Allergies may ruin your days and special plans, and if you’re looking to relieve or prevent allergy symptoms, here are some actions you can take right now, as well as some more permanent changes you can make.

Daily Care

1. Control allergen exposure around your home

Allergens like pollen and dust mites are often found surrounding our home, you may consider using an air filter and vacuum regularly to minimize our exposure to the allergen. Use an air filter and change your filters regularly to remove particulate matter from the air, like pieces of pollen and dust mites.

2. Keep yourself refreshed, avoid direct contact to allergens

Keep in mind that when you come into contact with allergens, they can attach to your clothes, skin and hair. You are recommended to take a shower and change to clothes often to avoid allergens stay. And of course minimize your chance of direct contact to allergens.

3. Switch to unscented products

Certain scented products like scented shower gel, shampoo or perfume may induce allergy symptoms. Once you find the culprit, discontinue use and make a concerted effort to use unscented personal hygiene products.

4. Wear a mask

You may experience allergy symptoms due to chemical sensitivity. Wear a mask before using cleaning products or paint during cleaning or doing yard works to reduce allergen exposure.

5. Consider laundry changes

Wash your bedding, stuffed toys and clothes often with fragrance-free & dye-free liquid detergent

6. Consider diet changes

Adding certain foods to your diet may help in relieving symptoms like nose-dripping and eye-watering.

Foods like turmeric, oily fish such as salmon that contained omega-3 fatty acids, and onion which contained quercetin are the list that you could consider adding to your grocery cart for your daily diet intake.

7. Choose your allergic relief supplement wisely

Read and study the ingredients wisely before you intake any supplements that claimed to relieve allergic symptoms. You may refer to scientifically proven ingredients like Quercetin, Bromelian, Perilla Seed Extract, Vitamin C and Vitamin E.

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One of the most common and effective ways to lessen the severity of allergic symptoms is to reach for over-the-counter allergy relief drugs. These drugs block the chemical histamine which the immune system produces when a person is exposed to an allergen. However, these drugs only provide temporary relief and have negative side effects such as headache, fatigue, drowsiness and nausea.

As a result, many allergy-sufferers are searching for more natural ways that are healthier, longer-lasting and without side effects to treat their symptoms. Fortunately, there are certain natural ingredients could provide an alternative way to relief allergy symptoms and reduce recurrent allergic reaction.

Below are some amazing natural ingredients that can be used to provide relief for allergy symptoms.

• Perilla Seed

Perilla frutescens, commonly called Perilla, is a green or purple annual herb, with a distinctive aroma and taste. Perilla seeds from perilla are traditionally used as spices and to make medicine. It has been traditionally used to promote healthy respiratory and immune function. The seeds are rich in flavonoid aglycones include polyphenols such as luteolin, quercetin,  apigenin, chrysoeriol, and rosemarinic acid that possess anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine properties.

Study has shown perilla seed to be useful to battle against nasal congestion, sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, and allergic-related skin conditions like eczema and urticaria. Perilla seed polyphenols regulate allergic and inflammatory response due to its 5-lipoxygenase (promote inflammation) inhibitory activity and suppression of histamine release from mast cells. ⁽¹⁾ Studies have shown the inhibitory efficacy of perilla seeds on histamine release is way stronger than that of sodium cromoglycate (anti-allergy medicine). ⁽²⁾  

In addition, perilla seed has shown free radical scavenging ability and suppression of allergic immunoglobulin.  A high level of serum Immunoglobulin E  (IgE) can be a sign that the body overreacts to allergens and this can lead to an allergic reaction. Studies showed that serum IgE levels were suppressed by administration of perilla seed extract, and allergic rhinitis, hay fever and urticaria were significantly improved in humans.⁽²⁾  Research found that consumption of perilla seed extract (100-150mg/day) on patient with allergy for two weeks are proven to reduce allergic symptoms like sneezing, stuffed nose, blow nose and itchy skin. ⁽³⁾

• Quercetin

Quercetin is a polyphenol antioxidant that is naturally found in vegetables and fruits such as apples, berries, onions, broccoli and tomatoes. It helps naturally control allergy symptoms by inhibits the release of histamine and the formation of IgE antibodies. According to a 2020 study, it is proven that quercetin has anti-allergic functions that are known for inhibiting histamine production and pro-inflammatory mediators. ⁽³⁾ Thus, it is effective at reducing congestion in sinusitis because it helps calm down the hyperactivity of the airways.

Apart from that, another study found that supplementing with 500mg of quercetin a day helps lower levels of the inflammatory biomarker c-reactive protein (CRP) which is elevated in conditions like sinusitis and atopic dermatitis.⁽⁴⁾ Moreover, quercetin has been shown to effectively reduce redness, itching, and inflammation of damaged skin due to allergies. It may also help restore skin barrier function, increasing hydration, and reducing water loss.⁽⁵⁾

• Bromelain

Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapple. Commonly know as a natural anti-histamine and a popular natural remedy for allergies. Bromelain has been studied for sinusitis and showed proven results for effectiveness in relieving sinus problems and reducing inflammation.

A pilot study of patients with chronic sinusitis published in 2013 found that taking 500 milligrams of bromelain six times a day for three months improved symptoms (postnasal drip, nasal obstruction, facial pain or pressure, headache) and quality of life. ⁽⁶⁾  Besides that, bromelain also helps decrease inflammation in the skin, soothes redness and itch from infected skin due to allergies.

In addition, consuming a nutritious diet and keep hydrated is important for keeping the immune system working at its best to manage allergies. A balanced diet including the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and fish and healthy fats. The nutrients they contain can help the body run at a healthy pace and aids you with allergies. Meanwhile, it is crucial to avoid known triggers. This is the best and most important way to prevent an allergic reaction, but not always easy or practical. Know your triggers and try to avoid them.

Suffering from allergies no matter sinusitis or skin allergies like eczema are never any fun and it can make your life miserable. In fact, allergies can’t be cured, but you can treat and control your symptoms. Thus, the goal of remedies is usually to relieve your symptoms. You may try to include the natural ingredients mentioned above to ease symptoms and reduce recurrent allergic reactions without causing drowsiness and reduce dependency on the anti-allergic drug.

References:

• Oh Ha, Park CS, Ahn HJ, et al. Effect of Perilla frutescens var. acuta Kudo and rosmarinic acid on allergic inflammatory reactions. EBM 2011;236(1):99-106.
• Perilla Seed Extract (Anti-allergy), Oryza Oil & fat Chemical Co.Ltd
• Morteza et al. Quercetin with the potential effect on allergic diseases. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol (2020) 16:36
• M Mohammadi-Sartanget al. Effects of supplementation with quercetin on plasma C-reactive protein concentrations: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2017 Sep;71(9):1033-1039.
• Giada Maramaldi1et al. Soothing and anti-itch effect of quercetin phytosome in human subjects: a single-blind study. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology 2016:9 55–62
• Büttneret al. Efficacy and tolerability of bromelain in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis – a pilot study. B-ENT, 2013, 9, 217-225

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The seeds are rich in dietary fiber, calcium, iron, vitamin C and protein. Perilla seed extract contains antioxidative flavonoids as aglycons.⁽¹⁾  The flavonoid aglycones include polyphenols such as luteolin, quercetin,  apigenin, chrysoeriol, and rosemarinic acid that possess anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine properties.

• Anti-Inflammatory Effect

Studies have shown that perilla seed polyphenols regulate allergic and inflammatory response due to its 5-lipoxygenase (promote inflammation) inhibitory activity and suppression of histamine release from mast cells.⁽²⁾

• Anti-Allergic Effect

High level of serum Immunoglobulin E  (IgE) can be a sign that the body overreacts to allergens and this can lead to an allergic reaction. Studies showed that serum IgE levels were suppressed by administration of perilla seed extract, and allergic rhinitis, hay fever and urticaria were significantly improved on humans.⁽²⁾

Some incredible benefits of perilla seed extract include:

• Great for Skin Allergies (Eczema, Urticaria, Contact Dermatitis)

Anti-inflammatory, antioxidants and antibacterial properties of perilla seeds extract are good for healing skin rashes. Evidence showed perilla seed extract effectively reduce recurrent skin allergy reaction and calm the skin allergy symptoms like redness, itching and swelling.⁽³⁾

• Reduced Sinus Allergy Signs and Symptoms

Anti-histamine property reduces itchy and watery eyes, runny nose and sneezing due to sinusitis. Studies have shown the inhibitory efficacy of perilla seeds on histamine release is way stronger than that of sodium cromoglycate (anti-allergy medicine).⁽³⁾  

• Great for Asthma, Allergies and Bronchitis

Quercetin, rosmarinic acid and luteolin from perilla seed extract are great for healing the respiratory tract and give relaxant action to the smooth muscles of the trachea. Research found that consumption of perilla seed extract (100-150mg/day) on patient with allergy for two weeks are proven to reduce allergic symptoms like sneezing, stuffed nose and blow nose.⁽³⁾

• Increase Immunity

Phenolic compounds in perilla seeds have been recognized to trigger the protective defenses of the immune system to “interfere” with viral replication by protecting cells from virus infections.

References:

• Akriti Dhyaniet al. A Review on Nutritional Value, Functional Properties and Pharmacological Application of Perilla (Perilla Frutescens L.). Biomedical & Pharmacology Journal, June 2019. Vol. 12(2), p. 649-660.
• Oh HA, Park CS, Ahn HJ, et al. Effect of Perilla frutescens var. acuta Kudo and  rosmarinic acid on allergic inflammatory reactions. EBM 2011;236(1):99-106.
• Perilla Seed Extract (Anti-allergy), Oryza Oil & fat Chemical Co.Ltd

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It sounds and feels like a cold / flu , alright. But as time goes on, you start to wonder, why the symptoms still last for over two weeks and isn’t getting better, which even disturbed your daily activities? Perhaps not,  it could be an attack on your sinuses.

What are Sinuses?

The sinuses are air-filled spaces in the skull located behind the forehead, cheeks, nose, and between and behind the eyes. The walls of the sinus cavities are lightly coated with mucus, which keeps the tissue moist and healthy, and also traps bacteria.As air passes through the sinus passages on the way to the lungs, the mucus helps humidify and filter the air.

Usually, mucus is able to drain out of these sinuses and air is able to circulate for the sinuses to function properly. However, when the sinus cavities around your nose become inflamed and swollen, this will interfere with the drainage, causing mucus build-up.  If this drainage gets blocked, germs can grow and cause an infection called sinusitis.

What is Sinusitis?

Sinusitis, also known as sinus infection is the inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. Sinusitis can be caused by viral (common cold), bacterial or fungal infection. However, your risk of sinusitis may increase with some health conditions such as allergies (hay fever/food allergies/pollutants), nasal polyps or tumors, deviated nasal septum, enlarged or infected adenoids in children, tooth infection and immune system disorders.⁽¹⁾

There are two types of sinusitis:

• Acute Sinusitis

Acute sinusitis has the shortest duration. It is most commonly caused by a viral infection due to common cold or allergies.It usually starts with cold-like symptoms such as a runny, stuffy nose and facial pain and often improves within two or three weeks.

• Chronic Sinusitis

Chronic sinusitis is long term sinus inflammation of about 12 weeks or more, and keeps recurring despite treatment.

Sinusitis in Malaysia

Sinusitis is a common problem worldwide and it is an ailment that is no stranger to Malaysians.The estimated prevalence of sinusitis in Malaysia is 12.8%. This means that around three million Malaysians are suffering from sinusitis at any one time. Among 55% of patients with sinusitis also had a history of allergic rhinitis.

Signs and Symptoms of Sinusitis

• Pain/ pressure in your sinuses

Pain is a common symptom of sinusitis.Inflammation and swelling cause your sinuses to ache with a dull pressure. You may feel pain or pressure in your forehead, on either side of your nose, in your upper jaws and teeth, or between your eyes. Sometimes, the pressure and pain are intense enough to interfere with sleep.

• Nasal congestion/ Stuffy nose

The infection causes swelling in your sinuses and nasal passages. Your inflamed sinuses may restrict how well you can breath through your nose and you also might not be able to smell or taste as well as normal due to nasal congestion. Your voice may also sound “stuffy”.

• Nasal discharge

Sinusitis causes runny nose and a lot of mucus production where it can be cloudy, green or yellow. You are unable to clear the sinuses no matter how often you blow your nose. Postnasal drip might happen where the discharge bypass the nose and drain down the back of the throat. You may feel a tickle, an itch, or even a sore throat. Your voice might sound hoarse and it will trigger a cough which often gets worse at night.

• Sinus headaches

The relentless pressure and swelling in your sinuses lead to  headache. You will feel a deep and constant pain in your jaw, cheekbones, forehead or the bridge of your nose. It might even give you earaches and dental pain. Sinus headaches are often at their worst in the morning because fluids have been collecting all night long.

• Fatigue

Fighting a sinus infection demands energy from the body, so it is common to feel tired. Some people feel exhausted because they cannot breathe easily or are in pain.

• Fever

Some people develop a fever with a sinus infection. A fever is a sign that the body is fighting off an infection. Other symptoms associated with fever include chills, exhaustion, and muscle aches.

How to Know if I Have a Sinus Infection, Cold, or Nasal Allergy? 

It can be difficult to tell the exact difference between a cold, allergies, and a sinus infection. Cold symptoms typically peak after three to five days and then improve within 10 days while a sinus infection lasts for more than 10 days.⁽²⁾ If you have whitish thick mucus, you probably have a cold while nasal allergy produces clear,  thin and watery mucus. If your mucus is cloudy, yellow or green in color,  it is probably a sinus infection.

Nasal allergy is inflammation of the nose due to irritating particles such as pollen, dust, mold and pet dander. Symptoms of a nasal allergy can include sneezing, itchy nose and eyes, nasal congestion,and post nasal drip. A common cold or nasal allergy can transform into a sinus infection.

Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not subside within 10 days . You will be asked to describe your symptoms and medical history.

Natural Remedies to Clear Up Sinus Congestion

Suffering from sinusitis is never any fun.Fortunately, sinus infections almost always get better on their own. The goal of remedies is usually to relieve your symptoms. There are plenty of effective natural home remedies may help to ease symptoms and speed up recovery and worth trying before you turn to over-the-counter medications for a sinus infection.

Try the following tips on how to get rid of sinus congestion:

• Steam Inhalation

Steam helps to moisten your sinus passages and thins out mucus that may have thickened over time.Add a few drops of peppermint or rosemary essential oil to a small tub of medium-hot water. Keep the vapor directed toward your face. Drape a towel over your head and inhale the steam for a few minutes.You might also take a hot shower, breathing in the warm, moist air to help ease pain and help mucus drain.

• Nasal Irrigation

Also known as saline irrigation, it involves pouring a saline solution in one nostril and letting it flow through your nasal cavities until it drains out the other nostril to clear your sinuses and improve your ability to breathe by flushing out bacteria-filled mucus and any allergens that are caught inside.

• Consider Using a Supplement, Such as the Enzyme Bromelain

Bromelain is a mixture of enzymes found in the pineapple. Bromelain has been studied for sinusitis and showed proven results for effectiveness in relieving sinus problems and reducing inflammation.

A pilot study of patients with chronic sinusitis published in 2013 found that taking 500 milligrams of bromelain six times a day for three months improved symptoms (postnasal drip, nasal obstruction, facial pain or pressure,headache) and quality of life.⁽³⁾

• Try Quercetin :The Powerful Herb  

Quercetin is an antioxidant and a natural plant component found in onions, apples and green tea.  For sinus problems, Quercetin has been found to has antihistamine properties and aid in the reduction of inflammation and nasal congestion.

The Alternative Medicine Review article recommends quercetin as helpful for sinusitis, suggesting a typical oral dose of 400 to 500 mg taken three times per day while the water-soluble quercetin molecule might be used in  smaller doses, typically 250 mg three times daily.⁽⁴⁾

• Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated keeps your sinuses moist, helps flush the virus out and decreases the thickness of sinus mucus. Remember to drink at least 1.5-2 liters of water daily. Avoid alcohol and caffeine which lead to dehydration.

• Sleep with Your Head Elevated

Congestion tends to be worse at night because it is harder for the nose and sinuses to drain. This lead to pooling of mucus in the head, making it harder to breathe and might cause a sinus headache in the morning. Try elevating the head on a few pillows to help the sinuses drain more easily, reducing congestion.

Although sinus infections are common, but they can wreak so much discomfort in everyone’s daily lives and impaired quality of life. However, it takes time to get over sinusitis. Be sure to keep a positive mind and get plenty of rest to help your body fight the infection.

References:

1. Martin, L.J. (2018, July 9) What Is Sinusitis?

https://www.webmd.com/allergies/sinusitis-and-sinus-infection

2. Ratini, M (2015, July 1) Is It A Cold Or A Sinus Infection?

https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/features/cold-sinus-infections

3. Büttneret al. Efficacy and tolerability of bromelain in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis – a pilot

study. B-ENT, 2013, 9, 217-225

4. Steve Helms et al. Natural treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis. Alternative Medicine Review: a

Journal of Clinical Therapeutic. 2016, 11(3):196-207

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Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease marked by intense itching, red rashes, dry skin and accompanying skin lesions.⁽¹⁾ It may go away for a while, then flare up again.

Eczema in Malaysia

Eczema is a common skin condition which afflicts 10-20% of children and 1-3% of adults worldwide, and two in every 10 individuals in Malaysia.⁽²⁾  

However, a survey conducted by LEO Pharma reveals low awareness of eczema in Malaysia.The study revealed that 75% of eczema patients knew little or nothing about eczema prior to diagnosis, while 15% had never heard of it prior to seeing a  healthcare professional. ⁽²⁾

It is very important to give eczema due medical attention at the onset of symptoms – the most common of which are constant itch, redness, and skin dryness. If untreated, eczema can lead to severe flare-ups, and even, serious infection.

Scratching damages the skin, and allows penetration and colonisation of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, which is present on the skin of more than 95% of eczema patients.⁽³⁾ This leaves patients more at risk of dry and brittle skin, which becomes sensitive to chemical impact and entry of irritants and allergens.

When bacteria enter the defective skin barrier damaged by scratching, the secretion of its toxins causes further swelling, intense itching, and infection. Over time, the skin becomes thickened, scaly and crusty.

Patients Living with Eczema

For people suffering from eczema, the constant itch that they experience can put a damper on their daily lives. The intense itch is the most burdensome of them all. Some will even scratch until the skin bled, because when they feel the pain, they won’t fell the itch.

As eczema is highly visible on the skin, it can also have an emotional, psychological, and social impact on the person suffering from it and most patients are embarrassed about their condition. ⁽⁴⁾ For instance, a flaking rash on the hands or face can make a person feel self-conscious in public, thus making social interactions difficult while children who have eczema can be subject to bullying and teasing by peers, which can be traumatic for them.

On top of that, a patient’s productivity level at work or school also dips by 26% during an eczema flare-up.

Just imagine when a patient can’t sleep at nighttime and wakes up scratching himself all night long, it affects, significantly, his capability of coping, working and enjoying life.

What Causes Eczema?

The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but researches suggest its due to a combination of gene and environmental triggers.

Eczema is thought to be linked to an overactive response by the body’s immune system to an irritant. Some cells of the immune system release chemicals under the skin surface, which causes inflammation like red, itchy, and painful skin symptoms.

Meanwhile, eczema can be triggered by several factors, such as changes in climate,

pollution, house dust mites, dander from pets, pollens, detergent, sweating, certain food, stress, hormonal changes or infection.

What are the symptoms?

No matter which part of the skin is affected, eczema is almost always itchy. The rash most commonly appears on the face, skin folds such as back of the knees or elbows, hands, and feet. Rashes tend to come and go. With time, they can get crusty and scaly. An infection or too much scratching can make your symptoms worse. It can even make your skin thick and leathery.

In general, the term “Eczema” is broadly applied to recurring skin rashes that are characterized by one or more of the following symptoms:

• Intense Itching
• Redness & Inflamed
• Cracking
• Crusting or Oozing
• Blistering
• Swelling & Burning

Itchy Triggers

Many sufferers describe eczema as “the itch that rashes” because the itching starts, and then the skin rash follows as a result of scratching. Doctors often suggest patients to stop scratching the itch as it can make eczema worse. However, it is easier said than done as scratching provides instant relief.

Eczema flares are frequently triggered by the “itch-scratch cycle”. When patients scratch, it causes more inflammation. The itch causes the scratch, and the scratch causes more inflammation with more rash- and so the cycle continues.  The National Eczema Association says, “ Itch is a complicated symptom of eczema. Multiple nerve pathways and chemical mechanisms have been identified—as well as other contributing factors, including a defective skin barrier, external triggers and human nature.”

The Different Types Of Eczema

• Atopic eczema / atopic dermatitis

The most common type of eczema. A chronic, itchy inflammatory skin disease that occurs most frequently in children but can also affect adults. It is often associated with elevated serum immunoglobulin (IgE) levels.

• Contact eczema

Any skin lesions or inflammation arising from direct skin contact  to an irritants such as chemicals, detergents or soaps. Burning, itching, and redness occur. The inflammation goes away when the irritant is removed.

• Dyshidrotic eczema

An intensely itchy, chronic, and recurrent skin condition of unknown cause that typically presents with rash of small blisters filled with fluid on the palms and soles and sides of the fingers.

• Seborrheic eczema

Usually presents with itchy reddish or scaly patches affecting areas with a high density of sebaceous glands, such as the face and scalp. Dandruff of the scalp is a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis.

• Asteatotic eczema

Usually presents with itchy inflamed skin on lower limbs due to extreme skin dryness. Low environmental humidity (dry weather) and exposure to harsh detergents or irritants are the main factors.

How is eczema treated?

There is no cure for eczema. Does that mean sufferers will need to live with the itch forever?  Fortunately, there are ways to remedy the itch and effectively treat eczema symptoms to reduce frequent scratching. ⁽⁵⁾ Treatment for the condition aims to heal the affected skin and prevent flare-ups of symptoms.

Managing Daily Life and Complications of Eczema

Life with eczema can mean spending a lot of time and energy avoiding conditions and triggers that will cause your symptoms to flare up. Simply steps that you take in daily life can all help minimize symptoms.

• Wear light, cotton, loose-fitting clothing. 

Heat, wool and other rough-feeling fabrics can irritate or worsen itchy skin. Letting your skin breathe can reduce the intensity of that must-scratch feeling.

• Use a gentle body wash to minimize irritation.

You need to use the right cleanser. A mild, soap-free , free of dyes and perfumes option is less likely to strip your skin of its natural barrier and cause dryness.

• Apply a cold, wet cloth or ice pack to the skin that itches.

This often helps relieve irritated or itchy skin. The cold compress is applied to the affected area and held for five to ten minutes. The cool temperature can help reduce itching.

• Bathe with lukewarm – not hot – water. 

A steamy shower might seem soothing, but not for eczema. A long, hot shower can remove natural oils and moisture from the skin.  Try to limit your bath or shower to just 10 minutes and keep the water at a warm, not hot, temperature.

• Moisturize your skin at least twice a day. 

Hydrating regularly with moisturizer/ ointment can prevents dryness that can lead to itching and it acts as a barrier to block out potential irritants. It is best to apply moisturizer within 3 minutes of bathing to “lock in” moisture.

• Learn and avoid individual eczema triggers

Keep a trigger diary, where you can record your exposure to potential triggers, especially when your eczema starts to flare up.

• Avoid scratching and rubbing. 

Rather than scratching when you itch, try pressing on the skin. Cover the itchy area if you can’t keep from scratching it. Trim nails and wear gloves at night to minimize skin damage from scratching

• Stress and anxiety 

Worry can make your eczema flare up. Plus itchy, sore skin can also stress you out. It can be an endless cycle if you don’t break it.Find ways to relax in times of stress.  Aromatherapy, massage therapy, practice yoga, meditation, get enough sleep and listening to soothing music may help you ease tension.

• Try natural remedies 

Explore natural remedies to help reduce recurrent allergic reaction and reduce dependency on anti-allergic drug . Natural ingredients like Perilla Seeds and Quercetin has shown potential for relieving allergy symptoms, acting similar to antihistamines.

Eczema is very normal, very common, and very, very uncomfortable. It can affect your quality of life. At its worse it can keep you from sleeping, distract you and make you feel self-conscious in public. However, try to maintain a positive mindset, eat healthily and take good care of yourself can always help to reduce eczema flare-up and you can still enjoy your life.

References:

1. Atopic Dermatitis: Who Gets and Causes. American Academy of Dermatology.  http://www.aad.org/skin-conditions/dermatology-a-to-z/atopic-dermatitis/who-gets-causes/atopic-dermatitis-who-gets-and-causes
2. Atopic Dermatitis / Eczema. Allergy Centre Malaysia.http://www.allergycentre.com.my/atopic.html
3. Leung DY. The role of Staphylococcus aureus in atopic eczema. ActaDermatoVenereologica2008;(S216):21-7.
4. The Psychological Effects of Eczema. http://www.livingwithallergies.org/the-psychological-effects-of-eczema.
5. Thestrup-Pedersen K. Treatment principles of atopic dermatitis. Journal of European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology 2002;16:1–9.

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How often do you suffer from an annoying sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, or rashes on your skin? The common cold shares many similar symptoms, however, what goes unnoticed very often is the underlying allergy.

An allergy is an immune system response to a foreign substance . These foreign substances are called allergens. Many allergens are everyday substances that are harmless to most people. An allergen could be an airborne particle (house dust mites, mold or pollen), a food allergen (commonly peanuts, milk or seafood), natural rubber latex, animal dander, toxins from insect stings or drugs (penicillin or aspirin).⁽¹⁾

How Do Allergies Happen?

One of the roles of the immune system is to produce antibodies and destroy harmful substances in the body. If a person has an allergy to a substance, their immune system will react as though that substance is an invader and trying to fight it off. This causes allergic reaction such as skin rashes/inflame, sneezing, blocked nose, swollen eyes or a cough.

In an attempt to protect the body, the immune system makes antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE). These antibodies then cause certain cells to release chemicals like histamine into the bloodstream to defend against the allergen “invader”.⁽²⁾

For instance, shellfish allergies are most often the immune system’s response to a protein found in shellfish muscles called tropomyosin. Antibodies trigger the release of histamines to attack the tropomyosin. The histamine release leads to a number of symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting and skin reactions including itching, hives, or eczema.

It is the release of these chemicals that causes allergic reactions. Future exposure to that same allergen will trigger this allergic response again.  Allergic reactions can be a nuisance and hamper your normal activities.

Common Types and Symptoms of Allergies

Symptoms of an allergic reaction usually develop within a few minutes of being exposed to something you’re allergic to, although occasionally they can develop gradually over a few hours.

An allergic attacks can range anywhere from mild and annoying to more severe and  even life threatening.

Here are some common types of allergies and symptoms:

1. Hay fever, also called allergic rhinitis, can cause

• Sneezing
• Runny, stuffy nose
• Watery, red or swollen eyes
• Itching of the nose, eyes or roof of the mouth

2. Eczema, an allergic skin condition also called atopic dermatitis, can cause skin to:

• Intense itch
• Redden
• Flake or peel
• Dryness

3. A food allergy can cause:

• Tingling or itching in the mouth
• Swelling of the lips, tongue, face or throat
• Wheezing or shortness of breath
• Feeling dizzy and lightheaded

4. An insect sting allergy can cause:

• A large area of swelling at the sting site
• Itching or hives all over the body
• Coughor chest tightness
• Wheezing or shortness of breath

5. A drug allergy can cause:

• Hives
• Itchy skin
• Shortness of breath
• Facial swelling

Risk Factors

Allergies can develop at any point in a person’s life. You might be more likely to develop an allergy if you:

• Has a family history of allergies 

Allergies tend to run in families.

If one parent is allergic, a child runs a risk of 30-50% of inheriting the tendency to be allergic while if both parents have allergies, their children have a 60-80% likelihood of developing allergies.

• Has another existing allergic reaction 

When having one kind of allergic reaction, the  immune system already feels threatened. Thus, the person will be more susceptible to reacting adversely to other allergen.

• Is a child (1-12 years)

Children are more prone to developing allergies as a result of limited immune system exposure.

• Environment

Environmental allergies involve an immune system overreaction to things that exist in our everyday surroundings such as pollen, dust, pet dander, mold and exposure to cigarette smoke.

Allergy Complications

Having an allergy increases your risk of certain other medical problems, including:

• Sinusitis

Your risk of getting these conditions is higher if you have hay fever or asthma.

• Asthma

An immune system reaction that affects the airways and breathing. Asthma is usually triggered by exposure to an allergen in the environment.

• Anaphylaxis 

It is a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction that may cause death. It causes a series of symptoms, including a rash, low pulse, and shock.

How can you prevent and manage an allergic reaction?

You may not be able to avoid an allergic reaction completely, but some steps can help you prevent future allergic reactions.

• Avoid known triggers

This is the best and most important way to prevent an allergic reaction, but not always easy or practical. Know your triggers and try to avoid them. For example, If you’re allergic to dust mites, dust and vacuum and wash bedding often.

• Keep a diary 

Track what you do, what you eat, when symptoms occur and what seems to help. This may help you and your doctor identify triggers or worsens your symptoms.

• Manage stress

Stress hormones wreak havoc in the body and especially in the immune system, making allergies even worse.

• Explore natural remedies 

Try natural remedies to help reduce recurrent allergic reaction without causing drowsiness and reduce dependency on anti-allergic drug .  For instance, Perilla Seeds has shown potential for relieving allergy symptoms, acting similar to antihistamines while Quercetin is a nutrient found in onions, apples, and black tea that research has shown to block the release of histamines.

Allergies can’t be cured, but you can treat and control your symptoms.⁽³⁾ They can have a big impact on a person’s overall quality of life.

Depending on the severity of the allergies, they can make it difficult to enjoy everyday activities or to feel your best. However, most allergies are manageable with avoidance, medications, and lifestyle changes so it can make life more enjoyable.

References:

1. https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies
2. http://magazine.scientificmalaysian.com/issue-9-2014/allergies/
3. https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/about-allergy/what-is-allergy

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