Supporting Loved Ones with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome and Reducing Chemical Exposures

Seeking refuge from the many chemicals and toxins that threaten their health and well-being often forces people with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome into isolation. A positive, supportive attitude can have a big impact on a friend or family member suffering with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome. Living with Environmental sensitivities can mean enduring rejection and life in quarantine. People suffering from Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome experience severe symptoms that interfere with their day-to-day activities, and so their goal is to reduce their chemical exposures.

For those suffering with Environmental sensitivities, finding a home that doesn’t make them sick can be overwhelming. Newer homes are built with materials that emit chemicals like formaldehyde and benzene, while air fresheners, plug-ins and a variety of toxic cleaning chemicals leave behind a toxic trail of over 400 airborne pollutants.

Older homes present other air quality problems like mold, lead, asbestos and radon. They also tend to have poor ventilation systems, so just imagine the chemical exposures. If finding a safe home presents such a unique set of challenges, how difficult must it be to venture into a world that is clueless about Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome and the dangers of chemical exposures?

In a world that glorifies the signature scent and equates cleanliness with the smell of pine, is it really necessary to question why an MCS sufferer finds his/her self in isolation? Central nervous system depressants and carcinogens are present in everyday products affecting indoor air quality in homes, schools and offices around the world.

People are becoming increasingly aware of the dangers of chemicals and of how real chemical allergies really are. Once referred to as a “spurious disease,” the growing numbers of people suffering from Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome worldwide is sparking interest and support.

There are choices that we can make everyday to reduce chemical exposures and indoor air pollution. Firstly, we must begin by redefining the meaning of a clean home.

Help your loved one stay involved and active by following these simple rules.

1. Put yourself in their shoes
2. Find out which products your loved one can tolerate
3. Try using dye and perfume free laundry detergent
4. Try crystal stick deodorants
5. Use an air purifier in your home

Avoid:

1. Clothes washed with regular laundry detergent
2. Wearing dry cleaned clothes
3. Wearing clothes that have spent time next to items with any type of fragrance
4. Wearing nail polish
5. Wearing leather, suede, or any other material that requires protective sprays
6. Anything that is scented (shampoo, hairspray, creams, perfumes, body sprays, etc.)
7. Chewing gum, breath mints, etc.
8. Cosmetics

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome is real. Chemical exposures can have a real impact on your health, eventually leading to environmental sensitivities and a life of discomfort. Showing compassion for a loved one with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome can even improve your quality of life, because it means reducing your chemical exposures. Seems worth it to me.

Chemical Exposure During Pregnancy: How Exposure to Toxic Chemicals Affects Your Baby

Chemical exposure during pregnancy can have a serious impact on a child’s life. Studies reveal that exposure to toxic chemicals begins in the womb, and may result in behavioral and cognitive problems, chronic disorders, environmental injury, or cancer.

Pregnant women must protect their infants from toxic injury in the womb. A study conducted by the Endocrine Society revealed that chemical exposures during pregnancy, specifically BPA, lead to cancer in 33% of cases. In most instances, the cancers began at puberty or in young adulthood.

Similarly, an Environmental Working Group (EWG) study found 232 chemicals in the umbilical cords of ten babies. Avoiding exposure to toxic chemicals is now vital to a healthy pregnancy. The EWG insists that better measures are necessary in order to protect against chemical exposures during pregnancy.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) contends that prenatal exposure to air pollutants contributes to low birth weight and early delivery, which in turn contributes to high infant mortality rates as well as a lifetime of disabilities.

What can you do to avoid chemical exposures during pregnancy to protect yourself and your unborn child?

Here are a few tips to help limit Your Exposure to Toxic Chemicals

1. Do not smoke.  Stay away from Second hand smoke. There are over 4,000 chemicals in second hand smoke and over 250 of these chemicals are considered carcinogenic. Ask people to smoke outside, not in your home or vehicle. Remember, even after the baby arrives, these chemicals can cause asthma among other chronic diseases.

2. Watch out for toxic cleaning chemicals

Many cleaning products contain hazardous chemicals, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and carcinogens.  Even commonly used aerosols inject over 80 distinct chemicals into your ambient air (EWG).  The use of green cleaning products, at home and at work, is just one way to limit your exposure to toxic chemicals.

A recent study conducted by EWG discovered over 457 chemical emissions from disinfectant powders, bleaches, aerosols, glass cleaners and more. Employ the use of natural cleaning agents such as baking soda and all-purpose enzyme cleaners.

At work and at home, having an air purifier with activated carbon will help keep gaseous and particle pollutants at bay, significantly reducing exposure to toxic chemicals. Look for an air purifier with at least 15 pounds of activated carbon that is ozone-free.

3. Limit your exposure to paint.

You’re expecting a new baby and it’s exciting, but remember that most paints contains VOCs. A freshly painted room is no place for an expecting mother. Once the room is painted, make sure it is well ventilated. Open the windows and if you have an air purifier, use it.

4. Watch out for ozone

Exposure to ozone can occur in two instances: through smog exposure or from ozone generators. Smog is a cocktail of air pollutants largely composed of ground level ozone, while ozone generators refer to personal air purifiers that emit ozone gas. Smog going outdoors when there are smog warnings in effect; however, smog (like other outdoor air pollutants) can find its way inside your home.

5. Steer clear of the dry cleaners

In your attempt to avoid Chemical exposure during pregnancy, opt to hand wash your delicates. The dry cleaning process involves the use of organic solvents like tetrachloride that are recognized as hazardous, causing liver, kidney and nervous system damage.

6. Go scent free

Many perfumes are concocted with a number of chemicals that cause cancer, birth defects and organ damage. A study conducted by the EPA revealed that most department store perfumes contain toluene---a proven carcinogen---while a number of other cosmetic products contain petrochemicals and pesticides. Studies reveal that perfume use can cause undue chemical exposure during pregnancy, and may lead to infertility in male babies.

7. Invest in an air purifier

An air purifier will remove chemicals and odors from the ambient air in your home. This is the best way to reduce exposure to toxic chemicals. An air purifier with at least 15 pounds of granular activated carbon and a medical-grade HEPA filter will trap 99.97% of particle pollutants. Avoid air purifiers that use a thin layer of spray-on carbon; they are useless.

8. Pesticides are toxic

Do not use pesticides in your home. Also, when entering your home, remove your shoes and ask others to do the same. Wash all produce before consumption, and whenever possible, opt for organic fruits and vegetables.

Remember, chemical exposure during pregnancy can affect your child for the rest of their lives, so isn’t worth it to be careful? This time it’s easy to make smart choices. Avoiding exposure to toxic chemicals can only help.

An Air Quality Expert at Your Fingertips

AllerAir air quality experts are now available to chat with you via our live online support link on AllerAir.com. Ask an air quality question or request a recommendation for a unit that would best suit your air quality needs. Our specialists are available from 9am to 5pm, Monday through Friday.

Allergy Prevention May Be Able to Begin at Birth

Australian researchers say that a simple blood test for newborns can now predict their risk of developing allergies later in life.

The test looks for a protein marker, kinase C-zeta, which seems to be much lower in children prone to allergic reactions.

Professor Tony Ferrante, an immunologist from the Children's Research Centre at the University of Adelaide, says the new marker may be the most significant breakthrough in allergy testing for some decades.

The researchers are also looking at whether fish oil supplements given to both pregnant women and those who have just given birth can reduce the risks of the children developing allergies.

"There is evidence that the levels of this important protein increase with fish oil supplementation to protect against allergy development," Professor Ferrante says.

Australia, like North America has one of the highest allergy rates in the world, with 40% of children now suffering from allergic diseases, including food allergies, eczema, asthma and hay fever. These conditions frequently persist into adulthood, placing a heavy burden on the healthcare system.

“This is a fascinating breakthrough,” adds Jacqueline Corlett a residential Air Quality Specialist with AllerAir Industries. “Knowing right from the start that their child may be prone to allergies will give parents the opportunity to allergy-proof their homes early on. Small steps can greatly reduce the prevalence of airborne particles and chemicals that may trigger a reaction.”


Top Tips to Allergy Proof Your Home:

• Remove carpeting which traps dust and particles

• Reduce the use of chemicals in the home

• Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter

• Choose a high quality air cleaner that removes both airborne particles and chemicals

• Take your shoes off at the door to avoid tracking in pollen and other particles

• Keep pets out of sleeping areas

• Regularly vacuum upholstery

• Once a month place soft toys in the freezer overnight to kill the dust mites and then wash to remove the remaining allergen

• Regularly wash bedding in hot water

The Challenges Faced by SME's: A conversation between our MP, The Honourable Stéphane Dion and AllerAir Industries

We really enjoyed meeting our MP today, the Honourable Stéphane Dion and talking to him about the air purification industry and some of the challenges faced by SME's (small to medium sized businesses).

Many Canadians don't realize:

• Small and medium-sized enterprises comprise the majority of Canadian firms that sell goods and services abroad. Their exports are directly linked to increased productivity, job creation and economic growth.

• In Quebec, small and medium-sized enterprises account for 96 % of all businesses and have led larger firms in productivity and growth over the last 10 years.

• According to Statistics Canada's Survey of Employment, Payrolls and Hours (SEPH), on average in 2007, just over 5.1 million employees on payroll, or 48 percent of the total private sector labour force, worked for small enterprises (those with fewer than 100 employees).

• Manufacturing accounts for nearly 1.8 million Canadian jobs (2007)

• Manufacturing jobs are being lost at a rate of 150 a day

We believe that access to financing is critical if SMEs are to develop and expand.
 
We look forward to more conversations with you Mr. Dion!

MP Visits AllerAir

We're pleased to welcome our local federal member of parliament, the Honourable Stéphane Dion who will be visiting our manufacturing plant this afternoon.

AllerAir is proud to be a company who has kept their manufacturing in North America. We also source our parts and materials from local suppliers.

We're looking forward to hearing his thoughts on the health of the local manufacturing sector and the importance of air quality and the environment as a top political issues.

Welcome Mr. Dion!

Toxic Cleaning Chemicals: Reducing Chemical Exposures at School

The use of toxic cleaning chemicals in your child’s school can have a big impact on his/her health. Many chemical exposures occur at school; the Environmental Working Group (EWG) recently tested 21 cleaning products (many of which are regularly used in schools) and discovered that they release over 457 air contaminants, including chloroform and formaldehyde. These gaseous pollutants are linked to asthma and cancer, while many others are considered hazardous, with health risks that will only unfold in the future.

Over the past decade, the number of children with asthma has doubled, while childhood cancers have risen by 28 percent over the past two decades. Toxic cleaning chemicals in schools is affecting the Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), as well as the frequency of chemical exposures in children. Multiple Chemical Sensitivities are becoming increasingly common worldwide, while the number of children with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome is expected to rise.

With these alarming statistics, it becomes obvious that children are left vulnerable to chemical exposures that may have both acute and long-term effects on their developing immune systems. Chemical exposures in children are far too common, and toxic cleaning chemicals are playing a leading role in this assault.

The use of toxic cleaning chemicals needs to stop. It is time to take stock of our habits and encourage schools to implement the use of green products into their housekeeping routines.   Children are more at risk of chemical exposures because their metabolic rate is higher. Also, children take more breaths than adults, and so their bodies are more susceptible to toxins.

At School, you child is faces exposure to airborne pollutants like:
· Pesticides (for pest control)
· Formaldehyde (Portable classrooms, furniture, carpets, flooring)
· Mold (leaky pipes, washrooms, etc.)
· Carbon monoxide (school buses, cars, etc.)
· Cleaning products (various hazardous variations)
· Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
· Animal dander and pollen

Schools built prior to 1980 may have lead, asbestos and even radon in their walls, while newer buildings and school furnishings may have formaldehyde, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and other gaseous and particle pollutants. Toxic cleaning products add roughly 65 more recognized toxins and carcinogens to the ambient air your child inhales for most of their day. To limit chemical exposures at school, it seems a military gas mask should be added to the school supplies list.

Children spend 90 percent of their time indoors. For a child suffering from multiple chemical sensitivities this can mean hours of torture. MCS America recommends simple tips for schools and teachers:

1)Use green cleaning products- eliminate the use of toxic cleaning
chemicals all together

2)Fix leaky pipes and remove any materials that have been damaged by water

3)Clean the air ducts regularly, and employ the use of an air filtration
system equipped with inert materials and many pounds of activated carbon

4)Implement a fragrance and smoke free policy

5)Make sure that school buses are not located in an area where air is
vented into the school.

6)If a classroom was remodeled within the last 3 years, keep your MCS
student out of there

7)In the event of a reaction, remove the student from the source and them
to fresh air immediately

8)Find out what happened for avoidance purposes

9)Be patient with your student


Avoid Portable Classrooms at All Costs

Student populations are growing in the U.S.A and as a result, the number of portable classrooms is growing. These portable classrooms have caused quite the stir among teacher’s unions and parent committees because of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) concerns.

Studies show that these classrooms have high concentrations of air pollutants like mold, formaldehyde and VOCs. Not only can a student with Multiple chemical sensitivities not step foot into these classrooms, regular students can develop multiple chemical sensitivities and other chronic diseases through repeated exposures to these hazardous airborne pollutants.

Consequently, the EPA has developed the IAQ Tools For Schools Award Program that encourages educational facilities to improve their IAQ, which can mean eliminating toxic cleaning chemicals, implementing the use of an air purifier in classrooms, and limiting their use of pesticides.

Multiple Chemical Sensitivities threaten the health and happiness of children across the globe. As parents, it’s time to take this threat very seriously. Say no to toxic cleaning chemicals, your children deserve better.

AllerAir Deals for May: $50 off the purchase of any unit

In recognition of MCS (Multiple Chemical Sensitivity) awareness month we’re offering $50 off the purchase of any unit. For your coupon code visit http://www.allerair.com/. Click on the MCS button, then “Gift Certificate Code”. The coupon code is valid until June 15, 2010 and is only applicable towards the purchase of a unit (not valid for filters, test kits or accessories). Offer limited to one coupon per purchase.

AllerAir is Spreading MCS Awareness (Multiple Chemical Sensitivity)

This May, AllerAir is supporting Multiple Chemical Sensitivities and Chemical Injury Associations worldwide in their effort to spread Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome awareness.


AllerAir will make chemical awareness tips and a $50.00 gift certificate available via their website at http://www.allerair.com/. The gift certificate is valid until June 15, 2010 and can be used towards the purchase of any unit. Additionally, their blogs and articles will be dedicated to Multiple Chemical Sensitivities and chemical awareness topics for the month of May.

Multiple Chemical Sensitivities affect over 48 million Americans. The onset of this debilitating medical condition can cause an allergy-like reaction to even low levels of chemical exposure. Often referred to as Toxic Injury or Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome, the onset of Multiple Chemical Sensitivities depends on either a single highly toxic chemical encounter, or repeated low-level chemical exposures.

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome hits close to home for AllerAir president, Sam Teitelbaum. He discovered the reality of chemical injury when a close relative was diagnosed with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities in 1990. Since then, Sam has made it his mission to provide the chemically sensitive with the most inert air purifiers available.

According to Sam, "There are millions of people suffering today because of chemical injury and poor Indoor Air Quality (IAQ). At AllerAir, we are committed to air quality education and chemical injury prevention and relief. Millions of people have been affected by multiple chemical sensitivities, but the proliferation of airborne chemicals means that millions more will suffer unless we take stock of our indoor air quality."

A Cornell study in 2007 revealed that over 3 million tons of toxins and hazardous chemicals are released into the air annually. This does not include the pesticides used indoors, nor the hundreds of carcinogens found in cleaning products, fragrances and cosmetics. This May, learn more about Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome, and how to protect your family.


AllerAir Since 1996

AllerAir's smart design solutions provide the most effective balance of performance, safety, quality and price. AllerAir air purifiers are equipped with many pounds of activated carbon, which is proven to be the most efficient way to treat toxic chemicals and gases. AllerAir's Multiple Chemical Sensitivity air purifiers are built with the most inert products, and clients are able to test and select their own carbon with the carbon test kit. Chemical exposure is linked to organ and central immune system damage, respiratory disorders and cancer.

Avoiding The Dangers of Pesticides & Eating Healthier for Symptom Relief

The dangers of pesticides are present every time you take a bite of your favorite fruit. Eating a healthy diet for chemical allergy relief means being aware of the dangers of pesticides.

Firstly, it's important to remember that no two people are alike; therefore, there is no single diet that will work for everyone. Selecting a diet that is right for you is very personal, but here are a few things to consider.

Making Smart Choices

The dangers of pesticides are universal. After conducting 96,000 tests, the EWG contends that it is wise to not only wash fruits and vegetables, but to eat the right kinds of produce to reduce chemical exposure. Eat as much organically grown food as possible; limiting the consumption of fruits and vegetables with high levels of pesticide residues will help reduce the dangers of pesticides by reducing exposure by almost 80%.

The EWG recommends:
Vegetables

• Asparagus
• Cabbage
• Eggplant
• Sweet Potatoes
• Onions

Fruits

• Pineapples
• Mangos
• Kiwis
• Cantaloupe
• Watermelon

Purchase organic when venturing into the produce aisle for:
Vegetables

• Celery
• Bell Peppers
• Spinach
• Kale
• Potatoes

Fruits

• Strawberries
• Peaches
• Apples
• Nectarines
• Blueberries

Eat healthy; diets rich in minerals like magnesium help improve your immune system. Whenever possible, try to get your nutrients from food sources, and make sure to avoid foods with preservatives. Phenolic compounds present in preservatives and pesticides are capable of triggering the release of arachidonic acid. The release of this acid can lead to inflammation.

Achlorhydria is fairly common among people suffering with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities. What this means is that their bodies experience difficulty when it comes to vitamin B12 absorption. In this instance, it is important to take the necessary steps to lower the stomach’s pH. Taking vitamin supplements rich in minerals and vitamin B12 are recommended; however, be mindful of supplements that contain additives.

When making food choices, focus on symptom relief and on boosting your immune system. The dangers of pesticides are ever present, so avoidance is the key. From here on, be prepared to carefully select your own produce, cook your own meals, and drink plenty of spring water from glass bottles. Tap water is never an option.

Once you begin implementing your new habits and drinking eight glasses of spring water per day, you’ll feel the difference. If drinking this much water seems a daunting task, try these three easy tips:
1. Always carry water with you.
2. Schedule water breaks
3. Before reaching for soft drinks or juice, drink water.

This information is not meant to replace sound medical advice, but it will help. The dangers of pesticides threaten everything that matters---good health.







.

May is Multiple Chemical Sensitivities Month

May is Multiple Chemical Sensitivities month.  For those living with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome, it is no easy feat.  The onset of this debilitating medical condition can cause an allergy-like reaction to even low levels of chemical exposure. There are over 48 million Americans suffering from Multiple Chemical Sensitivities.


For those suffering with chemical allergies there are little things you can do to maintain your quality of life. Although there is currently no cure for Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome, there are ways to take control of your symptoms. This May, AllerAir is providing small, but significant suggestions.


Step 1: Detoxify Your Home

Living with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities means taking the necessary steps to detoxify your home. The best relief for those suffering with multiple chemical sensitivities is avoidance, which means removing pollutants. Reducing the number of triggers found in your home can deliver some much-needed relief. Take the time to detoxify your home---it’s the best thing you can do for your health.

So, what’s polluting your indoor air? Start by removing pollutants like:

Pesticides, petrochemicals, second hand smoke, mold, formaldehyde and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are found in homes across North America. The dangers of chemicals are present whether it’s asbestos in the walls of an old home, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) from home furnishings, or the carcinogenic chemicals found in cleaning products.

A few well-known culprits include:

· Perfumes

· Pesticides

· Cigarette smoke

· Air pollution caused by photocopiers

· Paint fumes, glues, solvents (Volatile Organic Compounds VOCs)

· Formaldehyde (found in furniture, carpet and other types of flooring)

· Petroleum products

· Cleaning products

· Beauty products like hairspray and perfume


How to detoxify your home
Tips:

1) If you’re not a smoker steer clear of second hand smoke.  There are over 4,000 chemicals emitted by just one cigarette. Ask visitors to refrain from smoking prior to visiting you, but keep in mind the smell of cigarettes may still be lingering on their clothing.

2) Avoid the use of bug sprays and other pesticides in your home. Always ask guests to remove their shoes before entering your home; pesticides can be insidious. Talk to your neighbors about the dangers of pesticide use on their lawns.

3) Invest in chemical-free enzyme cleaners, or even a package of baking soda. The Environmental Working Group discovered over 457 hazardous chemicals in 20 household cleaners. Natural enzyme cleansers are capable of removing stains, grease and bacteria, without the harrowing effects of chloroform, benzene and formaldehyde.

4) Avoid aerosols, plug-ins and scented candles; they mask odors and contribute to indoor air pollution. The EWG found 89 air contaminants known to cause organ system toxicity as well as endocrine and neurotoxicity. Opt for compact, portable cases of granular activated carbon, which are brilliant in litter boxes, refrigerators and closets.

5) Fix leaks in your home promptly, and always shower with the fan on to avoid mold. Aside from spawning irritants and allergens, molds release hazardous mycotoxins. Mycotoxin is one of the most hazardous indoor air pollutants, because of its ability to cause neurological damage, especially in children.

6) Buy wood furniture; pressed wood products generally contain formaldehyde. You may also wish to remove carpets and window dressings as they tend to out-gas air contaminants.

7) Stay away from plastic shower curtains. A recent study revealed that over 108 VOCs were released in less than a month. Concentrations of these chemicals are even higher after you shower.

8) Newer homes tend to be airtight, proper ventilation and the use of an air purifier is strongly recommended.

9) An air purifier can help, but not just any air purifier---do your homework. The air purifier you chose will not provide a cure to all of your problems, but it will help. For people suffering with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities, carbon+HEPA technology is mandatory. Only an air purifier manufactured with the most inert parts available will do the trick