Let’s take a look at some of the most common myths related to allergies.

Myths about Allergies

Myth 1: Food allergies in children last forever

Reality: Most food allergies in kids do not last forever.

A food allergy is an unusual bodily response to a particular food. The most common food allergies among children are those linked to eggs, milk, and peanuts. Wheat, soy and tree nut allergies are also quite prevalent. It’s not true that all food allergies in children last forever – most kids usually “outgrow” many food allergies. However, some causes of allergy, such as peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, and fish may be lifelong¹.

Myth 2: Allergies are not dangerous

Reality: Undiagnosed, unmanaged allergies can be very harmful to your health.

Undiagnosed or poorly managed allergies can have a severe impact on a person’s quality of life. For example, allergic rhinitis which has a 20% prevalence rate in the Phillipines,² can lead to poor sleep quality, resulting in daytime tiredness and sleepiness. This makes it harder for adults to focus on their jobs and day-to-day tasks, and children to concentrate on schoolwork. The lack of sleep could also affect mood.

Meanwhile, allergies that are not addressed can aggravate respiratory issues like asthma, and skin conditions like eczema and urticaria . Finally, some allergies to food, some drugs, and insect venom can result in a potentially life-threatening condition called anaphylaxis that causes swelling of the airways and difficulty in breathing. Exposure to these causes of allergy can result in fatalities without emergency management³.

Myth 3: You only take allergy medications when you have symptoms

Reality: Most food allergies in kids do not last forever.

If you know you’re heading into high pollen season, or you are going somewhere with a lot of haze or pollution, taking an allergy medication like an antihistamine can help prevent or reduce the symptoms of a fully-blown allergy attack. Essentially, this helps “turn off” your defense system against those allergens or causes of allergy⁴.

Myth 4: Allergies can be cured

Reality: There is currently no cure for allergies.

However, allergy sufferers can live active lives with little disruption to their daily activities if their allergy is diagnosed correctly and they have a proper management plan in place. Allergen immunotherapy (desensitization) may help prevent some allergies like allergic rhinitis. But it doesn’t cover the breadth of different types of allergy.³

One of the best ways to get relief from allergies is by taking an antihistamine when symptoms flare up. Manage your allergies with Loratadine (Claritin®). It’s non-drowsy vs. first generation antihistamines and cetirizine, works in as fast as 15 minutes, and lasts up to 24 hours.

IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR.
ASC Ref. Code: B242P040822CS