Dubai: Allergies usually occur when your immune system reacts to a foreign substance — such as pollen or pet dander — or to a food that could cause a reaction. Seasonal allergies are a problem for millions worldwide and the UAE is no exception. The weather changes that occur cause allergens to spread and affect everyone. Grass, trees, pollen and dust are some common triggers causing allergies among children and adults alike. While your immune system produces antibodies used to neutralise pathogens such as viruses and bacteria, it helps to identify allergens. However, when you come in contact with the allergen, your immune system’s reaction can inflame your skin, face, sinuses, airways and even your digestive system. The severity of allergies varies from person to person and can range from minor irritation to anaphylaxis — a potentially life-threatening emergency. While most allergies can’t be cured, treatments can help relieve allergy symptoms.
Here are a few necessary tips to control your allergies and enjoy the spring season:
1. Schedule showers at night or after returning home: Showering at night can make for a much more pleasant night of sleep for those with outdoor allergies. This helps wash off pollen from skin and hair after returning home.
2. Keep distance from local gardens and parks: Although flowers and pollen are not as common in the UAE, during the spring time more trees blossom and release pollen into the air. So avoid such areas during spring.
3. Keep indoor air clean: Although fresh air feels great, it carries in the pollen you are trying to avoid. Keep house and car windows closed and use air conditioning in the car and at home to filter allergens out of the air. Change air conditioner and heater filters regularly. Frequent vacuuming and using a portable high-efficiency particulate air filter in your bedroom also helps.
4. Dress appropriately outdoors: Wearing a wide-brim hat and sunglasses can keep pollen out of the eyes. Some may need to wear a mask if being outside is unavoidable. Staying warm benefits the immune system. Remember to wash hands and avoid contact with sniffling and coughing people.
5. Consume super foods: Making simple changes to your diet helps relieve and ward off allergies. Green tea is good for people with allergies. Up the Omega3 in your diet, reduce salt intake and consume more fluids.
- The author is a general practitioner at iCARE Multi-Speciality Clinics
