Allergy - Allergy Relief

The Basics About Allergies Allergies are defined as immune malfunctions that occur when an individual's body is oversensitive to certain substances. These substances that cause allergies are called allergens. Allergies cause the body to produce excessive amounts of immunoglobulin E. This overproduction can result in inflammation, runny noses, itchy eyes or even shock or death, depending on how extreme an individual's allergies may be. Common symptoms of allergies include redness and itchiness of the eyes, wheezing or other breathing problems, skin rashes or hives. Some people with severe allergies might even experience anaphylaxis or death in extreme exposure situations. There are many common allergies from which many people suffer. Animal dander (particularly from cats), pollen, dust mites and certain medications can all be causes of allergies. Some individuals are also allergic to certain foods or even whole food groups. The most common way for doctors to identify a person's allergies is to conduct a skin test. Skin allergy tests are typically conducted on a person's back because of the large amount of surface area, and also because of the limited sensitivity experienced in that area of the body. Doctors make pricks in the patient's skin, and they introduce small amounts of substances that commonly cause allergies. The allergens are labeled, and within a thirty-minute period a reddening of the skin surrounding the allergens will occur if the patient is allergic to one or more of the substances. Want more information on Allergy Relief? Eyeforhealth.com has all the information and important links you need to stop suffering. Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joshua_Miller Allergy - Choosing the Right Holmes Air Purifier for You Homes today are virtually airtight in an effort by homeowners to reduce the expenses of heating and cooling them. Most homes have air conditioners and heaters that use recycled air. This is typically fine, but there comes a point when the air can become stale and carry many particles, which are harmful. Many consumers wish to select an air purifier that has the same standards of quality as a Holmes air purifier. Important considerations for consumers include visual appeal, noise levels, how often the filter must be changed, how long it is expected to work and how well it works. These are the major things that people are looking at when trying to decide upon the air purifier for their home. The Department of Energy is responsible for setting standards for air filters. Many consumers prefer a HEPA filter, as they are more effective at removing a greater amount of particles from the air. The Holmes air purifier always includes a HEPA filter. Holmes air purifiers are quite popular among homeowners because they are built with a quiet motor. These are two of the most important factors that many people consider when they are looking for an air purifier. While using an air purifier is quite effective at improving the quality of the air, there are other actions that can be taken. Other effective means include using plastic covers on mattresses to reduce the number of dust mites as well as using a good quality vacuum cleaner. Replacing a wood burning fireplace with an electric fireplace is another way to clean the air in your home. When you are cooking, always ensure that the exhaust fan above the stove is on and that it is functioning properly to help pull the particles out of the air. Ensuring that filters in the furnace and air conditioners are changed frequently will also help the air quality in your home. Windows and doors should also remain closed as much as possible; if you wish to open them, ensure there is a screen in place to keep out the larger pieces of debris. If you or other family members are especially sensitive to pollen or have allergies, avoid going outside unless necessary on days when the pollen count is extremely high. Using a Holmes air purifier can assist all of the other discussed methods, but should never be your only method in order to produce the best possible results. With some work, you will be breathing cleaner, healthier air in no time.