Human Allergies to Pet: How to Reduce Your Allergy Symptoms

We have welcomed the season by opening up a whole new world of practical home remedies for women over 40 who wish to stay healthy throughout the season. In one of our articles, a whole page devoted for home remedies for allergies, we have mentioned about how challenging it is for pet owners who are allergic to their, say, dog or cat to part from their beloved furry friends even if their allergist strongly recommends it. For these pet owners, their pets mean the world to them. In fact, their pets are their world.

There are at least 7.7 million pet owners in the U.S. alone. And at least 15 percent of this population is allergic to their pets. If you are one of these pet owners who feel that they have to choose between loosing their pets and feeling sick all 365 days of the year, then read on to learn about what the experts of Drs.FosterSmith have to say about this often discussed topic in the waiting room.

Human Allergies to Dogs

Veterinary and Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith 

While we spend a lot of time discussing pets' allergies, we often forget to mention peoples' allergies to pets. There are thousands of people who suffer from allergies to animals. Some of the most heartbreaking cases we see are people who dearly love a dog or cat and then develop a severe allergy to her and must decide between keeping her and suffering daily, or placing the dog in a new home. Fortunately, there are several options for pet owners that have allergies to

Who gets pet allergies?

Pet allergies can strike anyone at any age in their life. Most people that suffer from pet allergies often have other mild or moderate allergies to pollens or molds. There is believed to be a strong genetic correlation in contracting allergies. In other words, if your parents have allergies, then you are likely to have them also. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, allergies to dogs or cats occur in approximately 15% of the population.

What part of the animal are people allergic to?

People that are allergic to animals are often allergic to the dander (dead skin that is continually shed), the saliva, or the urine. Because dogs and cats are the most common pets, they top the list of animals that people are the most allergic to. However, people can also be allergic to birds, hamsters, rabbits, mice, guinea pigs, and the larger animals such as horses, goats, and cows. As people that suffer from allergies can tell you, there are often certain types of animals that they are more allergic to than others. In addition, there may be certain animals within a given species that they are more allergic to than others. This appears particularly true with cats.

What are the symptoms?

People with multiple allergies are well aware that when their allergies are acting up, they will suffer from itchy eyes, runny nose, asthma symptoms, red itchy skin or a rash. Often, people that are unaware that they have allergies, especially children, will suffer from some of these symptoms and may have a greatly increased incidence of 'colds' and asthma symptoms. If the person is separated from the animal for several days to weeks many of these symptoms will subside only to reoccur when they come into contact with the animal again.

Are there any hypoallergenic dogs?

There are no hypoallergenic dogs, nor are there any dogs that do not shed. All dogs shed, though some dogs have a much denser hair coat than others and shed a larger quantity of hair than those with a thin hair coat. But since the dander and not the hair is the problem, shedding is not that important in allergy control. Some breeds, in general, appear to have less dander and these include Poodles, Terriers and Schnauzers. As we mentioned earlier, many people are allergic to certain types or individual animals and not others.

People with pet allergies might want to consider getting a reptile or fish as a pet.

How can a person reduce allergic symptoms to a pet?

If you or a member of your family is part of the 15% of our population allergic to pets, there are things you can do to help keep allergic reactions under control and make your home a much more comfortable place to live. Even if you do not have allergies, these tips are helpful if you have guests in your home that are allergic to animals.

We spend from one third to one half of our time in our bedrooms. By keeping the animals out of the bedrooms at all times, we can greatly reduce the symptoms of pet allergies.

• Install a good "HEPA" air cleaner.
• Close the ducts to the bedrooms and use electric heaters.
• Clean and vacuum regularly.
• Bathe your pet weekly.
• Do not allow your pet on the furniture.
• Do not allow your pet in your car. (Or use car seat covers when your pet is in the car.)
• Brush your pet daily and use an allergy-reducing spray such as Allerpet.
• Keep your pet's skin healthy by feeding a good multivitamin and a fatty acid supplement. Encourage the pet to spend more time outdoors.
• Wash your hands after handling the pet, his toys, bed, etc.
• See your physician and discuss possible immunotherapy or medications.

Summary

Telling an allergic pet owner to just not have a pet or to get rid of their own pet is not a realistic option the majority of the time. The same holds true for telling people that are allergic to animals to just avoid them. Animals and pets are a very integral part of our lives and it is impossible to avoid contact with them. By adopting some good management strategies, we can help allergic pet owners keep their pets. At the same time, even if we do not have allergies ourselves, with a little empathy and consideration on our part, we can make life much easier for our friends and relatives who suffer from allergies to our pets.

© 2010 Foster & Smith, Inc.

Reprinted as a courtesy and with permission from PetEducation.com (http://www.PetEducation.com)

On-line store at http://www.DrsFosterSmith.com

Free pet supply catalog: 1-800-323-4208

Great News for Women Over 40: With Age Comes Better Sex

There are so many things that we, women over 40, can be truly thankful for (here are some of the things that we are truly loving these days). If you are still waking up every morning with that sigh and gloomier-than-usual attitude, don't worry because what we are about to share with you will definitely make you wish that it's bed time already.

As You Age, Better Health Means Better Sex

By Amanda Gardner

HealthDay Reporter

TUESDAY, March 9 (HealthDay News) -- Better health translates into better sex lives, with healthy people more likely to engage in sex (and good sex at that) and to express an interest in sex, new research finds.

This association held firm into middle-age and later life as well, according to the study by University of Chicago researchers.

The authors of the study, published in the March 10 issue of BMJ, also created a novel measure called "sexually active life expectancy." According to this new measure, men aged 55 could expect another 15 years of sex while women of the same age could expect 10.6 more active years.

Overall, however, more men reported a satisfying sex life than women, a chasm that widened as people aged.

The findings shine light on a little discussed topic.

"The really important thing about this study is just that it was done," said Dr. Eva Ritvo, vice chair of psychiatry at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. "People don't look at sexual activity in a scientific way very often but it's so very fundamental to our existence. The focus has always been on illness, but health is about well-being, looking at sexual functioning as an important part of well-being."

Dr. Margaret E. Wierman, professor of medicine at the University of Colorado Denver, said the new study "points out that, over time, as a society women and men are becoming more comfortable talking about sex. Having a good sex life is critical to their overall quality of life."

But the fact that men are doing better than women is something that needs attention, Ritvo stated. "Why should men be having better sex than women? Viagra came out for men. Where's the female equivalent? For whatever reason women are not as satisfied as men and that needs to be addressed," she said.

The study authors looked at two different samples of people, one involving over 3,000 adults aged 25 to 74, and another with more than 3,000 adults aged 57 to 85. An equal number of men and women were in each group.

Men were more likely to report positive experiences with sex than women. This gender gap was most noticeable among 75-to-85-year olds, with 38.9 percent of men, compared to 16.8 percent of women, reporting being sexually active. Almost 71 percent of men in this age group reported a good sex life, versus only half of the women.

And more men today are reporting an interest in sex than in 2000.

"This probably is related to new medications in therapy, so now men who before never could even think about having sex can have sex," Weirman said.

Also, she added, "as people age, the unhealthy men die off so these are the healthiest men in that cohort."

Study lead author Dr. Stacy Tessler Lindau, director of the University of Chicago's Program in Integrative Sexual Medicine, said the "major reason why the picture looks better for men than women is that women tend to outlive their marriages and relationships, so there are more women in the adult population without partners. But if you look at women who have partners, the proportion who say they're sexually active is about the same as men who have a partner."

On the other hand, men's sex lives do seem to suffer more from poorer health.

"At age 55, men have, on average, 15 years of sexually active life expectancy and women about 11 years," Lindau explained. "Men who are in excellent or good health gain an additional five to seven years. What this says is that men benefit more from good health. Men in poor health lose more years of sexually active life expectancy than do women."

People with partners were more likely to be having sex and more men than women reported having partners, especially in later life, the study found.

More information

The U.S. National Institute on Aging has more on sexuality during later life.

SOURCES: Stacy Tessler Lindau, M.D., director, Program in Integrative Sexual Medicine, University of Chicago; Eva Ritvo, M.D., vice chair of psychiatry, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, and co-author, The Beauty Prescription; Margaret E. Wierman, M.D., professor of medicine, University of Colorado Denver; March 10, 2010, BMJ

Last Updated: March 09, 2010

Copyright © 2010 HealthDay. All rights reserved.

Practical and Expert-recommended Flu Home Remedies to Banish Flu Symptoms

Can’t afford to get sick these days? If you are one of the million of women over 40 who need to lie down and rest because of these pesky and almost persistent flu bugs, it is rather comforting to know that there are things that you can do to help your body as it wins its war against the flu bug. There are countless flu home remedies that have been used for generations to treat flu symptoms, making the fact of “just lying down” less aggravating that it is supposed to be.

But before we get to the details of flu home remedies, just a quick reminder: Flu is something that you shouldn’t take too lightly, especially when you are down in bed for more than three days. Call your doctor if your flu symptoms have turned for the worst after taking flu medications. Not quite sure if you have flu? A fever of over 102 degrees and widespread body aches are two good indicators.

Flu Symptom: Stuffy Nose

If you just want get over your labored breathing, you may want to mix a saline solution to make you a decongestant nasal spray for good night sleep. But don’t just take your friend’s word for it; research shows that saline nasal irrigation or decongestant nasal spray is one of, if not, the most effective flu home remedies to de-clog stuffed nose. Saline solutions works to thin mucus, add moisture, decrease postnatal drip, and kill bacteria and viruses so you can just feel and breathe better.

What you need

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

8 ounces of water

Bulb syringe

Instruction

Mix baking soda and salt. Dissolve it in 8 ounces of warm water.

Use the bulb syringe so you can easily squirt, or introduce, the formula into your nose. Hold one nostril while you squirt the mixture into the other. Let the formula drip; gently blow your nose to help clear your nose. Introduce the formula at least twice in each nostril.

For Women Who Want It Fast

4 Way Nasal Spray Saline Moisturizing Mist

What to expect: For instant relief, 4 Way Nasal Spray Saline Moisturizing Mist is one of the few ENT specialist-recommended flu home remedies that can help clear clogged nasal passages. Alcohol-free and non-habit forming, the 4 Way Nasal Spray Saline Moisturizing Mist can be used to complement your other flu medications for faster relief from flu symptoms.

Buy 4 Way Nasal Spray Saline Moisturizing Mist at Amazon.com

Specially formulated to work well for wide range of nasal and sinus discomfort, the 4 Way Nasal Spray Saline Moisturizing Mist provides soothing moisture to help ease irritated nasal passages caused by allergies, colds, seasonal allergens, dry air, and even overuse of decongestant sprays.

Ingredients: Benzalkonium Chloride, Boric Acid, Eucalyptol, Menthol, Glycerin, Polysorbate 80, Water

Why we recommend it: The only nasal spray that features menthol and eucalyptus, we love 4 Way Nasal Spray Saline Moisturizing Mist simply because it provides quick relief, a good value for your dollar, and just really better than plain saline solution.

Flu Symptom: Pain and Body Aches

Need to rest but the pain just won’t let you? There are definitely easier ways to get to sleep easier than just lying around and trying to ignore the pain. Here are undeniably practical and “feel good” ways to help ease your pain:

Take a warm bath. To help soothe your aching muscles, simply melt your ways and pains away by dipping into a warm, relaxing bathe. Close the door in your way in to create your very own relaxing, personal sauna. Why it will make you better: Warm bath are known to moisten and thin the mucus clogging your sinuses while helping to open up your airways.

Use heat compress. If your head is throbbing that it feels like it is being unmercifully hammered, you can easily ease the pain by just reaching to a warm, slightly moist, not wet, compress and gently applying it to your sinuses and cheeks. Prefer a more convenient hot compress? We love using moist heat for water-less and, indeed, dry hot compress for instant relief. Only make sure that the heating pad is comfortable enough for two to three minutes of application.

Make your very own aromatic steam. For women who are just too tired for some tub-time, you may want to do some quick steam session over a bowlful of hot water and freshly chopped ginger. Simply drape a towel over your head to enjoy the maximum benefit of the steam. Another great alternative to the freshly chopped ginger is, simply one of our all-time favorite flu home remedies, Vicks VapoRub®. Simply drop a teaspoon or two of the ointment and stay in the steam until you get relief.

Stay hydrated. Though all you just want to do is lie in your bed and sleep, you may want to get up to a grab at least 8 glasses of water to prevent dehydration. Drinking water or freshly squeezed juices keeps your respiratory system healthy and also encourages productive cough (more on this on our last article on flu home remedies) so you can clear out and release mucus that may lead to respiratory infection. But which is better? Hot liquid or the cold ones? Research shows that hot liquids like chicken soup are far superior to a pitcher of cold water. If you have been on your bed for a day, chances are you are missing your java. Strive to stay away from caffeinated drinks or alcoholic beverages while your body recovers.

Rest. If your fever goes over 102, it is one way of telling you that it is working hard to combat viral infection. So give it some encouragement and do what it has long asked: Stay in bed and rest. To help ease muscle pain, pop OTC medications like ibuprofen or aspirin. Do not ask your hubby for acetaminophen, these tabs are meant to suppress fever, which is your body’s natural reaction when it is fighting flu bugs. Again, only take these flu medications when necessary or when your doctor advised you to.

Flu Symptom: Cough

When it comes to cough, all experts agree that not all coughs should be, ehem, controlled and suppressed. Yes, a dry cough, or, what we’d love to call as unproductive cough, may be something that won’t help and can only make you feel worst, but do you know that there is a cough type that doctors would love to hear from you? Productive coughs, or those that can help clear out mucus, are, in fact, encouraged by experts simply because letting those mucus out prevents respiratory infections.

For dry coughs, reach for OTC cough syrup. To help you put your throat at ease, OTC cough reliefs can be your best allies to calm that cough that came with the flu. What are your choices then? Experts recommend two tablespoons of expectorant or cough suppressant. If you have asthma or other lung infection, you may want to see your doctor for what will work in your case. Cough suppressants are known to interact with a number of lung diseases; self-medicating is something that you shouldn’t practice, no matter how many of your friends tell you that it is just a flu.

Have suck cough drops. For an irritated throat, you may want to chew on a suck cough drop or hard candy for the much needed moisture and relief. Tickle your throat with sugar-free cough drops or, for a natural take on dry throat, a teaspoon of honey to calm your dry throat with a bit of sweetness.

Chicken soup: No matter how old women get, women still remember how their mother lovingly prepare a bowl of hot chicken soup when the pesky flu bugs get them down. Now there are more reasons why women over 40 just need to remember their mom’s recipe for chicken soup; research shows that a hot bowl of chicken soup is actually an excellent mucus stimulant, making it the perfect, tasty liquid that you need to encourage productive coughs. The secret is not really on the chicken broth but on the pungent spices that gives the soup its distinct flavor. Ask your hubby to throw in more pepper, hot curry powder, and, of course, garlic while stirring the pot.

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This Month on Miss Vanderbilt

The weatherman says, “It’s going to be a damp spring.” Well, too much for anticipating the warm weather.

After months of actually suffering from the stiff, cold weather, we are giving you more reasons why you need to stay strong and stay tough. This March, as the ground springs to its beautiful hues and colors, the weather prediction couldn’t get any gloomy. Unfortunately, it’s not going to be the brightest spring for the rest of us, so women over 40 need to amp up their defenses; but for those sick days, you need time-proven and natural remedies that will beat the bugs and get you going the very next day.




So for the whole spring season, we are dedicating Miss Vanderbilt to home remedies. Now, you may start to think of icky green potions, dried leaves, and even pungent soups when you hear natural remedies. But are natural and home remedies that unique from what traditional medicine? Doctors and experts don’t think so. Home remedies are actually a set of time-proven and expert-recommended health advices that will not only cure and treat common health problems that you can expect to plague you this March. Home remedies are not designed to replace your doctor’s advice and prescription; instead, they are meant to help you get into your health’s best shape. Home remedies can help you save on healthcare money by keeping you healthy and keeping your health defenses strong and sturdy.

Home remedies are practical advices, and not something that you should be afraid of and even doubt. Our inspiration for this season is to provide you, women over 40, with practical health advisory manual, something that you can always look back to whenever that bug got into your schedule. These home remedies will become one of our main features in Miss Vanderbilt, something that is permanent.

So what can you expect this season? Aside from occasional rains and thunderstorms, you can count on us to tackle almost all common illnesses and provide practical and expert-recommended solutions that you can really rely on. From that unbelievably late acne that you can’t believe is back (blame your hormones, ladies) to how to tackle that eyestrain, we have prepared ourselves to give you exactly what you need to keep you healthy and strong throughout the season.

So read on and strive to be healthy the whole season. Enjoy and love life!

Home Remedies for Allergies: 16 Ways to Feel Better

The (almost) warm weather of the spring brings the much needed welcome after the dead of the winter. The gift of spring means different things to many people; but for the people in the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology, the sudden yet expected rise in temperature brings one unanticipated consequence: More allergies to most of us.

Ah, yes, there are so many changes that the spring season can bring. Aside from the usual spring pollen, this year’s spring season brings one thing that most experts didn’t see: The lengthening of the pollen season for most trees and plants. The more encouraging the environment is for the pollen season, the more plants and trees will be producing and giving off heavier pollen load. And the more pollen released to the air, the greater the number of people who will be at risk of actually developing allergies to said pollens. And for people who have long been suffering from common allergies and hay fever, this is certainly not the news they are expecting.

Spring Forecast

In Serena Gordon's article for HealthDay, Dr. Renato Ariano expresses his concern on the effect the temperature on people’s health, and especially those who are actually susceptible to developing certain types of allergies. In their 30-year study of the relationship of the lengthening of the pollen season and the trend in the number of people who have grown sensitive to the major pollens found in their locality, using skin prick testing, Dr. Ariano and the rest of his team has recorded a constant increase in the number of people who have sensitized to three out of five major pollens that were monitored in the study.

And the data only confirmed what most experts have long suspected: With the pollen levels increasing in terms of volume and the pollen season lengthening, more people are expected to have their medications for allergies earlier and longer than the usual. For more information on the pollen levels and concentration in your area, check out the National Allergy Bureau Pollen & Mold Levels database.

Treating Allergies

Whether it’s from spring pollen or the summer’s smog, one thing is for sure: Symptoms of allergies are really difficult to differentiate from symptoms caused by other illness or disorder like cold and even food intolerance. This is why your doctor wouldn’t just give you a quick diagnosis when you said that you are probably allergic from falling leaves; allergies may be something that may not look too serious, but reliable doctors know that allergies are not really something that should be taken too lightly. This is why it is important for us to remember that when it comes to treating allergies, our very first step is not to administer whatever medication you think can ease the symptoms but to head straight to a board-certified allergist. For an all-of-a-sudden or unexpected allergy, most doctors will hand you a prescription for no-drowse antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids for some fast relief and allergy injections that can protect you from a specific allergen so you don’t have to suffer from it all throughout the season.

Home Remedies for Allergies

No matter how bad the spring’s forecast is or if you live in one of the worst cities for those who suffer from allergies, there are ways that you can still have a good night’s rest or get to work without being too grouchy. Here are tips to help you feel better so you can face whatever challenge the season can blow your way:

Rinse your eyes. If your eyes are bothering you and starting to feel itchy, instead of running to the nearest drugstore to buy for allergy medicine, you may want to head to the bathroom and wash your eyes with clean, cool water for an instant relief. Sure it may not be as effective as your trusted antihistamine, but we simply favor this technique with the rest of safe home remedies simply because it is easy, fast, and just don’t require popping something into our mouth.

Wash your hair. After a day’s work or enjoying the first breath of fresh air after the long, cruel winter months, you may want to wash your hair immediately after you come inside to eliminate so you can rinse away whatever pollen you have brought with you. A combo of sweat and hair products acts like a magnet to pollen and dust, making your hair a big, lumpy house for allergens that makes you and your family the frontliners this allergy seasons.

Avoid the culprit. Nothing can put you in harm’s way than yourself; if you have allergies because of smog or your cat and can’t stay away from these main sources of your worries, no allergy shots can really save you. When it comes to allergies, you need to take all practical measures possible. Say, you are allergic to cats, but you love and own one. Being away from their furry friend, even for a day, is a seemingly impossible task for every pet owner - and even to those with allergies. And for women over 40, you know that having a pet is beneficial for your overall health. So what does an allergic pet owner need to do? There are steps that you can follow so you can reduce your allergic symptoms, but not totally be free from it, such as shopping for and using a quality HEPA air cleaner. If you are visiting a friend who owns one, make sure that you make your visit as short as possible and that you avoid being too cuddly with her pet.

Saline solution to remove irritants. If you are having a hard time dealing with what you feel got stuck up there, you may use a saline solution to help ease the nose’s passages from irritants. Aside from de-clogging, a gentle saline solution also helps to wash away the very inflammatory cells that triggered your symptoms in the first place.

Enjoy a full bath. Sure there are plenty of things that you need to face other than taking a bath, but immediately facing the shower head right after you stepped inside can help you prevent a one whole day of being at bed and sick by washing away all the pollen residues that your body has collected outside. Plus, we’re sure you would love the idea of having a warm, relaxing bath after all the digging you have done in your garden.

Do wear eye protection. Fashion magazines declare sunglass as an all-time spring DO. So make sure that you are wearing one when you face the world this season. Women over 40 need not only have the perfect of sunglasses for fashion’s sake but to actually help protect the sensitive skin around their eyes from the sun’s harmful rays, which, by the way, will be bright this season. When it comes to home remedies, a pair of sunglasses is the only protection that your eyes need to be shielded from airborne allergens. And if the weatherman says that it is going to be windy outside, opt to wear for something that has side shields. Better that than goggles, right?

Beware of what the air may bring. Morning and afternoon smog should be enough reasons why you should be wary of what the air around you can actually do to your health. Air pollution should not only concern Mother Earth but so should you, especially if you have been suffering from allergies from some time. In fact, air pollution should not only worry those who have been battling from airborne allergens. Study shows that smog does actually induce allergies among those who don’t have it. But you don’t always have to stay indoors in order to protect yourself. If you enjoy running outdoors or have to run an errand, putting on surgical mask can temporarily guard you against pollutants that can harm your health. Smoggy days, on the other hand, are the perfect excuse to just lounge around the sofa.

Put up a “No Smoking” sign, and we are talking about within your home’s premises. Tobacco, as we all know, is one of the leading irritants when it comes to respiratory allergies; another reason why you should just put down that putt.

Pull the blinds down. If you have been working indoors all winter long, you may want to stay inside longer, especially this pollen season. And to keep everything outside outside, you may want to pull the blinds down. Sure it may block the gorgeous view outside but better this that put your health on the on the line. For those with pollen allergies, this strategy is really a must as fresh air for them is nonexistent. If you feel like you are not doing much, you may want to shop for air purifiers to help you eliminate all possible pollens that you may have brought with you inside after being outside. Though this may absorb any allergen you have inside, air purifiers are also known to just stir up the dust. So make it a regular habit to clean up air purifiers and other items that accumulate dust.

Clean your cleaner, and in particular the vacuum that sips every possible allergen from your home. The next time that you are trying to justify for recycling your vacuum filter, think that recycling your filter also means pumping back all the allergens that you have painstakingly filtered off your home. And yes, it is only in this case that recycling is never healthy. If you have a vacuum that blows back dusts while it cleans, you may want to do something about it. One of the best ways to make sure that everything that is vacuums stays inside is by simply installing a filter on the vacuum’s exhaust port, that is, if you have a canister type. If you have been tinkering on replacing your vacuum and you have the cash to do it, we recommend that you invest on an industrial-strength cleaner that can give you the clean and protection from allergens that you have been wishing for. 

Women Over 40 Ask

All About Hypoallergenic Vacuum Cleaners

We are sure you are more familiar with vacuum cleaners that use HEPA filters than these so-called hypoallergenic vacuum cleaners. But are they really different? Not really too different. You see, hypoallergenic vacuum cleaners are essentially designed to remove particles from furniture, carpet, flooring, and most importantly air through suction, therefore, creating a non-allergic state. Hypoallergenic vacuums boast of three specs that make their clean better than others: Filter, energy efficient engine, and, of course, the bag. And the most popular hypoallergenic vacuum cleaners have one thing that makes them stand out among the rest: True HEPA filters.

True HEPA Filters

High efficiency particulate air filters, better known as HEPA filters, are essentially deigned to trap at least 99.97 percent of all particles of up to .30 microns in size not only from items you run them into but most importantly from the air. If you are shopping for a new vacuum cleaner and looking for these types, you may need to double check the details. Absolute or try HEPA filters are produced with exclusive serial numbers and their MERV ratings, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. Ever wonder what the HEPA 4 or 5 means in your filter? The MERV rating, based on a 1 to 16 scale, essentially corresponds to the air filter’s efficiency. The higher their MERV rating is, the more efficient the filter is in removing particles both from, say, the floor and air. Most air filters that you can see in the market today have HEPA 4 or 5, and based on the MERV scale, this essentially indicates that these items rest at the lower end of the efficiency spectrum. Does this mean that these filters failed to pass the test? Not really. Receiving 1 to 5 MERV rating is essentially a standard among typical fiberglass or polyester throwaway panels and even those washable filters. A 65 to 95 percent air filter efficiency rating is only necessary in commercial buildings and hospital HVAC systems and not for residential use.

HEPA Type Filters

These HEPA-like filters are produced to function in a lot ways similar to HEPA filter and may actually look so much like them. But when it comes to air filtering efficiency, HEPA type filters don’t even come close: Capturing only 85 percent of the particles, HEPA like filters can only remove particles of 1 micron in size and even below. And since it is less efficient, HEPA type filters, of course, cost less than true or absoluter HEPA filters.

Do I Really Need to Buy True HEPA Filters

If you have been suffering from respiratory allergies and other health problems, HEPA filters essentially reduce or eliminate small particles and other types of allergens that can cause, induce, or aggravate your symptoms, leaving a healthier, cleaner, and breathable air for your home.

Purchasing HEPA filter is considered by many homeowners as an investment. If you are on a budget, it is definitely easier for you to just settle down with these cheap HEPA type filters since true HEPA filters are not really easy on the wallet. Decide if you really need to have a true HEPA filter working for you, and if removing all these dusts and microscopic particles is really worth investing.

Do not clean dry. Cleaning, and specifically dusting, should be one of the regulars in your schedule. If you are suffering from respiratory allergies, you may want to dust more than once a week. But be careful with what you use or how you dust; if you have been dusting around with feather duster, chances are you are just aggravating your allergy symptoms. Instead of spreading the dust around, we recommend cleaning with a damp cloth so you can contain all the allergens in just one wipe. Loving your dusting spray? Experts recommend putting back the lid to these cans as they may actually give off odors that can make your symptoms worst.

If dusting makes your allergies worst, then, don’t dust at all. Ask someone to do it for you. Have your hubby to do all the dirty work for you; this not only doubles as a bonding activity but, if done properly, you and your hubby may actually end up doing the cleaning - in the tub - together.

Invest in a good dehumidifier. Humid areas are like a tempting open ground for dust mites, which, by the way, are the culprit in the dust you are so allergic from. To maintain a healthy, breathable air in your home, experts recommend shopping for a dehumidifier or an air condition, which actually works equally well. Another reason why you should invest in a good dehumidifier is because it prevents molds from sprouting in almost every imaginable area in your home. When you are on the shower or kitchen, switching the exhaust fan on helps keep humidity at its lowest.

Have other use for the fireplace. Thinking of converting your fireplace into a mini entertainment center? Then, the spring serves the perfect opportunity to just forget about wood chopping and just welcome that new home entertainment that you have been eyeing. If you have been burning treated wood winter long, chances are your allergies have also been up during the winter months. Heavily treated woods not work to aggravate your allergies but actually put your family’s health at risk of inducing respiratory allergies and even diseases.

Leave the mowing to the others. Spring time is the time for some sprucing and trimming. As you start to see how Mother Earth regains her momentum and welcomes the world with some color, you may want to give the task of trimming and mowing grasses to others. It is during the pollen season, which is, by the way, longer this time, that you may want to ask someone, or, just anyone, to do the mowing and clearing. To know the best time for you to schedule this task, check the pollination season in your area with the National Allergy Bureau Pollen & Mold Levels database.

Keep your pet clean. It is, indeed, difficult for any pet owner to be apart from their beloved furry friend – even those who are allergic to fur. And if you are one of those who have been asked to choose between their pet and a chance to be allergy-free for all season, here’s a little trick: Bathe your pet as often as possible. Research shows that bathing your pet with warm water, even without soap, can substantially reduce the allergen found in the animal’s fur. These allergens, which is secreted by their sweat glands and produced with their saliva, is water soluble and can be easily rinsed off even without the help of your pet’s soap.

Call ahead if you are travelling. Planning your vacation next month? You may want to call the front desk ahead than you plan to so you can make sure that your stay will be as comfortable as possible. Ask for a room that will be easy on your health; specifically request that you be not given a slot on lower level since most rooms in this area have been flooded by guests, making it the perfect haven for molds to grow and multiply. If you are still on the lookout for a hotel, you may want to narrow your choices with those that do not allow pets as even the most sophisticated of machines cannot remove virtually all dander that may have been left by the traveler’s cat or dog.

Home Remedies for Flu: Tips to Beat the Flu Bug

You felt great yesterday. After tending to your garden, you have a great brunch with your girlfriends, took a nap, spent the evening with your husband, and the next thing you know, you’re feeling 100 years old and experiencing common flu symptoms: You’re forehead is on fire, you feel cold, you are suffering from headache, you feel sore everywhere, and you are chilling even if it is sunny and bright. Ah, welcome to the world of flu.

Understanding Flu and the Flu Virus

Essentially, people use the word “flu” to just about anything that involves upper-respiratory-tract infection, something that is really distinctive and different from influenza, notes Dr. Marcia Kielhofner of Houston, Texas. Flu viruses are really something that people can look forward to annually; but expect it to be stronger between the months of October and April, says Kielhofner. There are actually two major strains that people need to know about: Influenza A and, of course, influenza B. Every year, these two strains change and vary, so catching flu this season doesn’t guarantee flu-free months next year. These viruses change once in a while, essentially getting stronger and becoming a new class of flu virus, boasting much higher rate of death and infection, when it comes to evolution, there is no such thing is getting weaker, you always expect things to be stronger, every time they evolve into something new, notes Kielhofner.

But regardless of the strain that you have caught last night, you will essentially feel the set of symptoms the rest of the world experiences. You feel sore, unbelievably high fever, chills, sore throat, severe pains and muscle aches, loss of appetite, fatigue, and dry cough. For women over 40, stiffness and pain in the joints that can last for at least three days are symptoms that they just need to expect. Cough and fatigue, on the other hand, can and will usually linger for several weeks.

Do I Need Flu Shot

While a getting a flu shot is one of the best ways you can build a stronger defense wall for your body, what you will be getting from your doctor’s office may not be 100 percent effective. Why? Because flu strains change from year to year, essentially one of the biggest challenges that most health experts need to face. In the process of creating vaccines, we only have the last year’s strain to actually help us protect people, notes W. Paul Glezen, professor of microbiology and immunology, and of pediatrics. The effectiveness of the vaccines to protect you from flu? Approximately 80 percent. So does this mean that you should forgot about driving your family to get your annual shot? Not really. Most of the vaccines available today can be around 80 percent effective when you ask for it before the flu season sets in, which you can expect between September and October.

Most of us can’t afford to get sick. But how badly do you need these flu shots? Here we detail the high risk groups that should not definitely miss their annual flu shot schedule:

• Those who have chronic lung and hear disease. Flu viruses, whatever strain it may be, can aggravate or worsen your condition and may actually lead to serious conditions or, worse, death.
• Individuals over the age of 65. Women over 40 have relatively stronger immune system than those elderly people, especially those who live in chronic-care facility or nursing homes. If you have someone over these facilities, ask the representative if they have been providing their patients with an updated vaccine. Flu viruses are expected to spread faster in these environments and can, therefore, easily weaken the immune system of elderly people.
• People who have been battling chronic diseases like diabetes, kidney disease, cancer, or even asthma.
• Children who take aspirin daily for conditions like chronic arthritis.

Flu is something that we don’t really take seriously. But when is something not too serious should be taken seriously? Check for these signs:

• High fever that won’t go down and have been lingering for more than three days
• Cough that worsens with each day
• Severe chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• And, essentially a flu that won’t go away

Home Remedies to Fight the Flu Bugs

Flu bugs can be really persistent and relentless. Here are some helpful home remedies to help you fight those pesky flu bugs, ease some discomforts, and, of course, give your body a fighting chance to beat flu down:

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Rest, as long as you need. Most books about natural remedies boast that getting adequate rest is all you need to stop flu from its track. And most of these home remedies book are right; it is during these times that your body needs to get plenty of rest so it can recover from high fever and even fatigue, notes Dr. Evan Bell, a specialist of infectious diseases based in New York. Lounging around, either in bed or couch, shouldn’t be specially hard since you don’t have the energy to move around or even do something. Feeling guilty about being in bed all day? Just think of recovering from flu as a perfect excuse to take the much needed and most awaited break you have been wanting for so long. If you have been working hard year long, sometimes all it takes is some illness to tell you that you and your body really needs to have some downtime. If you feel that you really need to get down to work, go home earlier than usual, head straight to bed, and report a little later than your usual time.

Drink and drink some more. But not the alcoholic ones, of course. One of the best home remedies that can help you and your body recover fast is drinking plenty of decaffeinated and nonalcoholic drinks. You know that those with caffeine are actually diuretic, which essentially hastens the body’s fluid loss; so no matter how you crave that macchiato, strive to stay away from those that contain caffeine in it. Choose those that can help you keep hydrated and clear mucous by encouraging a productive cough (we’ll discuss about this later).

Take acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen, but only if you must. One of the very first things that you should remember when being on the process of recovery from flu is that your body essentially knows what it must do. Fever is essentially a natural way for your body to cope with and even fight influenza bugs, so you may want to re-consider your option of popping that acetaminophen-containing drug in your mouth. So what should you do with the headache and, of course, chills? Avail of home remedies that will help you lower down your fever for the sake of preventing dehydration and, of course, lessening the occurrence of shaking chills. When possible, allow your body to take its own phase; bottom line is you should sometimes allow your body to take its own course because it knows what it is doing.

But practical home remedies tell you about the benefits of taking acetaminophen, aspirin, and ibuprofen when it comes to tackling fever? So what should you do? Take ibuprofen or aspirin-containing drugs to provide instant relief for aches and pains and acetaminophen to help your body to cope with fever. But if you have gastrointestinal problems and/or have a history of ulcer disease, you may want to ask your doctor for a better option. These medications will only leave you more problems than you can actually think of; studies show that acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and even aspirin can actually complicate these conditions.

Call for “productive” cough, which is different from dry cough that prevents you from taking a much needed rest. Experts classify a cough as productive when it clears and brings up mucus and should, therefore, not be suppressed with OTC cough medicines. To help encourage productive cough, Glezen recommends drinking up nonalcoholic and caffeine-free drinks whenever you can. Have a pitcher of water or freshly squeezed juice at your bedside so you can conveniently grab a glass or two whenever you feel like it.

Put a lid on dry cough. Or those dry, hoarse, hacking, and downright painful coughs. Dry cough will not help you, only making you feel worst, cough after cough. This is where the experts will be more than willing to give you OTC cough remedies like those dextromethorphan-containing meds.

15 Super Foods to Protect Your Heart (Plus Yummy Dishes You'll Never Believe That are Good for the Heart)

For decades, women over 40 searched and cry out for answers, for medications to protect and strengthen their hearts. Women over 40, especially those who are nearing the big 5-0, look for that one special formula, that do-it-all pill that they can just pop to their mouth so they can be ensured of a healthy heart. Unfortunately, there is no magic food or pill. But when it comes to taking care of your heart, boy, we’re glad to know that the answer lies in our very own kitchen.

The Reality of Heart Healthy Lifestyle

We all know that a heart healthy lifestyle beats for two important things: Sticking to a healthy diet and staying active. And just like with your fitness routine, it can be really challenging for men and women over 40 to just stick to heart healthy foods when the rest of the household munch on a rich, moist chocolate cake. The reality is that heart healthy foods shouldn’t mean bland and unappetizing; in fact, it’s really all about colors, taste, texture, and, of course, freshness. And you know that you can’t have anything better than that.

When it comes to protecting and eating for your heart, all experts agree that the less processed the better. The foundation of heart healthy diet is really fresh produce, all about what Mother Nature gave us in the first place. You may start to think about missing your fave dishes when we say ‘heart-friendly diet,’ but it’s really more than that. In fact, women over 40 wonder why they have never tried it earlier. You see, what lies in the heart of a heart-friendly diet is variety, not only about omega-3 fatty acids and oatmeal. You may think boring, but nutritionists see whole grains, nuts, tea, spices, coldwater fish, and legumes and beans when they prepare good-for-the-heart dishes.

Our Un-official Best Heart Food List

We love making lists. And in this section, we’d love to help you put together a shopping list that’s really good for the heart. All items that we have listed here are really top-performers when it comes to protecting your heart. And since you can’t really munch most of what we have here on its own, we have also included some really sumptuous recipes to guide you in the kitchen.

Fresh herbs. When it comes to flavoring, no salt, cholesterol, and even fat can come close to what herbs can bring to the kitchen. Along with our other low-fat flavorful favorites like berries, nuts, and, yes, coffee, we feel that including, or thinking of ways to include, herbs should be really a culinary must-do when it comes to heart healthy eating.

Black beans. Aside from being in line with the rest of the antioxidant superstars group, tender, mild beans are also super packed with the very best of heart-healthy nutrients like magnesium, flavonoids, folate, and fiber, which essentially help lower blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and – all experts agree in this – cholesterol. Need some super quick additions to salads and soup? Drop by to your local fave superstore and grab canned black beans. Simply rinse to remove unnecessary sodium.

Salmon. We all know why this cold water fish is an expert-recommended item on every health-watcher’s weekly menu. Aside from being the undeniably top food for the heart, salmon also lowers blood triglycerides and reduce our risk of rhythm disorders. The American Heart Association strongly encourages men and women over 40 to have at least two servings of salmon and other cold water fish a week for a healthy, resilient heart.

Cold-pressed virgin olive oil. There is a reason why Mediterranean Diet is one of, if not, the most popular cuisines for the health- and heart-watchers all over the world. Made from the first press of fresh pick of olives, cold-pressed olive oil contains polyphenols, a group of antioxidants that is known to heavily guard and protect blood vessels.

Shopping tip: Instead of going for clean-looking yellow ones, experts recommend grabbing dark green olive oils bottled in long, narrow necks. After use, make sure that you seal the bottle tightly and place it somewhere safe in your fridge. With these simple steps, you can easily discourage the formation of free radicals, prevent it from turning rancid, and limit its exposure from oxygen.

Almonds. We not only love almonds for its mild, creamy flavor but because of it is just super packed with heart-heathy fats, vitamin E, fiber, and plant sterols. Finely chop or sliver almonds to add an unexpected texture and flavor to chicken, vegetable salads, fish, and, of course, desserts. Sneak this super heart-healthy snack to your coffee break to lower your risk of diabetes and “bad” cholesterol effortlessly.

The MediterrAsian Way: A Cookbook and Guide to Health, Weight Loss, and Longevity, Combining the Best Features of Mediterranean and Asian Diets and Lifestyles

Tofu. Asians simply love it – and even can’t live without it. Ever wonder why they look so young? Soy, deemed as superfood in Asia, is definitely one of the reasons why Asians have live long, fulfilling lives and enjoy robust health. Easily target serving heart-healthy protein every night by making soy a staple at dinnertime; you will not only have you recommended dose of protein but all the heart-healthy minerals, polyunsaturated fats, and even fiber that you need – in just a single dish.

Barley. Thinking of a great sub to rice? Barley is one whole-grain and nutty alternative to rice when it comes to dinnertime. Simply simmer barley into that pot of stew or soup to add an unexpected texture and even flavor.

Tip: These so-called “whole grain” barley options you can find at your local superstore are the most nutritious of them all. Toss them in the pan for a crispier, toasted additional to your dish or cereal. Pearl barley may offer convenience but they are already stripped of heart-healthy fiber that makes us dig this grain in the first place. Again, the less processed the better for the heart.

Red wine. If you follow the Mediterranean Diet, you know that a glass of wine everyday is a definitely a must-have for health- and heart-watchers. If your doctor says you need to strengthen and protect your heart’s artery wall, sipping a glass of your favorite red is one delicious way to have your daily dose of catechins and resveratrol. Though it may seemed perfectly fine to give yourself a glass of red every day, you may want to check with your doctor first as wine is known to react with aspirin and other medications like MAOIs.

Tuna. A rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, coldwater tuna is simply a staple in any heart-watcher’s table. An affordable substitute to salmon, tuna is definitely a tasty treat to all those who are after the anti-aging and hearty benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. Make sure that you angle your sight to other coldwater catch that also boast of omega-3: Herring, mackerel, sardines, lake trout, and, of course, anchovies.

Shopping tip: If you don’t have time, and, of course, patience to deal with fresh, coldwater catch, shopping those that are in can is also a great and convenient way to have your dose of omega-3. But make sure that you pick those that are packed in water – not in oil.

Walnuts. Super packed with fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and monounsaturated fats, a handful of walnut everyday is powerful enough to significantly reduce inflammation that has developed in your heart’s arteries and even lower cholesterol. Aside from enjoying walnuts on its own, experts recommend not only substituting but totally replacing bad fats like those that are found in your fave cookie and chips with walnuts. The best thing: You don’t actually increase your calorie count but amp up your heart-healthy benefits.

Eating tip: A handful of walnuts contain nearly 300 calories. So make sure that you enjoy it in moderation. A good way to enjoy a salad? Use walnut oil in making your salad dressings for that nutty taste you sure will love.

Edamame. Essentially harvested when they are still sweet and green, edamame is a large soybean that is popular as a sweet menu opening in many Japanese restaurants. And because Japanese’s cuisine flavors the less processed and downright fresh items on their plate, we have seen that edamame is actually at its best when simply boiled for 15 to 20 minutes. Aside from being so convenient when you need a fast vegetable dish, edamame is actually regarded by many Japanese chefs and nutritionists as one of their superfoods because it’s high in cholesterol-lowering fiber, excellent source of protein, and a great alternative to tofu when it comes to soy.

Oranges. Eating this juicy, sweet fruit sure doesn’t make you look like your protecting your heart. Packed with potassium and cholesterol-fighting fiber called pectin, orange is a favorite of those who are eating their way to a more controlled and, yes, less volatile blood pressure. And researches have the number to prove it; and the result couldn’t get any better: Aside from having pectin and potassium, oranges also boast of the antioxidant hesperidin, a substance that improves both blood pressure and blood vessel function.

Oatmeal. Sure it is not a surprise to see oatmeal in our list, but this is one sure way to remind you that having a bowl of fiber-rich oats every morning is definitely the best way to start your day. Aside from lowering LDL, or the so-called “bad” cholesterol, a bowl of oatmeal keeps you filled for hours, helps maintain blood sugar at a healthy level, and, of course, encourages you to keep going even when you are tempted to binge on snack time.

For the kitchen: Flour fanatic? We recommend substituting one-third of flour with oats when it comes to creating yummy baked goodies like muffins.

Low-fat yogurt. Aside from improving bone density, do you know that low-fat dairy products also help maintain a healthy blood pressure? If you are advised to amp up your potassium and calcium portion everyday, enjoying one-up serving of yogurt actually gives you twice the benefits of a full glass of milk. To minimize fat and, of course, boost calcium, shop for non-fat or low-fat varieties.

Healthy breakfast tip: When it comes to preparing for a super healthy breakfast, pour in milk instead of water in hot chocolate, instant oatmeal, and even soup.

Tea or coffee. Sipping two to three cups of your fave tea or coffee boosts your heart’s natural protection by fending off type 2 diabetes. In fact, studies show that people who drink up to four cups of their healthy caffeinated beverages a day actually cuts their risk by as much as 25 percent. Advised by your doctor to lessen your caffeine intake? Experts think that decaffeinated varieties work for your favor too.

But don’t make this an excuse to indulge in your fave flavored java drinks. Prefer and really limit your option to non-fat latte and the more robust, strong in flavor black coffee.

Cherry. Never underestimate the power of this sweet-looking teeny berry. Packed with anthocyanins, cherries are regarded by experts to help strengthen blood vessels. Whether you have a basket of the freshest cherries or conveniently shopped for those that are in can, consuming cherries is definitely the sweetest deal for any heart health-watchers out there. A perfect wake-me-upper: Starting your day with a bowl of oatmeal sprinkled with dried cherries and, of course, a handful of blueberries.

Heart-healthy Recipes From Sun Up to Sun Down

We just love the idea of having less than 20 minute-recipes to fill and satisfy our day. Aside from convenience, these recipes boast of having in their plate super heart-healthy items that we have listed above. Here are some of the recipes that we enjoy preparing (and who wouldn’t) in 20 minutes or less.

Breakfast

EatingWell.com has lots and lots of heart healthy recipes to choose from. But what caught our fancy is their recipe for Quick Breakfast Taco. Is it too early for a Mexican flair? With a yellow sunshine and bright red colors to boot, we think it’s the right dish to greet you every morning.

Ingredients

1/2 cup of liquid egg substitute

1 tablespoon of salsa

2 corn tortillas

2 tablespoon of reduced-fat Cheddar cheese.

Ready in: 15 minutes or less – really!

Amount per serving: Calories: 153 | Total fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 3mg

To view the full recipe, visit the page at EatingWell.com

Lunch

We started your day with a Southwestern flair so why not fly to the east for a taste of something unique. For lunch, we recommend EatingWell.com’s recipe for Black Bean-Garlic Catfish. This low cal and low carb recipe is great for heart health watchers on the go. In less than 20 minutes, or even less, this recipe is essentially a satisfying dish that is complete with carbohydrates and protein to fuel your day ‘til sun down.

Ingredients

1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1 pound catfish fillets, dried and cut into four equal portions

1 teaspoon and 1 tablespoon of canola oil

1 tablespoon of black bean-garlic sauce

1 tablespoon of scallion, finely chopped

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon water

Ready in: 20 minutes

Amount per serving: Calories: 218 | Total fat: 14g | Cholesterol: 53mg

To view the full recipe, visit this page at EatingWell.com

Snack

Feeling a little craving after three? We recommend slurping your way to a healthy heart with Strawberry-Almond Smoothie. This super creamy and satisfying smoothie is great for weight watchers, super for those who are eating their way to a healthy heart, and even perfect for those with diabetes.

Ingredients

1/2 silken tofu, all you need for this smoothie is four ounces

1 cup almond milk, or any low-fat milk you can pick at your local superstore

2 tbsps. of sugar

10 fresh strawberries

Ready in: 10 minutes

Amount per serving: Calories: 172 | Total fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 0mg

To view the full recipe, visit this page at EatingWell.com

Dinner

Feeling a little sluggish to make something elaborate for dinner? Salmon salad sandwich is a perfect recipe that for those who can spare only 15 minutes for preparing a heart healthy dinner for their family.

Ingredients

1/4 cup of minced red onion

1/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper

1 tbsp. of cold-pressed, extra-virgin olive oil

2 tbsps. lemon juice

2 romaine lettuce leaves

2 pcs. of 6- to 7-ounce can of coldwater salmon, drain before use

4 tbsps. low-fat cream cheese

8 pcs. of tomato

8 slices of toasted pumpernickel bread

Ready in: 15 minutes

Amount per serving: Calories: 286 | Total fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 34mg

To view the full recipe, visit this page at EatingWell.com