Allergy Awareness Week

26th-30th April 2022

Allergy Awareness Week takes place every year and is a way of raising awareness of allergies and the difficulties that those who suffer from them face in day to day life. In this issue, we’ve talked about Easter and the benefits of owning pets and both animals and food, particularly those eaten at Easter, make up some of the most common allergies, so here are a couple of ways you can learn more about allergies and how to make life easier for those who are suffering.

THE MOST COMMON SYMPTOMS OF AN ALLERGIC REACTION INCLUDE: Sneezing Coughing A runny or blocked nose A red, itchy rash Worsening of eczema or asthma symptoms Red, itchy and watery eyes

DID YOU KNOW:

• Allergies are thought to affect more than 1 in every 4 people in the UK.

• Allergies are more common in children.

• Allergies can be developed at any age, even in adulthood.

• Allergies range from food, pollen and even some medicines.

Though there might be more severe reactions including anaphylaxis – so allergies should always be taken seriously. Anaphylaxis is severe and potentially life threatening, so look out for the following symptoms:

• Feeling lightheaded or faint

• Difficulties breathing

• Wheezing

• Fast heartbeat

• Clammy skin

• Feelings of confusion

• Collapsing

• Losing consciousness

• Itchy hives

• Swelling

• Sickness

Here are the most common allergens that can cause reactions ranging from mild to full anaphylaxis:

FOOD Nuts, milk, fish, shellfish and some fruits are the ones known to cause the most reactions. You can combat this by making sure that you correctly label any cakes or treats that you make and by being aware of what ingredients you use when feeding friends or relatives. These days, with raised awareness, there are plenty of free from options at supermarkets and other stores, so make sure to stock up on dairy free or nut free items when hosting any parties just in case. You can also easily find gluten free options too.

MEDICINES The most common reactions come from asprin and antibiotics, so don’t administer medication to anyone without checking first.

INSECT STINGS Wasps and bees in particular, so make sure to be aware and prepared just in case.

Many mild symptoms can be made easier by using over the counter antihistamines, but you can help support those that have allergies by reducing the number of triggers in their vicinity, such as not having flowers in the house or keeping a nut free kitchen. If you have pets and your guests have allergies, make sure to clean the rooms that they will be in before they arrive and keep the pets away from them. You can also keep the windows open to stop dander and fur from settling.

Those who have severe allergies often carry an epi-pen around with them, so make sure you know where they keep it in case of emergencies. Don’t administer their pen unless you know how to do so correctly. Phone 999 immediately and if you can, remove any triggers that you can see, for instance, a stinger that might be stuck in their skin or any nuts that might be nearby.