As people around the globe mark World Allergy Day, UAE residents are being warned to make sure they recognise the symptoms of allergies and be aware of the potential consequences.

According to Dr Ali Akbar, head of dermatology department at Canadian Specialist Hospital, the most common allergies in the UAE are "perennial allergies that occur all year round due to dust mites, moulds and uticaria (hives) caused by hot weather and sweating".

Dr Akbar explained that allergies "affect people due to the immune system pathway that leads to inflammation when encountered (with) allergenic proteins in the environment."

He added that a number of telltale symptoms can indicate if somebody is suffering from an allergic reaction.

"The patient will have severe itching all over the body that comes and goes, nasal congestion with sneezing, nasal discharge, itching nose, ear or throat, and itchy watery red eyes," he said. "Sometimes a patient can get Urticaria, angiodema (swelling of the lower layer of skin or just under the tissue) and breathlessness when the allergy becomes very severe.

Dr Akbar added that "allergies can build up over time" in people who have the potential to become allergic to a substance. "The severe ones are characterised by more intense symptoms along with abnormal and difficult breathing, chest tightness, anxiety, swelling of the face, eyes or tongue, and racing heart. These symptoms can lead to loss of consciousness and are life threatening. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is better to consult your physician immediately."

Additionally, Dr Akbar said that a number of common sense steps can be taken to mitigate the effects of allergy among UAE residents. "The most important thing is to decrease exposure to environmental allergens by reducing the humidity in the house," he said "Always use air conditioner or air purifier and keep outdoor activities for the end of the day."

Other steps he recommended were to avoid carpets and pets, and to cover mattresses and pillows to avoid any contamination with moulds and dust mites. Proper vacuum cleaning of a host to avoid dust is also advisable, Dr Akbar added.

Source: Khaleej Times