Allergy Relief Blog

FDA Issues New Sunscreen Guidelines 2013

theblog@achooallergy.com — Thu, 23 May 2013 09:29:19 +0000

We've noted here before to avoid the use of spray sunscreens as well as those that use heavy fragrance. New FDA guidelines for 2013 add to this mix and try to clarify issues with mislabeling or false claims made on the packaging of some sunscreens. So with many people taking a short vacation, or if you're like me, heading to the beach for the weekend, now is a good time to review what the changes are and what are some good guidelines for selecting and using sunscreen.

Modern sunscreen consists of a variation of zinc oxide. Though not as common as in the past, many will remember the white line of sunblock that men used to put on their noses while at the beach. Today, there are lotions, spray and even powders (though they should have been removed from shelves by last December) that people use to block sun and harmful UV rays. With so many choices it can be difficult to decide which sunscreen is right for you and in many cases, what is even effective.

FDA guidelines approved last December work on two primary issues. First, the FDA addresses "broad spectrum" protection. Almost all sunscreens blocks UVB light, as this is the type of ultraviolet light that causes sunburns, but UVA also damages skin. UVA has been shown to cause cancer as well as prematurely age skin, so the FDA has mandated to manufacturers that they can only market their product as "broad spectrum" if it blocks both UVA and UVB light.

For beachgoers, a waterproof sunscreen has been the product of choice, but recent findings show that there is literally no such thing as "sweatproof" or "waterproof sunscreen." Some sunscreen can be water resistant, but all sunscreens, after a given period of time, will wear off. Manufacturers are now required to use the term "water resistant" and note the duration of protection, i.e. Water Resistant (40 Minutes). Many people mistakenly believe that if they've applied sunscreen, they are good to go for the rest of the day. Sunscreen wears off, period. It needs to be reapplied throughout the day, typically every couple hours, and sooner if you are swimming or sweating.

Though the new guidelines are a good step in the right direction, the FDA has yet to make any new guidelines on SPF numbers or the use of aerosol sunscreen. Research shows, and your dermatologist will recommend, that you use at least SPF 15 sunscreen but SPF higher than 45 is likely just a waste. We often think more is better, but in the case of sunscreen, there is no evidence to support that. SPF 30 sunscreen blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 45 blocks 98%. So for now, stick with a properly labeled SPF 30 or 45.

As we mentioned last summer, it is probably best to continue to avoid the use of aerosol sunscreen. When a sunscreen becomes aerosolized, it can be inhaled. There is nothing is sunscreen that should be inhaled, and many of the ingredients can be particularly harmful for delicate lung tissue.

In general, keep an eye out for the new labeling requirements. Stick with a good SPF 30-45 that uses no "fragrance." Be sure to reapply at least every 2-3 hours, and avoid the aerosols. Lastly, many of us generally only use sunscreen while at the beach, and since this can be a summer only activity, keep an eye on the expiration date of your sunscreen. It can expire and will not provide the protection you think.

For a sensitive skin or sunscreen that isn't laden with heavy fragrance try Vanicream line of sunscreens. All three offer broad spectrum protection with a limited chemical footprint.

To read the FDA sunscreen consumer guidelines.

Author: K. Gilmore

Introducing the Soniclean Vacuum

theblog@achooallergy.com — Mon, 20 May 2013 08:22:56 +0000

As the most recent addition to our line of vacuum cleaners, Soniclean vacs are powerful and economical. With both uprights and canisters available, here's a quick rundown of the two sets.

The Soniclean uprights consist of two models, the Galaxy and VT Plus. Both work well on carpet, are very lightweight, and use Soniclean's patented sonic technology. A sonic bar vibrates hundreds of times per second, and it is this rapid vibration that helps to dislodge stuck-on dirt and debris. Powerful suction then removes dirt and allergens and stores it in an H13 HEPA filterbag. While the Soniclean Galaxy is a bit more in terms of price, it does offer a longer warranty, both in terms of parts and labor as well as on the motor. The VT Plus, though, is likely a better buy. Despite a shorter warranty period, as an AchooAllergy.com exclusive, with the purchase of a VT Plus upright you also get the Soniclean handheld vac for free.

The Handheld vacuum is a small canister style vacuum that also uses a HEPA filterbag. It is lightweight and fits over the shoulder with a strap. Included with this model are two wand extensions, a smooth floor tool, a handheld turbobrush (think PowerPaw), and three mini accessories - upholstery tool, crevice tool and dusting brush, all neatly stored away in a tote bag. You can literally fit everything (hose, wand, attachments, and tools), except the vacuum itself into the tote. This compact handheld unit is the perfect addition to either upright since it provides all of the above-the-floor cleaning ability that the uprights lack. Free with the purchase of the VT Plus, the handheld unit is great for quick spills in the kitchen, dusting through the house or simply as the perfect vacuum for garage projects.

In addition to the uprights and handheld model are two canisters. These use a filterbag, sealed system and separate HEPA filter to trap allergens and dirt. Keep an eye out for product reviews now that in-home testing is complete.

For anyone considering a powerful, lightweight and economical vacuum, Soniclean is well worth a look.

To see all Soniclean vacuums.

Peanut Oil and Peanut Food Allergies

theblog@achooallergy.com — Thu, 9 May 2013 09:10:18 +0000

For all you peanut allergic individuals, have you ever wondered about eating at restaurants that use peanut oil for cooking. Five Guys and Chick-fil-A are probably the two most well known examples. They use peanut oil in their fryers.

Cooking oils used by most restaurants, especially the big commercial franchises that use peanut oil, use a highly processed, refined peanut oil. Why is this important? The refining process involves high heat, deodorization, bleaching, purification, and other methods of processing to strip away the peanut proteins that are responsible for the allergic reaction to peanuts and leaves a purified, refined oil.

The peanut oils to avoid are often the gourmet peanut oils. These types of oils may have things like "cold-pressed," "natural," "unrefined," "gourmet" or "aromatic" on the labeling of the bottle. Found in the cooking oil aisles at supermarkets or specialty stores, these oils often forego the refining process and retain allergic proteins.

There are research studies that back up these findings, and the FDA makes specific note of oils in Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 (FALCPA) [Paragraph 1-201.10(B)]. So, if you are craving those fries cooked in the peanut oil, chances are you can probably feel safe eating them. Now, the only reasons to avoid Five Guys might be the actual peanuts in their restaurants or your expanding waistline.

Always inquire about the oil before ordering, and discuss with your allergist if you have any questions or reservations.

For more information on FDA guidelines concerning food allergens or for a convenient way to let restaurant staff know about your food allergies, try our convenient food allergy cards.

Pacifiers: Not Just for Kids to Enjoy?

theblog@achooallergy.com — Tue, 7 May 2013 08:43:32 +0000

I came across this on the drive in to work yesterday morning, and it reminded me of just a few short years ago.� From time to time I would babysit my godson, and for quite a while, he used a pacifier (which I always call a "binky").� Like many babies and very young children, he took comfort in a pacifier.� It was often the "go-to" thing at bedtime or when he was fussy.� When babysitting, the pacifier would inevitably fall from his mouth and land on the floor.� More often than not, I would see it happen, pick it up, make sure there was no dog hair or big chunk of dirt on it then pop it back in.� I can hear a few people gasping, but generally speaking, "dirt don't hurt" was a saying that my brothers and I practiced on a daily basis as children. My one brother's nickname was literally "dirt" since he was generally filthy from playing outside so much.� This is all a bit circuitous, but it leads me to two things, the hygiene hypothesis and a recent study published in Pediatrics.

While my approach in cleaning the pacifier is probably not taken by many, this recently published study I mention focuses not only on how parents cleaned their children's pacifier but also how it may impact the development of eczema and allergies.� In examining 184 children, researchers studied what the children were sensitive to, how parents cleaned their pacifiers, and analyzed the bacteria in the children's mouths.� At 18 and even 36 months, children whose parents cleaned their pacifiers by sucking on them, showed remarkable protection against eczema and asthma.� Yes, you read that correctly.� Some parents clean their child's pacifier by sucking it clean then giving it back to the child.� Odd as it may sound, this is believed to be the key findings of the study.

Regardless of how "clean" we, as a species, think we are, there are literally billions of bacteria living on and even inside of us.� On our skin, in our digestive tracts and in our mouths, bacteria play a very important part in everything from our immune system to the way in which we break down our food.� The theory is that by sucking on the pacifier the parent not only cleans visible dirt or debris from it, but they actually place bacteria back onto it.� That bacteria is then introduced to the child, exposing the child's immune system to a broader array of bacteria.� This ties into the hygiene hypothesis in that many believe children in western societies are "too clean," and because of this, are at an increased risk of developing things like eczema, asthma or allergies.

When we are infants, our bodies' systems are developing.� Think of the immune system like a defense mechanism that is untrained.� By nature, this system is designed to find things harmful to us and fight them, so at a very early age, the immune system is trying to determine what is dangerous and what can be ignored.� The hygiene theory suggests that lack of exposure to a variety of bacteria and germs means the system doesn't get thorough training and often identifies innocuous substances as harmful.� "Well, we have to find the shady characters to defend you against, and I don't like the looks of these guys." So when they immune system cannot find real enemies, they start identifying harmless substances as dangerous.

The hygiene hypothesis is just that, a hypothesis, and there are some studies that run counter to this.� This piece of research, though, suggests that there is some validity to it.� While it is too early to suggest that parents start sucking on their kid's pacifier to clean it, it really can't hurt.� Oh, and just for the record, most parents simply rinse the pacifier.� I guess I all into that "other" category.

For an abstract of the pacifier study.

Author: KevvyG

The Topaz Gets a Facelift

theblog@achooallergy.com — Fri, 3 May 2013 21:53:04 +0000

The Miele Topaz has recently received a make over. Gone is the almond color that has helped to define this unit for over a year. Instead, the new Topaz comes in Tayberry Red. A cross between raspberry and blackberry the Tayberry is a sweet fruit named after the River Tay in Scotland. The new color of the Topaz is deep and rich, the ideal compliment to this top-of-the-line Miele S6 canister vacuum.

With two included floor tools, the Topaz is ideal for most homes or apartments. The SEB 217-3 offers powerful cleaning ability on most types of carpet while the Twister is the signature Miele floor care tool for all types of smooth flooring. This powerful, compact vac also comes with a sealed system and can easily be upgraded to a HEPA or Active AirClean filter. Seal-sealing FJM bags make replacement a cinch and ensure that debris and allergens collected stay trapped. Lightweight, the Topaz stores easily and is a convenient solution to multilevel homes.

The Topaz is now available in the Tayberry Red color and comes with Free Second Day Delivery included (continental US destinations). To learn more about the Topaz or to view the entire line of Miele S6 midsize vacuum cleaners.

Author: KevvyG

May is Asthma & Allergy Awareness Month

theblog@achooallergy.com — Thu, 2 May 2013 14:45:39 +0000

May is Asthma Awareness Month, as designated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and with this comes a renewed focus on asthma and how it impacts not only individuals but the larger community as a whole. In addition to this, each year a few non-profit/advocacy organizations piggyback off this and have designated May Allergy & Asthma Awareness Month. During this month there are a variety of events scheduled to help promote awareness as well as action on these two respiratory problems.

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) is planning several events to help to raise awareness across multiple age groups. Some of these include kits to help people set up and organize their own events, free webinars, a poster contest for 3rd-8th graders, a sweepstakes and their Ditch the Drip event in Memphis, May 16-18th. For more information on these events, visit the AAFA.

Our the partner, AANMA, is spending the day at on Capitol Hill. There they will focus on a multiple of things including changes in healthcare law, meeting with lawmakers, and providing a variety of free booths that offer anaphylaxis preparedness demonstrations, asthma and allergy screenings as well as consultations with allergists. All of these events are geared towards raising awareness of allergies and asthma while interacting with legislators. To learn more about Capitol Hill Day or for more info on the AANMA.

Lastly, there is the EPA. While this large governmental agency doesn't do much in terms of directly sponsored or coordinated events, they do much in the way of providing educational materials and the tools needed for advocacy groups or just individuals to help spread awareness. This PDF is chock-full of ways that people can help to raise public awareness of asthma and its impact in the community. Some way wonder why the EPA would promote Asthma Awareness Month, but the reason is actually pretty simple. The link between the environment, particularly air quality, and asthma is clear. From ground level ozone, to studies that focus on asthma rates in urban areas (often choked with vehicle emissions), many of the things the EPA does on a day to day basis can have a direct impact on asthma in the United States.

For our part here at AchooAllergy, we know that allergy season is in full swing, so we are offering a 10% discount on asthma and allergy relief products. From window filters, allergy bedding and air purifiers to HEPA vacuum cleaners and nebulizers, save an extra 10% of your purchase of most products. Happy May!

Author: K. Gilmore

Update on Cat Allergy Vaccine

theblog@achooallergy.com — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 10:21:20 +0000

Back in 2011, we posted a blog about a vaccine for cat allergies, and at that time, it discussed the Phase II trials of the vaccine. Well, two years later, the results are in, they look promising, and Phase III is about to begin.

Nearly two years ago, more than 200 cat allergy sufferers took part in the second phase trials which involved four doses of the vaccine, ToleroMune�, over the course of 12 weeks. In the fall of 2012, the company responsible for the study, Circassia, released initial results of the patients who returned to be exposed to the cat allergen and reassessed. Then in February of 2013, they announced full results of this double-blind, randomized study.

The results of this stage of human trials continued to show the same promise that began about a decade ago - the development of a vaccine against cat allergies. Those who received the actual vaccine (and not the placebo) continued to show sustained improvement when reassessed two years after the trial began. With this major milestone, Phase III trials have already started.

During this last stage of the trials, 1200 participants are involved in what will ultimately be another two year study that is broader and more in-depth. Upon completion in 2015. The vaccine could potentially be available shortly after the completion of this final phase in 2015. For the tens of millions of cat allergy sufferers, this novel approach represents a more longterm solution particle allergies, and ultimately, this type of development could lead to greater understanding of allergies and bring us one step closer to a cure.

In addition to their work on a cat allergy vaccine, Circassia has also started testing on similar treatments for grass and dust mite allergies.

Author: Kevin G.

Top Miele Vacuums of 2013 - Consumer Choice

theblog@achooallergy.com — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 10:54:07 +0000

Yesterday we rolled out the updated Staff Pick's of Miele vacuums, and today we're highlighting the Consumer's Choice Top Picks. Factoring in reviews, sales and overall interest in each unit, we've compiled the list of the top five most popular Miele vacuums. As a note, the S8's are the newest of all Miele vacuums and have only been available to the public for a relatively short time. Despite this, they are still well represented here.

Miele Onyx - First on our list in the Miele Onyx. Most people who are considering the Onyx find that it is perfectly suited for home with mostly smooth floors with some low to medium pile carpet and rugs. Quiet, powerful and economical, the Onyx is an easy choice for most.
Miele Callisto - An old mainstay, the Callisto is the most awarded Miele vacuum cleaner in history. Consistently ranking well in consumer reporting surveys, recipient of numerous Best Buy awards, the Callisto is a balanced HEPA vacuum cleaner that fits the cleaning needs of almost any home. Though it is retiring, the Kona is a direct replacement model. Though a new model, the Kona's features, price, and performance are all almost identical to the Callisto.
Miele Quickstep - Compact, lightweight and priced right, the Quickstep has been THE choice when it comes to having a second vacuum for the kitchen or laundry area. The slim design, ability to assemble and reassemble the handle, wand and body allow the Quickstep to go from an upright to handheld in seconds. Small apartment and loft dwellers love this compact vacuum.
Miele Alize - Though only available for a few months, the Alize has quickly become a very popular vacuum. Completely unique features like the sound-reducing DynamicDrive casters and Integrated Spotlight set the Alize apart while these features and the included floor tool makes this an ideal vacuum for anyone with smooth floors and a desire to remove allergens in the home. (Just a note, the UniQ was a close second amongst all S8 models, though the Marin is QUICKLY gaining ground on both .)
Miele Twist - Miele is known for canister vacuums, but since the introduction of the S7 uprights, these vacuums have been making serious headway in terms of popularity. Powerful, almost self-propelled, durable and very maneuverable, the Twist provides the largest cleaning radius of any Miele vacuum, works well all types of carpet and smooth flooring, and is far quieter than any comparable upright.

Overall there's a lot of variation in the list. Some people prioritize price, others performance or size. All of the most popular models, as chosen by consumers and visitors to the site, feature the sealed system. Two are HEPA equipped while all five are HEPA capable. Regardless of which model you're interested, each has a unique set of qualities and features, and all have the quality, durability, and versatility that has come to personify the Miele brand.

Author: Kevin Gilmore

Nature's Solution to Pollen

theblog@achooallergy.com — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 10:29:26 +0000

Pollen, pollen everywhere! It's like Christmas, except instead of snow, it's yellow pollen, and instead of receiving gifts, all you get is sneezing, congestion, a runny nose, allergic rhinitis or sinusitis. Though pollen levels are traditionally very high during the springtime, nature sometimes tries to do its part to help mitigate the mucousy misery that it spreads. Nature's idea of helping with pollen? Rain.

While wet, warm conditions are very conducive for the production of pollen, it tends to be drier days that see some of the highest pollen counts. This is because dry, low humidity days are better "pollen travel days". When not encumbered by moisture, pollens are freer to float about in the air and coat, well, everything. Ever notice the air feels "heavier" or "thicker" when it's humid out? There is some merit to this as humidity does make microparticles, like pollen, heavier and more likely to precipitate out of the air rather than continue floating along, tickling the noses of people across a very wide area.

Often rains spell relief for many folks since the humidity levels rises and grounds pollen faster than one of those new Boeing Dreamliners with a faulty battery (too soon?). Rain not only inhibits the spread of pollen, it also washes it away. Areas of the country, like Atlanta, that experience high levels of pine pollen often get that yellow, powdery coat over everything. While these larger, visible particles can sometimes be less responsible for allergic reactions than their smaller cousins, this pollen nonetheless is a good indicator to all that allergy season is in full swing.

So whether you're a farmer in many parts of our drought stricken country or just a seasonal allergy sufferer, spring rains bring welcome relief. Check out a few of the pictures I shot recently. No, it's not a chemical spill. That's pollen!

You can't always wait on the rains to give you a break during week long stretches of high pollen counts, but you can help to reduce the pollen you breathe by wearing an allergy mask, rinsing your sinuses and using OTC allergy medications when symptoms flare up. Or, there is always a rain dance.

Author: K. Gilmore

Boston Marathon

theblog@achooallergy.com — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 10:43:43 +0000

We'd like to take a few moments today to acknowledge the events that transpired in Boston yesterday. It was a tragic situation that marred what has been traditionally a time of celebration and joy for not only Bostonians but runners from across the country and around the globe. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of those affected by the senseless violence.

- AchooAllergy.com Team

Got Yardwork? Get a Mask

theblog@achooallergy.com — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 10:42:14 +0000

With Spring finally here, the many months of keeping up with my yard begins. From pressure washing away red clay and pollen to mowing and trimming, lawn care is one of those outdoor tasks that can really aggravate those with allergies or asthma. Pollen levels are up but so is the grass, so aside from hiring someone to take care of your lawn (or napalming it), what can you do about allergies? There is one simple item that can help regardless of the season - a mask.

Since I'm not allergic to pollen, I personally don't wear a mask for this reason, though during the dry summers, I do wear one to eliminate dust. Masks remain one of the most effective ways to block tree, weed and grass pollen without having to change your regular lawncare routine. N95 masks are the most common type available. Inexpensive paper masks like this are an easy way to block reaction causing allergens. Most N95 masks are disposable, so after a use or two, you simple replace it.

The N95 rating is a NIOSH classification that means any mask with this rating traps 95% of particles 0.3 microns or larger. While this certainly isn't HEPA, it works well in many situations. With this type of filtration, it will block most of your pollens as well as dust and other particulate in the air. If you try one of these masks but find that the filtration isn't quite doing the job, you can step up to a P100 or N100 rated mask/respirator instead.

NIOSH 100 rated masks meet HEPA standards, trapping 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger. This type of filter represents the gold standard when it comes to particle filtration in masks. Some of these masks are disposable while others have replaceable filters, but both types will provide the extra protection against allergens for those who need it.

Aside from keeping up with your lawn, masks also work well for simple gardening. We all like the look of a well put together flower bed or the taste of a fresh tomato from a plant in the backyard (I know I do!) but planting this time of year presents the same problems as cutting the grass for the first time. With gardening, you often don't stir up pollen like you do when mowing, but this can often involve digging around in decaying or moldy vegetation or leaves. Again, an N95 mask can often be your best bet, but if allergies aren't as severe you may be able to go with something like a Silk or Vogmask. The filtration level on these is a bit lower than N95 but both can help to reduce exposure to particles that can cause allergies or asthma to flare. Plus, these types of masks are a little easier on the eyes, fold up to fit neatly in your pocket, and are generally a bit more comfortable.

Regardless of whether your mowing, gardening or simply cleaning up after your dog, masks an easy and convenient way to block particles while helping to keep you enjoying the outdoors longer.

Author: Kevin G.

Pollen, Pollen, Go Away...

theblog@achooallergy.com — Tue, 9 Apr 2013 14:21:55 +0000

Well, it's time for Atlanta's annual rite of passage - spring pollen, and particularly pine pollen.� While there are certainly more tree pollens than just pine floating around in the air, pine pollen is what gives this city it's lovely yellow hue this time of year.� For those affected by allergies or have allergy-induced asthma, the next several weeks can be miserable without taking some steps to control exposure.

We generally recommend you first start at home.� What's floating around outside cannot be helped, but what's floating around inside your house can.� This time of year it's important to remember that a few simple steps can help keep many of those allergens outside, where they belong.

Take your shoes off.� It seems pretty self-explanatory, but you can track a lot of pollen into the house.� This is also true for pets.� While your cat or dog probably doesn't wear shoes, using a pet wipe or simply damp rag to quickly wipe them down when they come in can help keep them from tracking throughout the house.
Change the filter.� This can apply to a couple things.� Your HVAC filter is likely due for a change.� After spending much of the winter indoors, these filters can work overtime trying to keep your indoor air clean.� Start with a fresh filter every two to three months.� If you are using a HEPA air purifier, keep tabs on when your filter change is due.� Often they'll have timer based indicators, but keep this running properly can help reduce the pollen that you're bringing in the house.
Don't skimp on the spring cleaning!� Regular vacuuming, washing, and dusting are more important during high pollen times than at any other point in the year.� By letting allergens build you can easily quickly increase your "allergen load" past the tipping point and be overwhelmed with symptoms.
Keep the windows closed.� In places with high levels of pine pollen opening the windows can be about the equivalent of coating everything in your home with baby powder, except it will be yellow and likely cause a lot more sneezing.� If you do want to keep the windows open without the mess and allergens, try using a window filter.� They're not a efficient as a HEPA filter, but they do a good job in removing larger particles and much of the pollen in the air. �Besides, if they were HEPA rated, no air at all would pass through.

While these tips can help to keep pollen out of your home, we don't want people to be shut-ins.� So when you're out and about, plan certain tasks around specific times of the day.� Late morning and midday are often your worst times for peak pollen.� There are also a variety of resources that will give you a daily pollen count.� So if something could be pushed off from a particularly high pollen day, you can do a bit of short term planning.� If you are going to be out and about, whether for fun, work or exercise, OTC medication can help prevent and treat many of the symptoms, and a high quality allergy mask can block most of the allergens in the air.� Using a nasal irrigation device can help rinse away reaction causing pollen and other allergens that collect in the nose and sinuses.

None of these things cost much money.� More than anything, it is simply spending a little extra time or stepping up the frequency of things that you are already going.� Spring is here, so buckle up!� We have about three weeks of this lovely yellow powder ahead of us!

Author: Kevin G.

Study Tightens Link Between Asthma and Allergies in Adults

theblog@achooallergy.com — Fri, 5 Apr 2013 16:07:58 +0000

One aspect of my job here at Achoo puts me in touch with people with little to no knowledge of environmental control, allergy bedding or how specific things inside the house can be causing certain symptoms. One piece of information that I commonly pass along is based on previous studies of allergies and asthma that show links between allergic diseases like allergies, asthma and eczema. About 70% of the time, if a child has asthma, s/he also has at least one allergy. A study recently published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology clear up this picture for adults with asthma who likely also have allergies. The results were a bit surprising to most professionals in the field.

By studying and comparing data from over 2500 patients in two age groups, 20-40 and 55+, researchers found that for asthmatics, allergic sensitization was present far more often than not. For the first age group, 20-40, those with asthma were also allergic to at least one allergen 75.4% of the time. In the second group, 55 years and older, asthmatics were allergic to at least one allergen 65% of the time. While this type of overlap has been studied and identified in children, most believed that the link between allergies and asthma wasn't as strong with adults.

Within this data, there is some variation between the types of allergens that these age groups showed the most sensitivity to. For the older set of patients, the most common allergen was dust mite. Over one-third of those who were asthmatic and allergic were sensitive to dust mites. Rye grass, cats, dogs and cockroaches followed. For the younger set of patients the allergen sensitivities were similar with dog and the dust mite allergen leading the way.

Allergies and asthma are two very closely related animals. One is like a llama while the other is like an Alpaca. Both are different but fairly closely related, and like llamas/alpacas, sometimes people confuse the two.

In terms of helping people, this stronger correlation can help doctors and allergists better diagnose conditions in older adults. And while asthma and an allergy may be the cause of a particular set of symptoms, some of the same measures to help control your indoor environment will work for both.

To read the article's abstract or access the full article.

Three Ways to Reduce Allergens in Your Bedroom

Author: Kevin Gilmore

While Allergies Bite, Maybe This Year, Not So Bad...

theblog@achooallergy.com — Mon, 1 Apr 2013 11:39:17 +0000

With Easter and Passover now behind us, the spring allergy season is set to begin making millions across the U.S. miserable. And while there is no shortage of weather forecasters and others singing "doom and gloom" for this allergy season, I am somewhat more optimistic about it. Why would I be optimistic about this spring allergy season you ask? There are a few reasons why I think the "doom and gloom" crowd are missing the mark.

Don't get me wrong here. Spring allergy season is going to really stink for tens of millions of people. It has, and likely always will, but think back to last year around this time. Do you remember the stories about the upper third of the country being buried under snow? Nope. Instead what we had was record setting high temperatures.

Remember this? A little digging around shows that temperatures in the upper Midwest ranged as widely as almost 70 degrees warmer on days last year versus the same days this year. Speaking strictly in terms of averages, much of the country is still above temperature averages for 2013 (1.9 degrees according to NOAA), but 2013 went even further (3.6 degrees). All that warmer weather last year meant spring, sprung early.

More than simply the temperature, the entire jet stream pattern is different. If you check out images from NOAA for March of this year and last year, you can see a big dip in the west that helped pull warmer air and temperatures up and disperse them throughout the country. This year the pattern more closely resembles the norm, and with it has come more normal winter temperatures and a more than healthy amount of snow to much of the country.

In February of 2012, people in different parts of the country began their annual trek to the allergist, and for most, this was a month sooner than they were used to. It was little wonder though. At the end of last March, we here in Atlanta saw the old pollen count record shattered by 55% (9369 vs. 6013). We didn't see anything even remotely close to that last week.

Again, I'm not saying spring allergy season took a vacation this year. Sneezing and coughing are likely to be the common sounds you hear for the next couple of months, and now is the time to start preparing for another round of springtime sniffles. However, I don't work for a company that has to make a news story out of everything as mundane as an inch of rain. So, time will tell but, I'm not buying that 2013 will be the worst allergy season ever. To quote Dana Carvey (impersonating G.H. Bush), "Wouldn't be prudent. Not gonna do it."

For good information on comparing historical trends, from year to year, visit The National Climatic Data Center, a division of NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration).

Author: Kevin Gilmore

Easter - The Hunt for A Good Egg

theblog@achooallergy.com — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 11:23:39 +0000

With Good Friday and Easter just around the corner, most of us are finishing the final preparations for either dinner, Easter egg hunt or some type of family activity. In my household, my parents would put together Easter baskets then hide them at night so in the morning we would wake up early and begin the hunt!

Fortunately for us boys, the Easter Bunny knew just what we liked. So he would go easy on the jelly beans and heavy on the Cadbury eggs for me while doing the exact opposite for one of my younger siblings. Sweets and candy weren't the only things that came with our Easter baskets. In every basket was a stuffed animal. Mostly rabbits, but often ducks or turtles, from small to large, there was always one in each basket. Another favorite was a pail with a small plastic shovel and rake (which is great for filling with rocks, making sandcastles or mudpies with later). Other times there might be a pack of toy cars, plastic army men or even oversized chalk (that my dad LOVED to see us use on the sidewalk in front of the house!). There was also, always, an outfit - usually a pair of shorts and a shirt. These types of things can serve two purposes. First, they certainly last much longer than a chocolate bunny, but for children affected by food allergies, they can keep the baskets fun without the focus on candy.

As we grew up and began families of our own we also started having an annual Easter Egg hunt. While there always were at least a dozen or two colored eggs, most of what was hidden were plastic eggs, and though no one in the family has food allergies, some of the things my mother did were a bit forward thinking in that regard.

Starting from just a couple dozen and expanding to nearly three hundred, mom would purchase hollow plastic eggs in a variety of sizes and colors. Some would hold candy, like a small packet of jelly beans, individually wrapped chocolates or packets of sweet tarts (a favorite of mine). She would also fill many with a variety of other things, that while not the intention, were very food allergy friendly.

Running around a massive three acre yard we would find colorful plastic eggs with stickers, rubber bouncy balls, or money. The ones with money were what we called the "jackpot eggs". Filled with anywhere from fifty cents to a whopping two bucks, the older we got, the more these eggs became priceless to us. Another fun idea is to put tickets in the eggs. Number the tickets to match with a corresponding, larger, prize that will prolong the anticipation. They could be redeemable or things like a larger stuffed animal, an inexpensive pair of earrings, an iTunes gift card or even events like a couple hours of bowling or roller skating.

Though we didn't do this, before the event, you can have the children help you decorate the eggs. In reality you can get as extravagant as you want, from using simple stickers to going as far as hot gluing beads or other decorations on each egg. Ribbon or paints can also be used. For real eggs, you can fall back on the trusty Paas coloring kit or even use packets of Kool-Aid to dye the eggs. (Oh, and PLEASE make sure you boil them first! You or your child will only make this mistake, once.) Again though, for children with food allergies, the plastic, or even a purely decorative wooden egg, is likely your best bet to avoid and potential problems.

If you put on your own Easter egg hunt, here's a few tips, coming from years of experience. There are easy hiding spots as well as more difficult ones, so cater to your age ranges. By placing as much or more emphasis on things OTHER than food and candy, you can subtly make the event more inclusive for all kids. Lastly, don't let things get too big. Even with six to twelve kids searching, three hundred eggs is... a bit much. If you don't keep track of exactly how many you had to start with, you might have another annual experience that we had, finding them with the lawn mower a few weeks later.

There is nothing quite like hearing the audible change in the sound of the mower as you buzz through a plastic egg, or watch the contents spew out of the mower into a thousand little slivers (particularly when it is a George Washington that was obliterated). Nearly as bad, if not worse, when you hit one of the real, boiled eggs, after it had been sitting in the yard for three weeks.

For many people, Easter is much like other holidays in that a big part of it is gathering with family or friends. While things like food allergies shouldn't be completely ignored, they do not have to dampen the fun. There are a variety of easy ways to be more inclusive and to ensure all the children and adults involved have an enjoyable time!

Author: Kevin Gilmore

Environmental Control for Asthma

theblog@achooallergy.com — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 11:53:10 +0000

I have to say, I always enjoy reading or hearing stories like the one a friend of mine passed me yesterday (thank you Cordelia!). A very similar story was part of the broadcast on NPR this morning as well. The focus of both was controlling asthma, but to me the more interesting part was how it was being done - environmental control.

At AchooAllergy.com, we have been advocating environmental control, as a way to reduce allergic and asthmatic reactions, for over a decade. So, it is always heartening to see doctors, insurers and others recognizing the importance of this preventative style approach to asthma and allergies and actually creating programs to bring these ideas into the homes of people who need it the most.

Environmental control is multifaceted, and something that is often done in stages. Because it can be time intensive and not the most inexpensive process in the world, we have always stressed that people start with the bedroom and work out towards the rest of the home. You spend more time in your bedroom than any other single room in your home, so if there is one place to be a sanctuary, a place where you can provide relief from allergens, it should be there.

Both stories touched on things we have written about and advocated for years.

Using a HEPA vacuum cleaner
Installing allergy bedding covers on your mattress and pillow
Avoiding harsh cleaners like bleach or ammonia based cleaning products as well as "deodorizers" that pollute the indoor air even more
And, removing carpet, to name a few

These measures all work to do one main thing - reduce allergens and improve the indoor environment. In addition to this, programs like the Community Asthma Initiative actually help people by going into the home, educating, coaching and providing the information and products to go about making these changes. Most importantly, they also measure their results, and in a time when budgets are being literally pushed to their breaking points, the ability to quantify the good that comes from these measures is critical in obtaining the funding to continue and expand this type of program.

On a similar note, over the last year, we have had the benefit of working with a partner who has recognized the benefit of allergy bedding in helping to reduce dust and dust mites in the home. With them we have been able to provide mattress covers, pillow covers, pillows, and other dust mite bedding to hundreds of people who, without this program, would not likely be able to afford it. Sadly these partnerships remain more of a rarity than the norm, and one of the biggest problems remains education - education of those affected as well as education of those who can help and those who can provide funding for these types of programs. Too few people in both of these groups understand the long term benefit that environmental control can offer.

The educational side is where other partners, like the Allergy & Asthma Network Mothers of Asthmatics, is critical. As a non-profit on the front lines of asthma education and advocacy, the AANMA works to not only help to educate those affected by allergies and asthma, but they also act as a voice to raise awareness on these issues at the state and national government levels.

Allergy shots remain one of the closest things to a cure for allergies, and while medication can tamp down many of the reactions that those affected with asthma have, it's really only when the these things are combined with environmental control measures in the home that the most benefit is seen. It is my sincere hope that as research continues, partnerships, like the ones we have, and programs like the Community Asthma Initiative can continue to coalesce and provide health benefits to those who need it most.

For the full article from Pediatrics Journal.
For more information about the Community Asthma Initiative program or to read/listen to the NPR story.

Author: Kevin Gilmore

J.D. Power Release Vacuum Survey

theblog@achooallergy.com — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 11:21:16 +0000

It is human nature for many of us to go through "buyer's remorse" after a purchase. For some, even a small purchase can cause a bit of guilt after the fact (especially for me if that purchase is chocolately and of the high calorie variety). No matter what we purchase, afterwards, we want to feel like we made the right decision. J.D. Power is the leading researcher when it comes to purchasing and consumer sentiment after a purchase. It's their business to check and report on those things, satisfaction and remorse.

We all see the ads, particularly when it comes to automobiles, about J.D. Power and Associates customer satisfaction surveys, but they also rate a wide variety of products from home appliances to airlines. Most recently, they released customer satisfaction results for canister vacuum cleaners and a benchmark study (their first) for uprights.

Using a variety of criteria, they ranked upright and canister vacuum cleaners across six factors, including, performance, ease of use, styling, price, warranty and features. The survey not only gives you some idea of what factors are most important after the purchase, but also sheds some light on satisfaction and indirectly, it can give you some idea about buyer's remorse when it comes to purchasing a vacuum cleaner.

To read the article or to see the report results.

Author: Kevin Gilmore

Food For Thought: Allergies & Genetically Modified Food

theblog@achooallergy.com — Fri, 8 Mar 2013 09:56:28 +0000

This morning while I was getting ready for work, I had the NPR news app running on my iPad. I like to listen to it since it's short enough but broad enough that it at least gives me quick roundup of some of the headlines of the day. One of the stories that caught my attention was one about the use of a yellow rice. This yellow rice, "golden rice," is not a natural food. It has been genetically modified to contain high amounts of beta-carotene, hence the color. On its face, this sounds like a good idea. In areas across Asia and Africa, millions of people do not get enough vitamin A in their diet, and beta-carotene is a primary source of this nutrient. What I wondered was how a food like this plays into the food allergy conversation.

Yesterday I came across a very in-depth article in the NYT about a large food allergy study/experiment on children who were highly allergic to multiple foods. Through oral immunotherapy a doctor was able to raise the tolerance of children to multiple food allergens to the point where they could again safely interact and grow up more like normal children. Some of the cases were extremely severe, to the point where even crumbs or traces of food allergens would send some of these children into anaphylactic shock - a nightmare scenario for any parent. Foods like wheat, dairy, nuts, and the usual suspects were actors in this play, but what struck me was the unspoken reality that accompanies the rise in food allergies - no one knows exactly why. So with such a big question mark, I wondered how does this relate to the "golden rice"?

There are many theories about the causes of allergies, and while the most popular, the "hygiene theory" does seem to hold some water when it comes to respiratory allergies like rhinitis, hay fever, and sinusitis, it meets a serious challenge when you try to apply it to food allergies. Studies have shown that children raised on farms or environments that are a little more germ-friendly than the typical suburban American household do show lower instances of allergies and asthma. However, in even these places, respiratory allergies are still increasing, and food allergies are rising at a much higher rate.

So why? Why is the food that has sustained the human race for centuries now threatening the lives of so many of our youth? Dr. Nadeau from the NYT piece leans away from the hygiene theory and more towards the chemicals and toxins that saturate modern life. The idea is that environmental factors damage genes or transform them at a very fast rate. These genes are then passed down, which could explain why children of parents with allergies are much more likely to have allergies.

There is some evidence to support this theory - research pieces that show higher rates of allergies in children when allergic parents as well as others that demonstrate the development of food allergies in children who have immigrated with their parents and adopted a "western diet" (even when there is no parental history of allergies).

This brings me back to the "golden rice". I understand the potential of such a crop, but I also understand some of the dangers commonly levied against genetically modified foods. (FYI, a quick look through your pantry will likely reveal that about 30% of the processed foods you find have genetically modified substances in them.) Brushing these aside and focusing only on the allergy aspect, I keep coming back to a singular question. We do not know why many of the foods that we eat are threatening the lives of more and more children every year, so is it wise to push ahead by adding yet another variable into the mix? We have yet to figure out why the foods we currently eat are affecting food allergies and would most certainly have even less knowledge as to how these new foods could play into that mix.

When turn this question over in my head, I think of a chef who can't figure out why his dish turned out tasting so poorly, but instead of working his way back, eliminating ingredients and trying to find the culprit in the recipe, he simply adds more ingredients and hopes for the best.

To read the full NYT Oral Immunotherapy Story or the NPR story about "golden rice".

Author: K. Gilmore

Cross Reactivity - Unrelated Links

theblog@achooallergy.com — Tue, 5 Mar 2013 11:14:59 +0000

When it comes to allergies, rarely are they isolated or singular. Often there are groupings, like allergen punches in bunches, that can affect the body. Peanut allergy sufferers are often allergic to other types of tree nuts, or those allergic to ragweed pollen are also likely affected by dust mites. But more than being multi-allergenic, cross reactivity is also an issue for many allergy sufferers. Cross-reactivity is the body's immune system mistaking a similar protein or chemical as one it typically has a reaction to, and most people see this reaction with food.

So what are some common cross reactive allergens? Birch is one of the biggest culprits. A protein found in apple peels is very closely related to one found in birch, and this means the body can sometimes confuse the two. You may be diagnosed with an allergy to birch, but then, while eating a raw apple, you might experience tingling, swelling or itching around the mouth and lips. This type of symptom is most common for people with cross reactions to foods. Another example of this is with grass pollens and seemingly unrelated foods like kiwis, tomatoes, or peanuts. Sometimes referred to as "latex-fruit syndrome," a third common cross-reaction stems from a latex allergy and a sensitivity to certain fruits like bananas and kiwi.

Unfortunately, the problem with this can be felt year round. So while your spring allergy season may play hell on your birch pollen allergy, a reaction to eating fresh apples is likely to appear regardless of the season.

Challenges in identifying and categorizing these reactions can be difficult and cause false positive test results. Common allergen tests, like the skin prick test, can reveal a sensitivity to a particular allergen, potentially a cross reactive food, but then lead to a diagnosis of a full blown allergy to this food. Cross-reactivity does not mean that someone will have a reaction to ALL types of food that share a particular, similar protein. Because of this, eliminating an entire class of foods from the diet because of cross reactivity can sometimes be a bit unwarranted, though not uncommon.

One interesting away around this can be by cooking foods. While the cross reactions can be common when it comes to fresh food, cooked food often alters the proteins enough that the body no longer misidentifies them. This is not always the case (particularly with a cross-reaction to nuts), but this does explain why someone with a birch pollen allergy can feel a tingling in the lips and mouth when eating a fresh apple but experience no symptom at all when eating apple cobbler or drinking apple cider.

Without a doubt, cross reactivity complicates our understanding of allergies and the allergic response. Yet, solving the problem of allergies can't be solved until more is known, and cross reactivity is just another part of puzzle. If you think you may be cross-reactive, talk to your doctor or allergist. While the knowledge in this area is still rapidly expanding, he may be able to help further pinpoint the actual cause of the issue.

Author: K. Gilmore

Finally... The New Miele S8 Vacuums Available

theblog@achooallergy.com — Fri, 1 Mar 2013 09:22:16 +0000

Well, it took a lot of stopping and starting and some changing dates on Miele's part, but the all the new Miele S8 canister vacuums are now available for purchase online.

What makes each model unique? The UniQ is by far, the top of the line, the crème de la crème. It offers the most features and several upgrades that truly make it "unique". The Marin provides many of the same features but also gives you the choice in which carpet cleaning tool will best meet your needs. The Kona is a direct replacement for the Callisto. Versatile and well-rounded, the Kona offers a perfect balance of value and performance. Similar to the UniQ in one-of-a-kind features, the Alize has a built in spotlight, DynamicDrive casters and the AirTeQ floor tool to help set it apart. Lastly, the Calima provides quality filtration and the right tools for homes with mostly smooth floors.

The last in the new line, the Miele Cat & Dog, can be pre-ordered, but stock isn't expected to arrive for about another week. This canister vacuum separates itself by using the Active AirClean filter and including the STB 101 to help make this vacuum the best fit for pet owners.

See the full line of Miele vacuum cleaners.

Author: Kevin Gilmore