This morning, I went out to lunch with my cousin out in Irvine. Someone was smoking right next to us, and my cousin started coughing. She complained about her asthma, and how it was so hard for her to breathe sometimes. I told her, "Don't you wish we could have an air purifier for the air outside, as well?" She looked confused until she finally asked me what an air purifier was. I was shocked - I thought everyone at least knew what an air purifier did, but apparently I was wrong.

I told her about HEPA filters and how they capture allergens like dust and pollen, and about carbon filters and how they absorb odors and smoke. She was pretty fascinated, so I convinced her to get the small Vornado AQS500 air purifier as a starter. It's small and it's super easy to use, so I thought it would be perfect for her. I haven't talked to her since this morning, but I'm sure that I'll hear some positive results from her by tomorrow!

Green Air Purifiers

When purchasing any appliance, it's always smart to think about energy-efficient models that can help you save money and help the environment at the same time. When it comes to air purifiers, Blueair air purifiers are some of the "greenest" air cleaners on the market. These air purifiers not only use HEPA filtration to capture dust, pollen, dander, and other allergens, but they're also extremely silent. Their HEPASilent technology reminds you that these units from Blueair are able to capture more allergens and irritants without disrupting your environment. As a result, these air purifiers are perfect for use while reading, studying, and even sleeping!

In addition to its amazing HEPASilent technology, Blueair provides some of the first Energy Star rated air purifiers to the market. These air cleaners save you hundreds a year with their "ECO" settings - and they only use about 120 watts of energy maximum!

Air Purifiers Should Be Everywhere

As a clean air enthusiast, I get a little upset when I don't see an air purifier in every home I enter. I know, it's ridiculous. However, I really think that everyone should have one. Every time I go to a friend's house, I always worry about the kind of indoor air quality that I might encounter. Will it have a ton of pet dander? Pollen? Or even worse, chemicals? Since my nose has an uncanny ability to find allergens, I get crazy allergy symptoms right away. That's one of the main reasons why my air purifier at home is turned on 24/7. I can't afford to have my allergies get the best of me when I have to worry about food allergies as well!

I'm not sure, but I think that maybe my criticism of the lack of air purifiers in my friends' homes may be the reason why most don't invite me back! That is, until they come inside my home and find out what they've been missing out on!

Ugh, Allergies

Growing up, I've pretty much been allergic to almost everything. I'm allergic to seafood (but I love it!); seafood gives me itchy hives, which is rather unfortunate. I can't be anywhere near flowers because pollen brings out the worst in me. My allergies go crazy whenever I'm near any dust. The list goes on and on.

So, as a kind of late Christmas present to myself, I bought an air purifier that specifically takes care of allergies - the Austin Air HealthMate. Well, technically I was going to get the Allergy Machine, but I decided that the HealthMate would be a better choice because it also helps with odors. My room sometimes smells like smoke because, unfortunately, my neighbors hang out next to my window. The HealthMate has a carbon filter, which I found has really gotten rid of the tobacco smoke. And its HEPA filter has really been helpful with my allergies.

Now, if I can just find a way to get rid of my seafood allergy...

Air Purifier FAQs

Here are some common questions that often come up when talking about air purifiers:

What is IAQ and why is it important?
IAQ stands for Indoor Air Quality and refers to the purity of the air you breathe, well, indoors. Most of the time, it refers to the air you breathe inside your home. IAQ is important because, as it turns out, most people spend their time indoors. If the IAQ is bad, then you end up inhaling many fumes or chemicals left from cleaning supplies, or even pollutants such as allergens. As a result of bad IAQ, you may have heightened allergic symptoms and more irritations. Air purifiers help improve your IAQ using various technologies.

What are the different technologies that air purifiers use and how are they different?
There are HEPA air purifiers, which are best for removing smaller, hard-to-see particles like pet dander, pollen, and other tiny allergens up to 0.3 microns in size. Ionic air purifiers change the polarity of the contaminants in the air, causing them to fall from the air you breathe. Carbon air cleaners are great for removing odors, gases, and chemicals. And finally, UV air purifiers use a UV light that stop microbiological contaminants such as mold, fungus, bacteria, and viruses from reproducing.

For more information about air purifiers, take a look at this handy air purifier guide! You'll learn all you need to know about using an air purifier to start living a healthier life with this guide.

Goodbye 2009, Hello 2010!

Allergies are most worrysome when it comes to children. A lot of the time parents think that giving their children some allergy medicine, everything will be all right. In fact, the situation may not be so simple - you can't just keep giving your child allergy medication every day! Children and adults alike may be experiencing allergies from more than you'd expect. There are other factors to consider, such as the indoor air quality of your home. The indoor air quality of your home depends on a lot of different factors, many of which you might not realize are effecting the quality of the air you breathe. If you have pets, dander and waste can be a result of itchy and watery eyes. If you use many cleaning products and there is no fresh air being circulated in or out of the house, you and your family may experience unpleasant respiratory symptoms. By keeping an air purifier inside of the house (you can even keep one in every room for better indoor air quality), you can have safer, fresher air for everyone to breathe! And for children's rooms, I would recommend a unit like the Crane EE-5064. This air purifier is shaped like a shark and it operates quietly, ultimately making your child's room a healthier environment to live in.

Oh, I also want to wish a Happy New Year to all! Is anyone going to watch the ball drop tomorrow night? I always wish I could be over in New York while the ball drops, but I image it's probably a little too crowded over there every New Year's eve. Anyway, we hope that 2010 turns out to be a great year for everyone!

Pets and Allergies

Many people don't realize that the reason they may be experiencing symptoms of allergies may be because of their pets. Irritants don't only come from dogs and cats, however. A common misconception is that the only residue your pets leave is pet dander. In fact, symptoms of allergies can also be triggered by odors from a litter box, dust particles from a bird's wings, dried saliva from a cat's skin or fur, and waste particles from, well, every pet. These irritants end up triggering the worst allergy symptoms such as runny noses and eyes, sneezing, rashes, and watery eyes.

The best solution to the problems with pets, of course, is an air purifier. However, not just any air purifier will do. There are a few different technologies that are proven the most effective when it comes to pets. Air purifiers that use HEPA technology are great for trapping smaller, harder-to-see particles. Purifiers with a UV light are also great investments because they stop mold, fungi, and bacteria from reproducing on the hairs and secretions of your pets. The best type of air purifier for removing odors is one that uses activated carbon. Carbon filters absorb all types of odors, so you can start breathing fresher, healthier air. A great recommendation for pet owners is the Surround Air XJ3000E air purifier. This unit actually features all three of the technologies I listed above (and some more)!

Indoor Air Quality: Little Known Sources of Indoor Air Pollution

To improve the indoor air quality inside of your home you'll need to find the sources of indoor air pollution. Here are a few of the lesser known ones to make sure you are well on your way to creating a healthier environment in your home.

Ozone: Some household appliances emit ozone, which is a molecule that is unsafe at high levels. Sometimes the amount of ozone emitted from photocopiers, laser printers, ultraviolet sources and electrostatic or ionic air cleaners is a "safe" amount. The problem is that different regulatory agencies disagree on what level of ozone is safe. To make sure you aren't being exposed you can test the level of ozone present in your home with inexpensive ozone test strips.

Carpet: Carpet can be a source of chemical emission because it emits volatile organic compounds. The products used to install carpeting like the adhesives and padding also emit VOCs. Carpet may also absorb biological pollutants such as pesticides, dust mites and fungi.

Paint: After the application of paint, it may off-gas for months. To prevent this, purchase paint with low VOCs and follow all of the recommendations regarding application, removal and ventilation. Also keep in mind that the health consequences can be even greater for children and those suffering from respiratory issues or compromised immune systems.

Cleaning Products: Household cleaning products can be the sources of hundreds of potentially harmful chemicals. Some release their harmful chemicals right away while others release them over a period of time. Make sure you use these products in an area with adequate ventilation.

Furniture: Furniture is most often put together with glue that contains formaldehyde, which will off-gas over time. Formaldehyde is a contributor of allergies, asthma and cancer over long periods of exposure. To prevent this from happening in your home avoid pressed wood products unless you are sure that they are free from formaldehyde.

Cooking: When you cook with a gas stove, nitrogen dioxide is produced at levels that the EPA considers unsafe to breathe. Nitrogen dioxide can worsen asthma and increase the risk of respiratory infection. To prevent these effects, ventilate the stove to the outside or keep a window open while cooking.

Plants: Some common house plants can actually remove harmful indoor air pollution, but others produce VOCs. These plants include peace lilies, areca palms, weeping figs and snake plants. Choose plants that are grown without pesticides and pot them in non-plastic pots (such as ceramic ones).

Allergies: Controlling Immune System Stressors

Mostly everyone knows that tree, flower and weed pollens are common allergy triggers. A weakened immune system sees these triggers as foreign bodies and launches histamine at them. Histamine in your body causes sneezing, wheezing and coughing. To build up your immune system and reduce the amount and severity of allergy attacks, consider making these lifestyle changes.

Diet: Inflammation in the body triggers the immune system. To reduce inflammation, stay away from pro-inflammatory foods such as dairy, wheat, saturated fats and processed and refined foods. There are also anti-inflammatory foods you can consume such as blueberries and other fruits and vegetables.

Stress: When you are severely stressed, hormones are released into your body. These hormones trigger the immune system and deplete nutrients. To decrease your stress levels you should always make sure you get enough sleep, exercise regularly and consider practicing yoga (or another relaxation technique).

Your Home: Everyone's house is a home to many allergens including mold, dust, pet dander, cleaning products and scented candles. All of these allergens lurking in your home can overload sensitive immune systems. To decrease the amount of irritants in your home you should clean your home regularly (preferably with a HEPA vacuum cleaner) and consider investing in a HEPA air purifier such as the Austin Air Allergy Machine Jr.

Antibiotics: Antibiotics are supposed to make you feel better when you have an infection, but they may be doing harm as well. Antibiotics can throw your immune system out of whack by destroying good bacteria along with the bad. To help combat this problem, consider taking probiotics daily to replenish the good bacteria and also reduce grass pollen allergies.

Outdoor Air: The tricking to spending time in the great outdoors is to remove the amount of pollen you come into contact with. Using a nasal rinse to remove irritants is beneficial. Trying to go outside late in the day or after it has rained because the pollen counts are lower.

Allergies: All About Multiple Chemical Sensitivity

What is Multiple Chemical Sensitivity?

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) is an usually severe sensitivity or allergy-like reaction to many different kinds of pollutants including solvents, VOCs, perfumes, petrol, diesel, smoke and chemicals in general. MCS can also refer to problems involving common household allergens such as pollen, house dust mites, pet fur and dander.

What Are the Symptoms?

Common symptoms include burning, stinging eyes, wheezing, breathlessness, nausea, extreme fatigue/lethargy, headache/migraine/vertigo/dizziness, poor memory and concentration, runny nose (rhinitis), sore throat, cough, sinus problems, skin rashes/itchy skin, sensitivity to light and noise, sleeping problems, digestive upset and muscle/joint pain.

What Causes MCS?

MCS is commonly regarded as an idiopathic disorder. This means it has no known mechanism of causation and its processes are not completely understood. The unknown factors of MCS along with the fact that its sufferers experience varied symptoms and severities make it very hard to treat.

What Can Be Done for MCS Sufferers?

There are four basic treatments for multiple chemical sensitivity. They include:

Chemical Avoidance: Eliminating exposure to the chemicals that cause negative reactions is scientifically proven to be the most effective treatment for MCS. Sufferers can tell their employers about the situation, ask others to avoid smoke and wearing perfume in their presence, avoid working near common sources of pollution including photocopiers, faxes and printers and open windows when at all possible to ensure fresh air.

Chemical Free Housing: Household cleaners, fragrances, petrochemicals, solvents and VOCs found in building materials and furnishing make indoor environments more polluted than outdoor environments. Making sure your home is chemical-free is an important part of symptom reduction/

Nutrient Therapy: Many MCS sufferers have noticed that increasing the levels of certain nutrients, such as antioxidants, reduces their symptom severity.

Sauna Therapy and Detoxification: The environmental chemicals stored in fat cells are eliminated when the body is heated by a sauna. The chemicals are mobilized from the fat stores by the heat and released via sweat.

Allergies: An Introduction

What are Allergies?

An allergy is an exaggerated immune system reaction in response to bodily contact with foreign substances that are usually seen by the body as harmless (and cause no response in those who are non-allergic). These foreign substances are called allergens and some common examples include pollens, dust mites, molds, danders and foods. An estimated 50 million North Americans suffer from allergens. The most commonly affected areas of the body includes the eyes, nose, lungs, skin and stomach.

The Common Allergic Conditions and Their Symptoms

Allergic Rhinitis: A collection of mostly nose and eye symptoms that occur when you breathe in common allergens such as dust, dander or pollen. The common symptoms include coughing, headache, itching nose, mouth, eyes, throat and skin, problems with smell, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, stuffy nose and tearing eyes.

Asthma: Attacks of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and coughing caused by an inflammatory disorder of the airways. Common symptoms include coughing, shortness of breath and wheezing. There are also more severe symptoms that may occur during a more serious attack.

Allergic Conjunctivitis: Due to a reaction from allergy-causing substances such as pollen and dander, thee tissue lining of the eyelids may become inflamed. Common symptoms include red eyes, dilated vessels in the clear tissue covering white of the eye, intense itching or burning eyes, puffy eyelids, tearing, and stringy eye discharge.

Allergic Eczema: Scaly and itchy rashes caused by a chronic skin disorder. Common symptoms include blisters, dry, leathery skin areas, ear discharge or bleeding, intense itching, rash, raw areas of skin from scratching, skin coloring changes and skin redness or inflammation.

Hives: Due to an allergic reaction to food or medicine, raised, often itchy, red welts occur on the surface of the skin. Common symptoms include itching and swelling of the surface of the skin into red or skin-colored welts with clearly defined edges.

Allergic Shock: This is the most serious and life-threatening allergic condition. It involves symptoms that develop quickly (within seconds or minutes). These symptoms include abdominal pain or cramping, abnormal breathing sounds, anxiety, confusion, cough, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, fainting, lightheadedness, dizziness, hives, itchiness, nasal congestion, nausea, vomiting, sensation of feeling the heart beat, skin redness, slurred speech and wheezing.

Alen Air Purifiers: Pure, Fresh, Life

Our tour of air purifier manufacturers continues this week with Alen Corp. The Alen Corp. started off in a different way than other air purifier manufacturers. Peter Mann,, the founder and CEO started the company because of a personal experience he had. His young son suffered from asthma and the medications he was given caused major side effects. After watching his son suffer in vain, he decided to help his son and others breathe easier by providing non-invasive and natural alternatives to medication. He started the company in 2005 to improve indoor air quality. Alen Corp. strives to truly help those afflicted with allergies and asthma and offers products with a superior quality, advanced technology, low prices and lifetime warranties. A new standard of excellence was established after Peter Mann founded by Alen Corp.

Along with the superior quality, advanced technology, low prices and lifetime warranties, Alen's commitment to the environment includes air purifiers that are RoHS certified lead free, Energy Star rated and ozone safe. There are a variety of filtration technologies utilized in Alen air purifiers. They include:

Silver Ion HEPA Filtration: This filtration technology destroys up to 99% of bacteria, up to 50% of viruses that cause influenza and 99% of airborne allergens. The filter is coated with Silver Ion, making it antimicrobial and keeping germs from developing and bacteria from blowing into the air. The presence of fungi and bacteria is reduced within five minutes.

True HEPA Filtration: This filter can eliminate up to 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns and larger. These particles include mold spores, bacteria, viruses, dust, pet dander and pollen.

UV Light: 96% of airborne bacteria are removed by ultraviolet light.

Ionizer: All Alen air purifiers feature negative ionizers because it has been proven that healthy environments have higher levels of negative ions. When used in conjunction with a HEPA filter, ionizers are very effective in removing particles from the air. Alen air purifiers are guaranteed ozone safe because high levels of ozone can cause side effects worse than the benefits.

Photo-Catalytic Oxidation: This technology utilizes a UV-C light and a permanent titanium dioxide grid to turn volatile organic compounds into harmless elements through a series of reactions. To prevent consumers from coming into contact with the rays of UV lights, this technology is located on the inner most section of any Alen air purifiers.

Airgle Air Purifiers:Breathe in Cleaner, Healthier Air

When researching what kind of air purifier to buy it is very important to take into account what specific needs you have. Do you need an air purifier specifically for dust allergies or is there smoke in the air? Or perhaps mold is a problem in your home? After you figure out what your purification needs are, another important step is getting to know the manufacturers that make air purifiers. Anything that makes you more confident when spend your hard-earned money on a product can't hurt, right? This week we're going to get better acquainted with a company called Airgle.

Airgle International Limited was founded in 1999. Airgle is a strange-sounding name but there was a purpose behind its conception. Air-g-l-e stands for Purifying Air with a Great Level of Efficiency. It is Airgle's goal to live up to the lofty promise that its name makes.

5 Ways Airgle is Different from the Rest:

1. Industry Pioneer - Airgle International Limited has been an industry leader since it was founded in 1999. Their main goal is to design air purification systems that improve the health and well being of people all over the world.

2. Advanced Air Purification Technologies - Innovation and technology is combined to help Airgle makes significant advances in air purification technologies.

3. International Presence - Airgle has many partners around the world and has offices in the United States, South Korea and Hong Kong.

4. Eliminates Contaminants and Allergens - Efficient clean air technologies are employed so that allergy and asthma sufferers do not have to worry about dust mites, mold and spores, pet dander, dust or smoke.

5. Tested by AHAM - The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers tested the Airgle 750 Air Purifier and found that the clean air delivery rate (CADR) is the highest out of 159 air purifiers tested. CADR is the best way to measure the effectiveness and performance of an air purifier.

Children and Allergies: Some Useful Tips

Allergy season is upon us, and that means protecting you and your family from allergy related sickness. Children are of course, very susceptible to allergies and on any given day over 10,000 children miss school because of allergies. Forty percent of all kids suffer from a nasal allergy and millions more have food and skin allergies.

This is equally as hard on the child as it is the parent. Play dates can quickly be effected because of both outdoor and indoor allergies. Indoor allergies can range from dust mite fecal matter to pet dander. If you are hosting children, especially allergy sensitive children, over to your house it is important to be prepared with a variety of allergy precautions.

Always have anti-allergen fabric spray on hand. This spray can reduce allergens and is usually both fragrance and dye free so it is safe to use around children and animals. It has been developed to not irritate skin either. Be sure to wash fabric toys and blankets with an anti-allergen bleach as well because it can help destroy allergens that are found in fabric fibers and on hard surfaces.

Be sure to vacuum whatever room you plan on hosting the get together. Be sure to use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to complete this task. This filter can eliminate 99.97% of dust, debris, dander and allergens down to 0.3 microns and comes recommended from a variety of health authorities.

Also, be sure to check out if the child has any allergic reactions in their diet. Food allergy and improper diet often speed up the effects of other allergies. Consult your child’s physician on planning a proper meal to help prevent and reduce the effects of allergens.

There are also some products on the market that offer superior sterilization over specific items, like toys, furniture and blankets.

Germ Guardian NS2000 Dry Heat Nursery Sanitizer



The Germ Guardian NS2000 Dry Heat Nursery Sanitizer is a perfect example of this. Toys are a prime location for germs, bacteria and other known allergens. This product allows you to sanitize toys, pacifiers, bottles among other infant instruments that they often come in contact with.

This tool can eliminate 99% of bacteria within 30 minutes making it both quick and effective. It uses dry heat to sanitize and kill bacteria without using any chemicals. Extremely easy and safe to use, the NS2000 shuts off automatically once the cleaning cycle is complete and will never shrink or fade colorful fabrics or melt plastic and rubber items. It has a proven success rate in killing germs that cause pneumonia, RSV, earlobes, diarrhea, colds, and flu and has been tested by third parties to help verify their results.



Germ Guardian LW18 UV-C Sanitizer Wand

For a more portable sanitizer you should look at the Germ Guardian LW18 UV-C Sanitizer Wand. All you have to do is run it over surfaces to kill 99 percent of bacteria and viruses. It also helps eliminates allergens like mold and dust mites as well as odors.

Utilizing UV-C light that is used in hospitals for superior sanitization, all you have to do is hold the wand over an object for 20 seconds at a distance of about 2 inches for quick and effective sterilization. The wand has a maximum of 8,000 hours of use and can be programmed from anywhere between 5-60 minute intervals. The LW18 UV-C Sanitizer Wand is the perfect tool for a quick bacteria and allergen sweep before a childes play date.

Indoor Air Can Be Worse Then Outdoor Air For Children who Sufferer From Asthma

For years, the conventional theory has been that if you are inside your should be free from common allergy and asthma triggers like pollen or pollution. Researchers are now discovering that depending on where you live, indoor pollution can be much worse then outdoor air pollution. Right now, they are trying to educate the public on proper pollution prevention techniques and have a large goal of trying to cut children who suffer from asthma down by 50% by 2012.

While parents have always known that polluted air can bring on asthma attacks, they didn't know how severe the damage that can occur within their homes can be. This is especially true with children who suffer from breathing problems and live within the inner city. Even in their house they are subjected to cigarette smoke, dust mites, mold and even smells that come from cooking with a variety of herbs and spices all of which can trigger an attack.

There is a direct correlation between the air that children breathe at home and the hundreds of thousands of emergency room visits in the U.S. every year. After this study, done by John Hopkins researchers, was released many health care professionals made it their point to educate the public about the dangers of indoor air pollution as an attempt to greatly reduce the amount of child asthma sufferers.

Right now, as many as one in five Baltimore children suffer from asthma, and is the most common disease among kids. The number is disproportionate as a large majority of these kids are inner-city youth. This number has increased greatly over the last twenty years. Unfortunately there is no set specific reason for this increase yet doctors are continuously looking for an answer.

While doctors have known for years that there are always hidden dangers in the air we breathe, this is the first study to directly connect indoor air with asthma. For years, many believed that the simple act of keeping your kids inside during bad pollution days, sweeping the floor and using plug in air fresheners was a good way to keep your family safe and asthma risks down. But unfortunately these misconceptions often do more harm then good. When you sweep you are only kicking up stagnant dust making it easier for inhalation. Air fresheners have been shown to have side effects on young children who have trouble breathing, and the simple act of keeping them inside could be very harmful if your house or apartment does not have proper ventilation.

When trying to keep your house clean, there is a good chance you are making things worse. Air borne insecticides used to prevent mice and cockroaches have a high history of inducing asthma attacks. Also chemicals found in older homes that come from old plaster and wood are beginning to surface as other sources for asthma attacks.

The problem researchers are finding in their Baltimore movement for better asthma prevention is that you begin to encroach on individual rights when trying to educate and change indoor air quality health. This is especially problematic when you discover that for every 10 microgram-per-cubic-meter increase in indoor coarse air particle pollution there was a 6 percent increase in the number of days of coughing, wheezing and chest tightness. This results in a 7 percent increase in limited speech and a 4 percent increase in the number of days rescue medication was needed. Perhaps, the biggest problem is that there is no set standard for levels of indoor air pollution set by the EPA like there is for the outdoors. This, results in more kids staying inside on "bad days" even if inside is worse.

The one thing all researchers recommend is an item with a HEPA filter. This could be on an air purifier or a vacuum cleaner. Either way, it is a very effectual way to eliminate airborne impurities.

What we recommend:



On that note, we recommend the Electrolux EL491A oxygen PlasmawWave HEPA air purifier, in white sleep mode features multiple levels of air filtration. It begins with a pre-filter that catches all the large pieces of debris so that the air purifier can do its job better. The carbon filter eliminates smells without using any harsh chemicals. The true HEPA filter is a great way to eliminate allergens and asthma triggers as it filters, 99.97% of dust, debris, dander and dirt all the way down to 0.3 microns.

The EL491a operates silently and is energy star certified to keep your energy bill low. There is a sleep mode to keep it running smoothly even when you wish to sleep. There are also odor sensors to automatically adjust performance to the level needed. It features five fan speeds and PlasmaWave technology for added power.

Allergy Tips and Tricks

Allergy Tips and Tricks

Let's face it, allergies can make life difficult. They affect your health making anything from work to day-to-day living extremely difficult to deal with. But thankfully there are ways to help curb the effects and severity of your allergies to make your life more manageable. Here are a couple of tips to help you make it through allergy season with little trouble:

Check the Pollen Count

If your allergies are acting up or you are worried about how bad they can be that day, check out the daily pollen count at the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. If its really bad try exercising indoors or going out later in the day as allergies tend to have higher counts in the early to mid morning. Also expect pollen counts to be higher on warm, dry or windy days. Pollen counts are lower on wet and cloudy days as well.

Spend Time Next to the Ocean

Try timing vacations to be congruent with allergy season. Then vacation next to water like a lake or ocean. Allergens and pollen counts tend to be significantly lower next to areas near open water. That way you can enjoy your vacation and bypass a good part of your local allergy season.

Eat Healthy

Believe it or not, your diet does impact your susceptibility to allergies. Research has shown that food high in antioxidants and omega 3s, like fish help individuals with asthma breathe easier.

Stay Clean

Shower and wash your hair every night before going to bed. Change your pillow case and sheets often. Remember to frequently wash your clothes and pajamas. Try to stay clean as possible as allergens and molds have a tendency to build up significantly. Just because you can't see them doesn't mean you are not breathing them.

Keep Your Eyes Clear

Keep your eyes as clean as possible, and try to avoid rubbing them to prevent pushing allergens in further. Try rinsing your eyes in the shower with a baby tear-free baby shampoo to remove any other allergies that might have built up over time. If you have vision problems contact your doctor to see what sort of solution can work best for you


Avoid Cross-Reactions
Eating certain foods, especially produce can cause additional allergic reactions especially if you have seasonal tree allergies. This is because of an adverse reaction between proteins found with fruits and pollens. You can tell if this is occurring because you may have tingly mouth or itchy throat. Foods like melons or tomatoes have a tendency to cross react with grass pollens so be aware of what you are eating.

Breathe 'Fresh' Air

Whether you are in the car or your house, remember to keep your windows closed and to set the air conditioner to re-circulate to help remove pollen. Also remember to clean the filters regularly, especially allergy or pollen season. Also look into purchasing an air purification unit for better allergy prevention and protection.



For an effective air purifier, look into the Surround Air Intelli-Pro Air Purifier. Seven comprehensive stages of air purification manage to thoroughly clean your air allowing asthma and allergy sufferers to breathe easy. It can cover up to 650 square feet effectively and has advanced sensor technology that is constantly measuring the pollutant level, letting you know how clean the air actually is. Its filtration methods include a pre-filter, HEPA filter, Ti02 filter, UV light ionizer and carbon filter. While it is always a good idea to check out other models, be sure to get an air purifier with a HEPA filter as those have been proven to be a great asset to asthma sufferers.

New Discoveries in Air Purification Could Keep Indoor Air Flu-Free

Scientists in Japan may have developed a new form of photocatalyst filtration that could keep indoor air influenza free. This new photocatalyst filter reacts to visible light which greatly raises its purification properties. This photochemical formula is expected to be applied to air purification systems to help stop the flu virus. It should be commercially applicable in three years.

Before now, chemical photocatalysts just used a grounding of titanium oxide that never reacted to light indoors. This new filter produces better results under indoor light. Currently photocatalyst filters breakdown when exposed to sunlight break down organic contamination.

To get better results from visible light, that has a longer wavelength then UV, this team of researchers used copper ions and attached them to the surface of tungsten oxide molecules. There is a 16 times increase in purification after using this process. There are plans to take this technology more viable by using a cheaper titanium oxide in the future. This new technology is especially powerful against airborne viruses like the flu.

Recommendation:



While this new filtration technology isn't available yet, one should try looking at the Airsopure S980 for a powerful purifier. This air purifier offers multiple levels of filtration. It boasts True HEPA grade filters, a carbon odor removing stage, and an incredible design layout that gives you complete control. It's HEPA filter removes 99.97% of airborne particles, including mold, spores, dust, dander and allergens. The next layer of activated carbon virtually eliminates all odors in the room. Its photocatalytic oxidation technology provides great purification. The high grade pre-filter with active carbon absorbs odors and toxic gases and the UV-C lamp is effective at eliminating bacteria and viruses smaller then 0.3 microns.

Significant studies have shown that 90% of the bacteria and viruses are eliminated in the first pass when using the Airsopure S980. The Photo-Catalytic Oxidation (PCO) chamber provides 10,000 times the ultra violet intensity of comparable sunlight, which will break the chemical chain of Volitile Organic Compounds (VOC) and turn them into water and harmless gases. The Airsopure is a great way to keep your air clean and germ free.

How to Conquer Spring Allergies

For over 35 people in the United States, spring is often synonymous with allergies. Often called "allergic rhinitis," symptoms are usually triggered by allergens such as pollen and dust which initiate an allergic response. When inhaled by allergy sufferers, these allergens combine with an allergic antibody called immunoglobulin (IgE) which is present at very levels in the body. However, in allergy sufferers, IgE is found in large quantities, and according to Gillian Shepherd, MD, chair of the Education Sub-Committee of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, "When the allergen and the IgE combine in the lining of the nose or eyes, the result is the release of chemicals, including histamine. These chemicals cause the allergic symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, nasal congestion or headaches as the body tries to fight off the foreign allergen."

In order to counter these allergy symptoms, both over-the-counter and prescription medications are readily available such as antihistamines, decongestants, combination medicines, corticosteroids, and others. These serve to help ease annoying symptoms such as congestion and runny nose. Moreover, allergy shots can be administered in order to increase one's ability to tolerate allergens. However, to further allergy-proof your home, you can also follow these easy steps:

Perform a thorough spring cleaning. This involves cleaning and/or dusting windows, air conditioning vents, and bookshelves. In the winter, dust and mold can collect on these surfaces and provoke symptoms.

Avoid pollen. Dr. Shepherd states the following: "On windy days, or for days after high winds, pollen counts are high because the pollen has been spread throughout the air." Therefore, stay indoors when pollen counts are high, and keep in mind that peak pollen times are usually from 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. It's also a good idea to shut the windows in your house during these times, and avoid using fans or windows that may draw pollen inside.

Wash bedding weekly in hot water. Also dry your laundry indoors, as sheets hanging on an outside line are an easy target for pollen.

Shower in the evening. Shower and wash your hair before going to bed because pollen can collect on your head and scalp.

Don't let pets near furniture or your bedroom. Pollen can cling to your dog after being outside, and cat hair has been known to be one of the most common allergens due to the cat glycoprotein Fel d 1, which is secreted through a cat's sebaceous glands.

Wear a filter mask. This is especially useful when mowing the law or performing any type of gardening work.

Invest in an air purifier with a quality HEPA filter. Air purifiers can be instrumental in eliminate common springtime allergens from your home. However, keep in mind that for maximum allergy relief, only an air purifier with HEPA filtration will do. HEPA filters have the ability to filter out 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns such as dust and pollen. In fact, they are so effective, they are often utilized by hospitals and government buildings. Some good air purifier choices for allergy sufferers would be the Austin AllergyMachine and the Airpura H600.

How to Alleviate Hay Fever Symptoms

Springtime conjures up memories of warmer weather, clear skies, and blooming flowers, but the season can be miserable for those who suffer from seasonal allergies. Pollen is one of the most common and prevalent allergens, and in the spring, the amount of pollen floating in the air can be up to four times greater than in any other season. According to Gillian Shepherd, M.D., an allergy specialist, "On windy days or for days after high winds, pollen counts are high because the pollen has been spread through the air. After it rains, counts drop as the rain washes the pollen away."
Therefore, allergy sufferers are all too familiar with the perils of high pollen count, and high pollen counts can affect numerous types of allergies, from conjunctivitis to skin reactions such as dermatitis. However, the most common spring allergy is allergic rhinitis.

Commonly called hay fever, seasonal allergic rhinitis affects 35 million people in the U.S. and is commonly triggered by allergens such as pollens and molds. When allergic rhinitis sufferers inhale these allergens, they are combined with an allergic antibody called immunoglobulin (IgE), and in those who have allergies, IgE is found at especially high concentrations.

To alleviate hay fever symptoms, your doctor may prescribe oral medication, nasal sprays, or eye drops, but perhaps one of the best ways at combating hay fever is to avoid substances such as pollen altogether. Here are some preventative steps you can take to keep pollen and dust out of your home:

Turn on Your Air Conditioner
Did you know that your air conditioner can actually help control allergens? Air conditioners allow windows and doors to stay closed, which keep some pollen and mold spores outside. Moreover, this keeps indoor humidity levels down, and the less moisture there is in the air, the less chance of mold growth.

Use Furnace Filters
Even though staying indoors is one way to avoid high levels of pollen, this may not be enough. Even if the windows or doors within a room remain closed, pollen can still seep n. Quality allergy furnace filters can solve this problem, and the ones from AllergyZone are great for this purpose. Be sure to change the filter regularly during hay fever season.

Wear Dust Masks
When performing housework, many common dusting and vacuum devices can actually shuffle as much dust and pollen back into the air as they take out. Therefore, a dust mask can prevent you from breathing in debris while cleaning. Also consider purchasing a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter if this is truly a concern.

Purify the Air
Air purifiers are great for those suffering from respiratory disorders such as hay fever. When choosing an air purifier, select a unit with HEPA filters and all-metal construction. True HEPA filters have the ability to remove up to 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger, and all-metal or steel gaskets prevent off-gassing of chemicals into the air.

Austin Air has also designed an air purifier specially designed for allergy sufferers. With the ability to clean large areas up to 1500 square and utilizing both medical-grade, True HEPA and HEGA filters, this air purifier is perfect for keeping hay fever symptoms at bay.

Air Purifier News: Can Cockroach Debris Worsen Your Allergies?

Cockroaches are a common insect infestation found in American homes and buildings. Traditionally, cockroaches were eliminated because they were offensive and caused gastrointestinal and respiratory illnesses, but cockroach debris such as old shells, saliva, body parts, and droppings can also cause a range of health problems. According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), cockroaches are one of the most common and allergenic of indoor pests, with recent studies showing that there is a strong correlation between the presence of cockroaches and increases in the severity of asthma and allergy symptoms in those sensitive to cockroach allergens and debris. In fact, the NIEHS states that cockroach debris is more likely to trigger asthma attacks than cat dander.

In the United States alone, 17 to 41 percent of people are allergic to cockroaches, with even greater numbers found in the inner cities. In addition to exacerbating asthma and allergy symptoms, cockroach debris can cause sneezing, chest pain, and conjunctivitis. In extreme cases, exposure to cockroach debris can even lead to a potentially life-threatening reaction called anaphylactic shock - a severe type of allergy reaction which involves two or more body systems, including a drop in blood pressure.

However, although cockroaches may be more prevalent in urban areas, older dwellings, and inner cities, these pests are common in even the cleanest and most immaculate homes, or wherever there is any type of food or moisture. Due to the presence of food and moisture, kitchens and bathrooms usually have some of the highest number of cockroaches, and once a cockroach infestation has taken place, getting rid of the insects and their debris can be quite a chore.

Cockroaches do not necessarily need to be actively present for their debris to do damage. Day-to-day activities such as carrying grocery bags and returning from trips can also bring cockroaches, eggs, and their debris into a home. Also, it should be noted that cockroaches tend to live in groups. If you notice one in your kitchen, there is a good chance that there can be 800 or more other cockroaches roaming around in various locations of your home.

While the best way to reduce cockroach debris is to avoid the allergen altogether, extensive extermination, as well as thorough and repeated cleanings, can eliminate a good amount of the nasty pollutant. However, for those living in apartments, removing cockroach debris may be a bit more difficult, as cockroaches can roam from one apartment to the next and will return to an exterminated area once pesticides wear off.

To eliminate cockroach debris, you must also eliminate the three main sources of cockroach allergens: cockroaches and their food sources; warm and moist environments; and dust. Be sure to store food and garbage in tight-lidded containers and clean crumbs immediately. Plug crevices around your home and repair leaky drain pipes or faucets. Cleaning cockroach debris can also involve steam cleaning rugs, carpet and furniture; vacuuming; installing furnace filters in your heating and cooling system; and even utilizing some kind of HEPA air purifier in areas where you may suspect especially high concentrations of cockroach debris.

Allergy Furnace Filters: Inexpensively Transform Your Home into an "Allergy-Proof Zone"

Although studies have shown that indoor air quality can be several times worse than the air outdoors, cleaning the air you breathe can wreck havoc on your wallet, as some of the more higher-end air purifiers on the market can cost several hundred dollars. However, for those of you watching their finances, clean air may still be within your reach.

Furnace filters are easy-to-install, high-efficiency filters that look like pleated panels. Specially designed to meet the needs of allergic and asthmatic individuals, these are simple to install and require little to no tools, as they are inserted into the filter opening of your home furnace or air conditioning unit. The fibers of a furnace filter act like magnets to attract and capture 90% of large allergens like dust, mold, and pet dander, therefore allergy-proofing your home and almost transforming your home into a "whole house filter."

Nonetheless, while allergy furnace filters are effective at capturing the particles circulating in your home's air, they cannot remove what is hiding in your ductwork. Rather, for the most complete protection against airborne particulates, allergy furnace filters are still best used in conjunction with some time of air purification system, and are simply an inexpensive way to help your home become an "allergy-safe zone."

For more information on allergy furnace filters, Click Here.

Vacuuming Doesn't Remove Dust Mites - What About Air Purifiers?

Dust mites are nuisances found in all homes and often wreck havoc on one's allergies. In fact, they are considered the most common cause of asthma and allergy symptoms worldwide, and their enzymes can produce noxious odors in full vacuum bags. In order to find ways to limit exposure to such allergens, a recent study was conducted by the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research in Australia. Because vacuuming is usually the most common way of removing dust mites, the Australian researchers wanted to test the efficacy of this method, but they found that vacuum cleaning was ineffective and inconsistent at removing dust mite allergens from carpets.

In fact, rather than removing dust mites from carpets, vacuuming helped changed the distribution of the mites within the carpets. While vacuums with rotating heads were initially more successful at picking up dander and allergens, the rotating vacuum heads were counterproductive in that they also served to kick up the dust in the air after prolonged use. In response to the study results, Woolcock researcher Jason Sercombe stated: "Allergen avoidance measures that rely solely on vacuum cleaning are likely to be of limited success unless rigorous cleaning than standard home vacuuming is performed."

Instead of vacuuming, the researchers at Woodcock suggested regularly washing bedding, pillows, and stuffed toys with hot water on a weekly basis. In addition, Sercombe also noted the effectiveness of HEPA filters in helping to reduce dust mite allergens, as he stated: "The most important aspect to look for is HEPA (high efficiency particulate air filter) filtration."