Common Allergies in the Philippines: Top Triggers
Millions of people worldwide experience allergies which is the body’s reaction to a foreign protein, otherwise known as allergens. In a tropical environment like the Philippines, people are prone to allergens such as pet hair, pollen, mold, dust mites, and insect stings. Certain foods, such as peanuts, eggs, and milk can also trigger allergy attacks. These allergens can cause uncomfortable and in some cases severe allergic reactions, signaling the body to release histamine to fight off the irritants.
Histamine
According to the Cleveland Clinic, histamine is a chemical released by your immune system to defend the body against allergens, creating a chain reaction that results in allergy symptoms. These symptoms often focus on a particular area of your body, such as the eyes, nose, throat, skin, gastrointestinal tract, or lungs. However, if the immune reaction is severe, it can result in anaphylaxis (life-threatening allergic reaction), affecting most of your body.
Common Allergies
Pollen Allergy
Pollen is a microscopic airborne allergen from flowers, plants, trees, grasses, and weeds. The Philippines is home to a wide variety of pollen-producing plants, making allergic rhinitis (hay fever) a common health concern among Filipinos. A study showed that pollen concentration in Manila is high during the summer months (March to May). Pollen allergy causes itchy or red eyes, runny or blocked nose, and sneezing.
Dust Allergy
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology (ACAAI), dust mites are microscopic organisms that thrive in many homes, triggering allergies. These indoor allergens flourish in warm, humid places, making them a year-round concern in the Philippines. They are often present in pillows, mattresses, upholstered furniture, and carpets. Dust mites can trigger sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy, watery, or teary eyes, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and skin itching.
Pet Allergy
Many Filipinos love pets, such as cats and dogs, but these beloved furry companions often trigger allergies. Exposure to pet dander, saliva, or urine may cause sneezing, nasal congestion, coughing, skin rashes, and itchy and watery eyes.
Mold Allergy
- Various molds are prevalent both indoors and outdoors, causing coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.
Insect Sting Allergy
The lush vegetation and high humidity levels in the Philippines create favorable conditions for many types of insects. This makes insect sting allergy a significant concern for many Filipinos.
For most people, getting stung by insects such as wasps, bees, hornets, or ants causes temporary discomfort and pain including localized redness, itching, and swelling. However, for individuals with insect sting allergies, severe symptoms such as hives, difficulty breathing, or even anaphylaxis can be life-threatening. Individuals who are aware of their allergies are highly advised to always carry an EpiPen and get immediate medical assistance if stung.
Food Allergy
According to Mayo Clinic, food allergy can trigger symptoms such as hives, digestive problems, nasal congestion, trouble breathing, dizziness, and swollen airways. In some people, eating a certain food can result in severe symptoms or even anaphylaxis.
If you suspect that you have a food allergy, it’s best to see a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. Seek emergency treatment if you develop severe symptoms or anaphylaxis.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are medications that work by blocking histamine and relieving allergy symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, and other allergy-related discomforts. They can also treat some digestive conditions. Antihistamines are often the first-line treatments that ease symptoms of different types of allergies, including pollen, dust, pet, mold, insect sting, and food allergies. Most antihistamines are available over-the-counter (OTC), but they also come in prescription form.
Key Takeaway
Given the prevalence of allergies in the Philippines, understanding the various types of allergies, symptoms, and available treatment options is essential to effectively manage these conditions. Antihistamines offer effective relief from symptoms like sneezing, itching, and runny nose. If you’re not sure what is triggering your allergies, consulting a doctor can help you get optimal allergy control.