7 common allergens in your home - and what to do about them

Allergies affect millions of people.

How many people suffering from allergies do you know?

Chances are, a lot of them.

With about 40 million people being affected by indoor or outdoor allergies, the growing phenomenon has become the fifth leading cause of chronic illness and is now big business for the healthcare industry: The estimated annual cost of allergies in the US is $7 billion.

Indoor air quality can play a huge role in people’s exposure to allergens that cause a stuffy nose, nasal discharge, itchy and bloodshot eyes, sneezing, scratchy throat, cough, wheezing and/or tightness in the chest.

Indoor allergens often find their way into airtight homes and get trapped, meaning they can cause irritation to allergy sufferers all winter long.

Here are some tips on how to deal with common household allergens, courtesy of Rapid News Network:

Dust

• Remove drapes, feather pillows, upholstered furniture, non-washable comforters and soft toys (better: blinds, leather or easily cleanable furniture)
• Replace carpets with linoleum or wood or tiles
• Mop the floor and wipe surfaces with a damp cloth
• Vacuum regularly with a cleaner that features a HEPA filter
• Use a room air purifier with a HEPA or electrostatic filter

Dust Mites

• Wash all bedding in hot water every 7 to 10 days
• Do not use mattress pads
• Cover mattresses and pillows with plastic covers

Pets can add to the allergen count in
the home

Pet Dander

• Use allergen-resistant bedding
• Bathe pets frequently
• Use an air filter

Pollen

• Be aware of how pollen get indoors: Clothes, hair, ventilation, pets, wind
• Shower or bathe before going to bed
• Avoid going outside on dry, windy days
• Keep windows and doors closed on days with high pollen counts
• Use an air conditioner or air filter

Cockroaches

• Don’t leave food or pet food out
• Seal cracks and holes
• Clean behind areas like the stove and fridge
• Bug bomb twice a year or find natural alternatives

Mold

Clean mold and fix the humidity issues
before it becomes a big IAQ problem.

• Curb the number of houseplants you have
• Clean all areas of the bathrooms regularly
• Remove mold and mildew when you see it (get professional help for big infestations)
• Use the bathroom fan, open doors and windows to increase airflow
• Never put carpet in bathrooms; use mold-proof bathroom paint when renovating

Endotoxins

• Endotoxins come from bacteria living in household dust and can cause or aggravate asthma symptoms. Keep their count low with the same steps as for dust control.

Portable air filters remove allergens indoors

AllerAir's Air Medic Series
and AirMedic+ with UV

AllerAir takes indoor air quality seriously and has designed a number of powerful air purifiers for the home and office that feature a multistage filtration system for the most efficient and safe air cleaning possible.

AllerAir offers:

• Air purifiers for allergies and asthma
• Air purifiers for mold
• General air purifiers for the home and office
• and much more

Use our sizing and selection guides to find the right model for you – or contact an AllerAir account executive to assist in the selection process. We care about every breath you take.

Health problems created by road traffic

Exposure to air pollution can lead to
a variety of health problems.

Millions of research dollars are being spent on examining the health issues related to road traffic and environmental pollution.

Especially in highly trafficked areas such as LA and other urban centers, air pollution effects have become a topic of concern for children health and women’s health, among others.

To shed some light on the issues, a recent detailed report by Environmental Health News’ Editor in Chief Marla Cone put the spotlight on health in LA and LA traffic.

Air pollution effects

Researchers have found that spending too much time too close to busy highways could lead to

• Asthma
• Reduced lung function
• Cardiovascular disease
• Autism
• Other health effects

Schools, businesses and homes near freeways, ports and railways (or all of them together as is the case in the area stretching from Long Beach to East Los Angeles) expose people to emissions from trucks, ships, trains, and other diesel-powered sources.

Environmental pollution high in busy regions

That means many volatile organic compounds, including trichloroethylene and benzene that are known carcinogens can be in the air.

While new technologies and regulations have made improvements to the overall air quality, high levels of pollutants remain. For example, the Los Angeles basin is still the worst when it comes to ozone, the main ingredient in smog, and it also has very high levels of fine particles.

About half of the residents of Los Angeles County – about 7 million people -- live within a mile of a freeway, some within 100 meters or less.

Breathing easier with air cleaners

Some schools have put air filters in the classrooms and have noticed a tremendous improvement in the air quality, the article says.

It shouldn’t be a debate of jobs versus health, the experts say.

Portable air cleaners with carbon and
HEPA help keep the air clean and safe.

While it’s obvious that ports and freeways are economically necessary, they have to be designed and equipped to protect the community’s health.

Cleaner air at home, at school and at work

If it works in schools, it will certainly work in the home. AllerAir has designed a series of air purifiers for the home and office that can remove the widest range of air pollutants.

The key to a good filtration system is to have the most efficient and safe technologies. AllerAir air purifiers feature the biggest activated carbon + HEPA filters to remove airborne chemicals, odors, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particles, allergens, bacteria, viruses and molds.

Browse our products online or contact AllerAir directly to find the right air purifier for your needs: 1-888-852-8247.

Source: Environmental Health News
  

Doctor advises pregnant women to reduce chemical exposure

Exposure to chemicals during pregnancy
can affect the developing fetus, experts say.

When you’re pregnant, you’re not just eating for two – you should be health-conscious enough to give your unborn child the best possible head start.

This includes all the common-sense steps pregnant women are taking, including eating right, taking vitamins and folic acid as well as eliminating alcohol and tobacco.

But it should also include steps toward better environmental health, says Dr. Doris Rapp, an experienced physician and expert on all the hidden household and environmental hazards in a recent article on HealthNewsDigest.com.

While everyone is exposed to certain chemicals and environmental pollutants on a regular basis and may not show any signs or symptoms, the same exposures can be harmful to a developing fetus in the womb, Rapp says.

Bad for you: PCBs
Rapp is especially warning against exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, that are commonly used in industrial pesticides and could be present at the office, in the water or food. These pesticides have been linked to birth defects, lower birth weight, developmental delays and many other health effects.

Bad for you: Bisphenol-A and phthalates
These chemicals are derived from World War II nerve agents and are highly toxic.

Tips to limit exposure:

• Stay away from pesticide treated areas
• Eat organic foods and avoid pesticide-laden foods (consult EWG’s dirty dozen list)
• Use natural cleaning products such as white vinegar and baking soda
• If you buy new furniture or products, let them off-gas before using them
• Use a portable air purifier to remove airborne chemicals, odors, gases, particles and biological contaminants - it needs an activated carbon + HEPA filtration system for best results

Contact AllerAir for more information on our air purifiers for the home and office, air purifiers for the baby’s room or nursery and many more options.

Toxic household products you can toss

Household cleaners may contain
toxic chemicals.

If you’re at all worried about the indoor air quality in your home, ditching chemical-laden household cleaning products could be one of your first steps to a cleaner, healthier indoor environment.

Even if you decide you need or want to keep some of the products listed below, make sure you store them safely, ideally far from those areas and rooms where family members spend most of their time.

Bleach bust

Almost half of all calls to poison control centers involve exposure to chlorine bleach in all its commonly used forms. Chemical bleach is often used to discolor, whiten or disinfect, but chlorine is a respiratory irritant that can attack mucous membranes and burn the skin. Use sparingly according to the instructions given by the manufacturer. A safer alternative may be oxygen bleach, which includes hydrogen peroxide.

Ditch the disinfectants

Antibacterial products have become so popular that experts are starting to worry about the public health effects. Overuse of disinfecting products can compromise the immune system and actually help the growth of drug-resistant bacteria. Use natural soap instead.

Down the drain

Drain cleaners are very toxic since they are designed to eat through the clogs in pipes. Try pouring a kettle full of boiling water down the drain first – this usually takes care of grease clogs.

Toxic toilet bowl

The fumes from toilet bowl cleaners can contain bleach, phosphates and petroleum-based substances. A safer option would be an enzyme-based cleaner.

Of tubs and tiles

Many bathroom cleaners for tubs and tiles contain the same toxins as the toilet bowl cleaners. Experts suggest using oxygen bleach, white vinegar and lemon juice or an enzyme-based cleaner instead.

Axe the air fresheners

Scented candles and products
contribute to poor IAQ.

Rather than freshening the air, the sprays, plug-ins and candles introduce a host of potentially harmful chemicals into the ambient air. Try7 natural soy or besswax candles, essential oils or (we have to say it) a portable air purifier with activated carbon and HEPA, which actually removes odor-causihng indoor air pollutants.

Loaded laundry detergents

Most commercial laundry detergents contain many chemicals, fragrances and VOCs that have not been tested for safety in independent researchers. Opt for the most natural, phosphate-free, biodegradable laundry detergent you can find. They do work.

Chemical floor cleaners

Experts recommend a citrus-based floor cleaner, which won’t leave toxic residues on floors that may expose family members and pets to the chemicals.

Dish-washing dilemma

Have you ever taken the time to read what is in the powders, liquids or tabs that you use in the automatic dishwasher? It’s often bleach, petroleum derivatives, phosphates, fragrances, and other toxins. Try to find a more natural alternative without the chemical additions.

Gleaming glass cleaner

Warm water and vinegar are a great choice when it comes to glass cleaning, instead of toxic ammonia or other household cleaners. More natural, plant-based cleaners will also get the job done without adding harmful byproducts.

In any area of the house that needs cleaning, try to learn as much as possible about the products that you’re using and what safe alternatives may be available.

Source: GoLocalProv.com

Remove airborne toxins with portable air purifiers

Activated carbon removes odors,
chemicals, VOCs, gases and fumes.

AllerAir has designed an extensive product line of highly efficient air purifiers for the home and office. 

Equipped with a powerful filtration system containing activated carbon and HEPA, plus UV germicidal filtration (optional), the air purifiers remove the widest range of indoor air contaminants, including chemicals, gases, odor, particles, dust, allergens, smoke toxins, VOCs, bacteria, viruses and molds.

Check out the 5000 Exec and the AirMedic Exec, two of our most popular models.

Contact AllerAir for more information and a personalized recommendation based on your IAQ concern.

Protecting children from lead poisoning

Did you know October 23-29 is Lead Poisoning Prevention Week?

Lead poisoning can affect
children for a lifetime.

For children, lead exposure is no laughing matter.

Even low levels of exposure to lead can cause a host of developmental effects such as learning disabilities, decreased intelligence and speech, language, and behavioral problems, which can affect children for a lifetime.

Luckily, parents can protect their children - they just need to know how.

"Lead poisoning can have life-altering health effects, especially on our children. But it is entirely preventable if we take the right steps to protect our children in all the places where they live, learn and play," EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson said in a recent news release.

"National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week gives us the opportunity to strengthen our awareness and prevention efforts and ensure parents have the tools they need to protect their children against lead exposure every day of the year."

Avoid common sources of exposure

Children are most often exposed to lead through

• Lead-based paint
• Lead-contaminated dust in deteriorating buildings (built before 1978 and improperly renovated)

Simple ways to help protect your children:

1. Get your home tested. Have your home inspected if you live in a home built before 1978.
2. Get your child tested. Even if your young children seem healthy, ask your doctor to test them for lead.
3. Get the facts. Visit leadfreekids.org or call 1-800-424-LEAD.

More information on lead poisoning prevention: http://www.leadfreekids.org or http://www.epa.gov/lead

U.S. children using more asthma control meds: Report

Big business: Asthma treatments

Rates of use for asthma control medications have doubled since late 1990s, says federal report

The number of children diagnosed with asthma is growing – and so is the percentage of asthmatic children who use prescription “controller” medicine, according to a recent article by HealthDay.

The findings are based on a federal government report, News and Numbers from the U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality based on data collected by the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, and they showed that the use of controller drugs by children increased from 29 percent in 1997-1998 to 58 percent in 2007-2008.

The report counted three different types of drugs as asthma controller medications:

• Corticosteroids, which control inflammation and reduce the risk of airway spasms
• Beta-2-agonists, which make breathing easier
• Leukotrienes, which help prevent asthma symptoms from occurring

Asthma medication has become big business: Average annual total spending for all asthma drugs more than quadrupled, from $527 million in 1997-1998 to $2.5 billion in 2007-2008.

When broken down by category, spending for controller drugs rose from $280 million to $2.1 billion, spending for reliever drugs increased from $222 million to $352 million, and spending for oral corticosteroids fell from $25 million to $8 million, the findings revealed.

Source: HealthDay

Control asthma-inducing pollutants with a room air purifier

Indoor air pollution has been shown to cause or aggravate asthma; therefore controlling indoor air pollutants is an important part of dealing with the condition.

AllerAir has designed portable and highly efficient air purifiers for allergies and asthma.

Equipped with a powerful activated carbon and HEPA filter combination, these air purifiers remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants from the ambient air, including chemicals, gases, odors, particles, dust, allergens, mold and more.

Contact AllerAir for more information.

More dust storms expected in Texas – keep your air filters in mind

Wildfires are a common side effect of
droughts and dust storms.

Texas may have gotten some rain lately, but the drought is far from over, and more dust storms could roll in any time, experts warn.

With more than 90 percent of the state in the extreme drought stage and a lack of vegetation on farmland, there is nothing that will prevent loose particles from flying up into the air, they say.

Effects of dust storms include:

• Loss of productive farmland
• Impaired visibility and dangerous driving conditions
• Higher risk of wildfires
• Respiratory conditions in vulnerable individuals

Recommendations on handling dust storms include being prepared for a dust storm, slowing down and stopping on the side of the road if a dust cloud rolls in and changing air filters in cars and homes regularly.

AllerAir has designed portable, powerful air purifiers for the home and office with activated carbon and HEPA that can remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants from the ambient air, including particles, dust, gases, chemicals, fumes and odors.

Worried about wildfires and the effect on the air quality? Check out AllerAir’s air purifiers for smoke.

Call us for more information.

Source: My West Texas

Protect children and teachers from poor IAQ in educational facilities

Educational facilities are in need of
improved indoor air quality.

With roughly one fifth of the U.S. population spending their days in educational facilities such as schools, day care and child care settings, universities and the like, experts are warning about the effects poor indoor air quality can have on students and teachers.

Studies have linked indoor air pollution with health risks and problems such as asthma, nausea, fatigue, headaches and other respiratory conditions.

By subjecting the student population as well as staff at educational facilities to poor indoor air quality, the polluted air can affect the health and well-being, concentration, attendance rates and student and staff performance.

Be aware of indoor air pollutants

Just because you can’t see or smell something, it doesn’t mean the air is clean.

In fact, any indoor environment will be polluted with biological contaminants such as bacteria, viruses and mold, allergens and dust particles, chemical and gaseous pollutants coming from building materials, paints, cleaning agents, inks, arts and crafts materials and more.

Take simple steps to improve the indoor air quality

1. Reduce chemical pollutants: High-efficiency room air filters with activated carbon provide a quick and simple way to remove gaseous pollutants. Switch to low emission cleaning products and avoid introducing more chemicals into the rooms as much as possible.
   
2. Control humidity: High humidity levels can lead to active mold growth and helps mildew, bacteria and dust mites to thrive. Keeping the humidity under 51 percent with the help of dehumidifier systems and using a room air filter with a medical-grade HEPA or UV germicidal filtration can help keep these types of contaminants under control.
3. Counter carbon-dioxide: A lack of proper ventilation and fresh air supply to students and staff has profound negative effects on their ability to concentrate and retain information. Make sure the ventilation systems are adequate, and that an adequate amount of fresh air is introduced into the different rooms.
4. Reduce allergens and asthmagens: A growing number of children are suffering from asthma and asthma-related school absences are common. High-efficiency air purifiers with HEPA and UV germicidal filtration can capture common asthma triggers such as pet dander (brought in on kids- clothing), roaches, dust mites and mold.

Source: Buildings.com

Choose the best all-in-one solution

AllerAir's 5000 and 6000 Series
remove gases, odors and particles.

AllerAir offers high-efficiency, portable room air purifiers with a powerful activated carbon + HEPA filtration system and optional UV germicidal filtration for the most enhanced filter system in the industry.

With a wide range of models and sizes and even larger, industrial air cleaners for universities and schools offered by AllerAir’s industrial division Electrocorp, AllerAir’s product line can meet any educational facility’s needs and requirements.

Call for more information and options: 1-888-852-8247.

Act now for better indoor air quality throughout winter

Indoor air pollution can affect
the whole family.

In order to keep warm and save money, most of us do everything we can to seal up our home during winter.

But while an airtight home saves energy, it also locks in indoor air pollutants that can affect your health and well-being.

Most HVAC systems are contaminated and spread pollutants such as mold, fungi, bacteria and tiny dust particles in the home. A regularly changed filter will help reduce the particles, but it won’t protect residents from the particles and chemicals that are present in the rooms.

In any given indoor environment, the air may be polluted with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) off-gassing from building materials, furniture, textiles, cleaning products, personal care products and electronic equipment. Dust is always present in homes, and so are mold spores.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air is often five times as polluted as outdoor air.

And when do we spend most time indoors? In the winter, of course.

There are simple steps people can take to improve their indoor air:

• Change the HVAC filter regularly, at least once a year
• Check the HVAC system for contamination, insulation deterioration, a dirty evaporator coil
• Open the windows for short periods of time to let some fresh air in
• Clean regularly with natural cleaning products like vinegar and baking soda
• Don’t use scented candles, fragrances or commercial air fresheners – they introduce more pollutants into the ambient air.
• Use a portable air purifier in your bedroom or living space – AllerAir’s air purifiers feature the most advanced cleaning system with activated carbon + HEPA that removes chemicals, gases, odors, particles, allergens and mold.

For cost-effective and efficient general purpose air cleaning, opt for one of AllerAir's popular 5000 Exec models.

For more tips and further information, contact AllerAir at 1.888.852.8247.

Source: Journal Sentinel

VIDEO: Symptoms of mold exposure

Not sure if it's mold that is making you sick?

Watch this video to see how mold can affect your health and well-being.



Active mold growth: How exposure to mold spores and mold mycotoxin can impact people's health.

Mold can grow in any home or building if there is excessive moisture or water damage, not enough ventilation and other IAQ problems.

If you suspect mold in your home, you should talk to a  healthcare provider, find the mold, remove the mold properly and safely, eliminate any conditions that may lead to mold growth in the future, make sure that your indoor air quality and humidity levels are the best they can be and remove indoor air pollutants with a portable air purifier.

AllerAir's air purifiers for mold feature a deep-bed activated carbon and HEPA filtration system that can remove airborne chemicals, gases, fumes, odors, particles, dust, bacteria, viruses and mold. Opt for the addition of UV germicidal filtration for enhanced protection from mold spores and mold mycotoxins.

Contact AllerAir for more information and recommendations. 

Connect with us:

Visit our website: http://www.allerair.com/
Follow us on Twitter
E-mail or phone 1-888-852-8247

Chemical sensitivity lingers for 'San Antonio Seven'

More research into MCS and ES is needed,doctors warn

Environmental sensitivities are on the rise, experts say

A group of Southwest Airlines employees who got sick working at the airline’s San Antonio reservations center in the 1990s are still experiencing the health impact 18 years after the fact.

They say they developed a rash of symptoms they attributed to the building’s indoor air quality, including mold problems, pesticide use, bacteria in the air vents and more.

As the San Antonio Seven, they sued the airline, but lost their case.

Recently, they spoke out, drawing attention to the fact that multiple chemical sensitivities, or environmental sensitivities, are difficult to manage and once triggered, unlikely to ever go away completely.

The airtight design of the building and the serious case of black mold that was growing behind ceiling tiles, carpeting, insulation and in the HVAC system affected the workers health in a way that they started experiencing severe reactions to chemicals outside of the workplace.

MCS not well understood by the public and healthcare professionals

The condition is still not well understood, as there is no official definition accepted by the medical community.

Petrochemicals are a common ingredient
in most household products.

MCS can affect a multitude of areas in the body, including the nervous system, the endocrine system and the immune system.

The lack of research and experts on the topic and the multitude of possible symptoms often leads to misdiagnosis for patients, who may be unsure of what caused their ailments.

“People were overlooking the fact that this is a two-step mechanism. There’s this initial exposure event, the loss of tolerance, and then people start being triggered by things,” Dr. Claudia Miller, an allergist and immunologist at the University of Texas Health Science Center’s School of Medicine, told the Current in an in-depth article on the subject.

“They often don’t even realize the fragrances that are now triggering their symptoms are not the cause of their illness, necessarily. It may be pesticides in their home, it may be the sick building, their home or workplace.”

Low-level exposures affect everyone

According to Miller, people nowadays are exposed to petrochemical toxins in their environments – from VOCs in sick buildings that are outgassing from construction materials, adhesives, cleaning agents and other building features to the many pollutants that are lurking in their own homes.

Airtight construction often leads to higher concentrations of pollutants within their walls.

Read the entire article in the Current here.

AllerAir’s MCS Air Quality Program

Air cleaners for MCS with carbon
and Super-HEPA filters

AllerAir is committed to help people with MCS get relief, by offering information-based webinars, a library of related articles, an an air quality program that includes a carbon test kit, a custom-made air purifier with the most inert materials on the market to prevent off-gassing, additional information and consultations with an air quality expert and more.

The air purifiers for MCS from AllerAir feature a deep-bed activated carbon filter to remove a wide range of irritating and harmful odors, chemicals, gases, fumes and vapors from the ambient air, a Super-HEPA or micro-HEPA to remove 99% of particles at 0.1 microns, organic unbleached cotton pre-filters to capture larger particles and prolong filter life and a variety of other options designed to improve air quality.

Recommended MCS air purifiers include:

• 5000 MCS Supreme
• 5000 D MCS Supreme
• AirMedic MCS (for people who also have asthma and other allergies)
• AirMedic D MCS (see above)

Contact AllerAir for more information.

Study to examine effects of risky family environments in childhood asthma

Does a risky family environment increase the risk of asthma?

Asthma, the chronic lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways and makes breathing difficult, is the third ranking cause of hospitalization of children younger than 15 in the United States, says the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

It is the leading cause of school absences from a chronic illness in 5- to 17-year-old children, accounting for an annual loss of more than 14 million school days per year.

Researchers are scrambling to find explanations for the increase in asthma diagnoses and possible ways to prevent and treat the disease.

Study will bring the research home

A Wayne State University researcher is now investigating the impact of risky family environments on asthma morbidity in children.

The project will study 180 children between the ages of 10 and 15 in Detroit, using an innovative home-based naturalistic assessment tool called the Electronically Activated Recorder (EAR).

The EAR will measure whether identified risky family behaviors are associated with greater asthma morbidity -- such as symptom severity, emergency room visits and pulmonary function -- in three waves of data collection over two years.

In addition, the research will try to determine if asthma morbidity increases because of avoidant coping behaviors and poor management of asthma treatment, such as noncompliance with treatment plans or poor asthma management behaviors.

What is a risky family environment?

The researcher, Richard Slatcher, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychology in Wayne State University's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, defines “risky” family environments as those characterized by

• Conflict
• Neglect
• Lack of emotional warmth and support

"It also will allow physicians to include family interventions based on family assessments, which ultimately will improve adherence to treatment plans as well as avoidance of asthma triggers that can lead to severe asthma attacks or even death," said Slatcher in a press release.

Source: Wayne State University press release

Reduce asthma triggers with room air purifiers

AllerAir's AirMedic+ Series

AllerAir’s air purifiers for asthma and allergies offers a high-draw solution with a multistage filtration system to remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants quickly and efficiently.

With a 360-degree air intake, a deep bed of activated carbon for the removal of chemicals, odors and gases, a HEPA filter for the removal of allergens, particles and pathogens and other options such as a UV lamp or exclusive carbon blends, AllerAir’s AirMedic+ Series keeps the ambient air clean.

Try one in the bedroom and see what a difference it makes, or read what previous customers have said about the units.

Contact AllerAir for more information.

The science of dust particles

Indoor dust is made up of organic matter like
skin particles, allergens, quartz and chemicals.

Dust is something we simply have to live with, no matter how much we clean or what we clean with.

At any given time, dust particles will be present in any given room – even the most sterile scientific cleanrooms.

But not all dust is created equal.

Researchers at Ohio State University have looked at the composition of unique dust particles in their lab and isolated a whopping 63 different dust particles.

What kind of dust are we breathing?

Organic matter was the most common ingredient of indoor dust, including skin particles, dander, pollen and more.

Indoor dust also includes quartz, one of the most abundant minerals on the planet’s surface after feldspar.

Many dust particles also contained synthetic chemicals coming from air pollution, fertilizers (pesticides) and construction materials like drywall.

Small dust particles have long been a public health concern, as they can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause inflammation, aggravate existing health conditions or lead to serious illness down the road.

The researchers’ findings have been published in the recent issue of The Journal of Physical Chemistry C.

Capture irritating dust and other pollutants for cleaner air

AllerAir's AirMedic is a popular air
purifier for dust, allergens and chemicals.

AllerAir is a leader in portable, powerful air purifiers for the home and office that capture the widest range of indoor air pollutants with a multi-stage filtration system.

The air purifiers remove dust and particulate matter with HEPA filters and particle pre-filters, and they also get rid of odors, harmful chemicals and gases with a deep-bed activated carbon filter.

With the most extensive product line on the market, AllerAir offers the right filtration system for virtually any need.  

Contact us for more information: 1-888-852-8247.

Workplace exposure to pollutants can harm unborn children, study found

Most offices and other workplaces expose pregnant women
to a variety of pollutants that may affect their offspring.

As our colleagues at Electrocorp report today, a Danish study has found that breathing indoor air pollutants during pregnancy may increase the likelihood of the baby developing asthma later.

According to a Reuters article, the researchers analyzed the data of more than 45,000 children at age 7 and found that 18.6 percent developed asthma after their mothers had been exposed to low-molecular weight particles at work during pregnancy.

This was a slight increase from the general growing risk of developing asthma, which is 16.1 percent of the general population.

The study adjusted for risk factors such as age, BMI, allergy and hypersensitivities, smoking, medication and pets, but researchers warned that other factors may have influenced the results, which are not easily accounted for.

"Whilst a link has been found, our results at this stage are modest and further research is needed into specific chemicals and substances to determine those that could be most harmful," the study’s leading researcher was quoted as saying.

Cleaner indoor air at work with air cleaners

In many workplaces, existing ventilation systems are simply incapable of providing workers with enough air exchanges and enough fresh air to keep exposure to indoor air pollutants to a minimum.

Most indoor environments are filled with pollutants of a chemical nature (VOCs from building materials, paints, electronic equipment, cleaning products, etc), biological nature (mold growth due to moisture or humidity issues, bacteria and viruses) and particulate matter (dust and particles, which can also be laced with other toxins).

AllerAir offers portable and highly efficient air purifiers for the home and office, which can remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants with their powerful activated carbon + HEPA filtration system.

For industrial air cleaners that can treat industry-specific indoor air contaminants quickly and efficiently, browse Electrocorp's solutions for various industry applications.

Contact AllerAir for more information and to find the best air purifier for your needs.
  

Keep your baby safe from hidden toxins in the nursery

Exposure to indoor air pollutants may affect babies and small
children most, experts warn.

Almost every home features some building materials, furnishings or products that will off-gas dangerous toxins into the home.

While adults may not be immediately bothered by them, they can affect newborns and small children, who belong to the most vulnerable groups of indoor air pollution, experts say.

The concerns center most on BPA (bisphenol A) exposure and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) such as formaldehyde, benzene, toluene and more, which come from everyday products such as paint, furniture, adhesives and petroleum-based products.

BPA is a toxic chemical found in plastics, which can be found in baby bottles and toys. Many states and countries have moved toward a ban of the chemical in baby products.

Pediatricians and researchers worry about the effect these chemical pollutants may have on developing bodies, since many of them may mimic hormone functions.

Exposure to VOCs in babies, for example, can change how your body makes blood, cause rashes and respiratory ailments depending on the exposure level.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency has warned that VOC levels indoors can be two to five times higher than outdoors.

How to protect your baby from chemical exposure

• Do your research on products and choose natural products as much as possible

• If you need to redecorate the nursery, choose low-VOC or zero VOC paint

• Invest in a high-quality crib mattress – Traditional mattresses are filled with polyurethane foam covered in flame retardants, which are both toxic and off-gas.

• Open windows regularly, one hour at a time, to get rid of unwanted toxins

• If opening windows is not always practical (due to long, harsh winters or outdoor air pollution, for example), use a serious air purifier with activated carbon and HEPA filtration to remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants. The carbon removes dangerous chemicals and odors, while the HEPA takes care of particles and dust. AllerAir offers small, compact air purifiers for baby's room and small nurseries.

• Beware of brand new items. The “new-car” smell on brand new items is actually an indication that it off-gases toxins into your ambient air. Experts recommend keeping new items in the garage or other place to air out for a while before using it.

• Ban smoking indoors – smoke contains thousands of chemicals and the toxins tend to cling to surfaces, where they pose an exposure risk later, especially for babies and pets who are close to the floor. You can also remove stale odors with one of AllerAir's air purifiers for tobacco smoke.

• Replace harsh chemical cleaning products with natural alternatives. You don’t need toxic chemicals to clean your home. A regular cleaning schedule and natural ingredients such as vinegar and baking soda will do a great cleaning job as well. The smell of vinegar quickly disappears.

AllerAir specializes in room air purifiers that remove airborne chemicals, odors, VOCs, particles, allergens and biological contaminants quickly and efficiently.

Find out more about our

1. General purpose air purifiers like the popular 5000 Exec
2. Air purifiers for allergies and asthma
3. Air purifiers for mold

Not sure about what you need? Check out our sizing guides or contact one of AllerAir’s air quality experts for a personalized recommendation.

Source: ABC7 Denver News

Consumer concerns prompt states to ban chemicals

Families need to protect themselves
from chemical exposure.

It’s a long-winded path to better chemical protection, but pressure from consumers and public awareness about the dangers of toxic chemicals has caused more U.S. states to ban the use of specific chemical compounds.

This year alone, six states have adopted laws to restrict bisphenol A or phosphate-based flame retardants, watchdogs say.

New York prohibited the use of tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate in children’s goods, a plasticizer and flame retardant in polyurethane foams and other polymers, which has been linked to reproductive toxicity concerns.

The chemical off-gasses from plastics because it does not chemically bind to polymers, experts say. The ban will come into effect Dec. 1, 2013 and may inspire other states to follow lead.

Connecticut became the nation’s first state to ban bisphenol A (BPA) not only from baby and children’s products (such as bottles and cups) but also from receipt paper used at cash registers.

Maine, Delaware, California and Maine join eight other states that have banned BPA in baby bottles and cups for young children.

It seems like public pressure is working, and more states may adopt chemical regulations in the near future or copy other states' laws, experts say.

Source: American Chemical Society

Reduce chemical exposure with air purifiers

Official regulations and bans are slow to come into effect, but there are other ways to reduce exposure to toxic chemicals from everyday household products.

The 5000 Exec is one of
AllerAir's general purpose
air purifiers.

Many airborne chemicals that are off-gassing from building materials, paints, furniture and electronics or other sources can be captured with a portable air purifier for the home and office.

AllerAir’s general purpose air purifiers and specialized air cleaners feature deep-bed activated carbon filters for the removal of chemicals, gases and odors, HEPA filtration for the removal of particles, UV as an option for the neutralization of biological contaminants such as bacteria and viruses and pre-filters for larger particles and dust.

We have cost-effective and simple solutions for virtually any IAQ concern, including mold, allergy and asthma, MCS, odor and chemical control, tobacco smoke, industrial air cleaners and more.

Contact us for more information and help to find the right air purifier for your needs.

Health effects of passive smoking and thirdhand smoke

Environmental tobacco smoke requires
more research on health effects, experts say.

People used to be worried most about the health effects of inhaling smoke, either as a smoker or as a bystander.

But more and more research points to the growing health concern of thirdhand smoke, which describes the pollutants that persist long after the initial smoke has gone.

Thirdhand smoke exposure happens in indoor spaces where tobacco was recently or regularly used.

Most people will recognize the smell of stale tobacco smoke, and the odor persists because the toxins cling to indoor surfaces, clothing and hair, furnishings and dust.

Researchers have identified more than 7,000 chemicals in tobacco smoke, including cancer-causing chemicals like arsenic, benzene, cadmium, ethylene oxide, formaldehyde and toluene.

Exposure to thirdhand smoke occurs with unintentional intake (inhalation and ingestion for example), which can happen long after smoking has ceased, the authors of a recent article in Environmental Health Perspectives warn. Children and pets may be most at risk because they are lower to the ground and often chew on toys and inhale more dust.

The researchers propose that the terms “passive smoking” or “environmental tobacco smoke” be used as a more inclusive term to describe any tobacco smoke exposure outside of active smoking, and that the health effects be studied more and separately from secondhand smoking.

Remove indoor air pollution from smoking

Smoking indoors is never a good idea, but many people live with one or more household member that smokes. Opening a window or relying on existing ventilation systems are not be enough to protect household members from harmful toxins.

Air purifiers for tobacco smoke:
AllerAir's DS models

Neither is a HEPA-only air purifier from the department store, which can only handle the dust and particles that pollute indoor environments, but won’t be effective for the chemicals and odors that affect the health and well-being of the household members.

AllerAir has designed a special line of air purifiers for tobacco and environmental smoke, which targets all of the toxins associated with tobacco smoke, including chemicals, odors and particles.

The DS models (like the 5000 DS or the 6000 DS) feature a deep-bed activated carbon filter for the removal of gaseous pollutants and odors, a HEPA filter for particles and special tar-trapping pre-filters to protect the main filters and prevent clogging.

Contact AllerAir for more information and to find the right air purifier model for your circumstances.

Facts about plants and healthier indoor air

Can house plants provide healthier indoor air?

Poor indoor air quality has been linked to health problems, especially in children and other vulnerable groups.

In today's homes and offices, indoor air is contaminated by particles, VOCs, flame retardants, pesticides, toxic metals and other pollutants, most of which come from indoor sources.

There are many ways people can improve their indoor air quality – and plants have been touted as one option.

A recent article in Environmental Health Perspectives shed some light on the pros and cons of using plants to purify the air in indoor environments.

Here are some of the article highlights:

• Plants remove carbon dioxide and return oxygen to the air, and some plants can remove toxic chemicals
• Using plants for better IAQ has been explored by NASA, but the best results were observed when the contaminated air was circulated through the root system, something homeowners may not be able to recreate easily.
• In the studies that are cited, the plants are used in combination with activated carbon filters, or they are grown on an activated carbon pellet mix
• Some plants for common IAQ concerns:
  Formaldehyde: Ferns, especially Osmunda japonica, commonly known as Japanese royal fern, or zenmai
  Mercury vapor: Plants of the bromeliad family, Spanish moss
  Benzene and TCE: Golden pothos, also known as devil’s ivy

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Indoor Allergen Committee suggested in a 2010 report that allergists consider indoor air filtration to be part of a comprehensive strategy to improve respiratory health.

While plants remain an option, the authors point out that more research needs to be done to accurately predict the usability of plants in indoor air filtration.

With regards to room air purifiers, the article warns about some air purifiers that do not reduce all levels of indoor air pollutants and some air purifiers that produce dangerous ozone.

This is something AllerAir’s air quality experts have been saying for years.

Activated carbon is the best material to
adsorb toxic chemicals and odors.

“There are a lot of air purifiers on the market, but many of them only use particle filters like HEPA, which don’t remove toxic chemicals, odors and gases,” says AllerAir’s Stephanie Bristow.

“The air purifiers from AllerAir contain a complete filtration system with HEPA for particles, a deep-bed activated carbon filter for chemicals, gases and odors and other filter options such as UV for biological contaminants such as bacteria, viruses and mold.”

AllerAir air purifiers for the home and office do not produce harmful byproducts and they put the focus on large activated carbon filters for the best odor and chemical control possible.

Activated carbon has been proven effective in the removal of airborne chemicals such as formaldehyde, benzene, TCE vapors and hundreds of other chemicals and odors.

"An air purifier with carbon and HEPA is an easy and cost-effective solution for people lacking the patience to grow and maintain plants, especially if they don’t have a green thumb," Bristow added.

Contact AllerAir to find out more and get a personalized recommendation based on your needs and requirements, your budget and the size of your space.

Source: Environmental Health Perspectives
   

Enjoy Halloween despite allergies, asthma

Pumpkin patches may be dusty and
moldy, which are allergy triggers.

The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) has released a list of six triggers that may help parents of asthmatic or allergic children breathe a little easier when Halloween comes around.

The organization warns that the dangers go beyond nut-filled candy and that allergy and asthma triggers can hide in unexpected places.

They recommend planning ahead, being aware of the hidden triggers and taking the necessary precautions to keep Halloween reaction-free.

• Beware of hidden triggers in treats – it’s not only nuts in chocolates you should be concerned about; many candies contain gelatin, another potential trigger. The experts suggest getting your child tested for allergies, developing a food allergy treatment plan, and swapping sweets for some non-candy treats such as stickers and small toys to keep the fun-level high.
• Reuse costumes? Yes, but be careful of allergens - Halloween costumes that have been stored for a long time can harbor dust mites, which in turn often trigger asthma and allergies. Wash them in hot water first.
• Forgo the fog – Fog machines may be fun, but it has been shown to trigger asthma in some individuals.
• Check the costume details – Many costume accessories are made out of nickel, one of the most common contact allergy causing materials that can make skin itchy and spoil the fun.
• Master the makeup – If your child is prone to allergies, the experts suggest opting for better-quality theatre makeup rather than the cheap stuff that is readily available, since the latter can contain preservatives that may cause allergic reactions. You can test the makeup on a small area of skin at least a week in advance of Halloween, since reactions can be slow to appear.
• Be careful about pumpkins – The allergy experts warn that pumpkin allergies can pop up suddenly and that many pumpkin patches are moldy and dusty, which are allergy triggers for some people.

For more information on asthma and allergies in children, or to find an allergist near you, visit www.AllergyAndAsthmaRelief.org.

Worried about indoor air quality and the effect it may have on you or your child’s allergies and asthma?

AllerAir offers powerful air purifiers for the home and office with a proven activated carbon + HEPA filtration system that can remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants in the industry.

Browse our air purifiers for allergy and asthma or contact AllerAir for more information and a personal recommendation: 1-888-852-8247.

Video: Indoor air problems in schools

The state of Indiana has taken steps to improve the indoor air quality in its schools, after reports found high levels of pollutants that affected students, teachers and other staff members.

Watch the video (after a short commercial):



Indoor air problems in schools include mold, pesticides, carbon dioxide, bacteria, allergens and chemicals.

The problems are often linked to poor air circulation, water damage, old buildings and tight budgets for repairs or improvements.

AllerAir has designed cost-effective, portable air purifiers with activated carbon and HEPA as well as UV (optional) that can remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants.

AllerAir's industrial division Electrocorp has also engineered highly efficient air cleaners for schools and universities.

Contact AllerAir for more information and recommendations.

Related posts:

• Back to School means allergy and asthma flareups, experts say
• Toxic cleaning chemicals: Reducing chemical exposures at school
• Air pollution linked to poorer student health, academic performance