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Is Allergy Season Getting Worse?

AHA Publisher — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 07:00:38 +0000

Naama Barak via Israel21c – While this winter’s been a harsh one here in Israel, many people aren’t enjoying spring. And for good reason, too, since it involves weeks of blowing their nose, being red-eyed and feeling all scratchy. In other words: allergy season is upon us. And unfortunately, the climate change we’re experiencing isn’t making things a whole lot better. “We have the greenhouse effect which in countries like ours prolongs the warm season, creates more air pollution, more flowering time and apparently also very high flowering intensity, which all bring down the lives of people with allergies,” explains Dr. Yuval Tal, director of the clinical immunology and allergy unit at Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem. “Another thing that’s related to the greenhouse effect is the rise of carbon dioxide,” he adds. “The more you increase the temporality of the CO2, the longer you let the flowers blossom and create more pollen.” And pollen is the enemy of people suffering from respiratory allergies. “Usually, when we think about pollen, we think of the pretty flowers that bees are drawn to and pollinate,” says Gabriela Adler, chief scientist at air quality monitoring and forecasting company BreezoMeter. “That’s not the pollen we’re talking about when it comes to allergies. This is pollen that is pollinated by a different, wind-based method,” explains Adler, who has a PhD in atmospheric science. “And because the pollination isn’t targeted like it is with bees, it has to do more with quantities. The flowers of these trees aren’t very pretty because they don’t need to attract insects, and they just dump huge quantities of pollen into the air to make something catch. That’s why there are such large quantities of pollen in the air,” she tells ISRAEL21c. “Pollen is seasonal and it varies from species to species. Trees are usually around spring, then there’s grass and then weeds toward the fall. They each have a season, and so do the different types of trees – birch trees, olive trees and oaks all have their own season – and they’re all also affected by the microclimate. One tree located in Seattle will have different seasonality than a similar tree located 20 kilometers away.” What Trees Know Adler explains that trees have an emission mechanism and a scattering mechanism. “The emission mechanism emits pollen when the conditions are optimal and it feels that the pollen won’t go to waste,” Adler says. “Good conditions are a high temperature and relatively low humidity. For trees, that usually happens around spring.” But the effects of climate change, fluctuating temperatures and longer and shorter seasons play around with that. “Coniferous trees, for example, have mechanisms that ‘count’ the number of cold days in winter and then when the temperatures rise, they ‘count’ the number of warm days in order to pollinate. Each [temperature-related] disruption disrupts the whole pollen season,” Adler adds. Specific climatic events such as thunderstorms also wreak havoc with regular pollination patterns, Tal notes. “There’s the whole issue of extreme weather. If for example you have a lightning storm, then the lightning makes the pollen hover off the ground, and the electricity in the air opens the proteins,” he explains. Stress and Allergies And yet, climate change isn’t the only thing making our allergies worse in recent years. “Other things worsening the situation are our growing awareness, the fact we have more money and, perhaps most importantly, the increasing stress of Western life,” Tal notes. “Chronic stress makes allergic diseases more difficult to balance because of a protein in the blood that’s the main protein in the allergic process. It makes the state of allergies worse and more stubborn in the face of treatment. I think that’s no less substantial than other things.” As for awareness and money, Tal notes that since most people are no longer battling to survive like they did in the past, they can give more time and thought to smaller things that bother them, such as runny noses and scratchy eyes – conditions that are not life-threatening but still impact well-being. Prevention and Treatment The two experts recommend preventative measures and treatment. Adler, whose company BreezoMeter lets users know about real-time allergens in their immediate surroundings, notes that simple actions like deciding whether or not to hang the laundry outside or to take the dog for a walk due to pollen levels can minimize exposure and suffering. “You can try and avoid it, and to manage this whole allergy business,” she notes. “It’s mostly about being aware that things can change from day to day and that it’s dynamic, even when it’s allergy season.” Tal, meanwhile, recommends forgoing over-the-counter antihistamines in favor of a visit to a specialist. “Professionals have the tools to help people. We can help around 90 percent of patients,” he tells ISRAEL21c. “An anti-allergy pill isn’t always the solution. People take an antihistamine for everything. It usually doesn’t do damage, but it also doesn’t do a lot of good, and it anyhow probably isn’t the same sort of antihistamine that we could give out as professionals,” he says. “Going to an expert at a good center is the most effective solution that I can offer.” To read the original article click here.

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Want to Alleviate Allergy Symptoms Immediately? 3 Effective Strategies

AHA Publisher — Tue, 21 Sep 2021 07:00:06 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – If you suffer from allergies, it can be difficult to find relief. They seemingly affect many people year-round. From pollen to dust to molds, it’s tough to get away from allergens and alleviate allergy symptoms. However, there are steps you can take to improve the situation. Here are why allergens often affect us, and the 3 best natural ways to alleviate allergy symptoms. Allergies: Numbers and Methods Allergies are common. In fact, according to the CDC, more than 50 million Americans now suffer from allergies each year (1). At their core, allergic reactions are inflammatory responses and may occur most often in those who have greater inflammatory reactions in general. In fact, studies show that those with seasonal allergic reactions and asthmatic allergies have higher underlying inflammation even when they are not showing symptoms (2). These results have led experts to believe that reducing the underlying inflammation may improve asthmatic and allergic conditions. Here are 3 strategies to help you alleviate allergic reactions! 3 Natural Strategies to Alleviate Symptoms 1. SUPPORT YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM WITH THE RIGHT NUTRIENTS First and foremost, you can support your body with the right nutrients when fighting seasonal allergy symptoms. Four to consider are: OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS Start by consuming nutrients that reduce inflammatory reactions. Omega-3s from fish oil are the best source available. You can take a potent omega-3 supplement daily or consume fatty fish regularly. Of course, if you are “aspirin-sensitive” or on blood thinners, always talk to your doctor before starting or increasing fish oil. PROBIOTICS While it may seem odd that your gut has anything to do with sneezing and post-nasal drip, probiotics have been shown to help those with seasonal allergies. In fact, one study of 173 people who suffer from seasonal allergies found that taking a daily probiotic with lactobacillus strains significantly improved their “quality of life” scores from baseline to peak pollen compared to a placebo group (3). It is hypothesized that probiotics help to increase the percentage of regulatory T cells (Tregs) thereby improving allergen tolerance. ZINC, VITAMIN C, AND VITAMIN D AND MORE There are also vitamins and minerals that bolster immune response. Dr. Colbert’s Enhanced Multivitamin and Organic Divine® Health Green Supremefood® contain balanced amounts of important nutrients for the immune system and immune response. These include organic greens, probiotics, zinc, vitamin C, vitamin D, and more. APPLE CIDER VINEGAR While not exactly a “nutrient,” apple cider vinegar works against allergies in 2 ways: First, scientists have found that the bacteria in raw vinegar can actually improve immune factors and protect from an allergic reaction (4). Next, apple cider vinegar is a natural decongestant, and it causes your sinuses to drain when you drink it. While the relief is temporary, it is effective and reduces the risk of clogged sinuses becoming infected. How should you take it? ALWAYS dilute apple cider vinegar. Taken straight, it can damage your esophagus. Mix 1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar, 4 oz. water, 1/2 tsp ginger, ½ tsp cinnamon, and stevia to taste. Take 2-3 times per day during allergy season. 2. OPTIMIZE YOUR DIET TO REDUCE INFLAMMATORY RESPONSES In addition to consuming anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting nutrients, it’s vital to vastly reduce pro-inflammatory foods and fats in your diet. How? ULTRA-PROCESSED FOODS First, identify and remove ultra-processed foods. Ultra-processed foods are the commercial, processed foods that contain a lot of processed fats and sugars. These foods and the carbohydrates and fats in them promote inflammation, weight gain, abnormal blood glucose, elevated blood pressure, and more in the body. If you want a healthy body and immune system, start by reducing any ultra-processed foods in your diet, if needed. PROCESSED OMEGA-6 FATTY ACIDS Second, remove as many potent, processed sources of omega-6 fats as possible. Processed omega-6s act as an antagonist to omega-3s in the body, and work to increase inflammatory factors and reactions. How can you remove them? The best way is to look at every single item you buy with an ingredient label, and avoid all products with soybean oil. Then, take it a step further and avoid all those with high omega-6s. The full list and steps can be found here. 3. CLEAN UP YOUR ENVIRONMENT TO REDUCE ALLERGENS Whether you’re inside or out, allergens come from your environment. Here are a few steps you can take to reduce your allergen contact while still enjoying the health benefits of the great outdoors. LEAVE YOUR SHOES OUTSIDE Shoes have a way of trapping pollen on them and then depositing it all over your floor surfaces if worn inside. Instead, remove them at the door and leave them outside. KEEP YOUR FLOORS AND COUNTERS AS CLEAN AS POSSIBLE Dust mites cause many allergy symptoms. You can decrease dust mites in your home. Dust regularly, vacuum, and use a HEPA filter. Wash floors and surfaces regularly. These tasks can help reduce dust mites and thereby seasonal allergies and symptoms. KEEP WINDOWS AND DOORS CLOSED Especially if you live in an area with high pollen counts, keep windows and doors closed. Pollen blows around most in the Spring, and typically in the early hours of the day. Keep windows and doors closed to avoid pollens blowing inside. Instead, use an air conditioner if you feel too warm. Make sure to change the old filters as they will most likely be full of dust, pollen, and mold. Installing an air purifier with a HEPA filter will also help to remove allergens from the interiors. TAKE SHOWERS OFTEN AND CHANGE CLOTHES AFTER BEING OUTSIDE Clothes and hair are pollen magnets, so take them off and rinse as soon as possible! Instead of dragging the pollen inside and sitting it in, shower and change. REMOVE POLLEN BEFORE YOU LIE DOWN Consider showering before bed, changing pillowcases daily, and sheets regularly. If you go to bed with pollen in your hair, it can stay on your pillowcase for days. Then, you’re essentially sleeping in pollen! Keep these soft surfaces as clear of pollen as possible to get a good night sleep and wake up feeling better rather than worse. KEEP YOUR NOSE CLEAN The environment of your nose is also an important consideration. If you can get the allergens out that are trapped inside your nose, you can alleviate allergies. To do so, try all-natural nasal sprays and/or a neti-pot flush. At most stores and pharmacies, you can find nasal sprays with simple ingredients like baking soda, salt, and purified water. These sprays flush out your nasal passages. When used a few times per day they can ease allergy symptoms, especially if you begin using it proactively before strong symptoms begin. BOTTOM LINE Allergies are a reality for many, many adults. However, you can use our strategies to gain relief immediately. Alleviate allergy symptoms with healthy nutrients, a “clean” anti-inflammatory diet, and an improved personal environment. Then, let us know how these tips helped you! To read the original article click here.

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Hay Fever: Natural Ways to Treat Seasonal Allergy Symptoms

AHA Publisher — Thu, 10 Jun 2021 07:00:54 +0000

Kathleen McCoy, BS via Dr. Axe – What makes spring so beautiful for many people leads to misery for those who suffer from seasonal allergy symptoms. Fresh-cut grass, blooming trees and flowers, and weeds release pollen, causing seasonal allergies (also known as hay fever) in an estimated 40 million to 60 million people each year, or up to 20 percent of people living in certain countries. Surveys have shown that when left untreated, seasonal allergy symptoms can become pretty miserable, affecting day-to-day activities and sometimes even spurring asthma attacks. For example, approximately 80 percent of people with asthma also suffer from seasonal allergies. Treating hay fever symptoms can reduce asthma-related hospitalizations and emergencies. How do you treat seasonal allergies? The good news is that natural allergy treatments can be as effective and, in many cases, even more effective than allergy medications. Some of the best options for managing seasonal allergy symptoms include making changes to your diet to reduce common allergens and inflammatory foods, taking supplements that support your immune system, and ridding your home of allergy triggers. What Are Seasonal Allergies? Allergic rhinitis is the medical term for hay fever and seasonal allergies, which affects the nasal passageways. This condition is characterized by the presence of inflammatory cells within the mucosa and submucosa. What months are allergy season? The time of the year that someone suffers from hay fever depends on the person’s specific triggers. Allergic rhinitis can occur not just in the spring, but throughout the summer and into the fall depending on the person. While hay fever frequently begins at a young age, it can strike anyone at any time. Sometimes seasonal allergy symptoms fade over the years, only to reoccur later in life. If you experience allergic rhinitis one location and move to a new area with different types of flora, your symptoms may go away or possibly get worse. Pollen is one of the main causes of seasonal asthma. Every tree, flower and weed releases pollen, but not all individuals have heightened sensitivity or allergic reactions to all types of pollens. It’s important to pay attention and recognize which things specifically trigger your hay fever symptoms. For some people, cottonwood trees and ragweed are the problems, while others struggle with grass. Research indicates nearly 75 percent of people in the United States who suffer from seasonal allergies are allergic to ragweed. Unlike grass, trees and flowers that produce pollen in the spring and summer, pollen due to ragweed is often highest during the fall. Nearly a third of ragweed allergy sufferers also experience allergic responses to certain foods. These include cucumbers, melons, zucchini, sunflower seeds, bananas and chamomile tea. (See below in the “Foods to Avoid” section.) Seasonal Allergy Symptoms What symptoms can seasonal allergies cause? The most common allergic rhinitis symptoms include: Stuffy nose/runny nose Post-nasal drip Excess mucus production Sneezing Runny nose Itchy, watery eyes Scratchy throat Tickle/irritation in the ears Decreased concentration and focus Decreased decision-making Exhaustion and sleep disorders Mood swings Irritability Low blood pressure Asthma Hives Eczema Middle ear infections Hay fever can feel similar to a common cold or sinus infection, but colds and sinus infections come and go much more quickly than seasonal allergies. Allergies usually don’t go away until the pollen is dormant. Someone suffering from seasonal allergies faces the same challenges season after season. When the allergen is pollen, mold or another airborne substance, the symptoms typically manifest in the lungs, nose and eyes. Food allergies, on the other hand, most commonly affect the mouth and stomach and may cause skin rashes. Researchers are at odds as to why this problem has worsened over the past 30 years but agree that allergies to pollen, mold and some foods are growing exponentially. We know increased pollen counts are one of the health effects of climate change; In 2000, pollen counts registered at 8,455 grains per cubic meter. By 2040, that number is projected to be well over 20,000. How do you know if you have bad allergies? The same pollen and allergens that trigger seasonal allergy symptoms can sometimes cause more serious symptoms, such as asthma attacks that result in wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and difficulty breathing. This condition is referred to as allergy-induced asthma or allergic asthma. People with compromised immune systems, COPD and other respiratory conditions also need to manage their seasonal allergy symptoms to prevent further complications. Changes in diet, natural supplements, essential oils and lifestyle changes can help, but it’s also smart to work with a doctor if you suffer from multiple conditions that affect your breathing. Causes As mentioned above, examples of allergy triggers that can cause hay fever symptoms include: pollen ragweed mold dust grass residue from trees and flowers These triggers are most likely to lead to rhinitis symptoms when the weather is dry and warm. Allergy symptoms are due to our bodies releasing histamine in response to an allergen. A strong immune system is therefore key to fighting seasonal allergies, since this helps control histamine release. Did you know that your risk of suffering from seasonal allergy symptoms increases dramatically if you have certain underlying medical conditions? Asthma, unmanaged stress, deviated septum, nasal polyps, recent trauma or illness, pregnancy, and even food allergies can put you at heightened risk. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, allergies are actually disorders of the immune system. The body over-reacts to harmless substances and produces antibodies to attack the substance. This is what causes the symptoms. You’re particularly susceptible to experiencing hay fever if you have: A weakened immune system Physical trauma or surgery Underlying illnesses High amounts of emotional and physical stress A lack of sleep You’re pregnant Stress plays a big part in keeping up immune defenses, and unmanaged stress can lead to worsened allergic reactions. Women who are pregnant — even those who’ve never suffered from allergies before — are more prone to allergic rhinitis. In fact, one in 100 pregnant women suffers from asthma during pregnancy, and many more suffer from hay fever. Safely treating allergies during pregnancy can be difficult — most over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription allergy medications aren’t considered safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Fortunately, there are numerous effective natural remedies that are safe, including for children, pregnant women and the elderly. Natural Treatments Limiting the time you spend outdoors can help relieve these symptoms of hay fever, but this isn’t the best solution. Who wants to spend their spring, summer and fall stuck indoors? Allergies can’t completely be prevented, but allergic reactions typically can be — or can at least be reduced. The treatment goal is to avoid contact with the allergen — however, this can be extremely difficult depending on your lifestyle. Treating your allergies typically requires a multi-pronged attack, one that addresses your diet, lifestyle and natural treatments. Foods to Avoid During Allergy Season: Any foods that you are allergic to, or have sensitivity to, should be avoided. If you’re not sure how far-reaching your food sensitivities are, an elimination diet can help identify foods that can make your allergies worse. Here are some common food allergens: Alcohol Caffeine Conventional dairy Chocolate Peanuts Sugar Artificial sweeteners Processed foods Melons Bananas Cucumbers Sunflower seeds Shellfish Bottled citrus juice Echinacea Chamomile Wheat Soy In addition to those above, many common food preservatives — including sodium bisulfite, potassium bisulfite, sodium sulfite and artificial sweeteners — can contribute to your allergic rhinitis symptoms. Avoid dried fruits, bottled citrus juice, shrimp and any highly processed foods. Many people also find relief when avoiding foods that cause mucus production — and it isn’t just dairy that contributes to mucus. Conventional dairy, gluten, sugar, caffeinated beverages, as well as any foods that you have sensitivities to can worsen your reaction. If you have a ragweed allergy, it’s important to avoid melons, bananas, cucumbers, sunflower seeds, echinacea and chamomile, as they can trigger allergic responses in your system. The goal of limiting foods that you have sensitivity to is to lighten the overall burden on your immune system and allow it to function more optimally. Best Foods to Enjoy During Allergy Season: The foods to avoid list may feel overwhelming, but fortunately, there are great-tasting foods that help relieve your symptoms while strengthening your immune system, including: Raw local honey Hot and spicy foods Bone broth Probiotic-rich foods Pineapple Apple cider vinegar Fresh, organic vegetables Grass-fed meats Free-range poultry Wild-caught fish Raw local honey is at the top of this list for good reason. In a randomized, controlled study published in the International Archives of Allergy and Immunology, patients who consumed honey had significantly better control of their allergies compared to those on conventional allergy medications. Local honey works to relieve symptoms because it contains local pollen that causes your allergies and helps the immune system deal with it better. A couple of tablespoons each day can relieve your itchy, watery eyes, runny nose and the general symptoms of hay fever. If you are battling excessive mucus, heat things up by eating hot, spicy foods. Hot, spicy foods help thin the mucus and allow it to be more easily expressed. Try adding garlic, onion, ginger, cinnamon and cayenne pepper to your recipes. Bone broth from chicken, beef or lamb helps ease respiratory problems and expel excess nasal mucus. It also helps reduce inflammation. Probiotic-rich foods support a healthy gut, improve digestion, increase energy levels and so much more. Probiotic foods to eat during allergy season include: Kefir Sauerkraut or kimchi Kombucha Natto Yogurt Raw cheese If you experience excessive mucus production, consume raw, organic dairy products, as the pasteurization process destroys the enzymes the body need. The enzyme bromelain found in pineapple, in addition to high levels of vitamins B, C and other essential nutrients, can help reduce your reaction to allergens. Be sure to eat the core of fresh, ripe pineapples, as it has the highest concentration of the essential nutrients you need during allergy season. Apple cider vinegar (ACV) supports a healthy gut and helps break up mucus and support lymphatic drainage. Three times per day, mix one tablespoon of ACV with one tablespoon of fresh-squeezed lemon juice and a half-tablespoon of local raw honey, and drink it. Fresh, organic vegetables — including Swiss chard, which is high in quercetin, cabbage, beets, carrots and yams — can help you fight allergic reactions. Choose vegetables that are dark green, yellow or orange for the best nutrient density during allergy season. Clean proteins, including wild-caught salmon, free-range poultry and organic grass-fed beef and lamb, are important, too. Wild salmon is rich in vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, essential minerals and, of course, protein. If you haven’t yet made the switch to these types of clean proteins, allergy season is the perfect time. Other foods to enjoy during hay fever season including ginger, garlic, horseradish and onions. Ginger can be particularly helpful as it helps warm the body and break down toxins in your system. Best Supplements for Allergy Symptoms: It’s best to start supplements 30–60 days in advance of allergy season for the best results. Recent research shows that spirulina, butterbur and phototherapy hold promise in treating the symptoms of seasonal allergies. Spirulina — 1 teaspoon per day: Spirulina helps stop the release of histamine that causes symptoms. Consumption of spirulina was shown to significantly improve symptoms, including nasal discharge, sneezing, nasal congestion and itching, in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Quercetin — 1,000 milligrams per day: Research shows that quercetin, the flavonoid that gives fruits and vegetables their rich color, stops the production and release of histamine. Please note that quercetin may interfere with certain medications, including antibiotics, cyclosporine and other medications changed by the liver. Butterbur — 500 milligrams per day: Butterbur has traditionally been used to treat bronchitis, excess mucus and asthma. In a recent study of hay fever sufferers, it also was found to be as effective as some allergic rhinitis medications. However, young children and pregnant or breast-feeding women should not take butterbur supplements. Probiotics — 50 billion international units (2–6 capsules) per day: Probiotics modify the intestinal flora in the gut and help...

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Israeli Air Purifiers Fight Covid in 400 UK, Irish Buses

AHA Publisher — Fri, 15 Jan 2021 08:00:18 +0000

Abigail Klein Leichman via Israel21c – Four hundred touring coaches, repurposed to transport essential workers in the United Kingdom and Ireland, have been outfitted with air filtration and disinfection devices from Israeli startup Aura Air. The device has a pre-filter to catch large particles of dust, pollen, insects and animal hair. A patented three-layer HEPA filter catches particles as small as 0.3 microns, absorbs volatile organic compounds and bad odors, and neutralizes viruses, bacteria, fungi and mold. It also includes an ultraviolet LED-based component, the Sterionizer, which generates positive and negative ions to purify and freshen air. The system’s sensors and algorithms constantly monitor and analyze particles in the air as well as temperature, humidity and carbon dioxide. Passengers can view results via an app, and alerts are sent to the driver if any levels go above a certain threshold indicating a possible hazard. In pilots of the technology at a hotel and other locations in the United States, and at Sheba Medical Center in Israel, Aura Air neutralized various viruses, including the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, at a rate of 99.9%. Aura Air devices are sold to corporate customers such as schools, train stations and offices in Israel, Europe, the United States and the Far East, as well as to individual customers through the company’s website. Aura Air was founded by brothers Aviad and Eldar Shnaiderman and and has 14 employees. The devices are manufactured in Israel in collaboration with Beit El Industries. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Israel21c click here.

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