Allergic Reactions in Kids: Signs and Treatments

2012 JULY 2

by Ken

Does it seem like your child is chronically suffering from a cold or the sniffles? Those scratchy throats and runny noses might not just be the latest bug going around, they could be the result of seasonal allergies.  According to the AAFA (Asthma and Allergy Foundation) 50 million Americans are affected by allergies.  On top of that, allergies are the third leading chronic disease in children in the United States.

Seasonal allergies are the primary allergy for millions of Americans. Seasonal allergy symptoms can include itchy watery eyes, sneezing, itchy nose or throat, stuffy nose, coughing, and a clear runny nose. Some people refer to seasonal allergies as hay fever, but kids typically do not run a fever with allergies, and there are many more allergens than just hay.  For example, tree, grass or weed pollen, mold spores, and pet dander are common allergens.  Treatments for allergies vary, and there is no cure for them.  One way to treat allergies is by limiting her exposure to the allergens.  Have her wash her hands or take a bath after playing outside so as to avoid bringing any spores into the house.  Keep windows in the house closed during high pollen times and run the air conditioner to help filter the air.  Having a hepa air filter can help eliminate dust and dander from the air and reduce allergy symptoms.  If avoiding allergens doesn’t work then you can try antihistamines or decongestants to treat the symptoms.  A homeopathic approach is to eat a tablespoon of bee pollen every day.  Bee pollen contains quercetin which minimizes or eliminates the histamine response. Bee pollen is typically available in health food stores.  The more local you can buy the bee pollen, the better it will work because the same allergens are at work.

Skin allergies include poison ivy, sumac and oak. Other common skin allergies involve latex, cosmetics, and perfumes.  In order to suffer the side effects of these allergies a person has to physically come into contact with the allergen.  Contact with some foods will also cause a skin rash.  Red and itchy rashes or blisters are the primary symptoms of a skin allergy.  Topical treatments like Calamine lotion, cold soaks in an oatmeal bath, or cold compresses can help to reduce the itching.  Over the counter antihistamines may help as well.

Insect stings or bites are another common cause of allergic reactions. Bee stings, fire ants, and spider bites are some of the major culprits.  A mild reaction might be red bumps, itchiness, or minor swelling.  For these symptoms, wash the area thoroughly; apply an ice pack or a cool wet cloth to relieve the pain.  An over the counter antihistamine can help with the swelling.  If more severe symptoms, such as shortness of breath, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, difficulty swallowing, or dizziness occur take the child to the ER immediately.

Food and drug allergies are listed as the primary allergy for 6% of allergy sufferers. Peanuts or tree nuts, milk, seafood, soy, eggs, and wheat are the most common food allergies.  Penicillin is the most common drug allergy.  Food and drug allergies can range from minor to severe.  In a minor allergy the symptoms could be hives, itchy face, or upset stomach.  Most of these symptoms will clear up within a few days if whatever triggered it is avoided.  More severe reactions include chronic migraines, swelling of the face and throat, and anaphylaxis, which is life threatening and should be treated with epinephrine immediately, if possible.  When in doubt seek medical attention immediately.

If you see signs of allergic reactions in your child you might consider taking them to an allergist who can do skin patch testing to determine what she is allergic to so that the allergen can be avoided in the future.  Severe chronic allergies can be treated with injections that may improve your child’s quality of life.

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Source:  (http://www.nannypro.com/blog/allergic-reactions-in-kids-signs-and-treatments/) 

Rubber gloves hahahahah

Next  time you use a pair of rubber gloves, you're  going to smile when you think of this:  A  dentist noticed that his next patient, a little  old lady, was  nervous, so he decided to tell  her a little joke as he put on his  gloves.   'Do you know how they make these  gloves?' he asked.  'No, I don't,' she  replied.  'Well,' he spoofed, 'there's a  building in Canada with a big tank  of latex,  and workers of all hand sizes walk up to the  tank, dip in their hands, let them  dry,  then  peel off the gloves and throw them into boxes of  the right size.' She didn't crack a  smile.  'Oh, well. I tried,' he thought.   But five minutes later, during a  delicate portion of the procedure, she burst out  laughing.  'What's so funny?' he asked.   'I was just envisioning how condoms are  made!'  (Gotta watch those little old  ladies! Their minds are always  working!)   Be  afraid of old ladies! Be very afraid!  They have been there and done  everything!

Exercises to Improve Your Mental Health

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  8 Exercises to Improve Your Mental Health

As we age, our mental health deteriorates and we become less sharp. But just because your memory is fading and your problem-solving skills have weakened throughout the years doesn’t mean you can’t turn it around and improve your mental health today. All our brains need are some good teasers and training to come back to life. Here are eight exercises to improve your mental health.

1. Exercise:

   
   Daily exercise and physical activity prevents disease and makes you stronger, but it also improves your mental health. Ever heard of a little thing called endorphins? These feel-good chemicals are released during exercise and other activities and have been known to increase feelings of euphoria, happiness, and well-being. In addition to the endorphin increase, exercise also reduces stress and anxiety, the common culprits of depression and other debilitating mental disorders. It doesn’t matter if you walk, bike, swim, or weight-lift; all types of exercise are good for the body and mind.

2. Meditation:

   
   The act of sitting still, closing your eyes, and clearing your thoughts can do wonders for your mind and body. Meditation means something different to everyone, and the benefits of regular meditation range from increased self-awareness and heightened spiritual connection to improved mood. Meditation exercises can significantly improve your mental health by allowing you to let go of negative thoughts and feelings and reach a higher consciousness. You’ll likely feel relaxed and rejuvenated after meditating and be ready to take on the day or end the day with a clear, healthy mindset.

3. Memorization:

   
   One of the best ways to improve your mental health and increase your brain power is to memorize bits of information and recite them. Whether you memorize a grocery list, a phone number, or a joke, memorization is a valuable tool and beneficial exercise for the brain. Remember, it’s just as important to test your long-term memory as it is to test your short-term memory. An easy way to do this is to talk to an old friend or family member and try to recall specific names, dates, and events that require you to tap into your stored memories.

4. Learn something new:

   
   A great way to exercise your brain and improve your mental health is to learn something new like speaking a foreign language, playing an instrument, or mastering a recipe. When you learn a new skill, you encounter different challenges that force you to step out of your comfort zone, make mistakes, and reach new goals. Once you’ve mastered a new skill, you’ll feel an overwhelming sense of fulfillment and self-satisfaction, both of which are excellent mental health boosts.

5. Solve problems:

   
   Whether it’s math problems or scheduling issues, problem-solving is an incredibly important skill we use every day. There are many techniques and skills involved in problem-solving, and those who regularly exercise this area of the brain may improve their overall mental health. Don’t shy away from problems; try to solve them on your own. Although the process of solving a problem can be frustrating, you’ll feel proud and empowered when you find a resolution.

6. Test your concentration:

   
   No matter your age, you can always work on improving your attention and concentration. You can do so by exercising your brain with games and teasers that stimulate your concentration skills and help you retain more information. Improving your concentration skills can help you in a job and other tasks that require you to pay close attention and memorize important information.

7. Do puzzles and games:

   
   Puzzles and games challenge your brain in so many positive ways and can greatly increase your overall mental health. Working on puzzles and games will require you to use critical thinking, problem solving, and reasoning skills. These exercises stimulate your mind, improve your concentration, and enhance your vocabulary and math skills. Not to mention, working on jigsaw puzzles or crossword puzzles yourself can be a very relaxing and rewarding activity.

8. Read and write often:

   
   There are many mental health benefits of reading and writing that go way beyond relaxation and entertainment. Reading and writing stimulate the brain, spark imagination, and increase creativity. Regular reading and writing can increase your comprehension skills, vocabulary, grammar, and memory. Not to mention, both exercises can be very therapeutic for the mind. Writing can also help you address negative thoughts and bad memories that affect your overall mental health.

Source: (http://www.onlinepsychologydegree.net/2012/07/01/8-exercises-to-improve-your-mental-health/).