The Culprits Of Allergies

Sulfite Allergy Guide Naturally occurring sulfites are a group of sulfur-based substances used

in food enhancement and preservation. An estimate of one out of a hundred people sensitive to these compounds has been given by the FDA Sulfite sensitivity has an unknown cause. It may also be acquired regardless of age.

Reactions in sulfite sensitivity, may exhibit mild to nearly fatal responses. A ban on the use of sulfites on produce that are to be eaten raw was imposed by the FDA on 1986. Sulfites used in the manufacture of food MUST be listed on the product label. Processed and cooked foods may contain sulfites. Luckily, fresh foods do not. Naturally occurring sulfites may be found in the process of making beer and wine.

To prevent the onset of allergic reactions to sulfite, sulfite containing food products should be avoided. Habitually reading food labels should be practiced by sulfite sensitive individuals. Refer to a chef or restaurant staff to inquire whether sulfites have been added to your food.

Pollen Allergy Explained Pollen grains are fine multi-cellular organisms from plants,

which are designed to carry plant sperm cells. Pollen grains are carried by the wind. However, there are grains that do not end up in other plants to complete the fertilization process. Pollen allergy can be categorized as seasonal allergic rhinitis and this is triggered by inhaling pollen grains in the air. This condition is also referred to as hay fever.

It is a known fact that pollen is one of the most frequent triggers of allergy to most people. It is easy to prevent exposure to visible allergens (i.e. animals, food, medicines). It is possible to avoid dusts and insects as well. If you are inside a house with closed doors and windows, however, it would be impossible for you to escape airborne pollen.

Pollen Allergies For reproduction, Plants produce tiny, round or oval pollen

grains which are too tiny to see with the naked eye. When some plants species fertilize its own self, they use the pollen form its own flower. Others should undergo cross-pollination.

Pollens must be transferred from the flower of one plant to another of the same species. Then, cross pollination, or fertilization and seed-forming, will take place. Sometimes, it is the job of the insects to pollinate flowering plants. Others rely on the wind to transport pollen. Trees, grasses, and weeds; or the plain looking type of plants are usually the ones that causes allergic reactions and not the ones with showy flowers. Pollens produced by these plants have to be dry, lightweight and small suitable for wind transport.

Cigarette Smoke AllergyToxic chemicals and irritants are present in

cigarettes. Secondhand smoke also plays a significant role in increasing the risk of allergic complications. These complications may include sinusitis and bronchitis. An individual suffering from a smoke allergy is more sensitive to smoke than others.

Conducted research studies suggest that smoking may worsen allergies. Smokers can harm the people around them. The toxic chemicals found in cigarettes are considered irritants.

Hay Fever Allergy An allergy like hay fever is caused by pollens. The two types of allergic

rhinitis can be determined by the time it occurs. Seasonal rhinitis happens during pollination period. Perennial rhinitis happens at any moment of the year.

Symptoms may be similar with hay fever and nonallergic rhinitis, but allergic reactions do not occur in nonallergic reactions. When hay fever happens during spring time, chances are, tree pollens are the culprit. Allergic reactions during summer may be caused by weed and grass pollen. Although fungus spores and weeds can be present all the time, these can pose as problems from late March through November. Cross-reactions with indoor allergens may be common to people who have perennial hay fever.

Things like curtains, beddings, carpet and so much more can be hiding places of allergens such as dust mites and animal dander. Molds thrive in damp areas. Bathrooms and basements are common areas where this allergen can be found.

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