Preventing and Cleaning Your Home For Mold - A Mold Free Environment

It is important to keep your Indoor Environment clean and free of Mold. Mold can cause allergies and allergic reactions in the home. It can be very annoying to go home and start reacting to something in your home after a hard day at the office. These allergens can sometimes make you sneeze or feel tired. Everyone has different symptoms. I have some clients who have constant Chronic Fatigue if they are exposed to mold on a daily basis. Asthma attacks can also be initiated by allergens such as mold in your home. Some attacks can put you in the hospital if not controlled properly.

Mold is a perfect example of an allergen that can be in your home. Most of my clients are in the South Florida Area and have to deal with high humidity on a constant basis. High humidity encourages mold to grow. A lot of the foreclose homes that we are inspecting now have contaminated Air Conditioning Systems. This is because the Banks or Realtors are not leaving the A/C on or are setting the temperature too high to properly remove the humidity.

If the outdoor environment has high humidity, the humidity will migrate toward the Indoor Environment gradually. The interior of the homes are a closed up box with no A/C, thus the high humidity plus mold spores (they are everywhere) means mold will start to grow on the interior of the house. It first starts in the A/C Systems and then spreads slowly through the house on the organic materials. So if you are considering buying a foreclose, get it tested for mold by a certified mold inspector to prevent this problem from happening to you. Warning: Do not hire someone just to test, this is a waste of money. You need to hire a professional that can investigate the reasons for the mold, then tell you what needs to be done and write a protocol on what needs to be fixed.

Mold is a living organism and loves humid and damp environments. It is important to make sure that your homes' A/C System has enough ventilation, especially in those areas that get moisture. Remember, no moisture, no mold. Get a hygrometer that measures the humidity in your home. Check it once a week especially during the summer months of high humidity. If you notice a change, call an A/C repairman immediately. If your home has high humidity after this, then there is a serious construction defect in your home.

Have your home evaluated by a professional with lots of experience in this type of problem or you will have a serious mold problem long term. I constantly see this happen because of incompetence in the construction field. Don't get me wrong, I know a lot of very competent contractors who do excellent work. There is an old saying in this field: Don't allow workmen in your home on Friday afternoon or Monday morning. Enough said about this.

Mold Allergy, especially in people with weakened immune systems, can be a serious problem. It can cause the usual symptoms associated with allergies. I have a lot of clients who react such as sneezing, headaches, and nasal congestion. It can also trigger asthma attacks and neurological symptoms. Visually inspecting your home on a weekly basis is important to prevent these problems. You say what!

Yes, on a weekly basis because that's all the time mold needs to get a foothold into your home due to a water leak or dew pointing. When you find it, stop the moisture source first. If it is a small area, clean it up. Go to www.safe-homes.com for a free EPA Guide to Mold Remediation on how to clean it up yourself. If it is larger than 10 square feet, consider hiring a professional mold remediation company.

Finally, be wary of all the claims of mold cleaning products, check the labels and read the MSDS (Manufacturers Safety Data Sheet) Reports on the products. I have several clients that are allergic to some of these products but not to all. It is an individual thing and must be done before using these products to clean. Remember, always proceed with caution in this area. If you are Chemically Sensitive or have Asthma, consult with your Doctor before attempting any form of mold cleanup.

Allergy Symptoms and How to Heal Them Naturally

Allergy symptoms vary from person to person (and animal to animal), but tend to fall into a few categories. One group of people will tend to express their allergies through their skin. Various eruptions will appear on any part of your body. These are unique to you, in both the area affected and the type of eruption.

Another group of people will express their allergy symptoms through watery discharge of the upper respiratory tract. Symptoms might include those typical of hay fever - streaming eyes, sore eyes, red eyes, itchy eyes, streaming nose, itchy palate, itchy throat, itchy nose, sneezing, etc.

And yet another group of people may express their allergy symptoms through their stomach, with indigestion, gas and diarrhea.

Whatever the area affected, it is showing you your weakness. But at the core of the problem is your immune system. It's struggling really hard and not making much headway. It's badly compromised.

This is at the heart of every single disease under the sun. The expression of the disease (ie your symptoms) indicate your area of weakness, but the fact that you have the allergy or disease in the first place is because your immune system is compromised.

If you have a good, healthy immune system, your body will heal everything. You won't even be aware that there is a problem.

So how do you restore your immune system to its former glory? Generally this is a life transformation. There is no easy fix, no magic bullet. But if you start now, it can only improve.

Things that stop your immune system working are:

• eating unhealthy food (fast, junk, processed, dairy, too much meat, preservatives, colours and so on)


• taking medicine on a regular basis


• having vaccines


• not getting exposed to enough sun


• not taking regular exercise


• drinking too much alcohol

But by far the most important aspect is how you think. If you think negatively, get frightened easily, get angry often or suppress your feelings regularly, your immune system will be badly affected.

Those people who are at peace with themselves don't have compromised immune systems. And they don't get sick very often.

So instead of thinking someone else, other than you, can fix your allergy symptoms, try thinking that you are responsible for your health. It could be the start of a profound journey for you. 

Mold Allergy: Action Steps To Help With Mold Allergy Problems

Molds, also spelled, "moulds" are widespread in the natural environment and in our homes. They form a vital part of nature's plans for recycling biological matter. They are often found in high concentrations on corn and peanuts. Indeed when folks have allergic reactions to these foods it could well be that the reactions are triggered by the mold on the food and not by the corn or peanuts themselves.

Mold and mildew in the home are often found in damp places like kitchens, bathroom and basements. Other places in the home are not exempt. Carpets, mattresses and pillows are often found to have large colonies of mold.

Dealing with mold allergies has to be a balance between taking action in the home to reduce exposure and taking action to improve your health through appropriate lifestyle changes including nutrition.

3 Action Steps in the Home

Before rushing off to the allergist there are lots of practical steps you can take to make your home less welcoming to mold colonies.

• Declutter your living space. Getting rid of piles of clothing, books, newspapers or any other unused item in the home or garage reduces the number of places where mold can hang out and grow colonies. You may want to wear a dust mask or respirator when doing this.


• Cleaning time comes next. It's time to break out the bleach. A cup full of bleach in a bucket of water used to wipe down tiles, window frames and just about anywhere you can reach. The bleach will kill the mold but the surface will need to be cleaned again after wards.


• Running a dehumidifier will help to dry out the home and make it less hospitable to mold.

3 Action Steps for personal health

Before reaching for pharmaceutical medicines, many of which have unwelcome side effects why not use simple safe natural remedies? Here are 3 simple steps you can take.

• Mold can trigger allergy symptoms and asthma so you'll need to be careful to follow any treatment plan worked out for you by your health professional. Symptoms include coughing, sneezing and sinus problems and it may not be obvious that they are caused by mold.


• Natural treatments include sensible doses of vitamin C and quercetin both of which are natural anti-histamines.


• Exposure to sunshine allows the skin to make vitamin D which helps the immune system to balance and not over react to allergens such as mold. As little as 15 minutes of sunshine a day allows your skin to make healthy amounts of vitamin D and leaves you feeling warm and sunny - a boost to health all by itself.

These simple steps can help you reduce the threat of mold to your health.

Pollen Control - 4 Ways To Control Pollen Indoors

Regardless of what kind of pollen sends your allergies into overdrive, there are some common management techniques that can help you minimize your exposure and disruption that often result from pollen allergies.

Change Filters Frequently---The filters for the furnace could benefit from being changed more frequently during pollen season. Having clean filters can drastically reduce the amount of spores that are sent into the air when the blower for heat and conditioning start. The more pollen the filter can trap, the less there is available to be inhaled.

Clean Smarter---Use a vacuum rather than a broom. And a vacuum that has a HEPA or high efficiency particle arresting filter is best because it will prevent particles from escaping back into the air.

Damp cleaning is better than dry cleaning. So rather than using a feather duster or dust cloth, use a damp cloth or mop to gather up pollen and other allergens from surfaces and floors.

Clearing away piles of laundry, books, magazines, and mail as well as limiting the number of knick-knacks will reduce the total surface that pollen and other particulate allergens can settle. Fewer piles will also make it easier to clean thoroughly.

Contain It Quickly---Try designating one area as the entrance particularly during peak season. Dump clothes, shoes, packages in this area and when possible, proceed directly to the shower to remove it from your skin and hair.

Store all clothes that have been worn in the washing machine until they are washed or somewhere that has a top that will not allow particles to be blown into the air.

Filter The Air---It would be nice to think that taking the first 4 precautions in this article would make indoors better, and they will, but only to a certain extent.

Continuous filtration of the air with an air purifier that contains a high efficiency particle arresting (HEPA) filter is one of the most effective ways to clear the air of any pollen that still finds its way inside.

The good news is that the HEPA filter does not care about the source of the allergen. And since by definition it must be able to remove airborne particulates as small as.3 microns, an air cleaner with this type of filter will also be able to remove more normal household triggers such as dust, dust mites, mold and mildew spores, and pet dander.

There is no way to completely eliminate pollen from indoor air. But by using the 5 suggestions above, you can considerably reduce the amount of spores in your indoor air, thus reducing the frequency and often the severity of allergy flare-ups.

The Myth and Truth About Sinus Headaches

If you think you have sinus headaches, think again. The fact is, the idea of sinus headaches is a myth.

There is no such thing as a sinus headache. The fact is, your sinus headache is caused by something associated with your sinuses. What generally happens is that your sinuses become inflamed as the result of an infection or an allergy. This inflammation stops the outflow of mucus which, in turn, causes a pain similar to a headache.

Not a sinus headache but sinusitis
Most people who say they have sinus headaches have headaches caused by a condition called sinusitis. This happens when our ostia - which join our nasal cavities to our paranasal sinuses - become blocked by an allergic inflammation or a swelling of our nasal linings. This can happen as the result of a cold or allergy. When the ostia become blocked, the drainage of our mucus is interrupted and we develop sinusitis. While sinusitis is not a serious illness, it can be very annoying. The symptoms can include bad breath, coughing, fever, nasal congestion, post-nasal drip, fatigue and pain.

Other sinus problems
Actually, you might consider yourself lucky if you do have sinusitis, because there are far worse things that could be affecting your sinuses. For example, the second most common cause of a sinus problem - and sinus headaches - is an allergy such as allergic rhinitis. This occurs when you are allergic to something in your environment - dust, pet dander, mold or pollen. If you're allergic to plant pollen, you have what's usually called hay fever. If so, we don't have to tell you about the sneezing; itchy, watery eyes; swelling; and the runny, stuffy nose caused by hay fever.

Nasal polyps
Allergic rhinitis and sinusitis can also result in nasal polyps. These polyps grow in your nasal passages and sinuses. The most common symptoms of nasal polyps are that you have to breathe through your mouth, having the sensation that your nasal passages are blocked, a runny nose, and a loss of sense of smell. People who have nasal polyps may think that they have a cold that's lasted months or even years - as the symptoms of nasal polyps are so similar to those caused by a cold.

Anosmia
One of the more serious sinus diseases that can occur is anosmia - a loss of the sense of smell. A cold, sinusitis or nasal polyps, as mentioned above, can cause you to lose your sense of smell.If you're lucky, it will be temporary and last just a few days or weeks. This loss of can be permanent if the olfactory receptor neurons in your nose have died.

Is there a fungus up your nose?
If you have or think you have chronic sinusitis, the villain may be a fungus or fungi causing a condition that's known as fungal sinusitis. In 1999, the Mayo Clinic released a study demonstrating that 93% of all chronic sinusitis is actually fungal sinusitis. The simplest explanation of this condition is that it's a delayed immune reaction to mold. If you believe you have chronic sinusitis, the best person to see is an ear, nose and throat specialist (otolaryngologist) as he or she is best qualified to help determine what is causing your problem. In summary, the idea that you are having sinus headaches is a myth. The truth is that there are diseases related to your sinuses that can cause your headaches. So, if you are suffering from headaches related to your sinuses, make sure you get to your health care provider and get to the root of your problem.

Effects of Lifestyle and Exercise Changes on Asthma

Although medications often do have a place for asthmatics, in our usual zeal to reach for the pill first we have neglected other interventions that may play an equal or even greater role in the treatment and prevention of asthma. Inhalers are not as invasive as many oral asthma medications, and steroids, over the short term, can be helpful during a severe attack.

Drugs are often pushed while lifestyle interventions like exercise (which are equally effective based on scientific studies) are ignored and in some cases discouraged. As proof of this the website of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (www.aafa.org) states that, "Exercise-frequently in cold air-is a frequent asthma trigger." Although the site notes that children can exercise with appropriate management, nowhere does it mention the beneficial effects of exercise. All of the treatments listed are medications, and under prevention it lists "take your medication as prescribed" and "identify and minimize contact with your asthma triggers" (one of which is "running, playing, or exercising"!) Why such an emphasis on drugs instead of viable alternatives? The fact that 72% of this particular non-profit foundation's revenue comes from pharmaceutical companies might have something to do with it.

Sean Lucas MD MPH and Thomas Platts-Mills MD PhD from the University of Virginia Asthma and Allergic Diseases Center wrote "...the overwhelming majority of studies demonstrated the capacity for asthmatic subjects to exercise safely and significantly improve their cardiovascular fitness and quality of life...the allergy community has placed emphasis on medical therapy and allergen avoidance...It is our belief that an exercise prescription should be part of the treatment for all cases of asthma."

I believe it is important to encourage outdoor play in children as a preventive measure for asthma. As Lucas and Platts-Mills write, "The real question is whether prolonged physical activity and, in particular, outdoor play of children plays a role in prophylaxis against persistent wheezing. If so the decrease in physical activity might have played a major role in recent increases in asthma prevalence and severity."

Allergic asthma can also be treated via avoidance of triggers in the home and environment such as pet dander, mold, dust mites, cockroaches, tree and plant pollen in spring, second hand smoke, perfumes, and chemicals, including those found in standard household cleaning products. Wash bedding on a regular basis, decrease humidity, check air conditioning units for mold, minimize dust, keep pets outside (or don't have one), use an air conditioner (but clean its filter on a regular basis), shower before bed to remove pollen, keep food sealed to decrease insects, and change filters in blown air cooling and heating systems.

Your doctor can test you and identify your triggers. This involves exposure to a number of potential allergens and then measuring the inflammatory response. Once you have identified the plants, foods, molds, chemicals or animals you are allergic to you can avoid them. In addition, your doctor can perform tests to determine how much of the immunoglobulin IgE you have that is specifically oriented to different potential allergens. These tests are low risk and can provide useful information for deciding on treatment and lifestyle changes.

A number of studies have shown a relationship between psychological stress and asthma. Using relaxation techniques, like deep breath, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation, can be useful in preventing asthma attacks. Still, for many individuals with chronic asthma, medication is a requirement.

Lucas SR, Platts-Mills TAE (2005): Physical activity and exercise in asthma: Relevance to etiology and treatment. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology 115:928-934.

Steam Will Clean and Sanitise, Kill Bed Bugs, Mould and Bacteria

Steam will clean and sanitize, and will also kill bed bugs & their eggs, dust mites, bacteria, mold and remove the toughest dirt, grime and grease from all surfaces including floors, toilets, showers, kitchens, carpets, upholstery, without the use of dangerous and smelly chemicals.

Note the spraying of chemicals will kill the bugs but not their eggs as it cannot penetrate their casing.

Using a steam vacuum machine it is one of the most hygienic ways to clean and sanitize most areas of the house, and is proven to kill 98% of dust mites and neutralizes their allergens, which makes steam a perfect solution for asthma and allergy sufferers.

Using a Vacuum cleaner sometimes let small particles of dirt and dust they suck back into the air proving terrible for people prone to allergies; when steam cleaning this is reduced considerably. The use of steam is replacing other harmful chemicals used in cleaning materials.

Not only can these chemicals be harmful to you but if there are young children in the house, it limits the possibility of poisoning and an allergic reaction. Steam cleaning health benefits are obvious but it will also save you considerable money.

It will also greatly reduce the use of mops, vacuum cleaners and other traditional cleaning tools. You will also reduce the use of cleaning chemicals used on a monthly basis. Steam cleaning also has environmental benefits as harmful chemicals are no longer washed down sinks and drains which is a huge contributing factor in terms of polluting the environment.

Where can you use dry steam?

Around the house: Kill bed bugs and their eggs as well as dust mites and allergens, clean carpet, upholstery, sanitize and deodorize as you clean for fresher, cleaner smelling rooms.

Kitchen: Cleans bench tops, stainless steel, and remove grease from walls, floors, ceilings, ovens, range hoods almost every nook and cranny.

Bathrooms: kills mold and bacteria, clean glass streak free, kills germs around toilet bowls and seats, and leaves tiles sparkling, all with no chemical smells.

Other uses of steam

Dry steam cleaning reaches into the tiniest cracks and crevices. Drives dirt and germs from areas that other cleaning methods cannot reach. Removes baked on grease from stoves, ovens, cooker hoods and fryers Kills & removes mold, mildew, fungus, bacteria and the odors that they cause. Clean stainless steel fridges, bench tops remove chewing gum from concrete, carpet and upholstery.

So if you are suffering from a bed bug or dust mite infestation, you or someone in your family is Asthma or allergy sufferer, Steam cleaning could help solve your problem.

Your Carpet And Allergies -- Do You Know What Your Carpet Harbors?

A carpet and allergies are like best friends. Your carpet soaks up anything that touches it and won't release it until it is thoroughly washed. You wouldn't wear a T-shirt for a year but carpet is fibrous material just like your clothes. the link between your carpet and allergies is indisputable -- but it is made better or worse depending on how old the carpet is, how thick it is and its quality (some poor carpets shed more easily). Of course, if you clean it more, it should contain less allergens also!

Clean the Carpet and Allergies Will Stay Away

The best way to keep allergies away is to regularly clean your carpets. Carpets harbor mold, dust mites and pollen. Make sure you vacuum your carpet regularly which will keep these allergens to a minimum. Clean up spills quickly because, apart from possible stains, mold can result from this. This is especially a problem in humid parts of the world lacking adequate ventilation. If you do the above you will have a more visually clean carpet and allergies will be reduced. You should also do a good shampoo once a year -- either by a product that you can use with a vacuum or hire a special carpet cleaning vacuum that runs moving water through the carpet as you move.

New Carpets and Allergies

Despite not holding the usual airborne allergens that latch onto carpets, a brand new carpet can also cause allergic reactions. During manufacture of the carpet, various chemicals are used that some people are allergic to. The best way to limit these outbreaks is to air the carpet well once it is installed by ventilating the room well. Unfortunately, this usually cannot be done before installation because carpets are rolled up for storage.

Most people are aware that there is a strong correlation between a carpet and allergies arising from it, but by following the above advice of keeping your carpet clean, you or your family need not suffer any more.

Candida Allergy Feeds By the Molds - Candida and the Weather

A friend has been tested for candida allergy and it came out negative. It started to swell after a couple of hours from the skin test rather than 10 minutes. But, this is a sign of saying that your body can fight Candida and that your immune system is working properly against it. So, now this friend of mine is starting to think that candida is just a cross reaction of mold allergy, because she comes from a very dry place (South Eastern Turkey) and whenever she goes home for vacation, her symptoms are lessened greatly.

But, when she comes back to the sticky weather of Miami, everything starts from the beginning all over again. So, it has to be an allergy. I bet if she moves to Arizona or something, her symptoms will get a lot better, too, over there. She has brain fog, which is a very common symptom of CRC. And yes, it gets worse in hot damp and humid areas. These places are known to have high mold.

This Candida/allergy business is nasty. One feeds the other and vice versa. The Candida weakens you for the allergies, and the allergy reactions weaken you more, so the Candida takes a stronger hold. They continue living in this evil cycle. Mold also feeds the candida, which is why you aren't supposed to eat leftovers and wash all of your veggies, so, this could be a cyclical improvement. Until you could begin to contain/kill the mold in your body, it continued to feed the candida.

Mold Detection - A Room-By-Room Guide

Mold is a very common problem in homes today because mold spores are everywhere. They travel through the air looking for a damp place to settle and grow. Once they find a place, they start colonizing and giving off toxins that can make you sick. That is why mold detection in so important in every room of your home.

Here is a room-by-room guide of the most common places mold will take up residence in your home. Look for cottony patches or discoloration on surfaces. It can be any color, white, black, brown, gray, green, pink or even blue.

Let's start in the kitchen, one of mold's favorite places! The kitchen is full of dark, damp places that are hospitable to mold because of all the water lines and the possibility of leaks. The first place to look is under the sink and on the inside walls of the sink cabinet. Small leaks can go undetected in this area making it a great breeding area for the mold.

Appliances can also harbor mold. Just think about what grows on food you forgot about on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator! Two places that are often overlooked for mold detection are the drain pan under the refrigerator and the icemaker. Mold inside ice cubes is a real turn off, so check the icemaker itself and the hoses behind the refrigerator. If you have a filter for the icemaker, check that also.

Finally, check the dishwasher, especially around the bottom drain and the inside of the door. Mold can grow on the gasket and along the top and bottom edges of the door. Any appliance that uses water is also a potential harbor for mold. This even applies to small items such as coffeemakers. Make sure to check inside the water reservoir.

The most common place for mold to grow is in the bathroom. Mold loves warm, humid places with lots of water! Begin looking in the bathtub or shower, as this is usually the first place mold will take up residence. Make sure to check from the floor to the ceiling. Next check under sinks and behind the toilet, any place water leaks or drips. If there is a window in the bathroom, be sure to check all around the window and the windowsill.

Next, move on to the laundry. This one is tough because you need to get behind the washing machine. Make sure there are no leaks, especially in the area where you turn the water on and off. These valves will often leak and encourage mold. Another place mold can grow is inside the washing machine. If there is a lint catcher, open it up and clean it out. Also check around the bleach and fabric softener dispensers. In a front-loading machine, check all around the gasket. Then make a final inspection of the room including the ceiling area, baseboards and corners.

Mold detection in the rest of the house will be easier. In the other rooms, start from the ceiling and work down. For some reason mold really loves to grow on and under ceiling tiles so make sure you check for any discoloration. Then check along the walls, baseboards and any place that may be dark and damp. Look at the carpet for any discoloration or water spots that may harbor mold. Make sure to check under beds and other furniture, especially in humid areas.

Windows are famous for encouraging mold growth because of condensation. Check all around the window area, the windowsill, and the window tracks. If you have a fireplace, check for any hidden leaks or damp areas.

Now that you have gone through the house it is time to check attics and basements, if you have them. These areas are notorious for mold growth. Remember to look for any sign of water damage, leaks, discolored areas, or cottony patches growing on surfaces. Check around all vents or other openings. Bring a flashlight with you to check all the nooks and crannies.

Although this may sound daunting, it really does not take that much time. The benefits of early mold detection certainly outweigh the consequences. Living in a mold-infested home may result in mold allergy symptoms such as wheezing, sinusitis, and even skin rashes.

Keep in mind that mold has a distinctive musty or earthy smell. This smell alerts you that mold is growing somewhere. If you cannot find it, you may have hidden mold. Mold can grow behind walls, wallpaper, and ceilings. If that is the case you may need to use a mold test kit or hire a professional mold inspector.

Developing a Mold Allergy Does Not Have to Be a Debilitating Experience

It is possible to lead a fruitful life even if you suffer from mold allergy symptoms. The key is identifying the trigger for your reactions and then keeping it at bay. This is easier said than done given the fact that you have to continue with your normal life.

The allergen in question stems from some tiny fungi species which free float in the atmosphere. Therefore an avoidance strategy may not be practical in the circumstances. The environments which are conducive for these vectors will be warm, dark and most. It is therefore important that you alter the atmosphere wherever possible in order to stop the spread of fungi within your living space. In fact people with weak immune systems should avoid them because they can develop into serious conditions.

• The reaction of the immune system: Some people have particular sensitivity to mold and will develop the typical symptoms which can be very uncomfortable. For example they may develop watery eyes, itching and nasal complications. The symptoms can spread to the lips and mouth. The most common allergens in this class include Aspergillus, Penicillium, Alternaria and Cladosporium. You will normally experience the typical symptoms when you are outdoors. However it is still possible to be affected when you are in the house.


• The diagnostic assessment: Sometimes the patient will be suffering from a number of complications which make it difficult to make a positive diagnosis without the assistance of a clinician. An immunologist and allergist can work in conjunction with one another in order to identify the cause of all the symptoms. They will also be of benefit when finding treatments for the mold allergies. The skin prick is a favorite test because it can give accurate readings within a matter of minutes. The allergist may order further tests if they feel that there is something more that needs to be explored in terms of preparing a treatment program for you.


• Mold counts: Your area will have a certain amount of pollen counts which you can use to make decisions of where you are going to be during the day. Try to stay indoors if you feel that there is too much pollen out there. It is advisable to keep away from uncut fields and you should not be involved in raking dead leaves because they are the perfect living space for the organism. If you are coming indoors after a long period outside it might make sense to take a shore in order to get rid of the spores.

Removing Toxic Mold In Walls: The Hidden Enemy

One of the toxic mold's favorite places to grow is behind the wall. Unfortunately, toxic mold in walls is hard to find. How do you know if you have toxic mold in the walls, and what can you do about it?

Mold grows everywhere. It is important in nature for breaking down dead material and recycling nutrients. It's not so useful when found in our homes, however, and can cause health trouble from minor allergic reactions to very serious medical conditions.

The best place for mold to grow is in a wet, warm and dark place. This is why the walls of your home are ideal. Mold can often be found growing in "hidden" places such as this, and it is difficult to find and deal with.

First, you must determine if you have a mold problem. Then, the problem must be fixed. You must remove the offending mold, and then take measures to prevent the mold from growing again. If you have mold in your walls, it may be an indication that there is a water problem in your house.

Finding The Mold

If there is mold growing somewhere that it cannot be seen, you will often smell it first. Mold has a musty, earthy smell. You may also notice that you have an allergic allergy when you enter your home, or certain parts of your home. This probably means you have mold hiding out somewhere.

Before you go poking around for mold, you must realize that disturbing the mold could cause spores to be released. These spores can get into the air and cause health problems, or contaminate other areas of the house.

If there is a water leak, or some part of your house where there has been water damage, you most certainly have mold. If you are unsure, you may wish to call a professional. Hidden mold is especially hard for homeowners to clean themselves.

Cleaning Up The Mold

Cleaning up toxic mold in walls may be a big construction job. For this reason, it is best to consult a professional. When you are dealing with toxic, or any kind of mold, you should always wear goggles and protective clothes. You do not want the mold to come into contact with anything else, including yourself.

Look for a mold specialist, who has experience in mold cleanup. Check to see if they are familiar with the EPA's mold guidelines, and those according to the ACGIH, the American Conference of Governmental Industry Hygienists.

It's very important to clean up the mold quickly. The presence of water causes damage to houses and lowers property value immediately. The longer you let the problem go on, the worse it will eventually be to clean up, and the more damage it will do to your home.

Deal With The Water Problem

When there is water or something wet in your home, dry it quickly. Make sure damp areas are dried completely. Water leaks in the house may come from the roof or gutters, so make sure to do regular maintenance in those areas.

Keep the humidity level of your house as low as possible. If necessary, buy a dehumidifier to run sometimes. This will reduce humidity.

Make sure your house gets plenty of outdoor air, circulation and sunshine. It's a good idea to run the bathroom fan often, since that is where mold often builds up.

Most importantly, deal with your mold problem immediately, before things get worse.

Canine Allergies - Stop the Constant Itching Caused by Dog Allergies

If your dog is licking his paw, chewing on his hind leg or scratching his stomach constantly he may have canine allergies. Allergies are frequent problems for canines and can cause itching so severe that a dog will literally mutilate his skin by chewing and scratching in an attempt to stop the constant itching.

Flea allergy dermatitis is a common cause of skin irritation for many dogs. It is the saliva deposited by the flea when it bites that causes the reaction and many dogs suffering from the dermatitis will have hair loss. This allergy is responsible for a condition known as heat spot that can be found just above the base of the tail of an affected animal. Skin irritations and frequent ear infections can be a sign of several forms of allergy in dogs. The ears may produce more wax as part of the allergic reaction. This provides a fertile environment for the growth of bacteria and yeast if the dog's ears are not frequently cleaned.In dogs, an allergy to grasses, to fleas or to certain foods may cause the same allergic response on the dog's skin.

Untreated allergies can leave dogs with crusty patches, dry skin, red spots, and bald spots or oily coats.Dogs respond to allergens much as people do and may have an allergy to grass or weeds, to fabrics or fabric finishes, to cleaning products, to some plastics and milk products. Dust mites in the house and flea bites are frequent causes of skin allergies in canines. Some dogs seem to run through life with no skin problems or allergies at all while terrier breeds and larger breeds such as Setters, Retrievers and Dalmatians seem prone to allergic reactions.

Allergies caused by inhalation of pollens will be seasonal and the reaction can worsen as the dog ages. Your veterinarian may prescribe pills or shots to treat seasonal allergies with prednisone or other steroidal medications prescribed for seasonal allergies. Usually one course of treatment is enough to protect the animal through the time span the pollen is present each year. Corticosteroids are highly effective at stopping the itch of an allergic canine but should be limited to avoid side effects of long term use.

Atopy is an allergy to inhaled substances. Atopica is a treatment containing cyclosporine to suppress the immune system and well tolerated by most dogs. Your veterinarian may recommend Atopica as an effective treatment for canine allergies. Some animals experience side effects of cyclosporine such as vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst and urination, or loss of appetite. These symptoms as well as any lethargy or jaundice visible as yellowing of the whites of the eyes, skin or guns should be promptly reported to your vet.

If grass or weeds are the trigger for an allergic reaction you can minimize the allergic response by keeping grass cut short, rinsing or wiping the dog's paws when it comes in the house. Keep your dog indoors when pollen counts are high. Dust mites can be controlled by frequently washing your pet's bedding in hot water and keeping your dog off stuffed furniture where the mites may reside. Uncarpeted rooms are best and an air conditioned home with frequent filter changes helps reduce the dust mite population.

Molds are a frequent offender in causing canine allergies. Molds can form in shaded portions of the yard after frequent rains or be spread by humidifiers if filters are not maintained. Dogs should never be confined to a basement or storage room where mold be might present.

Dogs suffering from allergic reactions can be miserable. The licking and scratching that is a normal canine response to itchy skin often leads to skin infections and hard to heal lesions. Your veterinarian can help determine whether canine food allergies or seasonal environmental pollens are the cause. He can then recommend a medication for canine allergies that will ease the itch for your best friend.

A Template for Understanding and Dealing With Milk Allergy Symptoms

Apart from the practical implications of having to deal with the deprivation in your diet, the milk allergy symptoms can be very uncomfortable. This article looks at some of the coping mechanisms that are used to deal with a condition that is becoming more common.

There is a slight difference between lactose intolerance and a full blown milk allergy although the symptoms can be very similar. Although dairy products have a high nutritional value, they can also be responsible for causing a number of dangerous conditions. Symptoms will normally arise when there is inflammation of skin or tissue. Further this condition can interfere with the rate and effectiveness of nutrient absorption processes. Thus you may find that the patient also suffers from osteoporosis, anemia and chronic fatigue symptom.

• Signs and symptoms: The sporadic nature of the milk allergy symptoms can complicate the diagnosis further. You will find that younger children develop unusual ear infections. This can be accompanied by constipation, heartburn and even sinusitis. In some cases the patient will develop the irritable bowel syndrome which is characterized by bouts of diarrhea. Abdominal pain may also combine with acne to create a very low quality of life. They may develop mental health problems such as ADHD and ADD. It is common for suffers to have arthritis and canker sores. Chronic fibromyalgia will be accompanied by headache and iron deficiencies. A poor immune system and stunted growth can also be effects of the condition.


• Lactose intolerance: In this situation the person will have an enzyme deficiency which affects the way in which they absorb milk nutrients into their bloodstream. Therefore the body will react adversely whenever they consume dairy products in order to prevent the problems that are associated with absorption. Genetics play an important role in the development of both milk allergies and lactose intolerance. The reaction can arise even when you consume the food once or twice a week. In other situations there will be a delayed reaction before the patient is able to make the right connection between their feeding habits and the onset of the symptoms.


• The diet: You will need to watch what you eat. That means that you keep away from cow mil as well as cheese. There will be no butter and yoghurt for you. Ice cream may help in fighting yeast infections but it can still increase your chances of a reaction if you already have an allergic condition. The active bacterium is known as lactalbumin. It has been found in processes foods even where they are not properly labeled. Do not assume that low fat milk will give you any form of protection.

Mattress Cleaning To Reduce Allergies

Introduction: If you examine closely your bed you will find minute mites and other weird things crawling all over the surface. These dust mites feed on your dead skin cells and their excreta flying in the air cause allergies, because you invariably inhale them while breathing. Before you fall seriously sick get relief with mattress cleaning.

Allergy: The irritation in your nose is due to the anti bodies released by your immune system fighting the foreign proteins contained in the mite excreta. Allergies untreated for long can lead to asthma and many more ailments.

Treatment: You do not need to change your mattress and increase expenses - just get it treated with the right anti allergy agent.

The method to rid your mattress of allergic mites is first to clean it and then deodorize it. Once done, the mattress is sprayed and treated with anti allergy treatment.

Cleaning starts with vacuuming your mattress, and then a low moisture agent is used to sanitize it. This completes the cleaning process.

Next comes the vital part of treating the mattress with anti allergy treatment or anti dust mite treatment, which helps to keep the mattress free of allergens for the next six months. That surely is a relief from further allergic attacks.

More good news for allergy sufferers, you can wash your bed sheets, pillow cases, etc with a special treatment during washing. Just mix a cup of this agent during the rinsing cycle and your sheets, pillow slips and comforters become free of allergens.

Pets are adorable but they too carry mites which are harmful to your health - so it is advisable to groom them outside the house to keep out the mites as much as possible.

To keep healthy and allergy free it is best to clean your mattress every 6 months.

Sneeze-Free Gardening: Tips for Gardening With Summer Allergies

In addition to my suggestions below, it is recommended that you see your personal physician regarding other preventative measures and/or medications you can take to make your gardening experience more enjoyable.

In selecting the plants for your garden, lean toward lightly-scented, bird-and-insect pollinated plants versus wind-pollinated plants and use only low-allergy plants in your garden. Bulbs are very good for allergy sufferers.

For a lawn, choose low pollen producing grass that does not need to be mowed often. Keep grass short so it doesn't seed and since most lawn grasses release their pollen from around 3:00 am to 8:00 am, it is not a good idea to mow the lawn in the morning.

The days when the pollen count is at its lowest are the best days to garden. For example, on cool, rainy or damp days when airborne pollen is low, or early morning while there is still dew on the ground. Chilly and wet is good weather for us, unless you are particularly allergic to mold. On windy days it is best to stay indoors. This is the worst time outdoors for an allergy sufferer as this is when there is the most pollen in the air.

When out gardening wear long sleeves, a breathable hat, goggles (or sun glasses) and gloves. Take frequent breaks to wash your face and hands.

Before gardening in an area next to grass, wet the grass down first with a hose to keep allergens from rising into the air. After gardening wash all clothes and hair and be sure to wash your hair before bed so you don't get pollen on your pillow. Also, wear the same gardening clothes each time you garden and throw them in the washing machine after use.

Avoid standing under flowering trees and also try to avoid cut grass. When the lawn is being cut, close all windows and use air purifiers. In addition, avoid shady areas on the south side of the house if you have a mold allergy.

If, like me, you bring some plants in to winter indoors at the end of the season, be sure to wash the pollen off of them immediately before bringing them in. Then see if you can leave the mulching to someone else, but if you do use mulch, consider avoiding the mold from bark mulches and use an inorganic source such as rock, pea gravel or crushed mulch and low maintenance ground covers to help control weeds which are wind pollinated plants that produce a lot of powdery,easily inhaled pollen that can trigger a response.

For information about plants rated for allergies and general information about gardening with allergies, visit http://www.allergyfree-gardening.com. Here is to your most sneeze free gardening season yet!

How to Deal With Allergies?

In today's world many people suffer with problem of allergy. Allergies can be seasonal & mild or it can be severe lasting throughout the year. Allergy occurs as a result of overreaction or hyper reaction of body to certain things.

The things are termed as allergens. Allergy can result into many symptoms of varying degree such as - running nose, watering from eyes, itching in nose, eyes & roof of mouth, blocking of nose, sneezing asthma etc.

Mild allergy usually doesn't require any treatment. It is usually relieved by taking decongestant drops. However in cases where allergies interfere with day to day life i.e. severe allergy needs proper assessment from your general physician.

The most important thing in people suffering from allergy is to find out the specific allergen responsible. Some people can be sensitive towards pet animals at home. Your doctor can advice you to do skin test. In this test tiny piece of allergens are tested under your skin & the allergen which causes reaction is looked for.

The most common allergens are animal dander, dust mites, molds, pollen. You can control allergies arising from different allergens. In case of allergy with animal dander, the best solution is to get rid of pets. But in some cases this is not possible, so try keeping pet outside the bedroom. There should be no carpet inside bedroom. In case of furniture always opt for leather instead of fabric. You should not allow animals to sleep on bed with you, bath your dog regularly. You can also take help of veterinarian doctor to tell you more different ways for reducing pet dander in home.

Dealing with dust mite allergy -
Dust mites are usually found in carpets, bedding & furniture. The dust mites fecal matter grow in moist temperature of dust mite contains allergen. You should use allergy proof covers of your bedding as a preventive.Bedding should be washed weekly in hot water to kill the critters. Regular cleaning of carpets & furniture with vacuum cleaner should be done. Use a dehumidifier in your home for reducing the humidity.

Dealing with pollen allergy -
While at home keep windows closed. Before going to bed at night take shower so as to wash away the pollen & other allergen in your skin & hairs. While driving car, keep windows closed & use an air conditioner.

Dealing with mold allergy -
Mold usually grows on places of stagnant water such as shower curtains, window moldings & damp basements, compost piles, logs etc. For reducing amount of mold in home remove plants & regularly do cleaning of shower curtains, bathroom windows, damp walls etc. You can also use mixture of water & chlorine as bleach for killing mold. Avoid using carpets in bathrooms, use dehumidifier in home.

There is no cure for allergy. Medications also give temporary relief. So, the best solution is to try ways for avoiding contact with allergens.

The Top Sinus Allergy Causes

Sinus cavities, though they are located in the head, open up in the nasal passages for free exchange of air and mucus. This is how the sinus allergy causes come into play, enter the nasal cavity and often cause sinusitis.

Sinus allergy causes can be many and varied. It can range from the pollen of flowers, dust, dirt, pollution etc. These sinus allergy cause the nasal cavity to become blocked. When the mucus cannot flow freely anymore, it becomes stuck inside the nasal cavity and that becomes a perfect breeding ground for allergies.

Pollen, a powdery substance released in the air by flowers is the most common cause for allergies. All sinus allergies causes center around the pollen and therefore spring is the worse time for sufferers. As the air is unusually dry in spring and the pollination season also starts, the pollen is carried easily by the dry breeze. This way it enters the body with the air we breathe. For those who are prone to sinus allergies the trouble begins at this stage. The body perceives of these sinus allergy causes as harmful substances and produces histamine to tackle their effects. The histamine causes itching in the eyes and a runny nose.

Some people have been seen to come down with allergies when they come in contact with animals like dogs or cats. For such individuals the sinus allergy causes lie in the micro-organisms that are present in the fur of these animals. Again it's not that the sinus allergy causes are common for everyone, while some people fall seriously unwell when exposed to pollen or animals, others do not feel a thing. However for people who have an allergy to animal furs, the body reacts in the same way as it does with pollen and a case of sinusitis is soon in full swing.

Sinus allergy causes, whether it is pollen, animal fur, mold or dust is in most cases within ones sphere of control. Though there is not much that you can do to keep the pollen from coming in with the air, repeatedly cleaning the house often rids it of the other potential causes like mold and dust. Environmental triggers are the sinus allergy causes therefore try as much as possible to keep control on them. As long as the immediate surroundings of a person prone to sinusitis are clean, there are fewer chances of sinus allergy causes wrecking havoc on his or her system.

The answer to the riddle of why certain sinus allergy causes harm some people while leaving others unaffected lies in the hereditary make up of people. It is generally seen that people whose parents suffered from allergy of a certain type are predisposed towards them. Even unlikely sources like milk and milk products act as sinus allergy causes in some people with such hereditary make-up and can make them sick.

Once the diagnosis of what causes allergy is a person is done effectively, allergy causes can be controlled or even removed to restore normal breathing and life to the sufferers.

Chest Infection, Asthma, and Allergies - Do I Really Need to See a Doctor?

Bronchitis is an infection/inflammation that can be viral, bacterial, mycoplasmic, rickettsiae, parasitic or allergic in origin. This affects the big, main air transportation tube systems of the lung all the way to the smallest tube at the aveoli.

Pneumonia is the infective, inflammatory or obstructive process of the filling with anything such as fluid, pus, mucus, bacteria, or pollen of the millions of tiny microscopic air baggies (sacs.) The sacs (alveoli) are located at the tips of these and become smaller and smaller until they are small tubes of the respiratory tubal system. These tubes are used to transport air and the sacs are used for the diffusion of oxygen into the bloodstream. It is the circulation and transfer of carbon dioxide back into the sacs out of the bloodstream and respiration out of the body.

Asthma is an over-sensitive airway disease. Asthma is a response of hyperactivity and hypersensitivity inflammation, swelling, hyper-mucus secretion, muscular constriction of the air carrying bronchial tubes. This stops transfer of gases to the alveolar sacs into the bloodstream. It is the closure of the inside opening of the tube from swelling and constriction bronchial tubes and respiration to the alveoli sacs. It is the closure of the inside opening of the tube from swelling and constriction of the muscle in the tube wall. Excessive, very thick mucus production from the inside lining of the tube causes partial occlusion, wheezing sounds, or total occlusion of the breathing passageway system of the lungs. It is caused by inflammation and constriction of the bronchiole tubes. You must specifically fix the chronic problem instead of treating the acute symptoms for only immediate relief.

You can stay indoors and miss all the sunshine and the tulips. However, in order to enjoy the world, you can take medications that are available to let you comfortably exist in the real world despite pollen and food allergies.

Profiles testing show many various types of allergies when and where they appear. Allergy can be sore throat, headache, fatigue, pneumonia, and many other symptoms. A Mast Cell, Basophile and Eosinophil are the body's natural responses to defend from the stimulus of allergens or infection. These natural bodies produce chemical called histamine. When histamine is released it reacts like an acid to help fight infections and kill or defend the stimulus. Now in the 21st century with recent advantages with medical care you can do more of the things you need to do in your daily life. Enjoy living comfortable and mostly symptom free with ease of breathing, and get your energy and health back.

It is a 365-day serious and significantly increasing health problem. With many flare-ups, there is still more mucus production, constriction, and swelling of the bronchial tubes in the lungs than a normal person. You must learn what triggers your asthma and how to avoid them. Prevention can involve anti-inflammatory medication and specific treatment of the problem and not just the apparent seen or felt symptoms. Eating oranges, fish, crab, shrimp, or exposure to grasses, mold and animal dander can all cause respiratory asthma/bronchitis symptoms.

A bronchodilating inhaler is a temporary medicine that works by relaxing the tubular muscle constriction and opens the air tubes of bronchioles. You get immediate relief. It does not get rid of the mucus in the lungs or the stimulus causing the constriction. It is only for temporary and fast relief. This is a great medication when correctly used. Again, this is a temporary relief medication. This should not be used as a long-term treatment. If you use your bronchodilator more than 10 times a day, it is a true sign of trouble.

One good thing to have around is the Peak Flow Meter- this is your best at home indicator for you and your doctor to measure the air speed and flow from your lips. This tool is designed specifically to measure your respiratory and lung function. The peak flow measures the maximum air velocity at your lips versus your height and age. Weight and other factors will have no effect on this measurement.

A spacer decreases the coordination necessary for medication delivery and effectiveness used for inhalers. It prevents the wasting of money and medicine in the back of your throat. It can avoid unnecessary side effects of sore throat or throat ulcers from the medicine. The cold "Freon effect" often stops people inhaling the medicine. Therefore, most of the medicine goes to the back of the throat. At least eighty percent (80%) of the medication used from a regular inhaler is wasted. A spacer increases the effectiveness and use of the medications and decreases costs by ten times. Asthma is the excessive mucus thickening, mucus plugging, and tightly constricted mucosal airways. The spacer dissipates the medicine into the air to be more easily inhaled. More than fifty percent (50%) of people have poor inhaler technique and fifty percent regress in technique within one month of starting the use of medications.

Corticosteroids that are used for asthma control are not the same as anabolic steroids used by athletes for abuse. Many months of steroids can cause weight gain, upset stomach, stomach ulcers, and the thinning of the bones. Too few steroids can cause hospitalization, death, and mood changes. Corticosteroid inhalers are the best consistent daily prevention therapy. Steroids appropriately used are essential for exacerbations and must be carefully, consistently, and closely monitored by a physician.

Asthma is an excessive inflammation, over-reactive, and over-sensitivity of the lungs to stimulus with the production thick mucus and mucus plugging. Specific anti-inflammatory medications are a treatment. If left untreated, this will lead to permanent lung function loss. If silently you lose 2% of your lung function a year for 10 years, you have lost approximately one-third (1/3rd) of your lung function.

Asthma anti-inflammatory choices are: Inhaled corticosteroids, leukotriene blockers, cromolyn, and others. Side effects of these medications must be carefully and consistently balanced with view to permanent lung damage and disability. Routine checkups are essential. All allergy patients should be seen at least every 2-3 months-- and immediately if severe reaction, infection, or more than a minimal problem arises.

There must be careful attention to triggers. Infections such as sinus infections can and often do cause poor control of asthma. Cigarette smoke (even passive and 2nd hand smoke), dust mite feces are all triggers. A typical mattress has more than 200,000 living dust mites. Animal dander is another trigger--keep pets out of the bedroom. Pollen and mold humidifiers can increase mold. Cockroach parts and feces when they dry turn into a powder, causing a possible trigger for asthma. Aspirin and ibuprofen: About 10% of people with asthma are sensitive to aspirin and ibuprofen compounds. Sulfates on food preservatives for fruits, grapes, cherries, wine and beer, as well as cold air and exercise are all triggers. Each year, about 5,000 people die of asthma. The majority of these people did not have severe disease.

Patients are very poor judges of their own wheezing, coughing, allergy, or shortness of breath. A patient who monitors their daily peak flow is essential. The elements of combination therapy, physician monitoring, and understanding are all very important to patient care, lung damage, and the quality of life.

When using inhalers, you exhale all the air in your lungs, use a spacer, inhale the medicine, hold your breath for 10 seconds, breath out, and repeat. The Nebulizer machine delivers therapy for five to ten minutes and is much more powerful as an immediate rescue inhaler. Prevention of flu and pneumococcal vaccines is essential. Allergy testing and/or injections, antibiotics and antivirals, are very important aids in the maintenance of these complex problems, potential complications, and the quality of life.

Mold Allergy Symptoms

You might not know mold is even there, so this article will give you some major symptoms that mold is present and that you are having an allergic reaction. Most people are exposed to mold spores. Mold is a fungus that breaks down plant or animal matter, like food, wood, leaves and dirt. It's present in your home and outside of your home. It's even present in the places you work and the place's where you hang out at. Mold can even trigger an asthma attack.

Here are some major symptoms.

Coughing

Wheezing

Runny nose

Irritated eyes, throat and nose

Shortness of breath

Sneezing

Chronic cough

Nasal congestion

Skin rashes and hives

Sinus headaches

Black Mold Symptoms are

Coughing up blood

Difficulty breathing

Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea

Nose bleeds

Dizziness

Chest congestion

Anemia

Skin rashes

Memory loss

Forgetfulness

Death

Mold allergy symptoms vary from person to person, and rang from mild to severe. You may have year round symptoms or seasonal symptoms. Do you live in a damp area or do you live in a heavily wooded area where there is lots of leaves? If you live in those type of area's you are exposed to mold.

One way of testing if you are in a place where mold is present is if you are showing the symptoms above in the areas you are at. So when you leave the place that you are showing the symptoms are the irritants going away and when you return to the place do the symptom return. If so there is probably a large amount of mold in the area.

If you have any of these problems see an allergist for skin testing or a blood test to diagnose if you have a mold allergy.