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What are the causes behind this increase? Will the situation get worse? Our friends at Pacific Prime Hong Kong shed some light on the matter and explain what we can do about the worrying trends. As always, please consult your doctor for professional advice.
Allergies explained
When our immune system reacts excessively to a typically harmless substance, it is called an allergy, and the substance is the allergen. Among the most prevalent allergens are pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, dairy products and pineapple, and specific medications.
Reasons why allergies are becoming more common
Higher levels of air pollution in the city mean prolonged exposure to air pollutants, which can contribute to the emergence of allergies. Hong Kong is also experiencing higher temperatures and humidity, which influence the incidence of allergens.
The adoption of a Western-style diet, with its high intake of processed foods, can also contribute to a higher incidence of food allergies.
Common forms of allergies in Hong Kong
The Three most common allergies in Hong Kong are allergic rhinitis, asthma, and eczema. Note that food allergies are also very common in Hong Kong.
The most frequent symptoms of Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, include a congested or runny nose, sneezing, nose, and throat itching, and watery eyes. In contrast, the typical symptoms of asthma comprise wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.
Eczema typically causes thickened, scaly, and dry skin, but can also lead to itching, redness, and inflammation. Finally, prevalent food allergens in Hong Kong comprise fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, and sesame, and symptoms of a food allergy may include vomiting, diarrhea, hives, swelling, difficulty swallowing, and abdominal pain.
Managing allergies
To effectively manage allergies, the allergen must be avoided insofar as it can be. A skin prick test or blood test may be useful in determining the allergen.
Antihistamines, nasal steroids, and decongestants are common medications that your doctor may recommend. Individuals may also be exposed to small amounts of an allergen over time with the aim of desensitizing them to the allergen.
Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a clean and allergen-free environment, can also be helpful. Last but not least, being prepared for an emergency is crucial, and this may involve carrying an epinephrine auto-injector, wearing medical identification, and having an emergency action plan in place.
Looking for health insurance that meets your needs?
Allergies are just one of the many reasons why people may need prolonged and costly medical care. Numerous other conditions can incur a similar or even higher level of medical expenses.
If you are looking to secure or review your health insurance, Pacific Prime Hong Kong is your ideal partner! With 20+ years of experience, Pacific Prime is well-positioned to apply its expertise and experience in insurance to provide unbiased advice.