Allergies Export

Allergies Causes and Risks:

Allergy is caused by hypersensitivity of the immune system leading to a misdirected immune response. The immune system normally protects the body against harmful substances such as bacteria, viruses, and toxins. Allergy occurs when the immune system reacts to substances (allergens) that are generally harmless and in most people do not cause an immune response.

Allergies are common. Heredity, environmental conditions, number and type of exposures, emotional factors (stress and emotional upset can increase the sensitivity of the immune system), and many other factors can indicate a predisposition to allergies.

Source: Allergies

|National Institutes of Health | Mayo Clinic |InteliHealth | Health Central |
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Jane....

You are GOOD!

Thankyou for starting this forum..

The older I get, the more "stuff" I am allergic to ....

"Cat dander", really bothers my eyes, if I get it on my finger tips...

I love my brandy, but scratching her, (which she loves), leaves me with 'dander' on my finger tips, which causes irritation to my eyes, if I happen to touch them..

Which I do, all the time...

I keep thinking that a pot of what ever(cleaning solution, or clear water), next to my window on the world, might solve the problem..

Hi, Dapph...I, too, seem to have more allergies as I get older. I've always had "hay fever"...but now I seem to have it year 'round. I finally went to an allergist and he did the skin testing...and I'm allergic to all those usual things...molds, dust, grass, etc. Great in a rural area, huh!!!

I've been on prescription med, but I find Tavist D...or its generic...works just as well for me...and without the dry mouth and other "side effects" I don't like with some of the prescription stuff.

šjane›

Me three.

Each year it gets worse. I find myself taking more and more Benadryl each Spring and Summer. The windier it gets, the worse the allergies.

Jane and Dapph - when we moved to this rural area my alleries seemed to blossom, too. Had the skin test done (now bear with me - you know how biased I am!) and thought it was really dumb. The nurse circled areas of what she called allergic reactions which looked the same to me as the ones she DIDN'T circle. Also, nearly everything was circled including cats (oh no you don't - the cat stays no matter what - and not in the garage, either!), oak trees (give me a break!), and all the good and bad things that make up my world. The allergist wanted me to start on a daily nose spray (Vancenase, or something like that) which, according to the label, could cause nose bleeds if used over a period of time. When I was a kid I had occasional nose bleeds and I'm very happy to have them gone so, no thank you.

Actually, my allergies aren't that bad. Partly I've tried to ignore them and only have a few bothersome days a year - days when my eyes stream and itch and tickle and I feel like cutting off my head. When that happens, I take a few herbal blends that I keep on hand and who knows if the allergies wore out or if the herbs actually did some good.

One thing my aunt back in Pennsylvania used to do was take local honey each day during allergy season. She also had her boys take it as they were growing up. When they grew up and moved away, they stopped taking it and guess what - they developed allergies.

Around here I've had a difficult time finding locally harvested honey - had a source for a while but the owner passed away and there was no one to take over the business.

One thing I've heard about and always meant to have on hand is an herb called Stinging Nettles (actually, that's how my eyes feel when they're being allergic!). This season, so far, I'm doing fine but I'd like to be prepared when this thing strikes again.

Now Joan, how did that happen? Your post wasn't there when I responded to Jane and Dapph but when mine went up, there was yours with a time of nearly two hours earlier!

So you take Benedryl, aye? I've taken that a very few times and each time, boy oh boy, I couldn't ask for a better sleeping pill! One time I was working in an office, alone, and it was all I could do to not fall off my chair and finally, after a long, drowsy day, get home.

DIANE - It doesn't make me sleepy. It sure dries me out tho. It works tho and that is the main thing.

I am trying to find solutions to washing clothes, sans all the chemicals...(i.e. detergents, fabric softener, and bleach)..

In another discussion, mentioned was the use of vinegar....

From what I have read, what advantage is there to use anything but vinegar to wash clothes????

The New Homemaker

8>)

dapph

Good point, Dapph. We've gone to the dye and whatever else FREE versions of laundry detergent....ALL Free or whatever it's called. My husband's skin is very sensitive...and I also think I was using WAY too much soap in the washer. We have a water softener because of the hard mineral content in water, and I've cut in half the "recommended" quantity for both clothes and dishes.

I wonder if a little liquid Woolite...or its generic...is detergent free?

I don't think I could go without something...a spray-on stain remover or whatever, cause Ray gets pretty dirty working in the garden, etc.

I do buy him glycerine soap for showering, etc. I use a body wash I like the smell of. There are so many soaps, etc., I can't stand the smell of. Isn't that weird. I can't, for example, stand the smell of Tide or Dove or Irish Spring. YUCK!

Joan: Glad Benedryl works for you...that's one I can't take. They gave it to me in a drip IV when I had chemo...to try and help the nausea...and it burned all the way up my arm veins...oh...what a sensation...and made me float in lalaland for 3 days. They stopped adding it when I told the doctor about the "floating"...so I stay away from it now.

Later...

šjane›

...jane - When the sneezing got so bad I had to do something I asked the druggist at the time what was good. He suggested Benadryl. I started taking it and was sneeze free from then on. <as long as I take it that is>

I noticed the "Free" detergents in the store today...

Hanaford Brothers, which stocks Shop and Save stores, also has a "Free" version of their detergent, which I will try...

The key, as Oscar suggested, is the use of vinegar in the last rinse...

I bought a large container of white vinegar today, and am hoping for the best...

I can not walk into shops that have a lot of smelly stuff, like candles, pot pourri, etc..

That gets me coughing to the point that I have to leave...

My allergies are small allergies, so far... I just see that they are increasing in what bothers me these day, and the increased in my reactions..

That is why I want to try to eliminate the causes..

Of course, brandy stays, and I will have to deal with her the best that I can... it is only her dander that bothers me, and so far, only when I get it in my eyes....

I never knew my grand parents to have allergies... but, of course, there life was not polluted much, like ours has been..

dapph

I use baking soda in the last rinse or with the soap. It also makes the clothes smell so nice.

Dapph: That white vinegar is great for cleaning kitchen sink faucet, etc., too....

Good idea, Joan. I never thought of that. I do put some baking soda in my dishwasher occasionally...and I've bought one of those shaker jars for cheese, etc. and keep it under my sink...and use baking soda to clean my sink...with 409 for the tougher stains.

Joan: I think the secret is finding what works for each of us. Tavist D works so much better for me than Allegra or Claritin...and it's a lot cheaper!! So glad the Benedryl will work for you.

šjane›

Now, Tavist D is over the counter, right jane?

Hey, ladies, can I (sniff) join you? I have never been tested, but I know I am allergic to most anything alive if I'm around it enough. Two of my four kids had allergy problems and my father had hay fever every year and hives from some foods. I played with my mother's collection of perfume bottles when I was little (they made great soldiers) so I am allergic to most all perfumes. I would rather shovel out a dairy barn any day than be on a bus with a bunch of ladies heading to work in offices or stores.

I know I am allergic to cats, too. I tried to keep them out of the house when I farmed, or at least out of my bedroom. Then I rarely petted them and tried to remember to wash soon afterwards. They seemed to understand, so usually talked to me without climbing on me like they did the kids. I wash after I pet my dogs, too, but they bother me more when they are dusty than the rest of the time. House dust is a killer, so I try to avoid all house work. My theory is, if I don't stir it up, it won't bother me.

All the over-the-counter stuff I used to use says not to use it with high blood pressure, so I haven't bought any for quite awhile. Is there something I could get which is OK for old fogeys? I suppose I should ask my doctor, but there always seem to be more important things to think about. (I never sneeze in the doctor's office, because it is spotless and has no pets or flowers.)

Ben: I'm on blood pressure medicine, but my allergist has never said a word about my using Tavist D or any of the other meds.

Yes, Tavist D is now over the counter...used to be 'scription only.

šjane›

Allergists are specialists ...jane, you know they don't think beyond their specialty. Better check with your internist for reccommendations. That's why I rely on herbal remedies so much. Am getting into them more and more. If things get too bad tho I do use tylenol sinus or it's generic once in a while. Same with Benedryl. I've had "hay fever" for years. I found that too much use of one med over a period of time and I become immune to it. Remember as a kid my dad and I would have a new med every season--I remember when Benydryl,Teldrin,Chlorotrimeton etc. were all prescription. We used to go up to the "Northwoods" of Wisc. every late summer til after Labor Day. Our family dr. was also the dr. at Standard Oil where dad worked and he was able to get dad an extended sick leave every summer.

I had a problem last night...

Summers is here and with that brings to me a upper body, any where that sweets, itching allerigic reaction...

Under the armpits, and boobs, mostly...

I fear that I am allergic to my own sweat.....

I took two benedryl, and I was up all night long....

Dapph...have you tried using a powder...or a corn starch/baking soda mixture...equal parts? I find that gives me more relief from summer itching than anything else. I have a terrible time with antihistamines (sp?) so have been trying these other things.

šjane›

"I took two benedryl, and I was up all night long.." Wow, I'd put in a good 24 hrs sleep with that.

Dapph, Try a tight all cotton T shirt. It might help get any moisture away from your body. Tight so it will stay in contact with your skin.

...jane's suggestion of powder sounds good. When I was younger I had good luck with "Mexana" - don't know if it's still available. But I found it very cooling. Think it had eucaliptus(sp) in it.

I forgot that I have a funny reation with taking benedryl...

I get the same kind of reation with over the counter sleeping pills...

Mostly, I get restless leg syndrome, which prevents me from sleeping, and when I do doze off, I have terrible nightmares, which keep me awake...

This week, I am treating 'the itch' like a yeast problem... Keeping my body dry (cotton tshirts), using antiperspirant, Lotrimin Powder, and some miocnazxole nitrate (vaginal creme - on my skin where if it starts to itch).....

I was good last night, and am comfortable this morning....I am going out in a little while and will see how I make out in the humid air...

Year after year, I have this problem.... I just have to work real hard at controlling it...(like staying ahead of cat hairs building up.... brandy gets brushed three or four times a day now - big difference)

Thanks for the ideas...

dapph

DAPPH - It is quite possible to seem to react to your own sweat, or other body secretions. Actually, you are probably reacting to something you have eaten or something, but only when it is secreted in some way. Some people react that way when they wear wool or other irritating fabrics. My son was quite allergic to chocolate as a tyke. But where it showed was kind of funny. He never broke out unless he wet his pants at night, so he broke out in the diaper area only. (We were kind of hoping if we fed him lots of chocolate, he might stop wetting the bed, but it didn't work.) I react to the plastic in my glasses frames where I sweat and they touch my face. I have a chronic rash under them. My eye doctor said I should wear contacts, but I figure I would much rather itch around my eyes than IN my eyes, so just put up with it. Most of the medications that might help a little aren't safe to use close to the eyes, either.

"It is quite possible to seem to react to your own sweat, or other body secretions. Actually, you are probably reacting to something you have eaten or something, but only when it is secreted in some way. "

That is something to think about, Ben...

There are a number of food products that I either get itchy from if they touch my skin, or get flushed from....

Citrus products, make me itch on contact, apples and strawberrys make my face flush.. can't were wool, makes me itch, polyester makes me hot, so I stick to cotton and silk... , black flies and those teeny, tiny bees, make the area where I get bit blow up like a balloon ... And, of course, I get a bad reaction from sulfer...

I get ashmatic reaction from smoke, pollutants in the air, over exertion, and icy cold weather, and of all silly things, elbow macaroni (wheat?)..

Most of these things are minor reactions (except sulfer, of course, and potentionally the bug/bee problem)...

These are all just annoying reactions that I have picked up along the way...and avoidance of them, seems to be the best way to prevent the problems..

Now, if I could just figure out what I do eat that might be the culpret...(I rarely eat pasta, breads or fruits these days)

Do you suppose it could be vodka???

8>(

dapph

I've never heard of vodka allergy, but my father got hay fever from bourbon. Here again, alcohol certainly makes a person perspire a lot more, so it could make an indirect contribution, like wool clothing does to many.

When doctors ask what I'm allergic to, I just put down "LIFE." I've come to the point where it is easier to keep track of what I'm NOT allergic to and the joints where I DON'T have arthritis. Besides, it just sounds a lot more positive.

Right now, I'm trying to figure out where all the cigarette smoke coming in my front room window is blowing from. I seem to be smelling it every hour or so for a few minutes, but when I go out to see where it's from, I can't find it. I have one neighbor's house just uphill to the west and two houses a little farther and to the northwest. It could be from any of them, but I have never smelled it this strong or often until starting last night. Maybe some visitor is stepping outside to smoke then going back in just before I get out or maybe a neighbor has installed a fan facing out which is sending me free smoke.

From Dr. Koop's Newsletter:

Skin Reactions Are a Part of Allergy Season, Too

š...jane›

Another article on allergies...

Avoiding Airborne Allergens

š...jane›

My mother has been having trouble with congestion and liquid that drains from her tear ducts, from the back of her nose, past her throat, into her lungs and tummy, constant draining out her nose also. She's had this problem most of her life, but lately it has gotten unbareable, difficult to sleep lying down and spends most of her nights sleeping sitting up on the couch.

At first we thought it was a tear duct problem and thought she might have to have a DCR surgery, but and eye surgeon specialist ruled this out. He believes it's all caused by allergies and recommended that she see an ENT Dr. My brother took her to the eye surgeon for that consultation, so I never got to ask the question why not an Allergist, why would he want her to see and ENT Dr. instead of an Allergist? Does this make sence to anyone here?

My mother will turn 89 in two weeks, she's allergic to so many things that it would be easier to mention the things she isn't allergic to, that list would be much shorter. (sigh) Anyway, all of her life she has been plegued by allergy, did the whole nine yards with allergy shots, medication for years...nothing ever helped then, in fact taking those shots for so long she developed a cough and after years had to stop taking shots.

I know technology has changed greatly in past years, new kinds of medications, new ways of treating people that are allergic, even read somewhere that some people almost have to lived in a bubble. At age 89 that isn't an option, I am only hoping to make the rest of her life better, quality seems to be slipping quickly.

Hoping for some feedback from others that experence similar things, how they deal with it and if anything helps?

Maril: I don't know why the eye surgeon suggested an ENT, instead of an allergist. Perhaps he felt it was a drainage problem that the ENT could help with, but that's simply a wild guess. I, too, have allergies, and nothing seems to be 100% reliable in combating them. Staying inside in AC seems the best solution here where the pollens are in the HIGH range, according to the Weatherman, for days on end. I take medication, too, but it's not 100% reliable.

š ...jane›

Maril, forgive me if you've already mentioned this but has your Mother given up dairy - ALL dairy products? It's amazing how many people do give it up and find their post-nasal drip and other complaints vanishing. And also, she stays away from artificial sweeteners, right? Aspartame in particular. Sometimes it's the sneaky, harmless-appearing things that cause the most trouble. Just a few thoughts. Hope something helps.

Oh, a few other thoughts - an herbal remedy called Stinging Nettles - I believe you make a tea out of it and drink a cup or two a day. Also raw, unfiltered honey from a local source - honeycomb is even better. I had the sneezes, dripping nose, and itchy eyes earlier this week and chewed on some local honeycomb I keep around for just this kind of thing and felt relief quickly - right away I felt better and just had a few mild return of symptoms the next day. Good luck!

Just a little background on my point of view - most of my life I've been blessedly healthy. In my 50's I developed excruciating headaches and every doctor I went to diagnosed them as sinus infection and prescribed antibiotics. I'm talking internists, allergists, ENTs - you name it - I was desperate and, not having experienced much illness before, I was frightened.

After probably four years, many, many antibiotics and trying to convince doctors that antibiotics weren't doing the trick, I took them one last time and promptly developed hives. I'm now forever allergic to the penicillin family and will never be able to rely on them in a life or death situation. Thanks a lot, docs.

The happy ending is that one night, in miserable pain and unable to sleep, I got up and made some tea - Sleep Times, or Nighty Night - not sure which but one of those herbal blends designed to relax you and allow sleep to happen. As if by magic, the pain lifted - I'll never forget that heavenly feeling. And ever since that time, I have found that a cup of hot beverage will cut off that pain. Why? I don't know. I can only guess that the headaches were hormonal in nature and the hot beverages had a vascular effect. I say all this to give you hope that maybe, just maybe, there is a nice simple cause that could be remedied equally simply. I wish you well and sorry I get so wordy.

I get "boob rashes" frequently, especially during the summer months...

I recently received an order of MSM, that I add to my water bottles that I drink during the day....

The rash disappeared the second day that I was drinking it.....

I am sure that the "placebo effect" kicked in....

Didn't it?

dapph

DAPPH - If it can turn gray hair back to brown, it can get rid of your rash.

Actually, mom doesn't do dairy, she has IBS and Chromes (sp?)Disease so dairy has been a "no", "no", for years. She also is allergic to Penicillian and a list of several other medications like Demaral (sp?)a pain med.

I have been thinking about why the eye surgeon wants her to see the ENT Dr. and the only reason I can think of, maybe it's to rule all other problems out, before the diagnosis is confirmed as an Allergy. I can't think of any other reason, does that make sense?

WHAT is MSM?

My mother is allergic to air-conditioning, it make her "congested" and her eyes run excessively, but then a breeze and a fan makes her eyes run as well. We are hoping this plastic surgery, September 11th, to tighten her lower lids will help with the excessive flow down her cheeks. Keep your fingers crossed and say a prayer (sigh), I hope I can come here after her surgery and say we are making some progress.

Maril: Have you checked to make sure it's not mold or dust in the AC unit that is causing her the problems with air conditioning?

š ...jane›

Hi Jane,

Yes we have, the apartment building she lives in is brand new, she's the first tenant to use it. Even so, because the building was so new we used air to blow out the air-conditioner, wanted to make sure all the dust from building the apartment was gone. Fortunately, the air-conditioning isn't strong enough to blow or cool the whole apartment, she has to use a new fan in the kitchen to keep the air-conditioning circulating. So if she sits on the far side of the large living room/dinning room area the air-conditioning doesn't bother here in that area.

That's good, Maril. We use fans here to move the ac from window units around since we can't install full house ac in this old house.

š...jane›

I sometimes have trouble in new or reconditioned buildings because of lingering paint smells or mild fumes from new carpet or upholstry.

Me, too, Ben. I can't stand to be in the carpet dept. of large stores where there is not good ventilation...or walk into a fabric store...my eyes water and I can't breathe. I'm sure it's the "finishes" they put on those products.

š ...jane›

I have had an allergie to msg. It is mostly found in Chinese Food. I got on line with Health Line. They didn't seem to think it was too bad. I was so sick, dizzy, diaharra, vomiting, one time I ended up in the hospital.When I go on bus tours and we stop at McDonalds or some place like that I am afraid to eat much. When they put stuff on salads to keep them fresh, that makes me ill too. Stomach cramps and very nausuas. I love food and a lot of times I am afraid to eat out. Anyone else out there have this allergy. Jean Fields

Jean: I thought that allergy was fairly common. In fact, I thought those in ER referred to it as happening fairly often to people who eat Chinese foods. I've seen some restaurants now saying on the menu "NO MSG USED" so there must be others with the same problem.

š ...jane›

Maril, I had about 20 years of the doctor telling me I had cronic sinuitis (live in KS, worst place in the world for ragweed). I tried so many prescriptions and all had scary side effects, like heart stop beating or beating so hard it made the bed squeek, tried one with benedryl and couldn't open/close my eyes or swallow 15 min after taking. Lucky I was sitting with a neighbor so she called the doctor and he said to keep pouring the coffee down and not to let me lay down. Couple times a year the sinuses would get so infected I got an antibodic to heal them. We moved to the KC area about 14 years ago and I'd heard many people were better when they cut out cured meats, the nitrates and nitrites. After a couple weeks I realized my nose wasn't running or eyes watering. Ate 2 pieces of bacon and about 24 hours later the nose and eyes were running and my head started hurting like before, you know, when you move the hair it hurts? So, I didn't try any more of the deli meats, pizza, all the good stuff. I cook roasts and grind it, add Mir.Whip and pickle relish and celery and sometimes hard boiled eggs, that's my "lunch meat". I fall off the wagon and eat a hot dog or ham or such, and don't blame anyone but myself when it shows up next day. Anyone else try this? Thought it might be something to check on with your mother, Maril. It did take the two weeks to clear out my system. Surprising how many things are cured with nitrates and nitrites.

How's everyone doing with the spring pollens and flowering trees?

I've had some difficulties with mowing the lawn, but I've been using my Nasonex faithfully every morning, and it's helping me a lot. I've not been good about using it when I didn't have a problem, and have now come to grips with the need to use it even if all seems well....to keep things pretty good.

š jane›

I have been lucky so far. My sneezing used to start in March and go for a few months. So far nothing, even with these heavy winds we had for a few days. <knock on wood> My Benadryl is close by tho in case I need it.

The winds have sure been kicking up here, too, Joan..and now with the trees starting to bloom, etc., it's sure to get us all sneezing!

Glad you can take benedryl...I keep my ol' nasonex handy and hope it continues to work!

š jane›

Everything I take is over the counter, well except for the Thyroid of course. Don't like prescription drugs, have to listen to the side effects all the time on the TV.

Are there any professional singers out there who have allergies? What do you do to overcome them? I awake every morning with stopped-up nose, and sometimes get a sneezing jag while performing. Very embarrassing. Would appreciate any suggestions...besides giving up singing.

Whomi - my husband is not a singer but has been fighting stuffed nose and painful sinuses, post-nasal drip - the whole package for about half a year now (actually, much longer but really severely for the last six months).

We think we have found the culprits - first was his prescription drug for diabetes, Actos, which has precisely those symptoms as possible side effects.When I called this to our doctor's attention, he replied that he didn't think that was it. My husband was in agony for another several months, trusting that the doctor knew what he was talking about, until, during a diabetes support group meeting, the diabetes educator said that she had had to take two patients off Actos just that week for these very symptoms. Immediately, the doctor switched prescriptions and very shortly my husband noticed improvement.

The other cause is more complicated and I am not finding medical support but, having read several books - The Yeast Connection, The Yeast Syndrome, and especially, Sinus Survival, I am convinced that my husband suffers from Candida Albicans - a form of yeast overgrowth caused by too many antibiotics and steriods (taken thanks to overzealous doctors for years to "relieve" back pain and numerous infections). I can only suggest that you read these books and see if you fit the descriptions. Based on recommendations from these books, we went for a few weeks with no sugar (including natural sources such as fruit), no yeast products, and no wheat. Not a fun diet at all! I also found a Yeast Blend at the health food store that contains caprylic acid (derivitive of coconut) which is a natural anti-fungal, not as strong but also not as potentially toxic as the prescription anti-fungals, and also lactobacillus acidophilus (to restore natural intestinal bacterial growth), grapefruit seed extract, garlic, and a few other things. I also had him sniff warm salt water when his nose was particularly stuffed. He is now feeling much better, despite having slipped away from the strict diet.

You might also want to check out the web site for Dr. Ivker, author of Sinus Survival (www.sinussurvival.com).

Good luck. I'd love to know if any of this helps. Diane

The allergies are in high gear here today...coughing for no reason except allergies...wind blowing and pollen everywhere!

This might help some...: Spring Sneezing: Get Hay Fever Before It Gets You

Sneeze, cough, sputter!!!

š jane›

Here's something that is helping quite a few people aroud here - it's from China and is called Pe Min Kan Wan. My little bottle contains 50 tablets, they look like small, green M&Ms, and you take three tablets two or three times a day. It is priced between $5 and $6.

Normally, even gullible ol' me, I shy away from Chinese medications because of the lack of control over ingredients and also their sometimes use of things like Ma Huang. In this particular case, a local pharmacist I respect enormously started carrying this because of customer demand. He's away on vacation right now but I trust him to check out whatever he stocks. Also a local health food store carries it for the same reason.

Allergies are such strange things. I can never tell if it's just that the pollens have all blown away or if I have done something to overwhelm them. In any case, I was beginning to sneeze and all the other stuff, went out and bought this (also for my husband) and we both feel it has helped. It might be interesting to hear if it is available in other parts of the country.

More information on the possibility that Allegra, Claritin and Zyrtec will be made over-the-counter:

RX for Allergies Over-the-Counter?

Generally speaking if a person eats their local honey regularly, they wont have much trouble with the local pollens. It doesn't help for allergies that are caused by molds or air-pollution though.

HI all, Just got on board with this and have read all the allergie problems, wow! I know what everyone is going through, I had alergies from childhood and it was very bad. It seemed most everything bothered me, dust, perfumes, soapes, weeds, grass and pollution in general. What I found about three and a half years ago was that our immune system is controoling and once I got on some very potent antioxadents I was about 95 persent allergy free. From what I have learned about our immune system is even if it's overreacting or deficent antioxidents will straighten it out and no more allergies. The person with ( Thyroid ) problems, that particula gland needs natural iodine to keep it healthy and functening right, not drugs. Find a Mreck Medical Manual of Medical Information and check it out for your self. I will write more leter on about this if anyone want's to know but right now it's late and I need to turn in. Darrell

Hi, Darrell, and welcome to SeniorNet.

It's pretty easy these days to get to a Merck Manual...we have three of them listed in our Internet Health Resources discussion. I'll put those URLs here for anyone who's interested:

Merck Manual-Home Edition

Merck Manual-Geriatrics

Merck Manual:17th edition

š jane›

usually get to my husband. I think my allergies like to get me year round. Take care everyone.

It was interesting to read that the nasal prescription sprays do a better job than the antihistimes, though only Claritin was tested against Fluonase (sp?). It's what's worked for me, though. I tried Claritin, Allegra and one other Zy???? and the nasal spray Nasonex is what helps me the most. One spray each side each morning does what taking the pill every day didn't do...let me breathe! I do have an occasional "flare up" of congestion, when I'm just miserable, but I had that with the pills, too.

š jane›

has also helped me. I still can get sinus infections, but not as many when I remember to use it everyday.

Reading avidly about every allergy, nothing covers a white tongue and dry mouth, plus the throat drip. Am interested to know if any reader has experienced any of this. I have had it since July, have used Zyrtec, Diflucan, the nose sprays and a swish and swallow nystatin. I live in northern New York near Canadian border. Have never had anything like this before and doctors dont seem to know a cause. With medication, symptoms are somewhat alleviated, then it all comes back. Oy Vey.

gramcat: Welcome here...and yikes, no I'm not familiar with the white coated tongue. I do know I've had a "coated" feeling when I've been ill with various diseases...always a bother. It's odd the docs haven't been able to get a handle on it yet. Since July...that's a long time! I sure hope something helps you soon.

š jane›

I wonder if peroxide on the tongue would help.

This is not a diagnosis, but an acquaintance had a problem with a white coating on the tongue and was told to take some B complex vitamins. It seemed to help. I have no idea about the levels of B that one can take, or if there is a toxicity level.

RAMMEL - I think that Vit B is one of the ones that if you take more than you need the body throws the excess off. Not all Vitamins do that however as you know.

I just don't want anyone to OD on vitamins. I do know that B6 can cause problems if you take too much. As I recall it can affect ballance stability. My wife took it for, and it deffinitely helped, a carpel tunnel problem. I think we figured 200mg a day (100 BID), ongoing, would not be a problem. This was in addition to normal daily intake.

RAMMEL - I take a multiple Vit B complex daily. Have for many years and it helped with my tennis elbow. The darn thing used to wake me up in the middle of the night it was so bad and this is like 20 years ago. No problems anymore.

Vitamin B is water-soluble (like vitamin C), meaning it is not stored in body fat; instead any excess is excreted. Also, it is best to not overdo any individual vitamin B's but rather to take a B-complex. That way it is all well-balanced.

I'm not a professional, just someone who enjoys learning about nutrition and more natural ways to treat problems.

Thank you all so much for your postings and suggestions. I have been to 3 doctors, no one sees growths in throat so now is the time I shall consult a local ENT. Will mention the Bcomplex vitamins and sometime in future will convey the latest. I have arthritis,several years, and take Celebrex and Darvocet but that doesnt appear to be the culprit. Have blamed the much-overused cup of tea, the blossoming hydrangea bush, dilapitated building that burned downtown and much furore about whether to refurbish or tear down, meanwhile debris is down there. My conjecture from why I have this. Talk to youlater. Thank you again.

Could it be a symtom of a yeast infection?

GRAMCAT - I saw your post over in the arthritis discussion and seem to remember dry mouth is a symptom associated with one kind of arthritis. It might be worth checking it with a rheumatologist if you don't get relief from ordinary channels.

Ben: I know that Sjogren's syndrome has that symptom. One of my sisters-in-law has Sjogren's. I went to this website:

http://www.arthritis.org/conditions/DiseaseCenter/sjogrens.asp

and found:

What Is It?

Sjogren's syndrome (show-GRENS SIN-drome) is an autoimmune disease that causes dry eyes and a dry mouth.

It then lists symptoms, etc. Gramcat may want to take a look, if this has not been ruled out.

š jane›

Thanks Ben and Jane. Have an appointment on the 2lst with yet another specialist. Will keep in contact with what he says. Rather interesting when maladies or malaise happens and doctors dont have a clue. Doesnt seem tobe contagious as I am only one walking around with it. It is some better but still with me.

There's a fascination discussion opening today in Books and Literature's Curious Mind discussion on Seniors and Medication Misuse . The URL for the discussion is:

"---Curious Minds" Click Here

Come join in if the topic is of interest to you. There's a link in the header to a Canadian study and some info on why Seniors may have reactions/allergies to drugs not seen in younger folks.

š jane›

Thought someone might need this. Francy

http://www.foodallergy.org

Has anybody else had lots of problems with allergies this spring? I don't ever recall having so much congestion/drainage/coughing.

I started out with that upper respiratory stuff in March, then went South to Savannah, Charleston, etc. for an Elderhostel, and all the pollen about really did a number on my allergies. Now, we've had lots of wind, and I notice when that happens, I'm just miserable. My face hurts under my eyes, and the tops of my teeth, across my forehead. I'm on Allegra (one morning, one evening) and Nasonex. There are to be storms tonight, so maybe they'll clean the air of pollen and dust. With these winds and the farmers plowing, you can see good Iowa topsoil blowing in the wind all the way to Illinois!

sneeze, cough, snuffle!!

JANE - thank goodness I have not been bothered <knock on wood> but my son here has. We have had a lot of wind and it is blowing the pollen and the cherry blossoms, etc. He is sneezing and blowing.

In our area (lower NY) the trees and grasses came at the same time. Usually the grasses lag the trees by at least a couple of weeks.

I haven't been too bad so far. I take Allegra twice a day too. I still cough, and drain when I first get up. My problems will start once that darned cottonwood is in bloom and that white fluff is flying all over the place. I can't be near lilacs either, even outside (downwind). My throat starts to close up on me and I wheez... Not fair because I dearly love lilacs too. I was never allergic to flowers or anything for that matter until 1980 when I moved back to upstate NY.

This topic may be way out, but I just read an article in Audubon mag about all the chemicals in our laundry products, such as formaldehyde in detergent and fabric softener. In case you don't know, formaldehyde is used as a preservative in science labs. Anyway, the article also said the companies that make these products are not required to list all the chemicals they use, and some can cause severe symptoms of allergy. Now to me, that is scary. For years I have awakened during the night and early morning with a stopped up nose. Always thought it was due to pollen and dust. But now am wondering. Years ago I tried using "green" laundry detergent. But I don't remember the name or where I bought it. I surfed the net for products and found a few but not what I'm looking for. I saw many items in a catalog several years ago, but didn't save the catalog. If any of you know of a company that sells "green" laundry detergent, especially that with a soy base, please let me know. The article suggested using baking soda added to the last rinse water as a softener. I've done that and it works quite well. I'd really like to get a catalog. I know they are available but don't know the companies names. Thanks in advance.

Harmony, looks like a Gaiam company has what you are looking for I think. The name on the detergent box is "Seventh Generation". They have a lot of environment friendly products. Their phone No. is 1-800-869-3446. I'm sure they would be glad to send a catalog, - we get them all the time.

I seem to do OK with the detergents labelled "free" or something else indicating allergy free. But I refuse to use any of those smelly sheets in the dryer when I am forced to dry clothes inside. I would rather pick a little lint any day than put up with that terrible method of pollution. The first time I walked past a dryer vent blowing that crap out at the public, I was extremely angry at whoever thought that torture up, and I still am whenever it happens. And how can they dare to call such a stink a "fresh" smell? No perfume is ever the same as the smell of fresh air with a little dampness in it.

Hi everyone. I just read the 78 posts here and it all sounds so familiar <g>. I've used Allegra for years and it seems to work. The problem I've been having in recent years is chronic sinusitis. Even industrial-strength antiobiotics doesn't seem to touch it and are they expensive! It's a long story, no clear reasons why, but I'm clear for the first time in years.

What I really stopped in to say is that I just learned about sinus rinses! The ENT I saw this week recommended them. I guess I won't know for some time how effective they are, but thought someone here might be interested. If you go to your favorite search engine and type in sinus rinses you'll have several sites to visit.

Good health to you!

Maggie

Maggie: My allergist has recommended the salt water rinse for years. It's a bit messy at first but it gets easier. He recommends the salt water "snuffling" up the nose several times a day. It also helps with my congestion from allergies as well as sinus problems.

Phyllis...Two ways that I know of... One way ...and MUCH less messy...is to buy one of the saline solutions that come in a squeeze bottle...and spray that up the nostrils. Same idea as below...just more costly. You can get the saline solutions at any drug store over the counter.

My allergist also had a home remedy way: and it's VERY messy the first couple of times...and you'll also feel like you're drowning...but go slow and easy...

With a mild hot salt water solution in a glass (I like it as hot as I can stand...do what works for you and start with a small amount of salt)...I pour a little of the salt water into the cupped palm of my hand...and then...breathe that UP into your nostril. It'll run down the back of your throat...and yes, you'll gag and cough and sputter at first. It's like getting water up your nose when you swim at first.

However, once you've done it a few times, the warm water seems to help soothe the sinuses.

That's the directions I have.

Good luck.

There's also an item called a "neti pot" that is used for this nasal flushing procedure.

Here's a picture of one. http://www.celtic-seasalt.com/netipot.html Put "neti pot" into Google for more inf.

I stopped using the one spray that the doctor gave a Prescription . for. It made my nose bleed and swell. I do have the spray Saline that is on the shelf. But are you ready for this. I am not kidding. My nose hardly ever stuffs up and have the post nasal drip for past 2 months. One day I noticed that after eating just 3 squares of a good plain choc. (It was Hersheys plain) my nose started just draining away. really cleared. Next day I ate some again and same thing. So yes, everyday now I make sure I eat just a little chocolate and much clearer and very little nasal dripping. I am going to stay with this.

JeanneP

Anyone know the quantity of salt to warm water for nasal drops?

Joan - I've heard (and used) anything from 1/2 to 1 teaspoon per 8 ozs. warm water. One acupuncturist suggested 1 tablespoon which was WAY too much (she wasn't a real good acupuncturist, either!).

When I first started doing that I would fill the glass with the mixture, then submerge a straw, place my finger over the top of the straw and then tip my head back and place the straw, finger still over the top, just a little bit into one nostril and slightly move my finger off, allowing the mixture to drop into my nose. It seemed easier to me that way.

Now that I'm an old pro I usually just mix up a little batch and sniff it up from the top of a glass, cup, my palm, or whatever.

I've also heard of people swearing by adding a little cayenne pepper to the mixture and also a few drops of grapefruit seed extract. Haven't tried either of those,myself.

I think the next thing I'd prefer to try would be a little chocolate -chocolate milk perhaps? GOOD one, Jeanne!

I used a cotton swab from some warm water and just sprinkled some salt in it. Hope it works.

Oh, Joan, I don't think so. The idea is to get it way back so that it either runs out the other nostril or down the back of your throat. I don't think you'll get too much benefit that way. Sorry.

DIANE - dropping it by drops in my nose with my head back always worked so I don't see why it won't work this time. I'' let ya know. tomorrow.

Joan, maybe I misunderstood. I pictured you with a Q-tip type arrangements, just patting the inside of your nostril. But if you're getting actual drops running down, well, that's the idea. Good luck. Look forward to hearing tomorrow how it all worked out. 'Nite.

Diane...one TEASPOON to 8 oz was the max my allergist said. For some people that may be too strong to start with.

The straw is a GREAT idea, especially for beginning "snufflers"...the term I use for sniffing that mixture up into the nasal passages.

I snuffle it until it runs down my throat...need to get it way up there to bathe those sinus cavities...or what I suspect is to open them by applying the warm water and salt solution to the openings that seem to get clogged...and lead to sinus infections.

I think of it as the sinus equivalent of putting a hot cloth on a boil or cold sore to get it to open and drain.

Last time I made it I put too much salt in it and burned some of the membranes. Feel pretty good this morning. Better than with the Contact I have been taking for 10 days. After I get back from the beauty parlor I will take some more of it. I used to prefer a eye dropper but have learned that a cotton swab will accomplish the same thing. Sorry I confused you DIANE. I guess I should speak clearer.

Last year when I was hunting for some special cotton swabs I bought some I didn't like. Didn't know that til I got them home tho. Anyway, they have come in handy for other things; taking off nail polish, cleaning my monitor screen, cleaning the keyboard and last nite for my salt water.

Glad I got them. LOL

No, I would not do the Chocolate Milk as with me milk makes me more mucus congested although I do still drink the skim. I am now eating the Cadbury plain Choc. Just a couple squares a day. I bet somepeople think I am kidding but really it is working for me. I have had sinus problems for years. Not to bad at this time of year but Spring and summer awful. Just do not want to take medication. Now I still find that ALKALOI which is sold as a mucus solvent and cleaner to still work the best for me. Can buy a 16 oz bottle for 3.95 in the drug store. Good as a throat gargle also.

Jeannep

I know this spring and summer have been terrible for allergies here in the midwest. There have been lots of articles in the papers attesting to that. I've not heard of that product, Jeanne, but will look for it.

I got my last bottle at Osco Drug here in Illinois. Walgreens also will have it. Which drug store does your State have.?

JeanneP

I only have local drug stores here...and WalMart. There may still be a Walgreens in Dubuque.

Thanks!

Walmart will most probably order it for you if they don't keep it on the shelf. The Alkalol company is in Taunton. Mass. 02780

JeanneP

clik on this site and will see what looks like.http://www.hocks.com/htm/oral/3825106.htm Also tell you about it. Best thing I have found. and only $3.99

JeanneP

http://www.hocks.com/htm/oral/3825106.htm

I've heard of a preparation for osteoarthritis relief called glucosamine[tabs and cream] but i havn't tried it as the warning is not to take if you suffer from shellfish allergies!Would anyone know .. if i can tolerate prawns[the only shellfish i eat]would i be o.k with this product?

ROIDININKI - Check with your pharmacist - he would know or be able to find out which shellfish is in a certain brand, if they differ. In any case, be carefull and start with a very low dose if you try it until you find out if it gets your allergies. If you think you might react with something life threatening, better to avoid the whole idea.

Benjamin,hello,we met in another discussion?Thanks for the tip and i agree totally.I have checked with the manufacturers phone in service and the girl answering said she had no info on what type of shellfish.Can you believe such inefficiency?

Claritin is now going to be available over the counter. It'll be the first antihistimine that is "non-drowsy." It'll also mean, I think, that lots more people can benefit from this med than could before with its high prescription drug cost.

I'll have to tell my son. It is the only one that works on his allergies.

I wonder if the Strength will be the same. So many of these drugs once they get on the Shelf are only half the strength of the Prescription. So cost almost as much as before. But you do not have to pay for the Dr. Appointment. It does work better then most for Allergies.

JeanneP

Does anybody have any helpful hints for getting rid of mildew on the walls. We have a de-humidifier going all the time. I know we can scrub and paint (YUCK!!!) - but is there anything else? Our children and grandchildren seem to have developed allergies to our house (I really don't think it's just because they're visiting the parents/grandparents). We don't have pets that could cause the all-but instantaneous sneezing, watery eyes, stuffy noses, etc.

Thanks for any ideas.

Mary

ZWYRAM - Try Lysol. After a flood of 6 inches and a stupid landlord who turned up my heat while I was in a motel (so steamed up the whole place with strong flood water smell,) I used Lysol spray directly on mildew with instant results. I could see the stuff shrink away before my eyes, though there was some residue left which required washing later. Bleach works, too, but is more corrosive and can take color out of so many things. Anyway, I found the Lysol seemed to releve my allergies as quickly as it dried up the mildew.

Ben: Great to know about the Lysol! Bleach water is all I knew.

Jeanne: I noted that my local Walmart has shelf space all cleared and labeled for the Clairitin, but they had none on the shelf. I've heard the ads and they say it's full prescription strength. No idea, however, of the cost. ;0)

If memory <crs> serves me right, the Clairitin was due out yesterday on the 7th, no?

a Friend had the same problem in a house she was to move in to.We sprayed the paint and wall paper with a product called Exit Mould.It was marvelous and when some of the mould returned she gave it an other dose.I live in NZ and we can get it at the supermarket.I suggest you do a test on a small area first if you manage to get it.

Thanks, Ben and Popsey. I guess we'll just have to do the work. Of course, I know we can get Lysol, but I'll check on the Exit Mould. And, as Mommie D. in TN suggested, ask at Lowe's and Home Depot for suggestions, too.

Thanks, y'all.
Mary

See http://www.moldexit.com/mold_exit.htm

Go to Google and search for "Exit Mold" (use the quotes), and\or "mildew removal"

Thanks, Rammel - I'll give that a try.

Mary

Daphne we can buy pure soap flakes here for washing clothes. You dissolve the flakes in a bucket and add to the machine. Used for new babies and allergic adults. I am very allergic to all sorts of things including many meds. My Daughter and grandaughters also. Makes life difficult at times. I can't use any sort of plant sprays as I risk the danger of neurological spasms which are the most terrible things I have ever suffered. I even got a dose from pulling weeds out of a stormwater system as the groundwater had spray residue in it. See if you can find the soap flakes in the USA.

Carolyn

I think our Ivory Flakes and Ivory Snow would be about the same. I think those can both be purchased still, but they'd probably take some looking. I don't recall seeing them in the stores here, but I really wasn't looking. I'll pay better attention next time.

We've found we do much better with the no dyes/no perfumes in various detergents and I don't use nearly as much as they recommend. Neither my husband nor I do heavy manual, dirty work, nor do we have little ones who are playing outdoors and in mud puddles. I think the recommendations on the boxes are too much for our needs. Nothing is worse on my skin than clothes, towels, etc. that have soap residue in them. UGH!

Hello, Do anyone take allergy shots? I took them years ago, and started back taking them about 4 years ago. I had two severe reactions that almost killed me before I knew what was going on. My doctor at that time, did not tell me the symptoms of a reaction to a shot, nor did he tell me, I only had seconds to get the adrenaline shot into me to counter act it. I am now going to a new allergy doctor and taking shots again... doing great with them.

If you haven't already, be sure to tell your new Dr about your past bad experience. Many doc's require you to stay in the office for a period of time after the shots.

I get shots and over a period of time have on a few occasions had a reaction that required some further action. If you ever feel your throat swelling get right to medical help. I get frustrated with going for the shots but they have been a BIG help.

When I was in to see the Physician Assistant several weeks ago for a sinus/allergy thing in my sinuses and ears, I discovered I'd not been using my steroid nose inhaler properly. I use Nasonex and have tried fluonase as well. The PA asked if I was "sniffing" up the spray and I replied yes. WRONG! No big Midwest Snuffle is needed nor desired. If you do that, it'll go way up in your nostrils and run down the back of your throat...and is useless to you. She said a VERY dainty "sniff" is all that is needed. The container will put the spray where it's needed, right in the middle area of the nost...next to the sinus cavity openings. So, I've felt much less congested and have not had the fluid going into my ears and all of that that I had before.

So, if you're using these steroid nasal thingies and they don't seem to be helping, you might want to check how you're administering it.

I had allergy shots years ago,and they used to give me adrenaline shots straight after the allergy shots.I found they were too hard on me and had to stop them as the cure was worse than the complaint.Still have not found any thing to give me relief completly.

Thank you ladies for the input and response. It is so nice to know I can come here and get advice from people that know what allergies are all about. I have had so many people tell me that allergies are not serious, and they take an over the counter medication for theirs. I tell them that it doesn't work for me; mine could be life threatening at times.

Hello have any of you experienced bone pain from allergies in particular shin pain.My health food assistant suggestsit might be from wheat cereal coupled with the milk.I'd be glad of any suggestions

Roidiniki: I don't know anything about allergies causing the shin problems, but I did post some links to you in General health about shin splints and tendonitis that might be the cause of your problem.

I hope those links help, plus anything anyone might know about allergy things causing shin pain.

There is no telling how many of our aches, pains, and even moods and brain quirks are the result of allergies. I am quite sure our skin and breathing passages are only the tip of the iceberg.

Thanks to both of you.

How are things in England. My first time in the chat room so I really do not know what to say. I visited England in 1990 and did all the tourist things. My parents were born in Ireland so I visited england at the same time.

GRACE - If you look at the top of the Heading you will see CHAT. Click on that and then you will be in the Chat Room.

Hi, gracegrace, and welcome to SeniorNet. We have two types of interaction here...discussions/bulletin boards (0f which this discussion is one example...we have over 600 of them)...and instant chat.

As W. Joan said above, to get to instant chat (where everybody has to be online at the same time and there's no record to read of what people have said) click on CHAT at the top of this page.

In our discussions (like this one) everyone does NOT have to be online at the same time. Just as I have done, I can come here and see the new messages since I was last here and post a response. When you or W. Joan or anyone else wishes to read what's been posted since their last visit, they come to this discussion (manually or by having subscribed "Subscription button is at the bottom here. Once you've done that, you just click the Check subscriptions button and you're taken to the first new post since you were last in that discussion. You can subscribe to as many discussions as you wish.) and the new messages will post.

It's ideal since people in Australia and Africa and Japan can also participate and we can read their posts at a time convenient to each of us.

GraceGrace - Hi, I figure you were just using one term for both kinds of interactive sharing. I find this kind the best for me because I can get on early in the morning when many folks are still asleep. Also, I can talk with people from the UK or wherever even though one of us is asleep while the other is posting. We would never meet in a same time chat room format.

I had forgotten about this discussion. As some of you may or may not know, I've been suffering with new dentures. Quick summary: January 20 started extractions. March 20 had the last pulled and got immediate dentures. I had several impressions taken and had 3 extraction sessions in the meantime. The teeth were too large from the beginning and dr. had me using Fixodent. My internist and I finally determined that I am allergic to it, even Fixodent Free. So no more denture adhesives of any kind (anyone want partially used products

??) So July 28th got my relines, never did fit after that. NOW he wants me to have the implants. NOT Not positive but internist and I think the excessive saliva is due to my reaction to dentures. I haven't been able to chew some things since January. OH, I had badly infected teeth and was on strong antibiotic Jan. - April.

One good thing is that my sinus "infections" are not bothering me. Sinuses are 'full' but no great pain behind eyes, etc. But still there.

Think that my gums are still reacting to the dentures and fighting them. But dentist says all will be fine. Dentures never did fit and don't still today. But tell him that. I've contacted state dental association and am going to take formal action. Going to see him one more time and try and convince him. At one point back then, he said might have to do over, but of course now denies everything.

Bottom line is allergies may be some of my problems. I'm fair and have lots of contact allergies. I've learned to control most of them, but teeth may be a problem. Still think this was started by adhesives. And simply told the dentist no more.

Right now I'm awake at 2:30 am due to excessive sweating due to having heat on (hubby insists) with a heavier night gown. IF I have arms covered I'm fine and can sleep in this transitional weather and need no furnace on. And of course am now itching. Calmed down now and might get back to sleep soon.

Sounds like you need a break, - from everything. You probably don't want to hear this, but, let your mouth "simmer down" - and heal from the extractions and the allergic reaction.

Anyone had any experience with air purifiers? My husband and I have been thinking of getting one for the house and I've discovered that there are many different kinds out there. The children and grandchildren have many and varied allergies and we thought it might help when they visit.

I have an air cleaner and have had for many years. Sure cuts down on the sneezes.

AAAACCCHHOOOOO! It's spring here...or trying to be...and the pollens have begun to cause anybody with any allergy to such things at all...a lot of sneezing time. There was an article in the paper listing the various tree pollens that are rampant now...and at levels high enough, it said, to cause misery in anyone allergic to any pollens.

So...accchooo...welcome to the "season"...

Stock up on the tissues!!

jane

Here also JANE. Have been opening the front door and back bedroom to get some nice fresh air in here and of course all that sneeze material comes right in with it. Sneezes increase of course. Air cleaner working over time. hehehehehe Taking out stock in KLEENEX.

Yub, yub, yub...talking with a stuffed up node is not fun!!! achoo....cough...cough....achoo....

;0)

jane

The pollens are TERRIBLE here....so stuffed up and getting what appears to be very little relief from my allergy meds. Winds to increase tomorrow...good grief!!

Misery loves company...anybody else miserable? LOL

jane

My Furby is sneezing something awful.

Allergies continue to be very bad here...counts are quite high since we've had lots of wind and no precipitation. The newspaper has had some warnings about the high counts, too, and gave this website...which shows so much of the country HIGH for pollen right now.

http://www.pollen.com

jane

I get a daily email from pollen.com that really helps me know how to plan my day. And one can also get a pollen forecast at http://www.allegra.com/

Thanks, Zinnia...that's the med (well, one of them) I'm using for these allergies...but the pollen is really bad this year, it seems.

My Netscape says it can't find that website...so I'll try again later with IE.

jane

Yes... it's really horrible here, too, and keeping me on oxygen and my life all disrupted. The doc put me on Zyrtec instead of Allegra, but it doesn't seem to make a difference. My neighbor, a forty-ish woman who is a smoker, has bad allergies and she swears by the monthly shots, but this season is doing her in, also. But would she quit smoking? Naaaaaaahhhhhhh... LOLOL!!!

I just heard that lung cancer is the #1 cancer killer of women now and that out of 80,000 women (!!!!!) diagnosed with lung cancer last year, 68,000 of them died. So just let me say again that I am doubly grateful for my miracle healing FOUR years ago from a terminal, inoperable diagnosis!

A really sad part of that is that a lot of those women did NOT smoke and NEVER smoked, but there is no denying that smoking is a killer!

What I'm doing now is just continuing to try to get my overall health up, using supplements and water and so forth, and then I think my problems will lessen, if not completely go away.

On the Seniornet home page, I found a link to "Worldwide Weather," at Marcie's direction. www.accuweather.com For months I have been looking for something that would give me an overall air quality report, not just allergens, and there it is in the HEALTH section. That is the most comprehensive weather site I've found. It has forecasts far into the future and if you click on Health, there is extensive information about pollens and other allergens, overall air quality, UV, etc., and then there is a HUGE section about senior health, women's health and others. Leave it to SeniorNet to find the best weather site around!

My allergies/sinuses are giving me fits this summer. I believe the allergies lead to swelling of the mucous lining of the nose/sinus areas..and soon I have another sinus infection. This time the congestion was all across my face and into my ears. The nerves in my teeth hurt. I ended up with fluid again behind my ear drums and again with dysfunctional eustachian (sp?) tubes.

After getting the infection pretty well cleared up, I'm still on pills to get rid of the mucous in my ears and the tubes to the throat. They've added another allergy pill...singular...that I can take with the allegra & the nasonex when the allergies/congestion is bad.

I'm also using the saline nasal sprays to try and keep the sinus infection free.

It's going to be a long summer until frost.

jane

jane - just a suggestion. Has your doctor ever mentioned the allergy nasal spray called, Astelin? I've used all of the prescription, (and non script), on the market, and find this one to be the best for me. It does not contain any steroids. I know it's relatively new - within the last two years.

No, I've not heard of it. Is it prescription?

I'm using saline nasal spray in addition to my nasonnex...also muconix tablets (over the counter) and the allergy prescription meds.

Thanks for the info.

jane

Hi jane - My allergy doc gave me a couple of samples of the Astelin, nasal spray. I liked it better than all of the other sprays that I had used through the years - starting with Beconase, and then going through about 5 or 7 different brands. They all worked reasonably well, but he told me that Astelin, was something new, and he thought I would like it better than the others. I did, and I still do. And yes, you do have to have a prescription. Your doc would probably give you a sample to try first.
Now that I'm thinking about it, I recall looking it up on the net when it was first given to me. There is an, Astelin, web site I think.

Thanks, Marilyne. I'll ask when I see my Nurse Practitioner next. I prefer her to the Doc. She listens, finds samples, is willing to try new and different things, not always prescriptions.

jane

If you're anywhere in the midwest...north to south...you're probably miserable if you have any allergies to "natural/outside" stuff.

http://www.pollen.com/Pollen.com.asp

The map is above...and they say this about the red levels...

Pollen levels between 8.1 and 12.0 tend to affect most individuals who suffer from the pollen types of the season. Symptoms may become more severe during days with high pollen levels.

I saw my Nurse Practitioner yesterday and she said this year has been terrible for allergies. Those who didn't know they had them have found they did...and those who knew they had them have been sick and miserable. I can sure testify to that!!

Sneeze, cough, snuffle....

jane

So far as I know, I am allergic to only two things on this planet. One is codeine, easily avoided. The other is INSECT BITES, not so easily avoided.

I have tried all the home remedies and combinations of such that I could come up with. Some have helped a bit, others seemed to exacerbate the problem.

I try to protect myself when outside with various commercial products which seem to work rather well. But flea bites are not so easily fended off when one has two infested dogs who live indoors.

If you have a suggestion I will surely welcome it. Thank you.

PS What is this "title" thing about? I am into irony, so if I have to have something to put in that blank spot it would be

I wrote a rather lengthy m4essage asking about help for allergy to flea bites. My message disappeared and I am feeling too awful to attempt another. Making it short: I am allergic to flea bites & am covered with them. If anyone can help me, please do. Thank you.

All THREE messages are here. Click on PREVIOUS .

Bdom: Your messages are all there...they start here:

bdom555 10/5/04 9:47am

The title space is there if you wish to put a title for your post...yours might have been Flea bites, for example.

It's not necessary to use it...just there if wish.

Have you tried calamine lotion and/or witch hazel or lanacaine?

Put one of the newer flee preventers on your dogs. The one that is applied between the shoulders once a month (I believe they are something like "Top Spot" or "Advantage"). They are a little pricey but work well and are worth it.

Then there is the required vacuuming to get those hanging around. When you finish vacuuming, suck up some flee powder in the vac so the critters don't work there way back out.

Why not visit the "DOG" board and talk it over with them? I'm sure some others have or have had, the same problem.

Wow...the high winds and the leaves and the dust have sure made for a miserable couple of days here. Even the rains haven't helped to clear the air, it seems.

This article was published Oct. 14 about this time and year...and more sinus infections...often coming, it seems, from the result of allergies blocking the draining of our sinuses.

Not only is fall the start of the cold and flu season, it's also the time of year when sinus infections become more common.

Source: http://www.healthfinder.gov/news/newsstory.asp?docid=521666

jane

Has winter weather helped with your allergies...or do you need the heat and all of that on and so dust allergies flare up?

I've been to south Texas for the month of Feb. and my allergies are much better than at home. I think part may be the humidity...I note my sinuses don't hurt as they do at home when it's too dry...and my skin isn't dry and flakey as it is in the winter time in a cold climate.

jane

People what you need is a nose spray that will help kill all the bacteria in the nose area and will help with the alligies also.Now I'm no Doctor but I have read that there is a spray that will get rid of the bacteria in the nose when you spray you waite a few mintus and the you will blow your nose and the bacteria will be flushed out because the spray makes the bacteria so slippery that they release there hold on the membrain of the nose and come out. Look up the word Xylitol and there is a nose spray that may do the trick.The phone Number is 1-877-239-8910 for a toll free number.Sumitted by Don Allen 04/18/05 Good luck

I guess I don't understand how the xylitol, a "...popular sweetener for the diabetic diet in some countries. In the U.S., xylitol is approved as a food additive in unlimited quantity for foods with special dietary purposes" would kill bacteria in the nose. If it's a sweetner, is it killing bacteria in the body as well? It sounds as if it's a sweetner mixed into a saline solution.

I do use a plain nasal saline spray, available at much less than the $12.95 price for the xylitol, and the plain nasal spray is what my allergist and other docs have recommended.

It is tree pollen time here. I love looking at the new leaves but hate the allergy symptoms they set off. Thanks for the reminder about saline sprays.

FWIW - I took Loratadine for allergy symptoms. While it seemed to work, after a couple of days it made me VERY testy and disagreeable (more so than usual

). The irritability was so bad I had to stop taking it and go off alone to "sleep it off". This was a second try at this med so I consider my observations conclusive.

I didn't readily see this problem listed in the side affects.

Gee RICK, glad I don't live near you!

I related this to my allergist and she said she had never heard of this side affect.

There was a report on our 5:00 pm news about Sesame being a new wide-spread food allergy. The allergist interviewed said the problem is that sesame is in so many different foods now. It's become the 9th most common food allergy, he said.

jane

where can I find more on them? you drop them in your mouth:) it was a tv story today

Put - allergy drops - into Google. You'll get lots of hits.

Be prepared for a bad allergy season, if it hasn't hit you already.

It has hit here...high pollen counts and just miserable all morning. It finally gets better by late afternoon/evening...and then starts all over again the next morning.

Sneeze, snuffle, cough...

Like many things in my life, I am a little bit allergic to stuff, and getting a little more allergic, the older I get.

I get itches and rashes, and sneezes and coughs, and I even have an inhailer that I use occaisionally. I have been very fortuate not to have to resort to heavy duty medicine to control by bodies reaction to stuff in the atmosphere.

This morning I got up and made me some garlic and onion broth. Gettig ready for the flu season, I thought this would be a good thing to have. Just cooking the stuff made me sneeze, and now I feel slightly asmatic...

Could it be that I am having a reation to the garlic (or onions)?? I have heard of garlic causing problems... These small problems have wittled away at my abilitiy to enjoy many foods.

I am greatful that my problems are small ones and appreciate even more the difficulties some people experience with really severe allergic reations... I am just venting, and curious.

Have complication free day!

Jane, I hope that you are better...

Thanks. I seem to be over the sinus/upper respiratory whatever-it-was thing. Took about two weeks to really get back to feeling good again.

The winds seem to blow so much around and that really seems to impact me, but I'm now reading a lot of people had this sinus/upper respiratory whatever so I suspect a "virus" going around.

jane

I just saw on tv an ad for the "ionic breeze"... very expensive, but I bet it is good. They even have one for your bathroom and car!

I wonder....

Is that an air filter?

We've bought air filters and expensive filters for our bedroom, and they don't seem to be worth the cost to us. Perhaps others have had good results. I try to keep our bedroom windows closed and we have hot water heat so it's not blowing dust around, etc. and the room has no carpet.

I am also a person who likes to have the windows open downstairs when the weather is nice. I know that's not good for allergies, but I can't stand being closed up all the time.

jane

Consumer Reports gave it a bad writeup. I believe it is an electrostatic air cleaner, sold by Sharper Image.

Everybody have their allergies under control this summer? Around here they say it's one of the nastier ones, but I've been good...I think the rains have helped to keep the pollen from causing lots of problems for me. Now if we could just do something about the mosquitoes.

We don't have mosquitos here, thank heavens, but we sure do have a heap of allergens and they are causing all kinds of problems this year. I didn't realize that when I moved here or I would have tried to go somewhere else.

I was just talking to my doc today about seeing an allergist and possibly trying shots but he said that they don't like to give them to someone with my lung conditions. The pills simply aren't dong the job and then the allergens seem to cause sinus problems, too.

Zinnia: Yes, I've gone through that scenario more times than I want to think about...get all clogged up sinuses with the allergens, then infection sets in because they can't drain and it's sinus infection and antibiotics and then it all starts all over again. For years, I'd have that cycle every spring, then again in the summer...come fall, etc. I seem to have some success keeping it from happening using the saline solutions to rinse the nose/sinuses when I first feel that "clogging" coming on.

jane

That's the exact same thing that happens to me! And then the infection settles into my damaged lungs and I end up in the hospital with pneumonia. I have started using the sinus rinse packets from Neil Med and seem to be doing better. I wish I had a real neti pot, though, because I think that would be easier than trying to squeeze all of the solution out of that bottle.

I'm not familiar with the Neil Med you mention. I just buy the generic saline solution at WalMart or Walgreen's and use that...or make my own. I got a large plastic syringe kind of thing from the allergist and can use that to put the solution up the nostrils. It's messy, but it seems to work for me.

jane

I use Otrisal nasal spray night and morning. Its a saline nasal spray which rinses out allergens. I just need to be out and miss one night and I have had it. I will get a sinus infection. I have to take them all year round because of our climate. We have pollen all year round as lots of plants flower all year round.

Carolyn

sneeze,,,,sneeze....sneeze...

You can sure tell it's August and the allergies are flaring up, even with meds!!

jane

I have been sneezing my brains out for 2 weeks now. OTC meds are not helping. Behind us they have been digging up dirt and when the wind blows <which is most of the time> it blows this very fine dirt all over the place. I have it all over my apt. Anyway, it seems that this fine dirt is causing these sneezes. I hate to live in a locked up apt. tho. I like my fresh air at night. Doctor told me to switch to another Allergy OTC which I did. Helped one day is all. Expensive too. Fall is just around the corner.

The night air is the worse for me. I can't have the bedroom windows open or I awake so congested and with such pain in the sinuses above my eyes. So, closed they are for the night.

jane

I am looking for suggestions, help, anything! For the past year, I have had symptoms that defy diagnosis by local doctors, apparently. I do not believe I have really gotten the attention of any of them and lately I have the feeling they are talking to each other and have decided my symptoms are psychosomatic. I feel this way because I have heard “Some things just can’t be diagnosed” by at least three of these doctors. Here’s my story:

Over one year ago, I had cataract surgery and had Restor lens implants. Shortly after my second surgery, I started to feel tightness around my eyes, as if I was wearing heavy glasses when I wasn’t wearing glasses. At times, I felt fullness in my ears. Later, the fullness and tightness became a regular problem and I felt as though there were a huge, tight rubber band around my head. An ear doctor assured me my ears were clear and they are rarely affected any more. The worst problem is with my eyes. I awaken each day with what feels like gravel in my eyes. My eyes are frequently red and swollen and my eye lids droop. My eye doctor said my eyes are fine but dry and prescribed Restasis for dry eyes. After three months of Restasis, they are no better. Some times, I press on the area right under my eyes and get immediate relief, suggesting the sinus area under my eyes is swollen. A CT scan last December revealed clear sinuses. The CT scan revealed a slightly deviated septum and a concha bullosa, but the ENTs didn’t think those were a problem. An allergist tested me for allergies and found none. I have gone through countless (and expensive) pills, sprays and miscellaneous treatments (such as nasal douches). Nothing has helped. One course of steroids offered me relief which suggests the cause of my discomfort is swelling and perhaps inflammation. The ENT who prescribed steroids suggested I should learn to live with it, wait until it gets better on its own or gets worse and treatment is obvious. That was months ago; I am having a hard time living with it. Not one doctor has used the rhinoscope I have read about and I wonder if another CT scan should have been ordered. I am not imagining this and feel that there is an answer, if only someone would go to the effort to find it. I am 70 years old and otherwise healthy and active. I would love to be able to feel good again! Does anyone know where I can go for help?

Assuming it would be OK with your doctors, have you tried a plain old antihistamine (try different ones as all meds don't work for all people)and/or nasal decongestant before bed?

Also try to see if you can relate it to any food that you eat in the day before it gets worse. If I eat peanut butter (which I love) my eyes start to itch in the corner, they tear, and at times my throat itches. Stop the peanut butter and in a day it goes away.

I don't know, but is it possible you have an allergy to the material the lens is made of? You might have to do some internet searching to find anything on that. See if you can find out who the manufacturer is and then start searching. Post the manufacturer here - maybe someone here can help.

"night air" - Mold flourishes in the early AM. Night moisture certainly helps it along. The morning sun seems to quiet it down - about 10:00AM here. That being said, what good did it do? The mold is still there.

Thanks, Rick. Yes, and now with the leaves falling and the rains of fall, the mold is probably worse than in the summer. Some days you can't win!

Win ????? ------What's that

Mold is off the chart right now...HIGH. (wheezzeee..)

And so is RagWeed. For a day or two my fair city was highest in the nation......Achuuuuu....

Sun

I had a reaction to an antibiotic on Monday night which was to be my 2nd course of the same drug ,same strength ,in the month of November as my urine sample came back positive again [e coli] for the 2nd time . Though i had no symptoms i asked for it to be checked out. Imagine my horror ,within minutes of taking the first dose, when i statrted with a brilliant red itchy rash, between my legs of all places !, which spread up and out in blotches and weals ,my pulse going like mad .Fortunately i had some of the antihistamine to hand which i had prescribed for a similar reaction to another antibiotic. Several hrs later i was fairly much better .Now my doctor doesnt know what to give me [i guess he's a bit scared? is sending me to an allergist for investigation ,not before time, allergic reactions are scary? ] but what to do about the positive urine now ?

roidininki: You are really having a time of it. Where on earth is the e coli coming from that keeps infecting you? Is it the water or ?? E coli is nothing to fool with either, but I'm sure he wants you to see the allergist to find out what he can give you that won't cause you more problems.

It's good to see you posting at SN, but sorry that it's for health concerns.

jane

Jane thanks for your response ....can e coli occur in our drinking water ?

If the water is contaminated from sewage somehow, roidininki, it can. Do you have a private well? That's what's believed to have caused the big spinach thing here a few months ago. The water to the spinach fields was contaminated. That's why washing it did no good. The e coli was in the plant, not just on it. Farm wells can sometimes be contaminated with animal waste.

Food is the most common way, however.

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/escherichiacoli_g.htm

Escherichia coli O157:H7 is a leading cause of foodborne illness. Based on a 1999 estimate, 73,000 cases of infection and 61 deaths occur in the United States each year. In the ten CDC Foodborne Diseases Active Surveillance Network (FoodNet) sites (which represent 15% of the US population), there was a 29% decline in E. coli O157:H7 infection since 1996-98 (see FoodNet Reports).

Infection with E. coli often leads to bloody diarrhea, and occasionally to kidney failure. People can become infected with E.coli O157:H7 in a variety of ways. Though most illness has been associated with eating undercooked, contaminated ground beef, people have also become ill from eating contaminated bean sprouts or fresh leafy vegetables such as lettuce and spinach. Person-to-person contact in families and child care centers is also a known mode of transmission. In addition, infection can occur after drinking raw milk and after swimming in or drinking sewage-contaminated water.

Consumers can prevent E. coli O157:H7 infection by thoroughly cooking ground beef, avoiding unpasteurized milk, and by washing hands carefully before preparing or eating food. Fruits and vegetables should be washed well, but washing may not remove all contamination. Public service announcements on television, radio, or in the newspapers will advise you which foods to avoid in the event of an outbreak.

Because the organism lives in the intestines of healthy cattle, preventive measures on cattle farms, during meat processing, and during the growth, harvest and processing of produce are being investigated.

The link at the top of that quote has more information, too.

jane

I don't know where else to post. My problem at the moment is a bad cold. Yes, not an ordinary cold but a SUPER cold. I don't get ordinary colds but a super cold can make life pretty dreary. How does my body manufacture all the gunk in sinuses and lungs that seem to be in a contest as to whose body is this anyway? My super colds seem to last a month and for the most part I am isolated from the rest of the world. Hacking and blowing and using all the usual remedies plus a Rx antibiotic. For the most part it just seems to go away on its own. So I ask myself, am I being subjected to airborn virus or fungus or mold or what? Have any of you invested into air purifiers? I have considered the purchase of an expensive one. over $800, but I don't know how effective they are. I could use some good advice. losalbern

Losalbern: We have a floor model, not nearly as expensive as yours, and it's, to me, virtually worthless. We live in an old house with wood floors and so no carpet or heavy draperies (just curtains on the windows) on the bedroom windows and yet we, at various times of the years, will both awake with stuffed sinuses.

The best thing I've found is rinsing the nasal passages with a saline solution. Mucinex can also be a help when I have a bad cold.

I hope you feel better soon!

jane