Mountainside Medical Blog » allergy tips

Name: Mountainside Medical Equipment
Address: 9262 Old River Road, Marcy, New York, 13403-3410, United States
Telephone: 888-687-4334
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Back to School Must Haves!

Posted on August 14 2019

It's that time of year again! Sadly, summer vacation is coming to an end, which can only mean one thing: back to school shopping is in full force. Parents can be found hovering over the bins in Wal-Mart holding their children's school supply list, trying to understand the differences between a 3-pronged poly folder and a 3-pronged plastic folder. They scan through the enormously long list of seemingly endless supplies, and are left feeling exhausted, but prepared.

It seems as if every item you could possibly think of would be on a child's supply list - pencils, paper, notebooks, binders, folders, glue sticks, and so on. But, what about the less common items, the items that are easy to forget and overlooked? Here at Mountainside Medical, we want your children to be fully prepared in every way possible, and have compiled this list of some last minute supplies to ensure a great start to the new school year!

1. Hand Sanitizer

The amount of germs that spread through schools, daycare facilities, and work places is outstanding. Protect your child from any nasty germs that might be brought home and supply them with a small, pocket sized hand sanitizer such as, GermX or Purell. Over 99% effective at killing germs instantly, you will want to be sure that your child uses a hand sanitizer throughout the day! And, don't worry about size - there are many hand sanitizers out there that are specifically made to clip on to backpacks, or store inside their desks.

2. Hand Sanitizing Wipes

Do you want to still protect your child from viruses such as pink eye, influenza, strep throat, etc., but don't want to worry about having a hand sanitizer leak all over their brand new backpack or new pair of jeans? We have the perfect solution for that. Hand sanitizing wipes, such as Wet Ones, Lysol, or Clorox, are all antibacterial hand wipes that are quick, convenient, and easy to use without making a mess. These wipes have been clinically proven to be as effective as gel sanitizers and alcohol based cleaners, without the sticky residue. The kill 99.99% of germs fast, also come in pocket sized packets, and are a great substitute when soap and water aren't available!

3. Surface Disinfectant

Yes, we are still talking about those germs! Just as it's extremely important to keep your hands clean, it's also equally important to keep your surface area clean. We know that desks can be quickly become messy with papers, ink marks from pens, pencil shavings, food stains, and more. In this case, that's where surface disinfectants come into play! We offer various brands of disinfectant sprays and wipes that are safe, resealable, and disposable!

4. Tissues

More than likely, this item is probably on your supply list, but just in case, be sure to have some tissues on hand! Four packs usually are on the list, and for good reason. With germs, spills, miscellaneous clean-ups, it's no wonder why tissues are at the top of every elementary school list! Keep your child prepped for any and all ah-choo moments!

5. A Small First Aid Kit

Yes, there is the school nurse and I'm sure the teacher is fully prepared, but it still doesn't hurt to have your child carry a small, travel size first aid kit. Stocked with Band-Aids, cleansing wipes, gauze, and more, our 12 essential item kit from Johnson & Johnson is a convenient and portable mini first aid kit filled with the necessary items for minor medical needs. This kit is a durable plastic case, and can easily fit into pockets, backpacks, gym bags, purses, and more. Life leaves unexpected scars. Be prepared for quick and easy treatment of minor cuts and scrapes!

6. Sports Ankle Wrap

If your child or teen plays sports, you may want to include an ankle wrap along with the rest of their sports gear. Our Donjoy Sports Ankle Wrap is uniquely designed to support the ankle to prevent injuries. This ankle wrap features an easy to use, wrap around design, with opposing attachment points. That makes it easier to allow your child or teen to make individual adjustments as needed. Our sports ankle wrap features customized and excellent support and compression, comes in left or right styles, and one size fits most. Ensure their safety while at practices or games!

7. Allergy/Asthma Medication

This may not be needed on everyone's list, but for those parents who have children suffering from seasonal allergies or asthma, don't forget to pack their necessary medication with them! Classrooms and playgrounds can sometimes be easy triggers for allergy flare ups and asthma attacks.

8. Breath Mints

These would be more applicable to middle school or high school students, but little pocket packs of breath mints or strips are always good for that after lunch, fresh breath feeling! Have a presentation coming up? No worries. There are a variety of options of cool breath mints that not only freshen your breath, but the peppermint helps calms nerves!

9. Deodorant

Gym class in the morning can be a little bit of a drag, especially during fitness week! Be sure to wipe away the sweat and pack a pocket sized deodorant in that backpack!

In addition to all of the various, usual school supplies, these items can be beneficial to your child too, no matter how old they are. Keeping your child healthy with proper hygiene is key to a successful school year!

All of these products are available for purchase through our website -https://www.mountainside-medical.com/ or feel free to call 1-888-687-4334 to speak with one of our friendly Customer Service Representatives! Don't forget to subscribe to our email newsletters for the latest coupons and savings!
Psoriasis Action Month

Posted on August 06 2019

With August in our grasp, it is time to bring to light about a very uncomfortable disease that affects millions of people every day. Psoriasis. August is National Psoriasis Awareness Month, and we will be taking a closer look at this disease - what it is and how it can be treated.

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease that causes raised, red, and scaly patches to appear on the skin. Psoriasis typically affects areas such as, the outside of the elbows, knees, or scalp, but can appear on any location. Many have reported that Psoriasis brings uncomfortable itching, and a burning or stinging sensation.

Psoriasis can be associated with other serious health conditions, such as heart disease, depression, and diabetes.

Causes of Psoriasis

While doctors and scientists are still investigating the exact cause of Psoriasis, they do know that the immune system and genetics play major roles in its development. In fact, scientists are still examining types of DNA samples in large families who have Psoriasis. Usually, there needs to be a "trigger" for psoriasis to flare up. The skin cells in people who have Psoriasis grow at an abnormally fast rate, which leads to the buildup of psoriasis lesions.

Psoriasis triggers are not universal. What may cause one person's psoriasis to become active, may not affect another. Examples of Psoriasis triggers include:

- Stress

- Skin Injuries

- Certain Medications

- Infections (or anything that affects the Immune System)

- Allergies

- Diet

- Weather

Psoriasis does not discriminate between gender or race, and often develops between the ages of 15 to 35. Psoriasis can develop at any age, and approximately 10 to 15 percent of those with Psoriasis develop it before the age of 10. Though rare, infants have also been known to develop Psoriasis.

It is important to remember that Psoriasis is not contagious. It is not something that can be passed on from person to person, and Psoriasis lesions are not infectious.

How is Psoriasis Diagnosed?

Similar to other skin rashes, such as Eczema, there are no special blood tests or tools to diagnose Psoriasis. A Dermatologist - or a Family Care Physician - will examine the skin to determine if it is Psoriasis. They may also take a biopsy of the affected skin and examine it underneath a microscope. When biopsied, Psoriasis skin looks thicker and more inflamed compared to skin that is affected by Eczema.

Types of Psoriasis

There are five different types of Psoriasis: Plaque Psoriasis, Guttate, Inverse, Pustular, and Erythrodermic.

Plaque Psoriasis: The most common form of the disease and often appears as red, raised patches of skin that are covered with a silvery, white buildup of dead skin cells. These patches, or plaques, most often are present of the scalp, knees, elbows, and lower back. They are often itchy, painful, and are prone to cracking and bleeding.

Guttate: A form of Psoriasis that appears as small, dot-like lesions. Guttate Psoriasis often starts in childhood, adolescence, or young adulthood, and can be triggered by a Strep infection. Approximately 10 percent of people who develop Psoriasis will develop this type, leaving it as the second most common form.

Inverse: Inverse Psoriasis appears as very red lesions in body folds, such as behind the knee, under the arm, or in the groin. It may appear smooth and shiny as well. Usually, people also have another type of Psoriasis on their body at the same time as Inverse.

Pustular: Is characterized by white pustules - noninfectious blisters - surrounded by red skin. The pus that is in the blisters is noninfectious, and consists of white blood cells. This type is not an infection and it is not contagious. Pustular Psoriasis can occur on any part of the body, but most often occurs on the hands or feet.

Erythrodermic: Is a particularly rare, but severe form of Psoriasis that can lead to widespread, fiery redness over most of the body. It can cause severe itching and pain, and can make the skin come off in layers. This type only occurs in 3% of people who have Psoriasis during their lifetime. It generally appears on people who have unstable plaque psoriasis. Note: Those who have an Erythrodermic Psoriasis flare should seek medical attention immediately, as this form of Psoriasis can be life-threatening.

Where Does Psoriasis Appear? What is its Severity?

Psoriasis can appear anywhere on the body, including: the eyelids, ears, mouth, lips, skin folds, hands, feet, and nails. The skin at each of these sites is different, and requires different treatments.

Most commonly, Psoriasis can appear on the following:

- Scalp: can be very mild, with slight, fine scaling. It can also be very severe with thick, crusted plaques covering the entire scalp. Psoriasis can extend beyond the hairline onto the forehead, the back of the neck, and around the ears.

- Face: most often affects the eyebrows, skin between the nose and upper lip, the upper forehead, and the hairline. Psoriasis on and around the face should be treated carefully because of the sensitivity of the skin.

- Hands, Feet, & Nails: Treat sudden flares of Psoriasis on the hands and feet promptly and carefully, as cracking, blisters, and swelling often accompany flares. Nail changes occur in up to 50% of people with Psoriasis, and at least 80% of people with Psoriatic Arthritis.

- Skin Folds: Inverse Psoriasis can occur in skin folds, such as underneath the arms, and underneath breasts. This form is frequently irritated by rubbing and sweating.

In all of these cases, Psoriasis can be mild, moderate or severe. The treatment options will depend on how severe the Psoriasis is. Severity is based on how much of the body is affected by the disease. The entire hand - including the palm, fingers and thumb - is equal to one percent of the body surface area.

However, the severity of Psoriasis is also measured by how Psoriasis affects a person's quality of life. For example, Psoriasis can have a serious impact on one's daily activities - especially if the Psoriasis is on the palms of the hands, or soles of the feet.

Determining the severity of Psoriasis is quite simple. Mild Psoriasis covers less than 3 percent of the body. Moderate Psoriasis covers between 3 and 10 percent of the body. Severe Psoriasis covers more than 10 percent of the body.

Treating Psoriasis

Treating Psoriasis is critical to maintaining one's overall health. The best way is to work with a doctor to find a treatment - or treatments - that reduce of eliminate your symptoms. There are many different treatment options, and what may work for one person with Psoriasis, may not work for another. It is always crucial to consult with a doctor before stopping or starting any treatment.

Some treatment options include:

- Biologics: Biologics are usually prescribed for moderate to severe Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis that has not responded to other treatments. They are given by injection, or through IV infusion.

- Systemics: Systemic medications are prescription drugs that are taken orally or by injection, and work throughout the body. They are used for individuals who have moderate to severe Psoriasis.

- Phototherapy: Or light therapy, involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light on a regular basis, and under medical supervision. Treatments are done in a doctor's office or Psoriasis clinic, or at home with a phototherapy unit.

- Oral Treatments: New oral treatments improve symptoms of Psoriatic disease by inhibiting specific molecules associated with inflammation. Unlike biologics - which come from living sources and must be administered by injection or infusion - these treatments can be effectively delivered as tablets, taken by mouth.

- Topical Treatments: Such as moisturizers, over the counter prescriptions, lotions, prescription creams, and shampoos typically are used for mild Psoriasis.

Ultimately, it is up to you and your physician to discuss the best and most effective treatments for your Psoriasis. Psoriatic disease is real and nothing to hide from. With the right treatment plan, you can be on your way to healing and resume your lifestyle.

Here at Mountainside Medical, we offer a wide variety of creams, lotions, and other treatment supplies for Psoriasis. Please visit our website at www.mountainside-medical.com or call 1-888-687-4334 to speak with one of our knowledgeable and friendly specialists for more information.

Psoriasis Awareness Month from Mountainside Medical Equipment on Vimeo.
Monday Must-Haves: Summer Allergies

Posted on August 05 2019

It's easy to ignore sickness in the summer -- after all, warm weather, open spaces, and fresh air do a lot to keep you active and safe from germs. But allergies are around all year, and summer can sometimes be just as bad as spring or fall for those who suffer from allergies. 50 million Americans have seasonal allergies, so don't ignore yours during the summer! Read on for some of our most effective allergy relief products.

1. Loratadine 24-Hour Allergy Relief Tablets

The biggest source of allergic reactions in the summer is pollen, much like in spring. Ragweed and other grasses and plants are still releasing tons of pollen in summer. When we breathe it in, our immune system sees pollen as dangerous and releases antibodies called histamines to attack. Allergic symptoms are largely our bodies' way of jettisoning foreign particles. But when those particles are unavoidable, like pollen, you'll want an antihistamine to shut down the reaction itself. Loratdaine Allergy Tablets give you 24 hours of relief from sneezing, coughing, runny noses, and watery eyes, without putting you to sleep like other antihistamines. When you want to enjoy the springtime and breathe easier, choose Loratadine 24-Hour Allergy Relief.

2. Triamcinolone Acetonide Nasal Spray

We know that one's hard to remember, but it's the generic formulation of the drug popularly known as Nasacort. It's a corticosteroid typically used to treat the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, allergy symptoms that cause sneezing, congestion, sinus pressure, and itchy or runny nose. Taken in the form of a nasal spray, daily use will reduce inflammation in the nostrils. Allergies can occur year-round, and during summer they can be particularly hard to escape. When you need a respite from disruptive sneezing and painful sinus pressure, Perrigo's nasal spray will give you 24-hour relief.

3. Bausch & Lomb Advanced Eye Relief for Allergies

The sneezing and coughing are frustrating during an allergy season, but the irritated, watery, itchy eyes might be the most uncomfortable symptom of all. Whether you're trying to read, check your email, drive, or watch TV, hay fever's effect on your eyes never fails to make things more aggravating and less convenient. Bausch & Lomb Advanced Eye Relief provides long-lasting comfort to irritated eyes. These drops alleviate redness, discomfort, and that burning sensation while also lubricating your eyes, preventing them from drying out or becoming irritated again. When your eyes need maximum relief from seasonal allergies, choose Bausch & Lomb Advanced Eye Relief.

4. Anti-Itch Diphenhydramine Itch Relief Cream

Allergies don't just mean sneezing or coughing from pollen in the air. The "poison" plants (poison ivy, oak, and sumac) secrete an oil called urushiol that causes allergic contact dermatitis. Exposure to these plants can cause painful, itchy rashes, and when that happens, you'll want fast relief. Within an hour, Taro's Diphenhydramine Itch Relief Cream blocks the histamines that cause an itchy, allergic reaction. It contains zinc for a protective barrier for healing skin and it also relieves itching from burns, cuts, and other sources. Available in a convenient, portable, 1 oz. tube, this is the perfect option for hikers, campers, and anyone spending time outdoors this summer!

5. Perrigo Hydrocortisone Lotion

Poison plants aren't the only danger to your skin in the summer -- anyone who's spent time outside knows how irritating insect bites can be. Perrigo's Hydrocortisone Lotion 2.5% is an anti-inflammatory lotion that is used to treat inflammation of the skin from allergic reactions, eczema, or psoriasis. Hydrocortisone lotion relieves itching and irritation almost immediately and moisturizes your skin when it's applied, making it ideal for anyone suffering from inflammation due to insect bites or poison plants!

6. Safetec Insect Repellent

You can't always avoid allergens like ragweed and you might not spot poison ivy in time, but you can deter insects before they bite. Safetec Insect Repellant is a non-toxic, chemical free, pesticide free repellent that uses natural citronella and soybean oil to drive off insects. It contains no DEET, and is perfect for adults or children with sensitive skin. Available in a convenient, portable, 2 oz. bottle, this is the perfect option for hikers, campers, and anyone spending time outdoors this summer!
Friday Favorites: Top Pharamaceutical Products

Posted on July 26 2019

Welcome to another edition of Friday Favorites! Today we're looking at some of our most effective and popular pharmaceutical products, with everything ranging from IV supplies to summer necessities!

1. IV Fluid Solution Bags for IV Therapy:

SALE! For a limited time, our IV Therapy solution bags are on sale! Available in many different sizes, including 250, 500, and 1,000 mL, we have Sodium Chloride 0.9%, Dextrose 5%, Lactated Ringer's solution, and Sterile Water in stock. These sterile, non-pyrogenic bags are easy flowing, perfect for intravenous therapy. We've got incredible prices on all of them, so stock up while supplies last!

2. Sterile Bacteriostatic Water - 30mL (2 pack)

Bacteriostatic Water is a multi-use sterile water that is used for mixing or diluting solutions before injection. Bacteriostatic Water contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol as a bacteriostatic preservative. Once opened, you have 28 days to use it before discarding. Sanitize the top rubber stopped with an alcohol prep pad as an extra precaution to remove any extra debris. This bacteriostatic sterile water has also been used to mix solutions.

3. Triamcinolone Acetonide Nasal Spray

This is the generic formulation of the drug popularly known as Nasacort. It's a corticosteroid typically used to treat the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, allergy symptoms that cause sneezing, congestion, sinus pressure, and itchy or runny nose. Taken in the form of a nasal spray, daily use will reduce inflammation in the nostrils. Allergies can occur year-round, and during summer outdoor allergies like ragweed may be more prevalent in your life than usual. When you need a respite from disruptive sneezing and painful sinus pressure, Perrigo's nasal spray will give you 24-hour relief.

4. Bausch & Lomb Advanced Eye Relief for Allergies

Hay fever's effect on your eyes never fails to aggravate, as we discussed recently in our blog post on allergy eye relief. Bausch & Lomb Advanced Eye Relief provides long-lasting comfort to irritated eyes. These drops alleviate redness, discomfort, and that burning sensation while also lubricating your eyes, preventing them from drying out or becoming irritated again. When your eyes need maximum relief from seasonal allergies, choose Bausch & Lomb Advanced Eye Relief.

5. Extra Strength Anti-Itch Cream 2%

Allergens in the air aren't the only annoyances of the summer, as you may have read in our recent article on poison ivy and other toxic plants. Diphenhydramine 2% is a topical analgesic cream that relieves itching related to burns, irritation, and allergic reactions to plants. This Anti-Itch Cream blocks the histamines that cause allergic response, providing relief from frustrating itching within an hour! With its fast action and convenient, portable tube, it's ideal for hikers, campers, or anyone spending their summer days outdoors.
Summer Allergies: Relief from Itchy Eyes

Posted on July 23 2019

If you're one of the 50 million Americans with seasonal allergies, you're familiar with itchy, red, and watery eyes. Allergic conjunctivitis is a common condition that occurs when your eyes react to something that irritates them. They release a protective substance called a histamine which causes swelling and that irritated, burning sensation. Allergies aren't confined to spring or fall, either! Ragweed begins blooming in August, rainy springs cause mold to grow through the summer, and pollen is still ever-present. Taking care of your eyes during the summer is just as important as in other seasons.

The Symptoms and Causes of Eye Allergies

The symptoms of eye allergies are visible and obvious:
- Red or swollen eyes.
- Tearing eyes.
- Burning or irritated sensation in eyes.
- Sensitivity to light.
Allergens in the air are largely responsible for eye allergies, but other allergens may play a part. These may include:
- Pollen: comes from grass, trees, ragweed.
- Dust.
- Mold.
- Pet dander.
- Smoke.
- Perfumes or cosmetics.
- Certain medications.
- Preservative chemicals in some prescribed or lubricating eye drops.
- Insect bites or stings.
- Certain foods.
Treating Eye Allergies

Avoid Allergens

This seems obvious, right? But avoiding airborne allergens can be difficult, especially during seasons where pollen counts are high. Here are some tips:
- For pollen: Stay indoors as much as possible during high pollen count seasons, especially mid-morning and early evening, as well as on windy days. Use furnace filters. Keep windows closed and use well-cleaned air conditioners to keep cool, rather than fans.
- For mold: Humidity causes molds to grow! Keep the humidity in your home between 30 and 50 percent. Use a dehumidifier if you have to. Regularly clean high-humidity areas like basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.
- For dust mites: Clean your house often and with damp mops and rags that trap dust, rather than dry mops or brooms. Use allergen-reducing bedding and pillow covers, and wash bedding frequently.
- For pet dander: Clean your house often and well, and consider tile or hardwood floors rather than carpet. Wash your hands after touching a pet, and wash clothing that has been in contact with a pet. Avoid letting pets sleep in your bedroom. If the climate and area allows for it, let your pet have plenty of time to run around outside.
Eyewear

Eyewear: Sunglasses and eyeglasses, especially wraparound ones, can help protect your eyes from allergens. Eyeglasses with photochromic lenses can reduce the effect of light on eyes that are sensitive to it.

Contacts: Use daily disposable contacts or consider wearing eyeglasses during allergy seasons. Contacts can attract and accumulate allergens. If you have a regular pair of contacts, clean them often with a preservative-free solution.

Eyedrops and Medication

Lubricating Eyedrops: These drops, available without a prescription, can wash allergens from your eyes as well as moisturize them, relieving itchiness and redness. Preservative-free drops are available for sensitive eyes.

Decongestants: These help shrink swollen nasal passages, and also shrink blood vessels on the white (schlera) of the eye, which reduces red eyes. Decongestant eye drops are available.

Antihistamines: The body's allergic response causes the release of histamines, which dilate blood vessels. They're responsible for your itchy, watery eyes. Antihistamines block histamines from attaching to cells. Antihistamine eye drops are available.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): You probably use these for headaches and body pain, but NSAIDs reduce inflammation and are useful for relieving swollen eyes.

Corticosteroids: Steroid eye drops or other forms of corticosteroids are sometimes prescribed for chronic and severe eye allergy symptoms.

Be sure to consult your doctor or other qualified health care professional before taking any medication, supplement, or beginning any health regimen.