Bad air causes rise in allergies, study shows

Allergies and asthma are on the rise - and researchers
blame pollution, second-hand smoke and other factors.

Pollution among the factors causing more allergies among children - and figures are set to rise

Three-quarters of parents with at least one child under the age of three report that the child has allergies, a study shows - and researchers warn the figure will grow.

Some 58 per cent of the youngsters had eczema or a skin allergy, 32 per cent had rhinitis or hay fever and 25 per cent airway allergies such as asthma.

Some of the children suffered more than one type of allergy.

The findings of the survey by the Allergy Association, commissioned by the University of Hong Kong, were based on interviews with 511 parents.

Only 30 per cent of the children were believed to have inherited the condition from their parents - meaning the rest might be down to factors such as pollution, exposure to second-hand smoke, Cesarean delivery or not being breastfed exclusively in their first six months.

"We have seen many more allergy cases in this generation than the last," said Dr Marco Ho Hok-kung, chairman of the association.

"I believe the number is only going to rise in the future, in keeping with the global trend. It is vital to understand the risk of allergies and take preventive measures."

Allergies could affect the long-term growth of infants, said Ho. Some research suggests that infants who develop an allergy before the age of two have a 24 per cent increased risk of developing emotional problems later in life.

Families with children suffering from allergies often have to devote a lot of effort to preventing exposure to allergens such as peanuts, milk or seafood in meals and dust mites at home.

According to the World Health Organisation, 40 to 50 per cent of children across the globe are bothered by one or more types of allergy.

Ho said if either parent had an allergy, there was a 30 per cent chance of their child inheriting it. This increased to 50 per cent if both parents were sufferers. And in general, every child has 5 to 15 per cent chance of developing an allergy even if neither parent has the condition.

Paediatrician Dr Alfred Tam Yat-cheung said risks could be attributed to environmental factors such as pollution and exposure to second-hand smoke. They could be reduced by giving birth naturally and feeding the babies only breast milk in their first six months, he said.

Source: South China Morning Post

Do you or your children suffer from allergies or hay fever? AllerAir has designed a wide range of indoor air purifiers for allergy and asthma sufferers as well as many other indoor air concerns. The air purifiers feature a large activated carbon filter to remove airborne chemicals, gases and odors which are known to trigger or worsen allergy and asthma symptoms. They are also equipped with a HEPA filter to trap particles and dust. For more information, contact AllerAir by calling 1-888-852-8247 or by e-mailing sales@allerair.com. 

Asthma researchers make breakthrough in attacks related to colds and allergens

Pediatric and respiratory researchers from the University of Newcastle, along with national and international collaborators, are a step closer to identifying the source of serious virus-and allergen-induced asthma attacks after detecting important molecular signals generated very early in the disease process.

Led by Professor Joerg Mattes, the team of researchers and clinicians spent several years investigating the mechanisms that trigger airway inflammation and cause asthma attacks.

The pre-clinical study targeted the common cold (rhinovirus), which is the virus that causes most asthma attacks; and the effects caused by allergens such as house dust mites.

“Asthmatics experience severe and prolonged symptoms when infected with the common cold virus or exposed to allergens, both of which promote inflammation in the lungs and production of mucus," Professor Mattes said.

“Asthma attacks are currently treated similarly regardless of whether they are caused by viruses or allergens. However virus-induced effects are much less responsive to current therapies, which is why this investigation is so important.”

A comprehensive gene expression analysis led to the initial discovery of the signals – proteins otherwise known as midline 1 and protein phosphatase 2A.

“The proteins are generated in the innermost layer of the airways, where the body has first contact with allergens and viruses, and once activated they appear to modulate many other disease factors,” Dr Adam Collison**, one of the study authors from Professor Mattes’ research team, said. “Obviously it is better to target these earlier signals rather than the hundreds of downstream effects.”

The researchers have already begun testing therapeutic strategies to modify the pathway, setting a platform for the development of targeted drugs ahead of full clinical trialling.

“We have seen that this pathway operates in the cells of asthmatics, and our pre-clinical disease models showed that we can inhibit the pathway and protect against the development of both virus- and allergen-induced asthma,” Professor Mattes said.

He advised sufferers to be vigilant with their asthma management during late summer and winter, the worst times for cold epidemics.

The results are published in Nature Medicine, the world’s leading journal for biomedical research. Researchers from the University of New South Wales, the University of Cincinnati and the Imperial College London took part in the investigation. 

Allergic to pets? You can still have them!

Though many people avoid having pets due to allergies, the video below gives you tips on how to have a pet despite your allergies.


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As was mentioned in the video, having an air purifier in your home is a good way to keep allergens out of the air. Make sure to keep your bedroom pet-free and have an air purifier, such as AllerAir's AirMedic series, there.

It is also a good idea to have an air purifier in the room where the pet spends the most amount of time so that, in addition to regular housekeeping, allergens are kept at a minimum.

What do you think about this video? Would this encourage you to get a pet?

Feel free to post your comments, questions or concerns. We'd be happy to reply.

Show your support for green living by becoming a follower of this blog.

For more information on AllerAir's products, contact us through our website.

Indoor air quality and hay fever (VIDEO)

The indoor air quality in a home can make a big difference in the comfort level and well-being of residents that have become sensitized to pollen and other types of allergens.

More and more people are suffering from allergic rhinitis, commonly referred to as hay fever.

The IAQ Video Network and Cochrane & Associates have released a new educational video about pollen, allergies and hay fever, which touches on the different types of allergies and ways to reduce exposure to allergens.




Air purifiers for allergies

AllerAir has designed portable and powerful air purifiers for those suffering from allergies or asthma.

The air purifiers feature a medical-grade HEPA filter to remove 99.97% of particles, allergens and dust up to 0.3 microns in size, a deep-bed activated carbon filter to remove irritating odors, chemicals and gases and optional UV germicidal filtration to neutralize bacteria, viruses and molds.

For chemical allergies, AllerAir also offers the most inert and proven air purifiers for MCS (multiple chemical sensitivities).

Contact AllerAir for more information and personalized suggestions.

Now I wake up feeling refreshed
Before purchasing your air cleaner, I was taking prescription allergy medication at bedtime to relieve sinus drainage. Since operating your Model 4000 at night with the bedroom doors closed, I have found that I can forgo the medication entirely. The air must be so free of dust mite allergens that I can sleep better without the drug. Now I wake up feeling refreshed. Thank you!
Richard H. Rast

More testimonials...

Are allergies actually good for you?

Researchers suggest that a body's reaction to allergens
may be designed to keep environmental pollutants out.

Some researchers are suggesting that allergies may have evolved to protect us from dangerous environmental pollution.

These scientists reject the idea that allergies are misdirected immune reactions to innocuous substances and are rogue workers from the body’s parasite-fighting workforce.

For them, parasites and the substances that trigger allergies share nothing in common and there are too many possible allergens.

Also, the body’s response to allergy triggers can be immediate, whereas a response to parasites often takes longer.

In a paper published in April in Nature, the researchers instead propose that allergic reactions may be there to protect us from potentially dangerous substances in the environment.

They cite studies that show that allergic responses to tick saliva, for example, prevent the pests from attaching and feeding.

Allergy symptoms keep pollutants out of the body

The symptoms many people experience with allergies (runny nose, sneezing, coughing, itchy skin and so on) would then serve the function to keep unhealthy environmental pollutants out of the body.

Allergic reactions could also serve to make people become more aware of their environment and to avoid certain places because of their experience, they say.

Of course, in some cases, allergies can be very excessive and even deadly – and sometimes they don’t seem to make sense. Why, for example, are one in 12 children affected by food allergies?

The researchers suggest different possible causes, including our evolutionary past and a guilt-by-association mechanism that could lead to allergies after eating something in a polluted environment.

It’s an interesting theory that might warrant some further speculation and research.

Source: Scientific American

Make breathing easier by filtering out allergens

Once a person suffers from allergies, airborne triggers can make reactions worse. Diligent source control, ventilation and air cleaning can all help in providing a clean and healthy environment.

For air purifiers for allergies and asthma, a medical-grade HEPA filter is an important feature to trap airborne particles, allergens, pollen and dust.

However, the air cleaner should also have an activated carbon filter to remove chemicals, gases and odors that can contribute to or aggravate the symptoms as well.

AllerAir air purifiers like the AirMedic+ Series contain a multistage filtration system made for the most complete protection from irritating airborne pollutants.

Contact AllerAir for more information and options.

Do you live in an allergy-prone city?

Sniffling and sneezing are common spring allergy
health effects affecting millions of Americans.

Airborne irritants are the reason why 40 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies each year.

This overreaction of the immune system is characterized by health symptoms such as itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, nasal or sinus congestion and sometimes even difficulty breathing.

Where you live may have a direct impact on the severity of your allergies, according to researchers.

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) helps people determine the worst cities for allergies by nation, after researchers examine the 100 largest urban areas in the United States according to three factors: Pollen levels in the city, sales of prescription and over the counter allergy medicines as well as the number of certified allergists and immunologists per patient.

The data was provided by three different sources: Pollen.com, IMS Health and the American Board of Medical Specialties.

According to researchers, some of the worst cities for allergies include:

1. Knoxville, TN
2. McAllen, TX
3. Louisville, KY
4. Jackson, MS
5. Wichita, KS

While many southern cities were named some of the worst spots, a majority of the "allergy capitals" are located in the Eastern United States, including northeast and southeast states.

Typically, spring allergies last from March to May, when trees like oak, mountain cedar, elm and maple begin to pollinate, but this year’s season may last longer since high temperatures made pollen counts spike much earlier.

Experts suggest that those suffering from hay fever get tested, use antihistamines, eye drops and a saline wash for the sinuses, avoid outdoor activities between 10 am and 2 pm when pollen production is highest and take quick showers at night to wash off pollen.

Keeping a home clean and uncluttered also helps reduce the allergen count indoors.

Source: Forbes

Indoor air can make a difference for allergies

Indoor air pollution can aggravate or even cause allergic reactions, so experts suggest keeping a home tidy and clean, vacuuming regularly and using a HEPA air filter to help trap allergens.

However, allergens and particles are not the only irritants that can aggravate people’s symptoms. Airborne chemicals and odors also contribute to the indoor air pollution.

A HEPA filter is an invaluable
tool for people with allergies,
but a complete system requires
additional filters like carbon & UV.

AllerAir has developed portable and highly efficient air purifiers for allergies and asthma that not only feature a medical-grade HEPA filter and a 360-degree air intake for maximum protection from allergens, but also a deep-bed activated carbon filter for the removal of chemicals, odors and gases.

Some of AllerAir’s most popular allergy air purifiers include the AirMedic Exec, the AirMedic+ Exec (with optional UV lamp for the neutralization of mold spores, bacteria and viruses) and the 5000 Exec.

For more information, contact AllerAir to speak to an IAQ expert.

Pet allergies can be a pain

Dogs may suffer from allergies to pollen, fleas
and more.

Allergy season does not only affect people – pets can also suffer from allergies, and their symptoms may not be as easy to recognize and treat.

Veterinarians say there are four main types of allergies that most dogs and cats can get:

• Airborne (tree, grass and weed pollen; mold, mildew and dust mites)
• Fleas
• Foods
• Contact (carpeting, detergent or other substances)

The most common reaction is scratching, vets say. Other symptoms may include discoloration of hair between toes, rashes, open sores, watery eyes, ear infections, runny noses, vomiting and diarrhea.

Cats are often allergic to certain foods.

Pinpointing what causes an allergic reaction in pets can take time and money and often has to be done by exclusion.

Most pet owners will try to figure out what the allergy is, vets say.

Source: Myrtle Beach Online

Keep indoor air clear of allergens

Having the best possible indoor air can help allergic pets and their owners find relief.

AllerAir offers a variety of air purifiers for the home and office that can remove the widest range of indoor air contaminants, including pollen, dust, chemicals, odors, gases, particles, mold and more.

From AllerAir’s powerful base model, the 5000 Exec, to advanced units for those dealing with allergies and asthma (AllerAir’s AirMedic Series and AirMedic+ Series), it’s easy to find the right unit for every household.

For more information, contact AllerAir.
  

How to ease morning allergy symptoms

Dust mites can cause morning stuffiness and more.

Thousands of people are waking up in the morning with a stuffy nose or scratchy throat, which means they could be suffering from an allergy.

Most morning allergy symptoms can be blamed on dust mites, the tiny creatures living in the mattress, pillows and textiles in your bedroom.

Dust mites feast on dead skin cells, and they prefer dark, warm and humid environments (hence the bed).

When people react to dust mites, it’s usually the microscopic waste and bodies of decaying mites that cause symptoms, which are released into the air when you move in the bed.

Dust can make anybody sneeze, and it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s an allergy.

Here are some tips to reduce the effects of the dust mites in the bedroom:

1. Remove as many allergen traps as possible from the bedroom. This includes upholstered furniture, curtains, carpets and the like. Hardwood or ceramic floors are best because they can be cleaned easily. Instead of curtains, you can install blinds, which can also be dusted easily.
     
2. Think about enclosing your mattress, box spring and pillows in an allergy barrier, which traps dust mites and their waste. Make sure the barriers are made of a material that won’t expose you to harmful chemicals or other substances.
    
3. Invest in a high-quality air purifier. Having an air purifier in the bedroom helps trap dust mites and related particles, pollen and other allergens as well as other indoor air pollutants like airborne chemicals and gases, odors and mold spores to help keep the air clean and nasal passages free.

 Source: Hive Health Media

Air purifiers for allergy and asthma

AllerAir offers high-quality air purifiers with activated carbon, medical-grade HEPA and other filtration media for those suffering from allergies and/or asthma.

The AirMedic and AirMedic+ Series have been designed specifically for particle concerns, providing effective and long-lasting relief from airborne dust particles, mold spores, allergens and more.

They also feature a deep bed activated carbon filter to remove a wide range of chemicals, gases and odors, which can also cause or aggravate allergy and asthma symptoms.

Check out AllerAir’s recommendations for allergy air purifiers or contact AllerAir for more information and suggestions.

More adults developing allergies, doctors warn

Doctors say more adults suddenly suffer from allergies.

It’s a growing trend that doctors have been witnessing: Adults who have never been allergic to anything suddenly develop serious allergies.

Sometimes it can lead to anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening allergic reaction.

The first signs may be a tingling, swelling and a rash. When people experience a serious sudden allergic reaction, their blood pressure can fall, they can faint and have to be rushed to the hospital.

Even if people eat certain foods all of their life, they may develop a sudden allergy to it, doctors say, depending on the concentration and timing of it.

Sometimes, the immune system will simply be overwhelmed.

Doctors say there is a lack of studies about adult-onset allergies and the fact that many childhood allergies may be outgrown over the years.

Source: CBS Pittsburgh

Air purifiers for allergies and asthma

AllerAir's AirMedic+ Series:
For allergy and asthma sufferers

Children and adults suffering from allergies to airborne pollutants such as dust, pollen and other contaminants can often find relief by using an air purifier in the bedroom or the rooms they frequent the most.

AllerAir’s air purifiers for allergies and asthma are equipped with medical-grade HEPA filters as well as a deep-bed activated carbon filter and pre-filters to remove the widest range of indoor air contaminants and irritants.

HEPA is the gold standard when it comes to allergens, pollen, particles and dust, while activated carbon can remove many chemicals, gases and odors that can aggravate or cause allergies and asthmatic conditions.

Optional UV germicidal filtration adds extra protection from biological pollutants such as bacteria, viruses and mold.

Contact AllerAir for more information and options.
 

The things we love may cause allergy and asthma symptoms

Scented candles introduce
VOCs into the air.

We may love our furry pets, our “linen-fresh” scented rooms or the occasional glass of wine, but all of those things could be at fault for the rising allergy and asthma rates across the continent, experts say.

Up to 50 million American suffer from asthma or allergic diseases, allergists say, and the numbers keep rising.

Many reasons are suspected, among them

• Exposure to air pollution
• Dietary changes
• Lifestyle changes
• Genetics

But while these may be factors, people should be more aware of other allergic triggers, the allergists say.

Scented products and air fresheners

Air fresheners do much more than make that room smell a certain way. They also emit volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, that have been linked to eye and respiratory irritation and other health problems.

Doctors have been seeing people complaining of sneezing, congestion, headaches, coughing, fatigue and asthma because of these chemical substances.

Air freshening products are also known to simply cover up a problem without solving it.

If odors, gases and chemicals are an issue, an air purifier with activated carbon and HEPA is the best way to go, along with source control and adequate ventilation, of course.

Keep the bottles corked

Wine and alcohol-containing drinks can cause rare but severe reactions and asthma attacks, allergists say.

Allergens such as hops, barley, ethanol, grapes, preservatives and more are often to blame.

Blame your best friend

Dog and cat allergens are present in most homes. Animal dander is light and can stay airborne for a long time, and it is easily spread from one home to the next.

Pet dander is a cause of allergic reactions.

The love for their pets will prevent most people from finding another home for them, so allergists recommend allergy shots and regular cleaning routines to keep the count as low as possible.

Source: USA Today

Air purifiers for allergies and asthma

AllerAir’s portable and powerful air purifiers for asthma and allergies not only feature a medical-grade HEPA filter, the gold standard in particle and allergen removal, but also a deep bed of activated carbon to remove a wide range of chemicals, gases and VOCs that also affect your health and well-being.

AllerAir's AirMedic Series

The AirMedic Series is designed to clean the air quickly and efficiently, with a 360-degree air intake and a powerful filter combination.

For enhanced protection against biological contaminants such as viruses, bacteria and mold, you can also opt for UV germicidal filtration in the AirMedic+ Series.

Contact us to find out more.

Doctors to expose babies to dust mites to stop rising allergies

Young babies have developing immune
systems and early exposure may help
prevent future allergies, doctors say.

Medical history has shown that sometimes bold steps are needed to bring about change. 

The doctors at Southampton’s teaching hospitals are planning a new radical investigation to try and stop the rising allergy epidemic that has swept the globe.

Their plan is to expose babies under the age of one to dust mites. 

Since the babies’ immune systems are still developing, the early exposure should help prevent them from developing an allergy in the future, according to their theory.

Dust mites are one of the most common allergens in people’s homes, living in mattresses, carpets, pillows and upholstered furniture.They are the most common trigger for allergies and can produce at least 15 different allergens each. 

Exposure to dust mites has also been linked to aggravated asthma symptoms in children. 

The study is carried out at the respiratory biomedical research unit at University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust and the David Hide Asthma and Allergy Research Center at St Mary's Hospital on the Isle of Wight.

A total of 120 babies aged between five to nine months who have a family history of allergy will be participating.

Just like in other parts of the developed world, allergies have been on the rise in the UK and affect as many as one in four individuals at some point in their lives. 

Source: Medical News Today

Control the allergens in your home

AllerAir's AirMedic Series
provides quick and efficient
air filtration.

If you are already suffering from allergies or asthma, you might find some relief by controlling the level of allergens and particulates in your home.

AllerAir has developed highly efficient air purifiers forallergies and asthma that feature a multistage filtration system to offer the most enhanced protection possible.

You can remove up to 99.97% of particles and allergens at 0.3 microns with a medical-grade HEPA filter and literally trap airborne chemicals, odors and gases with a deep-bed activated carbon filter. 

If you opt for a UV lamp, you can neutralize even more biological contaminants such as viruses, molds and bacteria, and the units also feature a pre-filter and other filter options.

Contact AllerAir for more information and a personalized recommendation.

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.

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