Understanding your allergies
published:
Monday | April 7, 2008
Keisha Shakespeare-Blackmore, Staff Reporter
Many Jamaicans are often plagued by the dreadful discomfort of allergies and sinusitis. Dr Hugh Ashman, consultant ear, nose and throat specialist at the University Hospital of the West Indies, gave an insightful presentation on respiratory allergies and sinus problems at the Forever Young Expo held at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel on Sunday, March 30.
He said that an allergy is an abnormal and excessive immune reaction to a relatively harmless substance. He pointed out that allergies can be hereditary and there is a 50 per cent chance of someone getting the disorder if one parent has it and 75 per cent chance if both parents have it. Plus, you can get it through breastfeeding and exposure to pollutants.
There are two types of allergies, seasonal and perennial. When you have a seasonal allergy, you may be allergic to pollen from trees, grass and weeds. Perennial allergy means that house dust, mites, mould and pets may affect you.
Common allergic reactions include eczema, hives, hay fever, asthma, food allergies and reactions to the venom of stinging insects, such as wasps and bees.
Allergic Rhinitis
One of the most common allergic reactions is allergic rhinitis (hay fever). It is caused by pollen of specific seasonal plants, airborne chemicals and dust particles that are inhaled. It is characterised by sneezing, runny nose and itching eyes. Dr Ashman said that it is an important respiratory disease because of the impact it has on work productivity and school performance. It can also be an economic burden especially when it is linked with asthma.
Symptoms of the disorder include clear nasal discharge, nasal obstruction, sneezing, itchy nose, eyes, mouth, throat, skin and reduction in the sense of smell. Common signs are dark circles around the eyes and a horizontal crease across the nose.
Treatment
Dr Ashman stated that allergic rhinitis might be treated through avoidance (avoid what causes your symptoms), medications, hypo sensitisation and surgery. Preventative methods include:
Reduction of mites: Bed linen and blankets should be washed regularly (once a week) in hot water to ensure the destruction of the mites. Do not dry clothes outdoors.
Pollen: Keeping the windows and doors of the house and car closed, air conditioning on recirculating mode. Also, taking a shower after outdoor exposure can help remove pollens from hair and skin.
Remain indoors in the morning and evening when outdoor pollen levels are highest.
Avoid unnecessary exposure to other environmental irritants such as insect sprays, tobacco smoke, air pollution and fresh tar or paint.
Avoid mowing the grass or doing other yard work, if possible. Avoid fields and large areas of grassland.
Wash hands and face regularly to remove pollen from areas where it is likely to enter the nose.
A small amount of petroleum jelly around the eyes and nostrils will stop some pollen from entering the areas that cause a reaction.
Avoid cycling or walking; instead, use a method of confined transportation, such as a car.
