Ellen Campbell -Grizzle
AS SUMMER begins, grass pollens may prevent you from enjoying outdoor activities. Mould spores, a leading cause of outdoor airborne allergies, thrive in the summer. They are found in compost piles, cut grass, wooded areas, fallen leaves, soil, debris and most moist surfaces. For people allergic to pollen, insect stings and some types of plants, summer can be a time for sniffling, scratching, sneezing and wheezing.
The best defence against allergies is to avoid pollen. Limit your outdoor activities during the morning, when plants generally release pollen. Over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal sprays offer temporary relief for hay fever symptoms. If you have a severe reaction, you should see a doctor who may prescribe more powerful medications.
Stay out of pollen's way by taking the following simple precautions:
Keep home and car windows closed as much as possible
Avoid raking leaves and mowing lawns
Before getting in the car, turn on the air conditioner and open the windows for at least 5 minutes to help to remove dust mites and moulds
Turn off the air conditioner before you leave the car and let the blower run for a short time to dry the vents and prevent moisture collection
Pollen may collect on sheets and clothes when you hang them out to dry. Try to shake them properly, apply a warm iron before folding.
Insect stings also cause many allergic reactions. For most people, the pain and swelling from a sting will subside after a few minutes. However, for persons with an allergy, stings can cause nausea, cramps, difficulty breathing and even death. Remember, stinging insects are attracted to shiny objects, food and some scents. Avoid brightly coloured clothes when you plan to spend time outside. Persons who are planning summer camps must ensure that the first aid kit contains treatments for insect allergies. Store food in a cooler in your car so as not to attract insects. If you are stung, wash the area and apply calamine lotion. When itching and redness persist, it is time to see a doctor.
OILY RESIN
Some plants are a bane for many allergy sufferers. These plants produce an oily resin that causes blistering, swelling and an itchy rash. Be extra careful when walking in unfamiliar areas and always wear shoes and socks. If you touch a plant to which you are allergic, immediately wash the area with soap and water. The resin takes approximately 30 minutes to penetrate the skin and you may be able to prevent a rash. If a rash develops, avoid itching and apply a hot, wet compress.
Several skin and oral preparations help to soothe the itching and discomfort caused by allergies. Your pharmacist can help you to select some items for your first aid cupboard. Antihistamines are useful remedies. If you drive a vehicle, make sure that you select non-drowsy antihistamines. It is also very important that you avoid drinking alcohol while taking these medicines.
Summer is here and it is time to develop an allergy action plan. Plan ahead and be prepared. Teach your children what to do if they are allergy prone. Having the right information and the right medication when necessary, can help ensure that you , your family and friends have a safe, sniffle and itch-free summer.
Ellen Campbell Grizzle, president, Caribbean Association of Pharmacists; director, Information and Research, National Council on Drug Abuse.
