Allergies By Jodi M

Seasonal allergies are caused by an immune system that treats a normal allergen (such as pollen or mold) as an infectious agent. Most people are not affected by these substances, but certain individuals have immune systems that mount a serious attack when exposed to these types of things. Here are a few things that commonly cause seasonal allergies:
1: Pollen from trees: Usually allergies experienced in the spring are caused by a reaction to a certain tree pollen. To avoid pollens, it's good to shower at bedtime in order to wash off pollen in your skin or hair. Staying indoors as much as possible on dry or windy days may also reduce your allergies.
2: Mold: an allergy to mold can be experienced at any time of year. This may be a bigger issue in humid climates, because mold is more prevalent in moist places. You can minimize the amount of mold in your house by frequently washing shower curtains, windows, and other places where mold may grow. Opening doors and windows and using fans can increase air movement and prevent mold.
3: Pet dander: Many people are allergic to the dandruff of certain animals. Unfortunately the only way to avoid pet dander is to give away your pets, or stay away from other people's as much as possible. No matter how cute Rover and Trixy are, they won't help your allergies.
4: Dust Mites: This is a particularly annoying allergy because you can have a reaction anywhere and any time of year. Some ways to avoid allergies in your own house include frequently cleaning carpets and curtains, and dusting appliances and other surfaces.

Myth #1 - Allergy shots are a miracle cure.
Allergy shots can be very inconvenient and are not effective on all individuals. Also, with the long-term use of allergy shots, an individual can become gradually desensitized to a specific allergen. Because of this, these treatments are typically used by people who have adverse reactions to allergy medications and/or cannot avoid their allergen.
Myth #2 - There are no natural remedies for allergies
There is a new ingredient produced by Embria Health Sciences called EpiCor. EpiCor's immune-balancing properties are perfect for people with allergies. Allergies are caused by in improper response to certain allergens. Epicor works to "educate" the immune system by promoting the proper immune response when the body is being inappropriately attacked. EpiCor is a complex, nutrient-rich ingredient comprised of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants. It is an all-natural nutritional dietary health supplement derived from yeast that helps support the immune system.
Myth #3 - If you use one brand of allergy medication you will build a resistance to it over time
People may think their isn't working as effectively as before because medications only treat the symptoms and not the actual problem. So if there is an increase in the amount of allergens in the air, the medicine may not be as effective as it was in the past. Years ago, medicines became less effective overtime, but that is no longer the case. Modern science has found a way around that problem.

Also, remember that during allergy season you are much more susceptible to catching a cold. Be sure to get plenty of rest, avoid touching your eyes and nose, and have a great cold medicine on hand. If you are one of the many people suffering from these seasonal allergies, there are things you can do to lessen the severity of your symptoms. Follow these simple tips as best you can and the term "allergy season" won't give you that sick feeling in your stomach anymore!