Jun

4

Insects That Can Cause Allergies

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beeNot only is spring the time of year people start to worry about spring seasonal allergies but its also the time of year that those pesky insects make their return and invade your backyard BBQ or picnic. There are a number of insects that can cause allergies from stinging or biting, the most common are bubble bees, wasps and fire ants.

Bubble Bees

Bubble bee stings can of course be dangerous to those allergic but luckily the bubble bee is not aggressive and most likely won’t attack unless it feels the need to defend itself. Bubble bees and honey bees are attracted to bright flower like colors, food (specially scents) and water. They will leave behind their stinger after stinging and can only sting once as they die after stinging.

Wasps, Hornets and Yellow Jackets

These speices tend to be more aggressive than the bubble bee and can sting multiple times leaving no stinger behind. You can find them nesting in and around wooded structures as well as eaves of houses. They are attracted more to sweet things like sugar or your can of soda pop on the picnic table.

Fire Ants

Fire ants were accidentally imported from South America and are quickly becoming a problem as they have spread through much of the United States. The ants live in mounds and can be very aggressive attacking and stinging 6-8 times even if not provoked. The sting can be very painful so shoes are a good idea even if you are not allergic to their bites.

Jul

3

Feather Allergy

Filed Under Feather Allergy | Leave a Comment 

Some people have reactions when they are exposed to various bird feathers. Feathers can be found in many consumer items like pillows, jackets, comforters, sleeping bags and various other comfort items. Feather allergies and sensitivities are more likely to be caused by decomposing feathers not feathers that have recently been plucked. True allergic reactions to feathers are considered to be very rare as most often it is not the bird feathers themselves that are responsible for allergy symptoms but other allergens. Feathers can contain dander and their shape and structure make them a magnet for dust mites, this is particularly problematic since they are often used in pillows, comforters and other bedding’s. Also as feathers decay they become more susceptible to mold.
When buying or shopping for items with feathers usually you will encounter the word ‘down’,which refers to a type of feather used. Downs feathers are very fine interior feathers and many species of birds have them but down from geese is probably the most popular.

Birds That May Cause A Feather Allergy

feather

  • Goose
  • Chicken
  • Duck
  • Canaries
  • Parrots
  • Turkeys

When buying or shopping for items with feathers usually you will encounter the word ‘down’,which refers to a type of feather used. Downs feathers are very fine interior feathers and many species of birds have them but down from geese is probably the most popular.

Feather Allergy Tips

  • Avoid using or storing any items with feathers like comforters,sleeping bags or other feather related items, especially in the bedroom.
  • Do not buy any type of bird as a pet.
  • Feathers that have been treated or washed are less likely to cause allergy symptoms.
  • Regardless of feather allergies or not you should not pick up any loose feathers you may find on the ground and of course never touch a dead bird due to the risk of possible disease transfer and other health hazards.

If you are experiencing allergy symptoms after being exposed to bird feathers its best to consult a allergist to determine the exact cause of your symptoms.

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