Celebrating National Allergy Day

July 8 is National Allergy Day, declared under Presidential Proclamation No. 1313, and is an annual event to increase awareness and educate the public on the growing allergy problems that Filipinos face today.

What is an allergy? 

In medical terms, an allergy signals hypersensitivity to the immune system. We experience allergies when our immune system reacts to certain things in our immediate environment. These substances are otherwise harmless to the average person, but someone with a sensitive immune system can respond differently.

The body treats these substances as invasive foreign particles. From rain and dust to pollen, anything can trigger an allergy. Usually, allergies show up as skin flare-ups or difficulty in breathing.

What’s the next worst thing? Self-medication.

Popping an anti-allergen is a temporary fix. When we repeatedly self-medicate, we risk the problem getting worse. Sometimes, it can be life-threatening.

Observe the National Allergy Day by:

• Teach kids about allergies

• Explain the names of foods that can make them sick. Teach them to eat foods only given by trusted adults.

• Don’t pop a pill

• Do not self-medicate. Seek professional help.

• Take an allergy test

• Allergy testing can identify various allergens in our food and environments. A skin prick or blood test will be done to check for reactions and antibodies.

If you experience any signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction, consult a doctor via Maxicare’s 24/7 Teleconsult Hotline, Videoconsult services powered by the Doctor Anywhere App, or Maxicare Primary Care Clinic (PCC).  You may request lab tests and diagnostic procedures through a PCC or Maxicare’s HomeCare services.

References: 

https://nationaltoday.com/world-allergy-awareness-day/

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