Let's Talk Allergies

Bedbugs Invading Hospitals and Nursing Homes

Mike Krause — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 18:08:49 GMT

Bedbugs continue to be a big problem and it seems like they are getting worse. An article by Jen Wieczner is all about how hospitals and nursing homes are now having to deal with them. It makes perfect sense if you think about it. People from all over are being admitted to hospitals and the staff is busy checking you temperature, blood pressure and other vitals and they are not looking at your clothes to see if you are bringing in bed bugs.

The good news is bed bug bites don't cause infections. The bad news is they itch, you scratch and now you have an open wound that some germ already in the hospital can get to you. This is one reason we tell our customers how important it is to keep an eye out for them when you travel and why you should use a mattress cover that keeps bed bugs out of your bed.

Read her complete article - Bedbugs Invade Hospitals

Wishing you the best of health

Mike Krause
AllergyStore.com - Helping customers since 1989
800 771-2246

©Copyright 1996-2013 Cee DeeKay,Inc dba AllergyStore.com™ All Rights Reserved

Allergic to the Cat? Can't Get Rid of Her.

Mike Krause — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 19:04:00 GMT

Many people have allergies to pets, especially cats, but own them.They would rather suffer from their allergies that give the pet up. They are part of the family. Our own daughter is allergic to cats and she has two of them.

The question is what can you do? We recommend keeping them out of the bedroom if at all possible and using Allerpet c pet solution and combination with the ADMS spray to neutralize the dander. You can try to give them a bath but all I can say is good luck. Last but not least keep a good air cleaner running in the bedroom at all times.

Click on this link if you want to read a bit more about Living with Cat Dander Allergies.

Wishing you the best of health

Mike Krause
The Allergy Store - Helping our customers since 1989
800 771-2246

AllergyStore.com

©Copyright 1996-2013 Cee DeeKay,Inc dba AllergyStore.com™ All Rights Reserved

When Cleaning House Is The Problem

Mike Krause — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 11:20:42 GMT

Sometimes people try to make their home to clean.

We all know that controlling your allergies and asthma really starts at home. This time of year many people with allergies will now stay indoors because the air is full of pollen, grass and mold spores. Staying indoors may solve the pollen problem but you still have dust mites, pet dander and other indoor allergens to deal with.

I was reading an article the other day that said you need to get aggressive with your cleaning to reduce your allergy symptoms. It talked about getting rid of your pets, stuffed furniture, carpets, stuffed toys, drapes, books and anything else that can hold dust. Now after you get rid of all your stuff you needed to scrub, dust and vacuum multiple times a week (don't forget to wear your dust mask) to keep the house clean.

While all of that may be necessary for someone with extreme allergies it is not necessary for most. I don't know about you but I don't want to live in a bubble or a house with nothing in it. In some cases aggressive cleaning can cause you more problems than it can fix.

Every time you dust the furniture or run the vacuum small particles are stirred up and become airborne. Now that they are floating in the air you or your children can easily breath them in which then can cause allergies or asthma to flare up. If you are cleaning every day then you will always have stuff floating in the air. I can't tell you the number of people we have talked to over the years that the allergies got better once they quit running the vacuum right before they put their child down for a nap or 7 o'clock at night when everyone was around the house.

Now I'm not saying stop cleaning the house. All I'm suggesting is do it in moderation. Clean when necessary and try to clean when what you do stir up has a chance to settle. Most of the time we do the "big" cleaning on Saturday morning and then pick up during the week. When the kids were home it was done more often.

Wishing you the best of health

Mike
Allergy Store - Helping our customers since 1989
800 771-2246

©Copyright 1996-2013 Cee DeeKay,Inc dba AllergyStore.com™ All Rights Reserved

Dust Mite Covers - Frequently Asked Questions

Cheryl — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 18:54:41 GMT

We have been getting lots of calls and emails lately asking about our dust mite covers. I thought I would use this post to review the different types of fabrics and what factors to consider in choosing one over the other.

To begin with, every zippered cover that we sell will protect you against dust mites and their feces as well as other common household allergens and irritants such as molds, pollen, cockroaches and animal dander. When it comes to effectiveness, all of our covers are up to the job of protecting you.

Your fabric selection will factor in your own personal fabric preferences, budget constraints, and the need for water-proof protection.

Our fabrics break down into two categories: microweaves and membrane coated fabrics. Microweaves are the most common type of barrier cloth sold. The allergen protection is provided by the weave of the fabric. This type of fabric is referred to as "microweaves" because the average size of the space between the fibers used to weave the fabric (called to as the "mean pore size") is so small that allergens can't get through the fabric.

There are many benefits to microweave fabrics. To begin with, they are thinner than the membrane style (which I will discuss later), and because they lack a plastic backing, they are much cooler to the sleeper. This is important if you are a warm sleeper or suffer from night sweats. You don't have to worry about the membrane separating from the fabric if you wash or dry at too high of a temperature and if the fabric is woven of all polyester or a polyester blend it will be very durable. The major downsides to microweave fabrics is the expense (because it takes more fiber to weave a fabric this tightly the production cost is higher) and the loss of water-proof protection.

The most popular microweaves are the Pristine Luxury because it has the smallest pore size and the 100% Cotton because people just love the feel of cotton. Because the Pristine Luxury is all polyester, it can be more tightly woven and will stand up over the years better to hot water washing. Because the 100% Cotton fabric is all cotton, it is very cool to the touch and will not make the sleeper hot at night. The Pristine Luxury fabric is more expensive than the 100% Cotton fabric, so if you are on a tight budget that is a factor to consider.

We carry two all cotton fabrics, and people ask what is the big difference (besides the large price difference) between our regular 100% Cotton and our Certified Organic Cotton. The organic cotton has been certified, not only as to how it was processed but how it was grown. No chemical pesticides or chemical fertilizers are used in the growth of organic cotton. No chemical treatments are made to the fabric during processing. With our conventional cotton, we have no certification as to how the cotton was grown. We do know however, that aside from bleaching it white, it has had no further chemical treatment. This is important if you are trying to avoid resins and formaldehyde that are commonly found in bed linens.

And speaking of chemical treatments, some companies treat their fabrics with pesticides or antimicrobials. No fabric you purchase from The Allergy Store has been treated with these toxic chemicals, so you can rest easy.

The membrane fabrics take a traditional fabric (either a stretch polyester knit or a 50/50 blend of cotton and polyester) and uses heat to fuse that fabric to a 1 mil thick urethane membrane. It is the membrane that gives the fabric its waterproof and allergy-proof protection. In addition, the membrane prevents bed bugs that are in the mattress from feeding through the cover. This makes these covers perfect for saving a mattress during an active bed bug infestation. The other major benefit to the membrane fabrics is primarily the cost. Because they are made with traditional fabrics that receive an extra treatment, they are less expensive to purchase. This is a big consideration when the budget is small. One downside to membrane fabrics is that even though they are water vapor transmissive, they are still warmer to sleep on than a microweave. The other downside is that you must be more careful with the washing of the coated fabrics. Because the membrane is fused with heat, you cannot wash or dry the fabric at high temperatures or use strong detergents or bleaches as the membrane will be destroyed. However, as stated previously, if you have an active bed bug infestation, they are exactly what you need to protect you and loved ones from bites.

Speaking of bed bugs, we get lots of questions between bed bug covers and dust mite covers. While any zippered cover is going to protect your mattress from getting bed bugs in it, only the coated fabrics will protect you from bites if the bugs are already there. As an added bonus, our bed bug mattress covers have a tape strip that goes over the zipper for added protection. Tapes are not necessary for dust mite protection, however some people feel "safer" if they have something over the zipper. If you feel like you need to tape your zipper, please use the blue painter's tape as it is easily removed and won't leave a sticky residue on the fabric when it is time for washing.

The world of fabrics for dust mite and bed bug mattress covers can be confusing. I hope that this information helps you to figure out what best suits your needs.

If you have any questions, you know you can always call Customer Service or drop us an email.

Til Next Time!

Cheryl
The Allergy Store

Antihistamines - Non Drowsy Versions

Mike Krause — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 19:30:08 GMT

While antihistamines like Benadryl can knock you off your feet there are some that are very popular and work well without slowing you down. I'm sure you have all seen the commercials on TV about being "Claritin Clear".

Claritin along with other well known brands like; Alavert, Allegra, Zyrtec, Clarinex are all considered non drowsy antihistamines. The active ingredients (loratadine, fexofenadine, cetirizine) in these products have very little effect on your central nervous systems therefor they don't make you tired.

Our daughter has allergies and she had to try several of these products before she found the one that worked best for her, Claritin. As always make sure to talk to your doctor if you have any questions.

Wishing you the best of health

Mike Krause
Allergy Store - Helping our customers since 1989
800 771-2246

©Copyright 1996-2013 Cee DeeKay,Inc dba AllergyStore.com™ All Rights Reserved

2013 Pollen Season Is Here - Are You Ready

Mike Krause — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 18:56:18 GMT

If you live south or west of Kentucky, I don't have to tell you that pollen season has already started. As of this morning, most of the deep South (Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Georgia, Texas) is in the high pollen count zone and the tier of states just above those states (North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Arkansas) are beginning to hit the moderate counts.

So watch out mid-west, Pacific northwest, Ohio Valley, northern tier and New England...you are next!

Trying to minimize your seasonal allergy symptoms boils down to minimizing your exposure to pollen. One of your best friends during this time (besides your friends at The Allergy Store) is your local pollen forecast. You can usually find this information on the weather page of your local newspaper or you can surf the interwebs on over to Pollen.Com and enter your local ZIP code for the four day forecast in your area.

To the extent you can, plan your outdoor activities around low pollen count days. When that isn't possible, try to stay inside during the morning hours. Pollen counts tend to be the highest earlier in the day, although factors such as temperature and humidity can affect pollen release. Stay inside on windy days. Most troublesome plants use wind to spread their pollen (reader beware - plant sex talk follows) instead of relying on insects such as wasps and bees to move their sperm cells. Speaking of troublesome plants, if you want to know the exact problem pollen producing plants in your area, you can also check out PollenLibrary.Com. Enter your ZIP code and get a list of plants sorted by category of species (tree, grass, etc) and whether or not they are a significant or moderate problem.

But let's be realistic, sometimes you have to get out in that pollen filled world. So, protect yourself. Wear a mask to keep you from inhaling as much pollen as possible. You can check out the masks we carry at Dust and Pollen Masks but we particularly recommend the Q-Mask and the Vogmask for protecting yourself from pollen. When you do come inside, be sure to keep those doors and windows closed. Keep the pollen out of the house! If you have an air cleaner, be sure to run it on the medium or high setting. Both human and furred inhabitants of your home bring in pollen grains on hair, clothing, and fur. By going straight to the bathroom, taking a shower, and changing your clothes, you will minimize the amount of pollen you spread throughout your home. Since bathrooms are full of hard surfaces, they are more easily cleaned of pollen than other room in your house.

Speaking of cleaning, did you know that the same denaturing agents you use for dust mites, molds, and animal allergens also work on pollen? So, if Fluffy comes inside coated in pollen, you can brush and apply Allerpet and Fluffy's pollen won't be a problem.

In the last few years, nasal irrigation as a means of controlling seasonal allergy has been gaining traction. More about that later.

Til Next Time!

Cheryl
The Allergy Store

Antihistamines - Why Do Some Make You Sleepy

Mike Krause — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 11:09:03 GMT

I don't know about you but I can not take Benadryl when I know there is lots to be done. The stuff just wipes me out. I was talking to one mom not to long ago and she was concerned about her son because all he wants to do is sleep after he takes his antihistamine for his allergy symptoms.

That's not surprising considering the active ingredient in Benadryl is diphenydramine, the same active ingredient in most over OTC sleeping pills. I read somewhere that pilots are not allowed to fly if they have taken some antihistamines within 24 hours of takeoff. Several studies have been conducted that show even though a person may say they don't feel drowsy their reaction time, motor skills and memory is impaired after taking some of these drugs.

What do you think this can do to a child's test scores at school?

It's important to follow the directions on the package. When they tell you to avoid driving, use other motorized equipment or don't drink alcohol they know what they are talking about. One thing you may try is taking 1/2 the recommended dose and see how that works. As always talk to your doctor if you have questions.

Wishing you the best of health

Mike Krause
Allergy Store - Helping our customers since 1989
800 771-2246

©Copyright 1996-2013 Cee DeeKay,Inc dba AllergyStore.com™ All Rights Reserved

Time To get The Garden Ready For Spring Planting

Mike Krause — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 18:21:45 GMT

Spring is almost here and for many it will mean getting out in the yard and getting the flower beds ready for planting. In many parts of the country they are forecasting an early pollen season.

Depending on where you live pollen season usually runs from March to September. Here in South Florida our plants are already starting to bloom.

With that being said don't let a little pollen keep you from doing something you love. You can still get out and create that beautiful garden. You just need to take a few precautions.

Figure out what plants bother you the most and don't plant them.
Do the gardening when winds are light and pollen counts are low.
Wear gloves and a pollen mask.
Keep your hands away from your eyes and nose. Use a bandana to wipe the sweat away.
Take your antihistamines or use your nasal sprays before you start working in the garden.
Make sure to wash your hands and face when you are done and change your clothes as soon as you are done. This will keep you from spreading the pollen all over the house.

You have been cooped up long enough. Go outside and enjoy the nice weather and bring new life to that backyard.

Wishing you the best of health

Mike Krause

Allergy Store - Helping our customers since 1989

800 771-2246

C-Sections and Allergies. Is There a Connection

Mike Krause — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 21:44:09 GMT

This weekend at the AAAAI annual meeting a study was being presented by Dr. Johnson, chair of Henry Ford Department of Health Sciences suggests that C-section babies are susceptible to developing allergies by age two.

"Researchers found that babies born by C-section are five times more likely to develop allergies than babies born naturally when exposed to high levels of common allergens in the home such as those from dogs, cats and dust mites."

Read complete article from Newswise.

Wishing you the best of health

Mike Krause

Our Government and Healthy Housing

Mike Krause — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 22:29:21 GMT

We were listening to the news the other day and heard a blurb about our government wanting to make sure we have healthy homes. Just now had the time to look into it and to be honest I personally think Washington has other thing to be concerned about.

"Establish healthy homes recommendations (homes should be dry, clean, pest-free, safe, contaminant-free, well-ventilated, and well-maintained and thermally controlled)"

When we owned the service company I saw first hand homes that were in need of some TLC. Some had water leaks, mold, bad insulation, poor ventilation, leaky windows and much worse in a few homes. Did some of these problems add to the customers allergy and asthma problems. I would say yes.

We have helped thousands of customers over the years improve their indoor environment. It is what we do and we are glad to do it. Should there be local, state and federal regulations to control it or make you do it. NO

Wishing you the best of health

Mike Krause
Allergy Store - Helping customer since 1989
800 771-2246

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©Copyright 1996-2013 Cee DeeKay,Inc dba AllergyStore.com™ All Rights Reserved