Important Allergy Relief Products
In this article you will see some nice products we must buy to safeguard against allergy in homes.
What is Allergy?
An allergy is the response of the body's immune system to normally harmless substances, such as pollens, foods, and house dust mite. Whilst in most people these substances (allergens) pose no problem, in allergic individuals their immune system identifies them as a’ threat’ and produces an inappropriate response.
Allergies are classified into IgE mediated and non-IgE mediated allergies. In IgE mediated allergies the immune system produces exaggerated amounts of a distinct class of antibodies known as IgE antibodies that are, specific for the particular offending allergens. These IgE antibodies bind to the surface of cells in the body called mast cells which become ‘IgE-sensitised’ such that these cells can then identify particular allergens the next time they come in contact with the body. This process is called sensitisation, and at this stage there are no physical symptoms of an allergy.
Here are some nice product you must buy to protect you and your family from allergy in 2014
Cover Your Mattress or pillows
Encase pillows, mattress, and box springs in allergen-proof covers. Prices can range from $65-$150 depending on bed size.
Clean the Air with HEPA Filters
A HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter can capture 98% of the tiny particles (allergens) in the air. These portable devices range from tabletop to room-size. HEPA filters work best for removing pet dander and pollen, but not as well for dust mites.
Use an Allergen-Trapping Filter
Typical furnace filters don't catch smaller allergens. Pleated paper filters with a MERV (efficiency) rating of 7 to 13 can be almost as effective as HEPA filters and can cost around $10. Electrostatic filters use charged fibers to trap allergens and can cost less than $15.
Use Electronic Air Cleaners
Electronic air cleaners don't use filters or fans. Instead, they change the electric charge on polluting particles. Some electronic air cleaners produce ozone, which can further irritate allergies.
Neti Pot: Clean Your Nasal Passages
Using a neti pot to irrigate your nasal passages may help reduce allergy symptoms. Fill the pot with lukewarm saline solution, tilt your head over the sink, then pour the salt water into one nostril and let it drain out of the other. The pots, which are available at health food and drugstores, sell for around $15 and contain instructions
Use Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers
Dust mites -- tiny creatures that live in your bed, sofa, and carpet -- are a leading cause of nasal allergies. Keeping indoor humidity low helps control dust mites, which thrive in moist, warm air. But too-dry air can irritate nasal passages and make allergy symptoms worse. Strike a balance by keeping the humidity in your home between 30%-50%.
Wear a Mask and Gloves
Housework and yard work stir up an uncommon amount of potential allergens, from dust and pet dander to pollen and leaf mold. Prevent an allergy attack by donning an inexpensive safety mask and gloves
Use a HEPA Vacuum
Vacuuming once a week can help allergy proof your home, but you'll need to use a vacuum with a replaceable HEPA filter or use a double bag
Mold & Mildew Killers
To get rid of mold – a common allergen that thrives in warm, wet places like the kitchen and bathroom -- follow these 3 steps: Clean, disinfect, and dry. Scrub mold and mildew away with soap, water, and a stiff brush. Disinfect with a mold-killing product that has 5% chlorine bleach, or use hydrogen peroxide or vinegar
Pet Beds & Shampoos
There are no hypoallergenic pets, but you can reduce pet allergies by keeping your exposure to pet dander to a minimum. Use a mild shampoo to bathe your pet frequently; if your cat is averse to a bath, at least wipe the cat's fur with a damp washcloth.
