Pollen Allergy

Each spring, summer, and fall, tiny pollen grains are released from trees, weeds, and grasses. These grains hitch rides on currents of air. Although the mission of pollen is to fertilize parts of other plants, many never reach their targets. Instead, pollen enters people’s noses and throats, triggering a type of seasonal allergic rhinitis called... Read Article »

Dust Mite Allergy

What is a dust mite allergy? Dust mite allergy is an allergy to a microscopic organism that lives in the dust found in all dwellings and workplaces. House dust, as well as some house furnishings, contains microscopic mites. Dust mites are perhaps the most common cause of perennial allergic rhinitis. House dust mite allergy usually produces symptoms... Read Article »

Mold Allergy

What is mold? There are thousands of types of molds and yeasts in the fungus family. Yeasts are single cells that divide to form clusters. Molds are made of many cells that grow as branching threads called hyphae. Although both can probably cause allergic reactions, only a small number of molds are widely recognized offenders. The seeds or reproductive... Read Article »

Allergy Terms Glossary

Allergen-substance that causes an allergic reaction Allergenic-describes a substance which produces an allergic reaction Antibody-molecule tailor-made by the immune system to lock onto and destroy specific germs Basophils-white blood cells that contribute to inflammatory reactions Conjunctivitis-inflammation of the lining of the eyelid, causing red-rimmed,... Read Article »

Allergy & Asthma Research

Some studies are seeking better ways to diagnose as well as treat people with allergic diseases and to better understand the factors that regulate IgE production to reduce the allergic response. Several research institutions are focusing on ways to influence the cells that participate in the allergic response. NIAID supports a network of Asthma, Allergic... Read Article »

Good News for Pet Allergy Sufferers

Research on allergies is focused on understanding what happens to the human body during the allergic process – the sequence of events leading to the allergic response and the factors responsible for allergic diseases. Scientists supported by NIAID (National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases) found that, during the first years of their... Read Article »

Air Conditioners & Filters for Allergies

When possible, use air conditioners inside your home or car to help prevent pollen and mold allergens from entering. Various types of air-filtering devices made with fiberglass or electrically charged plates may help reduce allergens produced in the home. You can add these to your present heating and cooling system. In addition, portable devices that... Read Article »

Pet Allergy Tips

Controlling Cat & Dog Allergies Tips Actually, these are tips for controlling allergies to all the furry creatures you can’t help but cuddle. If you or your child is allergic to furry pets, especially cats, the best way to avoid allergic reactions is to find them another home. If you are like most people who are attached to their pets, that... Read Article »

Tips to Elliminate House Dust

House Dust Tips If you have dust mite allergy, pay careful attention to dust-proofing your bedroom. The worst things to have in the bedroom are: Wall-to-wall carpet Blinds Down-filled blankets Feather pillows Stuffed animals Heating vents with forced hot air Dogs and cats Closets full of clothing Carpets trap dust and make dust control impossible. Shag... Read Article »

Chemical Sensitivity

Could I have an allergy to chemicals? Some people report that they react to chemicals in their environments and that these allergy-like reactions seem to result from exposure to a wide variety of synthetic and natural substances. Such substances can include those found in: Paints Carpeting Plastics Perfumes Cigarette smoke Plants Although the symptoms... Read Article »

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