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Allergy and Asthma Newsletter
July 14, 2008


In This Issue
• Food Allergens Show Up in Unexpected Places
• Health Tip: Prevent Mold in the Home
 

Food Allergens Show Up in Unexpected Places


SUNDAY, July 6 (HealthDay News) -- While it may be hard to resist the sight and smell of food at summer festivals and fairs, people with food allergies need to be extra vigilant with such food, advises the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI).

"There are many questions about ingredients, preparations and possible cross-contamination that if left unanswered could lead to an allergic reaction," Dr. Amal H. Assa'ad, chairman of the academy's Adverse Reactions to Food Committee, said in a prepared statement.

Each year in the United States, up to 150 people die from anaphylaxis caused by food allergies, according to the AAAAI. Most people who experience allergic reactions to food experience skin irritation, asthma symptoms or gastrointestinal upset.

The 12 million Americans with food allergies should remember that food allergens can be present in unexpected places. For example, in an effort to eliminate trans fats, many vendors have started using peanut oil or soybean oil in their fryers.

The AAAI offers the following tips for avoiding serious allergic reactions to food:

  • Get checked to see if you have food allergies.
  • Avoid foods to which you're allergic.
  • When eating away from home, always ask about the ingredients in food items and inform party hosts, service staff or vendors of the severity of your allergy.
  • Carefully read all food labels.
  • If you've had a severe reaction in the past, you should always carry self-injectable epinephrine.

More information

The American Academy of Family Physicians has more about food allergies  External Links Disclaimer Logo.


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Health Tip: Prevent Mold in the Home


(HealthDay News) -- Mold is a tiny fungus that can grow inside the home and cause allergies and other health problems.

The University of Virginia Health System offers these suggestions to help keep mold out of your home:

  • Keep humidity at low levels -- between 40 percent and 60 percent, and use an air conditioner or dehumidifier when it's humid outside.
  • Use exhaust fans to keep areas such as kitchens and bathrooms well ventilated.
  • Keep carpet out of areas where moisture may collect, such as bathrooms or basements.
  • Promptly and thoroughly dry any furnishings that get wet, especially carpets or upholstered furniture.
  • Fix any leaky plumbing, roofs, or walls.
  • Use cleaners that kill mold.
  • If you're painting, add a mold inhibitor to the paint.

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