulty.
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