#Asthma and allergens

[chicago-geniza]

They shouldn't stereotype asthmatics as having Books Jobs because books are sooo dusty. We keep bottles of this product called "Endust" at every work station and one coworker is very attentive and assiduous about dusting if they're vacating a station before my shift because my allergies are so bad (again - incredibly considerate) but every day I am Fucking Dying Of Dust. In a past life I was a crossdressing sailor who chose the sea 25% for gender reasons 75% because I am allergic to Everything on land

[anghraine]

Another form of Depression Discourse that I'm extremely wary of is "here are some things that can help with depression, so it's totally curable! You just have to do The Things, even if they're hard."

The issue is that—yes, there are things you may be able to do that can help with depression, for some people. There are habits that are likely to be helpful, like dragging yourself to things you normally like or getting exercise where possible.

Does this mean that those things intrinsically cure depression if you just pull yourself up by your bootstraps try hard enough? No. They can cure some people's depression completely. They can help other people's. It depends on the person.

But for me, the incessant do this, do that, you've got to take responsibility and get over it, has always been far more discouraging than learning about things like the relatively high rate of recurrence. I used to think that the reason I couldn't get past it was wholly on me. It kept coming back because I was lazy or undisciplined or self-indulgent or simply not doing the right things for whatever reason. Not trying hard enough. I told myself that if I could just summon up enough will to push myself past it, I would cure myself by sheer personal strength.

But I never could.

It tended to come back worse when I was under a lot of pressure, but no matter how good things were, it always returned. I'd spend a week or two feeling really good and motivated and energetic, then irritable and anxiously go-go-go yet very distractable—and then there'd be this awful crash into another episode of depression, over and over and over. I lived in my favorite city, I took walks, I went to readings, I volunteered, I kept myself and my apartment clean, and yet I couldn't overcome it.

The only thing that really put a significant dent in it was getting diagnosed as bipolar and put on mood stabilizers and eventually antipsychotics. And it still comes back! The crash is less extreme, most of the time—but I have grad student insurance for my medication, I have a psychiatrist and access to counseling when I need it, legal accommodations, and necessarily keep a fairly strict schedule. Going to my university in person rather than online helps, doing things I ordinarily like helps, sleeping regular hours helps. None of them help very much without medication. And for me, nothing helps enough to cure it.

The point is not that improvement is impossible, or that it never goes away for good. It does for some people! It does for many people. But, without denying the effort those people have put in, there is an element of good fortune to that. I think it's important for the people who aren't cured, who can never pull the bootstraps hard enough, to know that that's not a moral failing. It's not because we're weak or undisciplined, it's not because we aren't trying, it's not because we have any less value or merit than the people who get better or people who never have depression at all.

So, personally, I think a more important, generally accurate, and compassionate message than "depression will get better if you just try hard enough" is this one:

Whether you're cured or not, whether the usual recommendations help much or not, whether medications help or not: this isn't your fault.

[p0tat0-g0ddess]

had to ace attorney argue myself out of bed today

[airflowheatingandac]

Indoor Air Quality Specialists in Skokie, IL: Serving Homes Near Niles North High School

Indoor air quality (IAQ) plays a significant role in maintaining the health and comfort of your home. Whether you're living near Niles North High School or elsewhere in Skokie, IL, the air inside your home is crucial for your well-being. Poor indoor air quality can lead to various health issues such as allergies, asthma, respiratory discomfort, and even more severe conditions if left unchecked. Fortunately, Skokie residents can rely on expert indoor air quality specialists to help improve and maintain the air in their homes.

This article will guide you through the importance of indoor air quality, the services provided by IAQ specialists, and how they can help protect your home and family from the harmful effects of poor air quality.

Why Indoor Air Quality is Important in Skokie, IL

Indoor air quality refers to the cleanliness of the air inside a building and the presence of pollutants that can cause health problems. These pollutants can include dust, pet dander, mold, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide, and even bacteria. Poor air quality can worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma or allergies, especially during the colder months when homes are tightly sealed to keep out the chill.

Living near Niles North High School or other residential areas in Skokie means exposure to potential pollutants from nearby traffic, construction, or other environmental factors. With homes often closed off to keep the heat in during the winter, pollutants are trapped indoors, leading to compromised air quality. Thankfully, professional indoor air quality specialists can provide the right solutions to eliminate pollutants and ensure your home has clean, fresh air year-round.

Services Provided by Indoor Air Quality Specialists

Air Filtration and Purification Systems

One of the most effective ways to improve indoor air quality is through the installation of high-efficiency air filters and air purification systems. These systems are designed to capture dust, pet dander, pollen, and even harmful chemicals that are found in everyday household items like cleaning supplies, paints, and air fresheners.

For residents near Niles North High School, where pollen from nearby parks or pollutants from local traffic may be a concern, air purifiers with HEPA filters can remove even the smallest particles from the air, improving air quality and reducing the risk of allergy flare-ups. Air purifiers equipped with activated carbon filters can also help eliminate VOCs, which are common in homes that use certain cleaning products or furniture finishes.

Humidity Control for Healthier Air

Humidity control plays a key role in managing indoor air quality. When air is too dry, especially during the winter months when heating systems are in full use, it can irritate the respiratory system, dry out skin, and make it harder to breathe. Conversely, too much humidity can promote the growth of mold and mildew, which can also be harmful to your health.

Indoor air quality specialists in Skokie offer whole-house humidification and dehumidification systems to maintain balanced humidity levels in your home. This ensures that the air stays comfortable, breathable, and healthy. Homes near Niles North High School, where humidity levels can fluctuate throughout the year, can especially benefit from these systems to regulate the air and prevent problems like dry throats, irritated sinuses, and mold growth.

Duct Cleaning and Maintenance

Another important service provided by indoor air quality specialists is duct cleaning. Over time, dust, dirt, mold, and other debris can accumulate in your air ducts, reducing airflow and causing pollutants to circulate through your home. These pollutants can worsen allergies, trigger asthma, and affect overall health.

By scheduling regular duct cleaning with a professional IAQ specialist, you can ensure that your HVAC system operates efficiently and that only clean, fresh air circulates through your home. Regular maintenance helps keep your air ducts free of contaminants and can also extend the lifespan of your HVAC system, saving you money in the long run.

Ventilation Systems for Better Air Circulation

Proper ventilation is crucial for maintaining healthy indoor air quality. Without enough airflow, your home can quickly become filled with pollutants that get trapped inside. Proper ventilation systems help bring in fresh outdoor air while expelling stale, contaminated air. This is especially important during winter when homes are tightly sealed to conserve heat.

Indoor air quality specialists offer ventilation solutions like Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) and Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) that exchange stale air with fresh air without wasting energy. These systems are perfect for homes in Skokie, including those near Niles North High School, where fresh airflow is needed to reduce the buildup of allergens, pollutants, and moisture.

Indoor Air Quality Inspections and Consultations

Indoor air quality specialists also provide comprehensive IAQ inspections and consultations. If you're unsure about the air quality in your home, these experts can assess your environment and identify sources of indoor pollution. They can provide solutions tailored to your needs, whether it's improving ventilation, upgrading your filtration system, or controlling humidity levels.

A professional IAQ consultation can give you peace of mind knowing that your home’s air is safe and healthy for your family. Specialists can also offer ongoing support to ensure your home maintains optimal air quality year-round.

Benefits of Professional Indoor Air Quality Services

Improved Health: Cleaner air reduces the risk of respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems.

Better Comfort: Humidity control and cleaner air create a more comfortable living environment.

Long-Term Savings: Proper HVAC maintenance and air purification systems help improve energy efficiency and extend the life of your equipment.

Peace of Mind: Working with indoor air quality specialists ensures your home is safe, and your family is breathing the best air possible.

Conclusion

Indoor air quality is crucial for the health and comfort of your home, especially in areas like Skokie, IL, where environmental factors can affect the air you breathe. Homes near Niles North High School can particularly benefit from the expertise of indoor air quality specialists who provide services like air filtration, humidity control, duct cleaning, and ventilation systems. These services will help improve your home’s air quality, reducing pollutants and allergens while creating a healthier living space. With the right IAQ solutions, you can ensure that your home is a safe and comfortable environment for you and your family. Reach out to an indoor air quality specialist today to start improving the air in your home!

[ana13dsouza]

Why Carpet Cleaning Is Essential for Homes with Pets in Harrow

Why Carpet Cleaning Is Essential for Homes with Pets in Harrow

Having pets in your home can bring immense joy and companionship, but it also comes with its set of challenges—especially when it comes to maintaining a clean and healthy living environment. One area that often suffers is your carpets. Pets shed hair, track in dirt, and sometimes have accidents, leaving behind stains, odors, and allergens that can affect both your home and your health. For pet owners in Harrow, professional carpet cleaning services in Harrow are essential in keeping your carpets clean and your home healthy.

The Challenge of Pet Hair and Dander

One of the most common issues faced by pet owners is the accumulation of pet hair. Regardless of the breed, most pets shed their fur to some extent, and this can accumulate in your carpets, making it difficult to maintain a clean home. Pet hair can also be a major source of allergens, affecting people with sensitivities or asthma. Regular vacuuming can help, but it often fails to fully remove hair that has embedded deep within the carpet fibers. This is where professional carpet cleaner in Harrow services can make a significant difference.

Carpet cleaning specialists use advanced equipment and techniques to extract pet hair and dander effectively. The powerful suction and specialized brushes used by professionals ensure that your carpets are free from unwanted fur, helping to improve the air quality in your home and reduce allergic reactions. Furthermore, carpet cleaning can remove built-up dander that may not be visible but can cause discomfort for sensitive individuals.

Eliminating Pet Odors

Pet odors are another common issue in homes with animals. Even the most well-trained pets can have accidents, and their urine can seep deep into carpet fibers, causing persistent odors that are hard to eliminate. Over time, the smell can become ingrained in the carpet, making it difficult for regular cleaning methods to provide a solution.

Professional carpet cleaning services in Harrow are equipped to deal with these tough odors. They use specially formulated cleaning agents that neutralize pet urine and other organic stains, rather than just masking the smell. Additionally, the deep cleaning process removes bacteria and germs that contribute to unpleasant odors, leaving your carpets smelling fresh and clean.

Removing Stains and Spots

Pets often leave behind visible stains, whether from accidents, muddy paws, or spilled food and water. These stains can be a challenge to remove with DIY methods, and if left untreated, they can become permanent. Pet stains not only ruin the appearance of your carpets, but they can also penetrate deeper into the fibers, making it harder to clean them thoroughly.

Carpet cleaning services in Harrow can help by providing specialized stain removal treatments. These services target specific types of stains, such as urine, feces, or vomit, and ensure they are completely removed from the carpet. In addition to improving the appearance of your carpets, this process helps to restore the hygiene and health of your home.

Reducing Allergens and Improving Air Quality

Carpets are known to trap allergens like dust mites, pollen, and pet dander. For individuals with allergies or respiratory issues, this can be a significant problem. Pet dander, in particular, is a common trigger for allergic reactions, and it can be challenging to eliminate from carpets without professional help.

A professional carpet cleaner in Harrow can remove these allergens by using high-powered vacuums and deep cleaning techniques. This process helps to improve the overall air quality in your home, making it a more comfortable environment for those who suffer from allergies or asthma. By investing in regular carpet cleaning, you can create a cleaner, healthier space for both your family and your pets.

Prolonging the Life of Your Carpets

Pets can cause wear and tear on your carpets. From scratching to tracking in dirt and debris, pets contribute to the degradation of carpet fibers over time. This can lead to the premature replacement of your carpets, which can be costly. Regular cleaning, however, can help prolong the life of your carpets by removing dirt and debris that cause damage to the fibers.

By hiring a professional carpet cleaner in Harrow, you can ensure that your carpets remain in excellent condition for a longer period. The deep cleaning process removes dirt, dust, and other contaminants that can break down the fibers and cause wear. This helps to preserve the appearance of your carpets and reduces the need for costly replacements.

Maintaining a Clean and Safe Home for Pets

Your pet's health is important, and a clean home plays a significant role in maintaining it. Pets are naturally curious and may spend a lot of time on the floor, where they come into contact with dirt, allergens, and bacteria. Regular carpet cleaning not only ensures that your carpets look clean but also helps to eliminate any harmful substances that could affect your pet's health.

Professional carpet cleaning services in Harrow use safe, pet-friendly cleaning solutions that are gentle on your carpets but tough on dirt and stains. These non-toxic cleaners help to create a safe environment for your pets, without exposing them to harmful chemicals. This gives you peace of mind, knowing that your pet can enjoy a clean and healthy home.

Why Professional Carpet Cleaning Is Worth the Investment

While it might seem tempting to clean your carpets yourself, especially with over-the-counter products, the results often don’t match the level of cleaning that professionals can achieve. DIY methods may be effective for surface cleaning, but they don’t offer the deep cleaning needed to tackle embedded pet hair, odors, and stains.

Investing in carpet cleaning services in Harrow ensures that your carpets receive a thorough, professional cleaning that removes all pet-related issues. Professional cleaners have the experience, equipment, and products necessary to provide a level of cleanliness that is hard to achieve with DIY methods. Plus, they can help prevent future problems, such as the buildup of allergens and bacteria, by providing ongoing maintenance.

Conclusion

Carpet cleaning is essential for households with pets, not only to maintain the appearance of your home but also to ensure a healthy living environment for both your family and your pets. Professional carpet cleaning services in Harrow can tackle the toughest issues caused by pets, from hair and odors to allergens and stains. By investing in regular carpet cleaning, you can protect your carpets, improve the air quality in your home, and create a cleaner, safer space for your pets. So, if you're a pet owner in Harrow, make sure to prioritize professional carpet cleaning to keep your home looking and feeling its best.

#CarpetCleaning #PetOwners #HarrowHomes #CleanCarpets #PetHair #Allergens #CarpetCare #HealthyHome #CarpetCleaningServicesInHarrow

[ailurinae]

Being allergic to cats is the dumbest thing. I think I'd have almost any food allergy than a cat allergy. And I am mighty attached to some foods, like most things with gluten for example.

[hiffni-mmm]

The Power of Cleanliness: Why Keeping Homes and Offices Tidy Matters

Cleanliness is Second to Godliness. “Sarah (not the actual name) is a busy professional balancing work and family life. She noticed a remarkable change when she made a conscious effort to declutter and clean her home regularly. She found herself feeling more relaxed and focused. Not only that her family also reported fewer instances of illness. This firsthand experience highlights the…

[indoorhealth]

WATER WASH YOUR INDOORS.

Our lives are indoors. The better portion of our daily life is indoors. At sleep. In the dining and living rooms and about the home. Our office hours take up one third of a day. What about time spent within our vehicles and public transport. With all these hours spent indoors, what are we breathing?

We breathe the worst air, with its larger content of pollutes and allergens. Indoor air has been ruined without being suspected for decades. Today, we need to water wash indoor air for breathing, just like we wash fruits and vegetables before consuming. The quantum and variety of indoor air pollutes is very alarming.

Using #proaqua #vivenso and with about 3 liters of tap water, we get to water wash indoor air within our living space.  The basin is filled with 3 litres of tap water, and the Vivenso machine is assigned to a given space. Air is drawn in continously without interruption, washed in the basin of 3 litres water and released back into the air within seconds. All the pollutes remain trapped in the water to be thrown away. There is no direct contact with the picked and trapped dust, dirt or allergens.

[mossyinkynebulous]

So like, this has been in my head the past few days and it's something that happened years ago, but like who the fuck has the audacity to tell an asthmatic person that they should just be better. I'm gonna leave stuff out bc it's bullshit but I really don't understand people that are like there's people with asthma in the military therefore you have the potential to do the same things they do. I tried explaining that, sure, there are elements that I can work to improve it, but there's certain things that my asthma literally won't adapt to.

Love y'all. Remember to drink water, eat, and take care of yourself. Including sleep. (I say as I have to get up in 3 hours)

[deinheilpraktiker]

Die Immuntherapie mit Katzenallergenen wirkt besser und schneller, wenn sie mit monoklonalen Antikörpern kombiniert wird Ein experimenteller Ansatz zur Verbesserung einer Standardbehandlung gegen Katzenallergien machte sie wirksamer und wirkte schneller, und die Vorteile hielten ein Jahr nach Ende der Behandlung an, wie eine von den National Institutes of Health unterstützte Studie ergab. Die Ergebnisse wurden im Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology veröffentlicht. Die Allergen-Immuntherapie, oft auch Allergiespritzen genannt, ist eine Langzeitbehandlung, die die Allergiesymptome... #Allergen #Allergie #Allergischer_Schnupfen #Antikörper #Asthma #B_Zelle #BLUT #chronisch #EIWEISS #Entzündung #Entzündung_der_Atemwege #essen #Forschung #Gen #Gesundheits_und_Sozialdienste #Haut #Immunologie #Immunreaktion #Immuntherapie #Infektionskrankheiten #Katzenallergie #Klinische_Studie #Lebensmittelallergie #Lunge #Medizin #Medizinische_Forschung #Molekül #Monoklonaler_Antikörper #Nasenspray #Niesen #Placebo #Rhinitis #Zelle #Zellsignalisierung #Zytokin

[discoverhowitworks]

8 Worst Plants for Your Allergies

As the seasons change, many people suffer from allergies caused by pollen in the air. However, some plants are worse than others when it comes to triggering allergy symptoms. In this article, we will discuss eight of the worst plants for your allergies and how to avoid them. - Ragweed is one of the most common allergenic plants, and its pollen can travel for hundreds of miles in the wind. It typically blooms from August to November and produces large amounts of pollen. - Oak trees are also highly allergenic and produce large amounts of pollen in the spring. Their pollen can cause severe allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to it. - Grasses Many different types of grasses can cause allergies, including Bermuda grass, Timothy grass, and Kentucky bluegrass. Grass pollen is most prevalent in the late spring and early summer. - Birch trees are one of the most common causes of springtime allergies. Their pollen can cause symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. - Sagebrush is a common allergenic plant in the western United States, and its pollen can travel for long distances. It typically blooms from late summer to early fall. - Mountain cedar is a type of juniper tree that grows in the southwestern United States. Its pollen is highly allergenic and can cause severe allergic reactions in some people. - Ambrosia, also known as ragweed's cousin, is another common allergenic plant that produces large amounts of pollen. It typically blooms from late summer to early fall. - While goldenrod is not a highly allergenic plant, it is often mistakenly blamed for causing allergies. In fact, its pollen is too heavy to be carried by the wind, and it is actually pollinated by insects. However, its blooms often coincide with ragweed, which can cause confusion. To avoid these plants and their pollen, there are a few steps you can take: - Stay indoors during peak pollen times, such as early morning and late afternoon. - Use air conditioning instead of opening windows to cool your home. - Wear a mask when gardening or doing yard work. - Avoid hanging clothes or linens outside to dry. - Take allergy medications as directed by your doctor. By following these steps and being aware of the worst plants for your allergies, you can reduce your exposure to pollen and enjoy the outdoors with less discomfort. Read the full article

[healthiswe]

Understanding and Managing Asthma

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Some Allergy Vocabulary

for your next poem/story

Allergic crease - A crease or pale line that develops across the lower part of the nose because of frequent upward wiping of the nose.

Angioedema - (or edema) Swelling

Dander - Material that is shed from the body of humans and animals that have fur, hair, or feathers.

Dust mite - A small mite invisible to the naked eye. Dust mites are widely distributed in homes and dust mite allergy is a major cause of asthma and allergic rhinitis (hay fever).

Elemental diet - A diet of predigested liquid containing amino acids, vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, and glucose.

Eosinophils - Cells that circulate in the blood. They attack tissues at the site of an allergic reaction causing damage.

Erythema - Reddening of the skin.

Macrophages - Scavengers whose job is to engulf or eat up infecting germs and even infected cells. Macrophages also help to overcome infection by secreting signals that help activate other cell types to fight against infections.

Monocytes - Cells that circulate in the blood and become macrophages in the tissues. These cells are very important in alerting the immune system about an infection.

Neutropenia - A condition that results when the body does not have enough neutrophils, an important white blood cell that fights infections. The lower your neutrophil count, the more vulnerable you are to infectious diseases.

Pollen count - (or a mold count) Is based on the measurement of the number of grains of pollen or mold spores in a cubic meter of the air. The higher the count, the greater the chance that people suffering from hay fever will experience symptoms when they are outdoors or exposed to outdoor air.

Pruritus - Itching

Urticaria - The medical word for hives, which are itchy, raised lumps that can vary in position from hour to hour or day to day.

Wheal - A raised whitish itchy lump, which occurs after skin prick test or after contact with an allergen and is a term also used to describe the individual lump seen in hives.

Wheeze - A whistling sound that can occur in the breathing tubes or airways. It is important to make your doctor aware of wheezing that reoccurs. Wheezing is often a symptom of asthma or COPD, but it may be related to temporary respiratory conditions such as pneumonia or bronchitis.

Sources: 1 2 3 ⚜ More: Word Lists

[airflowheatingandac]

Key Benefits of Professional Indoor Air Quality Testing for Dependable Air Quality Solutions

Indoor air quality is a crucial factor in maintaining a healthy and comfortable home environment. It directly impacts respiratory health, energy efficiency, and overall quality of life. Professional indoor air quality testing is an effective way to identify and address issues that may compromise the safety and cleanliness of the air you breathe. This article explores the key benefits of professional indoor air quality testing and how it contributes to dependable air quality solutions.

Understanding Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality refers to the condition of the air inside homes, offices, or other enclosed spaces. It is influenced by pollutants such as dust, mold, pet dander, smoke, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Poor indoor air quality can lead to health problems like allergies, asthma, headaches, and even long-term respiratory conditions. Professional testing provides insights into these pollutants, helping homeowners and businesses take corrective action.

Benefits of Professional Indoor Air Quality Testing

1. Accurate Detection of Pollutants

One of the most significant advantages of professional indoor air quality testing is its precision. Certified technicians use advanced tools to measure the levels of airborne pollutants, allergens, and harmful gases like carbon monoxide. This detailed analysis ensures that all potential contaminants are identified and addressed.

2. Improved HVAC System Efficiency

A well-functioning HVAC system is essential for maintaining good indoor air quality. Testing can uncover issues such as clogged filters, inadequate ventilation, or ductwork leaks. By resolving these problems, your HVAC system will work more efficiently, providing clean, fresh air while reducing energy consumption.

3. Enhanced Health and Comfort

Clean indoor air is essential for health and well-being. Professional testing identifies triggers that can worsen asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions. With targeted solutions, such as installing air purifiers or upgrading filters, the air in your home becomes safer and more comfortable to breathe.

4. Customized Air Quality Solutions

Every indoor space is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach may not address specific needs. Professional testing allows experts to tailor solutions to your space, whether it's reducing humidity levels to prevent mold growth or installing specialized filtration systems to combat allergens.

5. Prevention of Long-Term Problems

Regular indoor air quality testing helps detect and address potential issues before they become significant problems. This proactive approach can prevent costly repairs and ensure that your indoor environment remains safe and healthy over time.

Subcategories of Indoor Air Quality to Monitor

Humidity Levels: High humidity can lead to mold and mildew, while low humidity can cause dryness and discomfort. Testing helps maintain balanced levels.

Airborne Allergens: Testing identifies sources of allergens like pollen, dust, and pet dander to reduce allergy symptoms.

Harmful Gases: Testing for gases like carbon monoxide and radon ensures that your space remains free from dangerous substances.

Why Invest in Professional Indoor Air Quality Testing?

Professional testing goes beyond what DIY kits can achieve. Experts provide comprehensive reports and actionable recommendations, offering peace of mind and long-term results. Dependable air quality solutions stem from their ability to identify specific issues and implement effective fixes.

Conclusion

Investing in professional indoor air quality testing delivers numerous benefits, from improving health and comfort to ensuring the efficiency of your HVAC system. By detecting and addressing pollutants, these services provide reliable solutions for maintaining a clean and safe indoor environment. Take the first step toward healthier air today by scheduling a professional indoor air quality test.