Online Reporter
Dr Tendai Zuze
Health Matters
ALLERGIES are among the most common chronic health conditions locally, impacting both children and adults with varying degrees of severity.
For some, allergies mean seasonal discomfort, runny noses, itchy eyes, or a rash that fades in a day or two. For others, allergic reactions can disrupt daily life or, in extreme cases, pose serious health risks.
Despite how widespread they are, allergies are still misunderstood. Their causes are diverse, the symptoms are wide ranging, and the triggers can be found everywhere; from the food we eat and the pets we love, to the air we breathe at home or in public.
Allergic reactions occur when the body’s immune system mistakes a harmless substance (an allergen) for a threat and mounts a defensive response. These reactions fall into several categories:
1. Respiratory allergies: These affect the nose, sinuses, and lungs. The most common include Pollen allergies (hay fever) – seasonal reactions to grasses, trees, or weeds; Dust mite allergy – from microscopic bugs found in bedding and carpets; Animal dander – flakes of skin from pets like cats and dogs and Mould spores – especially in damp or poorly ventilated spaces.
Symptoms often include sneezing, congestion, wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
2. Food allergies: These are triggered by proteins in specific foods. Even small amounts can provoke a reaction. Common triggers are peanuts, shellfish, milk, eggs, soy and wheat.
Symptoms include hives, swelling, stomach cramps, vomiting, or anaphylaxis (a medical emergency).
3. Skin allergies: These involve inflammation or irritation after contact with an allergen:
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) gives itchy, dry patches of skin. Contact dermatitis – from things like nickel, latex, or certain soaps and Hives (urticaria) – raised, itchy welts on the skin
4. Insect and drug allergies: Insect stings from bees or wasps can cause local swelling or full-body anaphylaxis. Medications like antibiotics or some pain killers can cause rashes, breathing problems, or systemic reactions.
Allergens often hide in plain sight. In the home, dust mites, pet fur, mould, and certain cleaning agents are frequent culprits. Outside, pollen from flowers and trees, smog, and air pollution can all trigger symptoms. Even materials like latex (in gloves or balloons) or nickel (in jewellery) can cause reactions in sensitive individuals.
Poor ventilation, cluttered spaces, or lack of regular cleaning can increase exposure to indoor allergens. In humid climates, mould and mildew become persistent problems. Pets, while beloved, shed dander that clings to furniture, clothing, and carpets long after the animal has left the room.
One modern and often underestimated trigger is fragrance sensitivity. Many people are affected by perfumes, body sprays, air fresheners, and scented lotions. These products contain a mix of volatile chemicals that, when released into the air, can cause instant discomfort to those with allergies or asthma.
Public spaces like elevators, public transport, offices, and even clinics can become problematic when someone uses heavy perfume. For people with scent sensitivity, exposure can cause headaches, eye irritation, breathing difficulty, or an asthma attack.
Over spraying perfume is not just a matter of taste—it can be a health issue. While personal grooming is important, it is equally important to consider the shared spaces we all move through. Choosing lighter scents, applying less, or opting for unscented products when in crowded or enclosed spaces is a simple act of consideration. Living with allergies requires constant awareness. For those affected, it is about more than avoiding peanuts or taking antihistamines — it is about navigating a world full of potential triggers. But awareness is a two-way street. As more people understand what allergies are and how they manifest, there’s a growing need for public sensitivity.
Whether it is keeping our homes free of dust, cleaning air conditioners regularly,
limiting the use of strongly scented products, or respecting food safety protocols, we all play a role in creating safer environments.
For more on allergies, contact [email protected]
