Eight Tips For A Bug-Free Summer – by: Dr. Brian Aw, M.D., and C.C.F.P. (courtesy by News Canada)

(NC)-With approximately 42,000 mosquitoes for every person in Ontario, most of us spend a great deal of our summers swatting away these pesky insects. Protecting yourself against mosquitoes will not only make your summer more enjoyable, it will help prevent you and your family from getting annoying and sometimes dangerous bug bites.

As a family physician, I recommend the following tips for a bug free summer.

• Stay Scent-Free. Avoid using scented soaps, lotions and shampoos.

• Gear Up. Cover your skin as completely as possible. This may be challenging by the beach, but when possible wear long sleeves, pants and socks.

• Be Colour Conscious. Mosquitoes are attracted to blue, so avoid this colour and stick to neutral colours.

• Use Repellent. Repellents containing DEET are most effective for areas with heavy mosquito or tick infestation.

• Alternative Repellents. When applied frequently, citronella-based repellents can provide the same bug protection as products containing low concentrations of DEET. I recommend Natrapel®, which contains 10 percent citronella to ward off bugs for up to two hours.

• Meal Time. Be alert to the time of day when certain insects are most active such as dawn and twilight.

• Check Point. Upon returning indoors, check your children and yourself for bites.

• Treatment. Sunburn and bite treatment products should be included in every outdoor adventurer’s travel kit.

Dr. Brian Aw is a general practitioner specializing in travel medicine.

For more tips on bug bite prevention and product information visit: www.tendercorp.com/canada.

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

Beat The Bugs… Use Repellent! – by: Dr. Brian Aw, M.D., and C.C.F.P. (courtesy of News Canada)

(NC)-With approximately 42,000 mosquitoes for every person in Ontario, most of us spend a great deal of our summers swatting away these pesky insects. Protecting yourself against mosquitoes will not only make your summer more enjoyable, it will help prevent you and your family from getting annoying and sometimes dangerous bug bites.

As a family physician, I recommend that my patients take the following personal protection measures to prevent insect bites.

• Stay Scent-Free. Avoid using scented soaps, lotions and shampoos.

• Gear Up. Cover your skin as completely as possible. This may be challenging by the beach, but when possible wear long sleeves, pants and socks.

• Be Colour Conscious. Mosquitoes are attracted to blue, so avoid this colour and stick to neutral colours.

• Use Repellent. Repellents containing DEET are most effective for areas with heavy mosquito or tick infestation.

• Alternative Repellents. When applied frequently, citronella-based repellents can provide the same bug protection as products containing low concentrations of DEET. I recommend Natrapel®, which contains 10 percent citronella to ward off bugs for up to two hours.

• Meal Time. Be alert to the time of day when certain insects are most active such as dawn and twilight.

• Check Point. Upon returning indoors, check your children and yourself for bites.

• Treatment. Sunburn and bite treatment products should be included in every outdoor adventurer’s travel kit.

Dr. Brian Aw is a general practitioner specializing in travel medicine.

For more tips on bug bite prevention and product information visit: www.tendercorp.com/canada.

Editors: These articles are for use in Ontario only

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

Take Control Of Your Allergies – by: News Canada

(NC)-For some people, allergies are a seasonal condition, recurring for several weeks at the same time period each year. This condition is called seasonal allergic rhinitis. In the spring pollen levels rise as trees and flowers begin to bloom causing sneezing, runny nose, itchy watery eyes and nasal congestion. For others, these allergy symptoms are a daily nuisance that can occur throughout the year, a condition known as perennial allergic rhinitis.

Fortunately, you don’t have to be a helpless victim to these seasonal or perennial allergic symptoms. Here are certain lifestyle changes recommended by the allergy experts at Claritin that can help you reduce your symptoms and control your allergy: (box text under Lifestyle Changes

• Keep pets out of the bedroom or even outdoors if possible.

• Replace your humidifier, vaccum cleaner and furnace filters often.

• Wash bedding weekly, place zipped covers over matresses, box springs and pillows.

• Remove dust collectors, such as carpeting, old drapes and overstuffed furniture.

• Avoid cigarette smoking in the house.

• Remove house plants that may be a source of mould and dust mites.

• During pollen season, close the windows of your home in late afternoon and on hot, dry, windy days.

• Schedule outdoor activities for late afternoon or evening when pollen release is at its lowest.

• Non-sedating antihistamines can help you reduce the symptoms of allergic rhinitis and let you perform normally. Make sure to look for the words “non-drowsy” on the package to ensure that it’s a non-sedating medication.

• Keep informed of pollen levels in your area when planning outdoor activities or to pre-treat your allergy by tuning in to the Claritin Pollen Forecast every 28 minutes past the hour on the Weather Network.

For more information on how to control allergies this season call 1-800-665-1507 or visit www.claritin.ca.

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

Final Exams And Allergies Don’T Add Up – by: News Canada

(NC)-It’s that time of year again. Students cramming to prepare for their annual final exams. For the one in five students who suffer from seasonal allergies this difficult time can be made even more challenging thanks to the sneezing, runny nose, itchy watery eyes and nasal congestion that accompany allergic rhinitis.

Allergies and their complications take a significant toll on student’s attendance and performance in school. Studies in the U.S. show that allergic rhinitis is responsible for up to 2 million lost school days annually, which translates into 10,000 absences per school year. In Canada, this represents about 200,000 lost school days per year and 1,000 absences annually.

Students who seek protection from their allergy symptoms must be wary of the type of treatment they choose.

Antihistamines are typically recom-mended to treat allergies. They work by blocking the action of histamine, the substance that’s behind allergy symptoms. There are many different brands of antihistamines but they all belong in two classes. The older, first generation antihistamines typically bring relief for about three to six hours. Unfortunately their formulations also bring many side effects including drowsiness.

The newer, second generation anti-histamines have a different molecular structure from the older antihistamines. They can relieve allergy symptoms for up to 24 hours – so you can take them once a day. And newer, learning friendly, antihistamines like Claritin are non-drowsy which help you perform tasks like studying and writing exams that require alertness. Make sure, however, to read your medication package properly because not all antihistamines are non-sedating. Specifically, you should look for the words “non-drowsy” on the box.

This is important as recent studies show that students with seasonal allergic rhinitis taking a sedating antihistamine performed significantly worse than allergy-free students on exams measuring factual, conceptual knowledge and knowledge of application. However, students taking non-sedative antihistamines performed significantly better.

For more information on allergies and their effect on learning contact 1-800-665-1507 or visit www.claritin.ca.

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

The Impact Of Allergies In The Workplace – by: News Canada

(NC)-In the spring allergy sufferers try hard to make it through their work day as they deal with a variety of symptoms such as itchy, watery eyes, and sniffles.

Their heads may feel clogged up and their symptoms may make it hard to think, not to mention the drowsiness they may be combating if they are taking sedating medication to deal with their allergies. An American study found that employees with allergies potentially cost companies more than $250 million annually in missed workdays and lost productivity.

Allergies can affect how a person works. However, many employees work in areas that aggravate their symptoms, an employer can do much to improve conditions. Some changes might include enclosing sources of dust and fume exposure, offering a cool room where employees can go for a break, rotating jobs for employees who are having trouble coping with their allergies or using appropriate protective equipment.

Allergies should not be taken lightly, as they can lead to more serious health concerns. Allergies can be life-threatening and lead to severe symptoms.

To complicate matters for employees and employers, some workers may even be debilitated by their medication, or may not take anything for fear of becoming drowsy. This fear may not be warranted, as there are now non-sedating allergy medications available that relieve symptoms and enable employees to perform to their maximum abilities.

Occupational health specialists say that the real problem with allergies and the workplace is that patients may not recognize the symptoms which can affect on the job performance. As well, employees with very severe symptoms may not even go to work leading to absenteeism or negative job performance. Effective non-drowsy allergy medications are available to treat employees’ allergy symptoms and not affect their job performance.

It’s crucial that the allergy sufferer examine the packaging carefully when choosing a form of treatment. Make sure they see the words “non-drowsy” on the box. Any other expression or word combination may be misleading. This label will ensure they are taking a non-sedating medication. For more information on how to control allergies this season call 1-800-665-1507 or visit www.claritin.ca or catch the Claritin pollen forecast on the Weather Network at 28 minutes after the hour.

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

Safe Driving Tips For Allergy Sufferers – by: News Canada

(NC)-Did you know that some medications can cause drowsiness which could affect your ability to drive your vehicle safely?

In particular, sedating antihistamines commonly used in the treatment of allergy symptoms can cause drowsiness at the wheel. If a medication does not say non-drowsy on the box then it usually means it is sedating. An allergy medication that is sedating could do any of the following:

• Decrease your ability to learn

• Decrease your attention span

• Provoke memory loss

• Interfere with your coordination and the precision of your movements

• And cause inexplicable mood swings

All of these symptoms not only affect your productivity, they also affect your safety and that of others. Just think

about how a sedating medication could impair your driving skills. Safe driving simultaneously requires attentiveness, excellent coordination, quick reflexes and good memory. A medication that is sedating could affect any of these requirements and could therefore affect your driving.

Not all allergy medications are created equal. There are non-sedating alternatives available like Claritin that will relieve the sneezing and itching of the nose, eyes and throat while letting you perform to the maximum of your abilities.

Here are some helpful safety tips from the allergy experts at Claritin that you can consider before you take the wheel:

• Look for the words non-drowsy, or non-sedating on the package of your allergy medication. In other words, any other expression or word combination may be misleading. If you’re not sure about what you’re buying, ask your pharmacist to explain the different wording.

• Avoid the misconception that certain stimulants like coffee will keep you alert over an extended time period. Coffee or other sources of caffeine are short-term stimulants only.

• Avoid alcohol: even small amounts can affect your driving, especially if combined with certain medications.

For more information on how to control allergies this season call 1-800-665-1507 or visit www.claritin.ca.

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

Allergies Can Now Be Diagnosed With A Simple Blood Test – by: News Canada

(NC)-Do you think you have allergies? Do you have dark circles under your eyes, itchy rashes, or feel like you have a cold? If you do, you are not alone. More than 9 million Canadians suffer from some form of allergy.

Allergic reactions can mimic cold and flu symptoms so it is easy for people to mistake one condition for the other. To determine if you have allergies your doctor will often use skin tests or a new blood test called UniCAP” allergy test.

What is the Difference Between a Skin Test and the New Blood Test?

For a skin test, the doctor uses a needle to prick the skin through a drop of a solution of each suspected allergen. If a raised welt (weal or hive) appears occurs then this indicates sensitivity to that allergen.

However, the skin test is not appropriate if you have an allergic skin disease and is not as effective in infants and in older people. The results may also be affected by medication.

In contrast, the UniCAP” allergy blood test is simple. It requires about small sample of blood (about one teaspoon). The test is performed in the lab by a medical technologist. The test can identify allergies to more than 500 different allergens and is not affected by medications.

“The new blood test offers Canadians an easy and less painful alternative to identifying allergic symptoms, ” says Dr. Brian Sheridan, Vice President of Medical Affairs for MDS Laboratory Services. “MDS technologists are specifically trained to perform thousands of different types of laboratory tests including the serum test for allergies. This test is 90% accurate and seems to be particularly useful in identifying food allergens.”

If you think you may allergies, talk to your doctor. For more information visit www.mdscollaborate.com.

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

What Is Hay Fever? – by: News Canada

(NC)-Well, it’s not caused by hay, and it isn’t a fever. In fact, ” hay fever” is a complete misnomer. The term was first used by English doctors over a hundred years ago when they noticed that during the hay-cutting season, some people suffered sneezing fits, runny noses and itchy eyes.

The more accurate name for hay fever is seasonal allergic rhinitis. It’s an allergic reaction that may cause a runny nose, red, itchy, watery eyes, pressure in the eyes, sore throat and headaches. Symptoms, in fact, which are deceptively similar to those of a cold.

There are two kinds of allergic rhinitis. The first is perennial allergic rhinitis and it affects people year round. Since the substances causing the allergy – house dust, animals, mould – are found inside, it strikes mostly in the winter, when we’re indoors the most.

The second, seasonal allergic rhinitis, is fairly easy to recognize, because it occurs at the same time each year. Pollen seasons vary according to the different types of pollen and the geographical location. It’s important to know your pollen season, because medications like antihistamines are most effective if you start taking them before your peak season starts. To find out more about pollen levels in your area check the Claritin Pollen Forecast every 28 minutes past the hour on the Weather Network.

Also, it’s important to be able to function normally while you to treat your allergy symptoms. Make sure to read your medication package properly because not all antihistamines are non-sedating. More specifically, look for the words “non-drowsy” on the box. With a little information and proper medication you will be able to control your hay fever and continue your outdoor activities this spring and summer season.

For more information on seasonal allergies contact 1-800-665-1507 or visit www.claritin.ca or catch the Claritin Pollen Forecast on the Weather Network at 28 minutes after the hour.

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

How To Protect Allergy Sufferers In Your Home – by: News Canada

(NC)-For those who suffer from allergies the spring season comes much too soon. It’s a time when allergy symptoms can be at their worst. Pollen levels rise during the spring as trees and flowers begin to bloom causing sneezing, runny nose, itchy watery eyes and nasal congestion.

Thankfully, there’s no place like home to escape from these airborne allergens. Or is there? Dust, mold and other allergens can also make a home seem unbearable for allergy sufferers.

The good news is that there are ways to reduce these irritants and make your home a haven from outdoor pollen and mould spore attacks.

There are a number of preventative steps that the estimated one in five Canadians who suffer from allergies can take to reduce the number of allergens in their living spaces. The most effective and simple steps involve sanitizing your environment with a thorough cleaning.

If you don’t want outdoor pollen, dust, dust mites and mould to be “at home” with you, here are a few suggestions:

• In the bedroom, discourage dust mites by encasing mattresses, pillows and box springs in airtight or allergen-proof casings and/or regularly vacuum them. Sheets should be washed weekly in hot water to kill dust mites. Use comforters and pillows made of synthetic fiber and replace synthetic pillows every two or three years.

• In the bathroom, the biggest problem may be mold. Wash the tile behind the tub, shower doors and around the sink with an anti-fungal cleaner. Replace vinyl shower curtain liners regularly.

• Wash curtains, drapes, bedding and children’s stuffed animals in hot water to eliminate dust.

• Keep pets and their animal danders out of bedrooms.

• Keep furnishings, household decorations and collections of knickknacks to a minimum. The fewer surfaces on which dust can collect, the easier your home will be to clean.

• Get rid of house plants. They are a major source of mould and dust.

• Remove carpets and replace them with tiled or wooden floors.

• Have furnaces serviced, ducts cleaned and appropriate filters put on the furnace and the vents. Keep humidifiers and air conditioners clean.

For more information on coping with allergies contact 1-800-665-1507 or visit www.claritin.ca.

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

Allergy Season Alert: How To Avoid Seasonal Allergy Triggers – by: News Canada

(NC)-While there is unfortunately no cure for allergies, you may be able to prevent the onset of allergic symptoms by avoiding the things that can set off an allergic reaction.

Seasonal allergy “triggers” include pollen and sometimes mold spores. Airborne pollen, which is responsible for seasonal allergy symptoms in the millions of Canadians who suffer from “hay fever”, is very hard to avoid. That’s because pollen from many sources is prominent at various times of the year.

Pollen levels rise during the spring as trees and flowers begin to bloom causing sneezing, runny nose, itchy watery eyes and nasal congestion. It is so light that it turns up miles from where it originated, including high in the atmosphere and far out to sea.

Mold spores take to the air both indoors and outdoors, wherever mold may be growing. Rotting vegetation may be the source, or mold can develop in damp, dark places, such as attics, basements, garbage containers, or refrigerators. In Canada, outdoor molds send their spores airborne after the spring thaw and through October.

Here are some helpful tips on avoiding these allergy triggers from the experts at Claritin:

• Stay inside when the pollen count is high (especially between 5 AM and 10 AM, when it is typically at its highest), and keep windows and doors closed.

• Rely on air conditioners for clean air, and change the filter regularly.

• Outside the home, seek out air-conditioned environments for your leisure activities when condition are ripe for high pollen count (low humidity, windy days).

• If you enjoy gardening or doing yard work consider using a filter mask.

• When traveling by car, keep the windows closed and use the air conditioner. It’s important to have the air conditioner checked and cleaned.

• Keep your home as allergy free as possible so it provides a haven in which to recover.

• If you already have pets wash them regularly and never allow them in the bedroom.

• To get a better idea of what the pollen levels will be when planning outdoor activities, check the Claritin Pollen Forecast every 28 minutes past the hour on the Weather Network.

For more information on how to control allergies this season call 1-800-665-1507 or visit www.claritin.ca.

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

How To Weed Out Allergy Attacks While Gardening – by: News Canada

(NC)-Did you know that gardening is the second most popular physical activity for Canadians?

According to the experts, all that pulling and digging makes your heart, lungs and muscles strong. Stretching and bending increases your flexibility. It’s good for the soul. There’s no better feeling than watching a seedling burst from a tiny seed.

Gardening can give you constant rewards such as fresh vegetables or beautiful flowers and a well cared for lawn is a great source of pride.

For gardening enthusiasts, the spring does not come soon enough. For those who suffer seasonal allergies, it comes too soon. Pollen from trees, grasses and weeds, as well as mould spores in warmer months cause sneezing, runny nose, itchy watery eyes and nasal congestion. In severe cases, sore throats and coughs can develop.

Here’s a quick list of important pollen sources to be aware of when gardening:

• Trees (oak, elm, birch, hickory, cottonwood, maple, ash)

• Grasses (meadow fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, orchard, timothy, redtop, Bermuda)

• Weeds (ragweed, cocklebur, marsh elder, sagebrush, mugwort, pigweed and tumbleweed).

You may be able to limit the numbers of allergy attacks you have by staying indoors and installing air purifiers in your home. But for Canadians who can’t wait to get their hands dirty in the outdoors effective non-drowsy antihistamine medications like Claritin can help control your allergy symptoms and make you more comfortable without the drowsiness that accompanies other antihistamine treatments.

The more you know about your allergy the better you can control it. For the most up to date forecast of seasonal allergy triggers in your area watch for the Claritin Pollen Report on the Weather Network. Using the latest meteorological data, the 60-second report provides pollen level estimates for the coming 24 hours – in addition to current tree, grass and ragweed pollen levels. You can catch the report 24 hours a day on the Weather Network at 28 minutes past the hour.

So if you love to watch the flowers bloom but hate allergies keep track of the pollen count and ask your pharmacist to help you dig up the treatment that’s right for you.

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

Facts About Allergies For Parents – by: News Canada

(NC)-Did you know that more than 20 percent of school-age children suffer from allergies. A condition that, if not diagnosed properly, can interfere with a child’s ability to concentrate.

In fact, according to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, allergies account for 2 million missed school days each year, and on any given day more than 10,000 children are absent from school due to troublesome allergy symptoms. In Canada, this represents approximately 200,000 missed school days and more than 1,000 children missing school on any given day because of allergies. Allergies can have a significant impact on a child’s quality of life.

Fortunately, the allergy experts at Claritin, the leader in the treatment of seasonal and perennial allergies, have developed appropriate information to help parents determine whether a child suffers from allergies.

For instance, if one parent has allergies, chances are one in three that a child will have an allergy, and if both parents have allergies the chance jumps to seven in 10.

By providing parents with the appropriate information, they will be better equipped to consult with their healthcare provider and set up an appropriate system to help avoid a child’s allergy triggers.

It can be hard for parents to distinguish between colds and allergies without help, because many symptoms of each are similar.

The casual misdiagnosis that “it’s just a cold” can result in unnecessary suffering for the child with allergies. Here are some common allergy symptoms parents should look for:

• A runny or stuffy nose and constant sneezing

• Breathing through the mouth or snoring, due to a stuffy nose

• Itchy nose, eyes, or skin

• Rubbing the nose upward with the palm of the hand (also known as the “allergy salute”)

• Watery eyes or dark circles under the eyes

• Headaches, earaches, or hearing problems

• Changes in behavior; children may be irritable or hyperactive

Once a physician has determined that a child has allergies, parents should know there are treatment options available to ease the symptoms including avoidance of allergy triggers, allergy shots, and/or medications. One medication in particular, Claritin Syrup is learning friendly for children. It is the only non-sedating antihistamine for children to treat both seasonal and year-round allergies without causing drowsiness.

For more information on allergies and their effect on learning contact 1-800-665-1507 or visit www.claritin.ca.

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

Clean, Treat & Protect – The 3 ‘Musts’ Of Wound Care – by: News Canada

(NC)-A recent Ipsos-Reid survey indicated that an overwhelming majority of Canadians have a lot to learn when it comes to treating minor wounds. A staggering 88 per cent of Canadians incorrectly believe that a wound heals best when left uncovered to ‘breathe’ or air out, and 92 per cent mistakenly think scabs are a healthy part of the healing process.

“The best way to protect a wound is to cover it with a bandage until fully healed. Bandages that absorb a wounds fluid and maintain a natural moisture balance are ideal for healing and enables skin cells to migrate together to form new tissue,” says Dr. Kevin C. Moran, Scarborough General Hospital. “Letting a wound scab actually slows this process and can lead to unsightly scars and increased discomfort and pain, especially for children.”

The results of the survey should help to dispel the myths held by millions of Canadians and shed light on the proper procedures to follow when caring for minor cuts and scrapes. Following BAND-AID® Brand’s easy-to-remember “Clean, Treat & Protect” regimen will help maximize the healing process.

Clean, Treat & Protect calls for all minor wounds to be thoroughly cleansed with an antiseptic wash as soon as possible to remove dirt, then treated with an antibiotic ointment to stave off possible infection and lastly protected with a bandage until the wound is fully healed. According to the survey, 56 per cent of Canadians do not clean their wounds with an antiseptic wash and only half (50 per cent) even bother to apply a bandage.

“No matter how small the cut, Canadians need to be educated about proper wound care procedures and understand that it is essential in minimizing the risk of infection,” says Moran. “With summer being the time of year when minor wounds are most prevalent, as children and adults alike become more physically active, the news comes at the right time.”

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

What Causes Mental Illness? – by: News Canada

(NC)-Lots of myths surround mental illness. For instance, many still think that it’s something that can be cured simply by ‘toughening up’ or by adopting a better outlook on life. In fact, mental illness is not caused by ‘moral’ weakness, and it’s clearly not something that people ‘choose’ to have. Mental illness is a diagnosable illness that requires treatment, just like diabetes.

While the causes of mental illness are not well understood, most research suggests that it results from a chemical disturbance in the brain. Many factors may contribute to this: heredity, genetics, stress, recreational drug use may all contribute to the onset of mental illness.

Although research is still in its infancy, there now exist many effective treatments for those who suffer from mental health disorders. In most cases these treatments make a significant, positive contribution to quality of life, and the earlier a condition is identified the better the treatment outcome.

More information on mental illness and how a new book called “Catch a Falling Star: A Tale from the Iris the Dragon Series” is helping parents identify and understand early onset mental illness visit www.iristhedragon.com.

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

Thirsting For Summer? Stay Hydrated To Enjoy Hot Summer Days – by: News Canada

(NC)-After a long, cold winter, Canadians can’t wait for summer! But often, summertime, welcome as it is, can bring sweltering heat and unbearable humidity, which can lead to dehydration.

Canadians need to be prepared for hot summer days. The most important thing to remember is to drink plenty of fluids to keep the body hydrated.

“For some people, drinking eight or ten glasses of water a day is hard to do. I encourage people who have difficulty drinking so much water to supplement their water intake with other fluids they enjoy drinking, like juices and lemonade – focusing on beverages without caffeine or alcohol,” says Sandra Edwards, Registered Dietitian and Sports Nutritionist.

Canadians, it seems, understand the importance of hydration because beverage sales peak during the dog days of summer.

“Our Aquafina bottled water sales are never better than they are on hot summer days,” says Michael Hartman, Vice President of Marketing, Pepsi-Cola Canada Ltd. “Iced tea is also a big hit, and so is lemonade. When it gets really hot out, there’s nothing quite like a tall, cool glass of Brisk Lemonade to quench your thirst.”

When the body sweats, it not only loses vital moisture but essential minerals too, including potassium, a mineral found in abundance in fruits and vegetables. Eating healthy snacks replenishes minerals and helps absorb and retain fluids. So, remember to stock up on fresh summer fruits and veggies to stay hydrated and refreshed.

Even at work, you can dry out in the summertime. Just because air-conditioned environments keep you cool, doesn’t mean you’re safe from dehydration. Climate-controlled buildings can zap body’s vital moisture. So sip on refreshing drinks, like water, iced-teas or lemonade all work-day long.

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

Formulate A Summer Skincare Plan – by: News Canada

(NC) – Avoid a summer beauty crisis by properly preparing skin for the warm weather. Summer skin care dilemmas are two-fold – increased dryness due to water loss, wind and sun, as well as increased oil production from outdoor sports and heat. Preparing the face and body for increased outdoor exposure will aid in preventing an onslaught of summer skin dilemmas.

• Summer moisturizers should feel light and weightless on your skin. For face, use an oil-free moisturizer that contains a sunscreen. A good product to try is RoC® Retinol Actif Pur Day SPF 15.

• Water remains key. Eight, 8-oz glasses a day is the minimum required. Herbal teas can also be substituted for water. These fluids help detoxify the skin and keep it looking moist and dewy.

• If you’re conscious about cellulite, the use of a body contouring cream such as RoC® Body Contouring Triple Action can help eliminate the appearance of cellulite on thighs, buttocks and hips. While waiting for results, try using a sunless tanner to help conceal cellulite, which tends to be less noticeable on darker skin.

• Vitamin supplements are important in maintaining healthy skin. Flaxseed oil is a popular choice as it is good for the skin, the heart and it is also an anti-carcinogenic.

• Stock up on fresh fruits, vegetables and green salads, which help to replace fluids. Adequate fluid intake helps to keep the system well flushed and removes toxins and wastes. This, in turn, helps keep the skin clear and problem-free.

• Looking to rid skin of post-shave bikini line bumps? A simple and effective cure is chamomile tea bags. First, cleanse the area with soap and water. Then lie down and place cool, damp tea bags over the irritated skin. Chamomile contains anti-inflammatory properties, so it is very calming on the skin.

• Choose the appropriate sun protection for your skin type. For those with sensitive skin, a good product to try is RoC® Minesol™ SPF 40 – with 100% mineral filters and a rub-proof, water-resistant formula, it’s proven to guard even the most sensitive skin against sun damage.

• Don’t forget to use sunscreen on hands. Hands are exposed to the sun year round, and are the first place on the body to show signs of aging. These signs are often visible in the form of dark spots and sagging skin.

• Walk barefoot. It’s a good form of massage, helping to strengthen foot muscles, energize aching and tired feet and acts as a natural pumice.

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

Stigma Still Getting In The Way Of Treatment – by: News Canada

(NC)-Mental illness is something that many people still talk about in hushed voices. Those afflicted are frequently embarrassed about their condition, worrying that they will be seen as ‘weak’ or that others will somehow think less of them. Unfortunately this stigma often stands in the way of open dialogue and understanding. As a result, many sufferers go untreated and/or are subjected to ridicule and discrimination.

Given that so many suffer from mental illness, it’s ironic that so few are willing to openly discuss it, and that many still considered the affliction to be ‘abnormal’. Here are some more mental health eye-openers:

• Major depression is now the world’s leading cause of disability

• The treatment success rate for schizophrenia is 60 percent, 65 percent for major depression, and 80 percent for bipolar disorder. This compares favorably to rates for heart disease of only 40 – 50 per cent

• Stigma and fear still prevent many from seeking out appropriate care.

• The media and popular culture continues to discriminate against people with mental illness by painting them as crazed and dangerous, or focusing on isolated violent incidents. The facts, however, prove otherwise. For example, those who suffer from schizophrenia are no more prone to violent behavior than any other member of the general population.

• Early intervention and identification of mental illness can help prevent decades of suffering for both patients and families.

For more facts about mental illness and how a book called “Catch a Falling Star: A Tale from the Iris the Dragon Series” is helping parents identify and understand early onset mental illness visit www.iristhedragon.com.

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

Make The Most Of Summer: Stay Healthy While Having Fun – by: News Canada

(NC)-Canadians are eager to make full use of summer’s long days, often at the expense of good health. To enjoy the season, it’s important to be prepared. Try to moderate activity on hot days and wear the proper gear to protect the body from sun damage and overheating.

During hot, humid summer months, even Canada’s top athletes will train in the cool early morning hours or after dark. Be smart when exercising or playing outdoors: don’t push it in hot, muggy weather. Harmful pollutants hang in the air on humid days, making it difficult to breathe. In these conditions, perspiration won’t evaporate efficiently, so the body can’t cool down. Opt for air-conditioned, indoor workouts whenever possible and remember to replenish fluids.

“Don’t underestimate the amount of fluids lost from perspiration on hot summer days,” says Sandra Edwards, Registered Dietitian & Sports Nutritionist. “Keep drinking to cool the body and prevent dehydration. You can supplement water with other beverages, like Brisk Lemonade, as long as they don’t contain alcohol or caffeine.” Take a rest when you need to refresh – a quick breather will help restore energy levels and keep the body cool.

If the mid-day heat is unavoidable, wear the right gear to stay cool. Protect the eyes from the potentially dangerous effects of sunlight by wearing sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection. Choose cotton clothing so the body can breathe and perspire freely, opting for light colors that reflect the sun’s hot rays. And, it’s crucial to keep the head covered on hot summer days. A vented or loose-weave hat will protect from the sun and allow air to circulate, reducing the risk of heat-related illness. And, always remember to wear sunscreen with at least SPF 15 to protect from harmful UVA and UVB rays.

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

Cuts, Scrapes And Cover-Ups – Canadians and Bandages – by: News Canada

(NC)-Canadians have a lot to learn when it comes to the proper treatment of minor wounds. A recent Ipsos Reid survey commissioned by BAND-AID® Brand dispels the myths held by millions of Canadians and sheds light on the proper procedures to follow when caring for minor cuts and scrapes.

The survey also highlights some other interesting facts, such as what are some of the strangest places people have applied bandages to on their bodies and which Canadian athlete could most use a lifetime supply of bandages? Here’s what Canadians have to say:

Toronto Maple Leaf tough guy Tie Domi was the overwhelming choice as the Canadian athlete who could most use a lifetime supply of bandages with almost one-third of the vote (32 per cent).

Domi was followed by ex-pat boxer and world Heavy Weight Champion Lennox Lewis

(17 per cent) and Doug Gilmour (16 per cent) of the Montreal Canadiens.

Hands are the most common place on the body for Canadians to get a cut or scrape (73 per cent).

Surprisingly, one per cent of Canadians surveyed revealed that they don’t get cuts or scrapes. Talk about having thick skin!

Some of the oddest parts of the body that Canadians have applied a bandage to include the rear end, the ear and the nose. Makes you wonder what these people were doing at the time!

In addition, the survey revealed that a staggering 88 per cent of Canadians incorrectly believe that a wound heals best when left uncovered to ‘breathe’ or air out and that 92 per cent mistakenly think scabs are a healthy part of the healing process.

Scabs actually impede the healing process by creating a barrier between healthy skin cells. The cells have to work their way under the scab in order to form new tissue and heal. Scabs can also be easily torn or scratched, causing re-injury.

The best way to protect a wound is to cover it with a bandage until fully healed. Bandages that absorb a wounds fluid and maintain a natural moisture balance are ideal for healing and enables skin cells to migrate together to form new tissue.

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

Say ‘Goodbye’ To Sagging Skin – by: News Canada

Dear Curious,

As the largest organ in the body – skin protects our bodies from the outside world during the day, and at night it repairs and renews itself. Nighttime is an opportunity to undo the day’s damage. During the night, skin experiences high levels of water loss. Night creams work to prevent this water loss and provide the skin’s surface with active ingredients that can be absorbed throughout the night. You could try, RoC® Protient™ Lift Night Firming Cream, which is specially designed to penetrate into the skin’s surface overnight to improve skin density and tighten the weave of the skin. In addition to moisturizing, this nightcream increases facial definition and contours and lifts sagging skin.

Dear Epi Dermis,

As I’m aging, the skin under my arms is becoming droopy. During the summer, I love to wear T-shirts, but am somewhat uncomfortable because of this loose skin. Is there anything I can do to stop this from happening?

- Drooping in Deerhurst

Dear Drooping,

While loose skin can be problematic for the whole body, key areas of concern tend to be the thighs, under the arms and bust areas. To firm under the arms, incorporate exercises that target the triceps into a daily routine. You can also try a firming cream that can assist your body in appearing toned and firm. A good product to try is RoC® Protient™ Lift Firming Body Lotion, a firming cream that enhances flexibility, improves feel and increases the surface tension of the skin.

This article was posted on July 15, 2002

About The Author News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web. News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial “fill” items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.