Jun

10

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Cause Allergy Reactions

Filed Under Allergy Symptoms, Allergy Prevention, Multiple Chemical Sensitivity | Leave a Comment

Multiple chemical senstivity refers to a condition caused by an exposure to a wide range of chemicals that can range from a chemical spill, to poor ventilation in an office environment.  Other terms that have also been frequently used to describe the same thing include “environmental illness” or “sick building syndrome”.

Unfortunately, many medical groups do not actually consider MCS to be a recognized physical disorder since there is a lack of clinical evidence supporting the existence of this condition.  Yet, there are several cases of sufferers complaining about the effects of MCS - including anxiety, depression and other mental disorders that may express in physical symptoms - making it difficult to assess whether the symptoms are physical or psychologically based.

Other symptoms of MCS reported include fatigue, dizziness, headache, nausea, irritability, concentration problems, intolerance to cold or to heat, earaches, congestion of the nasal passages, itching, sneezing, memory problems, diarrhea,chest pain, muscle pain, sore throat,  skin rashes or hives and also mood changes.

Many products have been identified as possible allergens leading to MCS.  They include: tobacco smoke, perfume, exhaust from gasoline fumes, nail polish remover, newspaper ink, artificial food preservatives, hair spray or paint spray, insecticides, artificial sweeteners and colors, new carpeting, felt tip pens, adhesive tape, chlorine in pools, and also flame retardants on clothing or furniture.

Sadly, many doctors do not recognize MCS, and will not give a diagnosis. This makes research studies difficult due to lack of statistics. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reported that 1/3 of individuals working in sealed buildings have claimed to be sensitive to one or more chemicals. Females are more likely than males to complain of MCS. Findings indicate that MCS develops more often in the 30 to 50 age group.

Doctors who support the idea of MCS make the diagnosis by conducting a complete medical examination, looking into the medical history, and ordering diagnostic tests such as X-rays, and blood tests. Allergies are ruled out as well as other mental health disorders, physical ailments and other causes for symptoms, for a conclusion.

The only way to treat MCS is probably to stay alert to symptoms and to remove yourself as much as possible to an exposure to chemicals.  There are also support groups that you can join, if you believe that MCS is the case for you. 

Apr

29

Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis

Filed Under Allergy Attack, Allergy Symptoms, Allergy Prevention | Leave a Comment

Allergic rhinitis is a very common disorder.  It affects over 20% of the American population.  It refers to an inflammation of the nasal passages.  Main symptoms include water nasal discharge and itching of the nose and eyes.  The symptoms of allergic rhinitis usually show up on sufferers who are particularly sensitive to dust, dander, or certain seasonal pollens.

Characteristic symptoms include repetitive sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, ears, nose or throat, runny nose, and general fatigue.  Symptoms may also include wheezing, tearing of eyes, sore throat, and an impaired sense of smell.  It is possible to also experience a chronic cough, but should not be mistaken for asthma.  Sinus headaches and plugging of the ears are also commonly suffered.

Although sufferers tend to show symptoms before the age of 30; in reality, they can appear at any age.  Allergic rhinitis can cause much loss in productivity and downtime.  Sufferers may experience symptoms so severe that they can be kept from school or work.  The cost in physician services and medications for treatment can easily run into millions of dollars. 

Many perennial and seasonal allergens cause allergic rhinitis.  Dust mites, molds, and animal dander are examples of year round allergens.  Tree, grass, and ragweed pollens are primarily seasonal outdoor allergens.  Seasonal pollens depend on wind for cross-pollination.
Findings are that plants that depend on insect pollination, such as goldenrod and dandelions, do not usually cause allergic rhinitis. 

Allergic rhinitis symptoms tend to develop more in early spring, late summer and early fall.  This is the time when mold spores grow in warm, damp environments.  However, do note that mold spores can also be measured indoors year round. 

Another potential source of problems come from animal allergens. Most animal allergens are secreted through the sebaceous glands of the animal’s skin. 

To be diagnosed with allergic rhinitis, your doctor first need to do a physical exam.  Classic signs of allergic rhinitis include swelling of the eyelids, dark circles around the eyes, and extra skin folds in the lower eyelids.  Skin testing may be required to confirm the diagnosis of allergic rhinitis.  An intra-dermal testing is made if results of prick method testing return negative. 

Mostly, the treatment of allergic rhinitis center around reducing its symptoms. The best bet is avoidance of the allergen or minimization of exposure.  Medications may be used such as antihistamines and decongestants but they are best used not excessively.

Early childhood exposure to common household microbes, environmental bacteria, and fermented foods may help to reduce a child’s risk of developing allergies as they get older.  Childhood exposure to pets, especially during the first year of life when the immune system is still developing, has been associated with a decreased risk of allergies to pet dander.

Healthy eating habits and exercise can further strengthen the immune system and help avoid unwanted allergic reactions. 
 

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