Is Climate Change at Fault for Rising Allergie Cases?

According to allergologists during a July 10 session held by the Philippine Society of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, climate change has increased skin and respiratory allergies (PSAAI).

"More pollination and growing humidity lead to the expansion of dust mites, molds, pollens, and fungus." "As a result, the frequency of skin and respiratory allergies is growing," stated Dr. Addah S., an allergist at De La Salle University Medical Center, de Peralta

Among the most frequent allergens, or things that induce allergic responses, are dust mites, molds, pollens, and fungus.

Climate Change and Allergy

A research published in Nature Communications in March 2022 discovered that atmospheric conditions influence pollen release and that climate change will alter the time and amount. Concurrent exposure to allergens and harmful air pollution can exacerbate allergy reactions, according to the US National Climate Assessment.

"We need to practice solid waste management in our barangays [communities] to reduce the consequences of climate change," said Dr. Glaiza M. Madulara, an allergist at Pacific Global Medical Center.

Symptoms and Effects

Atopic dermatitis, often known as eczema, is a persistent skin disorder that causes itching and redness. It flares up occasionally and may be accompanied by asthma or hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis).

According to Dr. Madulara, patients with this illness have a 50-75 percent chance of acquiring asthma and allergic rhinitis. "Atopic dermatitis is frequently the precursor to the development of food allergies later in life."

While there is no cure, atopic dermatitis may be managed by avoiding skin irritants and practicing excellent skin care.

Dr. Madulara recommends "showering with lukewarm water, using a light skin cleanser, and using a moisturizer after patting dry your skin." "Steroidal anti-inflammatory creams or ointments can be used to treat flareups under the supervision of each individual's doctor."

According to Dr. Jose Carlo Miguel M. Villanueva, an allergologist at Capitol Oral Rehabilitation Center Medical/Dental Clinic, avoiding triggers is a helpful management approach for allergic rhinitis.

He suggests that if you have a runny nose in the morning, sneeze when it's dusty, and have itchy eyes, especially at night, you may have allergic rhinitis. "[Another indicator] is mouth breathing due to a congested nose, which can produce dry lips, a change in the form of your jawline, and crooked teeth," he noted.

Aggravating Symptoms

Weather changes, intense emotions, and air pollution aggravate symptoms. "One of the most crucial things to determine is which allergens cause your symptoms," Dr. Villanueva added. "One method is to do a skin allergy test."

A skin prick test exposes a patient's skin to possible allergens. The skin is next examined for indications of an allergic response. Those with a family history of atopy, or the genetic propensity to develop allergic rhinitis, asthma, and eczema, are more likely to acquire allergies (a 20%-40% risk among children with one atopic parent and a 40-60% risk among children with both atopic parents).

"As we adjust to the new normal and begin to reclaim our old lifestyles," Dr. de Peralta remarked, "let us not forget that there are those who deal with illnesses daily."

According to the 2008 National Nutrition and Health Survey, the total prevalence of allergic rhinitis in the Philippines is 20%.

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