Why are there more allergies in the world?

Allergic diseases are one of the most common chronic diseases in the world. Allergy symptoms can vary from mild to severe, life-threatening allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).

Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance (such as pollen, bee venom, or pet dander) or foods that most people do not react to.

The immune system produces substances known as “antibodies”. When a person develops an allergy, their immune system produces antibodies that identify a particular allergen as harmful, even if it is not, allergist Rosella Lee explained to this newspaper.

Red eyes, itching, sneezing, runny nose and cough are some of the symptoms experienced by people suffering from allergies. Of the various types of allergies that exist: rhinitis, acute urticaria and conjunctivitis are the main ones developed by children, young people, adults and the elderly around the world, the expert noted. He added that there are more and more cases of allergic problems in the country at this time of the year.

And that’s it, the heat and rain are present, and they bring with them an increase in patients with allergies, not only in Panama, but all over the world, because the trees and plants release the pollen that causes them. According to studies, this phenomenon will soon worsen as climate change and global warming lengthen those seasons, and thus the health risks.

The World Allergy Organization (WAO) White Paper explains that between 30% and 40% of the world’s population suffers from some type of allergy, and they occur more often in young people, which increases the burden of allergic diseases with age.

Each year, WAO selects a topic and offers clinicians and the general public a webinar, infographics, and information to educate and spread awareness about the topic. This year’s chosen theme is: “Climate change makes allergies worse.”

What does the WHO say?

The World Health Organization (WHO) predicts that about 500 million people will have asthma in 2050 as a result of complicated allergies, a figure that doubles the currently diagnosed cases. The WHO has also made it known that allergy is a non-infectious epidemic that is spreading rapidly, like other respiratory diseases.

Although there is no official data on the number of people suffering from these diseases in Panama, Dr. Lee said it is estimated that about 30% of the population maintains some type of allergy, especially due to the humid climate.

Allergies are exaggerated mechanisms of the body’s immune response (hypersensitivity) to various allergens from the environment, food, drugs, etc. However, the symptoms between flu and allergy are similar; Expert Lee clarifies that allergies do not cause elevated body temperature, and if symptoms last longer than 15 days, it is necessary to see a specialist.

Depending on the type of allergy, different diagnostic tests are performed. To conduct research or, for example, skin tests, it is important that the patient has certain days without taking medication.

Age is one of the factors that can predispose to allergies, and in childhood allergic responses are clearer due to the genetic background of the predisposition. Children have a tendency to develop respiratory and skin conditions that can be stabilized with development, and of course with appropriate treatment. But it must be clear that any condition in adulthood, including reduced defense or other conditions, causes the recurrence or appearance of allergic phenomena.

What types of allergies are there?

There are different types of allergic diseases. Some of them are:

– Skin allergies (atopic dermatitis or eczema, urticaria, contact dermatitis and hereditary angioedema).

– Allergies to medicines (more common in adults).

– Food allergies (more common in children).

Asthma and allergic rhinitis are the most common allergies. It is estimated that there are 300 million people worldwide with asthma, and that it causes about 250,000 deaths a year, most of which are preventable. In addition, between 20% and 30% of the world’s population has allergic rhinitis.

The allergist gives several simple recommendations to avoid this health problem:

1. Clean air conditioners often.

2. Change bed linen more often.

3. Open the doors and windows to let the sun into the house.

4. Do proper cleaning at home.

5. Carry out medical examinations.