[Studies suggest that cell phone use triggers increased sensitivity to allergens potentially making typical allergic reactions such as watery eyes or a runny nose worse.]

Lyndhurst, NJ -- Seasonal allergies bloom together with plants and flowers, but some everyday devices like cell phones and iPods that have become synonymous with modern living may also be the cause of allergic outbreaks. While pollen, mold, animal dander and dust remain the world's most common allergens, Vitals.com, the leading doctor evaluation site listing more than 720,000 active doctors, is looking beyond the season's usual allergy triggers and bringing awareness to a new allergy phenomenon brought on by the prevalent use of modern technology.

ADVERTISEMENT "In addition to the typical pollen-producing allergies that are rampant during the months of spring, technophiles should take caution that some of their favorite gadgets may be the culprit of certain allergy symptoms," said Dr. Todd Rosengart, Chief Cardiothoracic Surgery at Stony Brook University Medical Hospital and Chief Medical Advisor of MDX Medical, which created Vitals.

The increased use of cell phones and other wireless technologies have brought on hotly contested debates with claims that exposure to radiation and microwaves generated by excessive use have negatively impacted those with electromagnetic sensitivity, causing skin rashes, fatigue and headaches. For those already suffering from common allergies, studies also suggest that cell phone use is a trigger, increasing sensitivity to allergens and potentially making typical allergic reactions such as watery eyes or a runny nose worse.

Cell phones also affect users with skin allergies who may be sensitive to various metals and materials used in manufacturing. When nickel, one of the leading reactors of skin allergies, is used in the production of cell phone casings and batteries, cell phone users become susceptible to allergic contact dermatitis, an allergy that causes rashes and skin outbreaks. Like cell phones, the anodizing chemicals or the metals in some iPods can also cause music lovers to develop skin rashes and bumps after extended exposure to their portable music players.

According to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology, allergies affect more than 50 million people in the U.S. with more than half the population testing positive to one or more allergens. "Whether it's seasonal, food or even technology-related, allergy sufferers can easily combat uncomfortable symptoms and find relief through medication and simple lifestyle changes recommended by a qualified doctor," said Rosengart.

As May brings allergy awareness to the forefront with Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, Vitals is the easiest way for consumers to access information on top specialists in their area free of charge, in order to quickly get checked out and seek the medical attention they need. Vitals features all of the critical information necessary for consumers to find the right doctor for them, including empirical information, peer review recommendations and patient feedback, compiled into one central, all-inclusive database. Consumers can also use Vitals to check up on their current doctors, including allergists, immunologists and internists. Please visit www.vitals.com/focus/allergy for the fastest way to nearly 7,500 allergists.

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