Ah-Choo IQ: 3 Allergy Myths Busted!

FLORIDA — ALLERGIES: A normal immune system protects the body from certain bacteria and viruses, and also reacts to foreign substances called allergens which are typically not harmful. However, when the immune response is oversensitive it launches a response when it recognizes an allergen and releases histamines which are what cause allergy symptoms. Allergies are normally not inherited but if both parents have allergies their children are likely to have them and if a child's mother has allergies they also have a higher likelihood of having allergies. (Source: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

PREVENTION: It has been found that breast feeding infants for the first 4 to 6 months may help prevent them from developing allergies later on because it strengthens the baby's immune system and breast milk is very unlikely to trigger an allergic reaction in babies at risk of food allergies. Reducing children's contact to dust mites by putting "allergen impermeable" covers on pillows and mattresses, washing bedding in warm water weekly, and keeping the humidity in the house below 50% may also delay or prevent allergies from developing. (Source: www.aaaai.org)

ALTERNATIVE REMEDIES: Although allergy shots and other medications are available, these are some alternative remedies that might help relieve annoying symptoms.

1. Rinsing out the sinuses with a neti pot or bulb syringe will flush out thickened mucus and irritants which helps with congestion and hay fever symptoms.
2. The herbs butterbur and stinging nettle may help to relieve or improve symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
3. The herb choline might help to relieve some asthma symptoms.

(Source: www.mayoclinic.com)

ALLERGY FACTS: Many people only take allergy medications once symptoms of an allergy attack start, but it is actually better if the medication is already in a person's system or taken right after exposure to the cause of the allergy even though symptoms are not yet present. It is also important to know that allergies can develop later in life so even if an individual has no allergies as a child that does not mean they will be free of allergies their entire life. If a person begins to experience allergy like symptoms they should see a doctor to decide if they have developed a new allergy. People with allergies should also note that having an allergy to one thing may mean they are more prone to have other allergies, so be aware. (Source: www.abcnews.com)

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