World Allergy Week is a worldwide campaign by the World Allergy Organisation (WAO). This year it is being held from 5th to 11th June and the theme is the connection between asthma and allergic airway diseases and why it is important for both physicians and patients to understand the severity of them.
Reports of Indian Study on the Epidemiology of Asthma, Respiratory Symptoms and Chronic Bronchitis (INSEARCH) suggested that about 20-30% of the Indian population was diagnosed to be allergic, out of which 2-7% of people were patients with asthma, chronic bronchitis, and allergic rhinitis.
To safeguard from these, one needs to be aware of what causes these allergies and what precautions should be taken.
Causes of Airborne Allergies
These can be different for every individual, the allergen that triggers you might or might not trigger your friend depending on their immune system. Common sources of allergens include:
- Pollen- Present of plants and triggers allergic reactions like sneezing, runny nose, or wheezing.
- House dust mites or insects- The saliva, wings, dried faeces, and scales of insects like flies, cockroaches, caterpillars, etc. are few sources of allergens and can cause itchy skin, runny nose, or other asthma symptoms.
- Pet dander- Sometimes, pets can carry allergens from outside on their fur, triggering an individual when coming in contact with the pet. Even the Saliva, Urine and skin flakes of the pet can sometimes cause allergic symptoms.
- Fungal spores- These are easily found outdoors as these come from molds and only the people with the sensitive immune system are triggered after inhaling too much of it from the air. Itching of the mouth and lips, watery eyes, sneezing, and a running nose are some of the symptoms.
Precautions
- Maintain cleanliness- Sweep and mop the flooring of the house regularly. Vacuum clean the dust around the house often, while wearing a mask and get the carpets and mats wet or steam vacuum cleaned.
- Using air filter- Filters having high efficiency are good at trapping allergens from the air and can reduce the risk of being exposed to them.
- Wash clothes and bedding- Dust mites and dirt are easily killed when washed using hot water. Washing them once a week can go a long way in reducing allergens from them.
- Keeping doors and windows closed- When the pollen count is higher in the air, people with sensitive immune systems are at high risk of being exposed to them, even stepping outside less can be helpful if possible.
- Keeping pets clean- Giving weekly baths to pet animals and sponging them regularly will help in getting rid of the allergens that they might be carrying on their fur.
In case of experiencing any of the symptoms, it is best advised to see a doctor and get the diagnosis done properly to avoid further exposure to the triggering allergen.