General Health

Surviving Dust Allergies in The UAE

Dust allergies are one of the biggest asthma triggers for people in the UAE. With sandstorms being a significant factor in the UAE, the air quality here may not be the best for breathing; many people have allergies that are easily triggered.

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Dust allergies are not something to be taken lightly. If left unattended, it would cause a bigger problem for your overall health; especially for those who are sensitive to dust or have asthma.

It is important to know about this allergy, so you can prevent it from happening.

Symptoms of Dust Allergies

To identify if you have an allergy, you may experience any of the below symptoms:

Itchy nose
Itchy eyes
Constant sneezing
Runny nose
Watery eyes

If any of these symptoms trigger an allergy when exposed to the dust, it is known as allergic rhinitis. Recent studies have shown that approximately one in five people in the UAE suffer from allergic rhinitis.

A more serious reaction to dust is asthma. Asthma can be triggered when a person inhales the dust. Medical treatment is crucial as it can prove fatal if an asthma attack is triggered and without proper follow up. Symptoms of asthma include:

Wheezing
Difficulty Breathing
Rapid heart rate
Breathlessness

Eczema is a condition where the skin becomes inflamed, itchy and dry. This only happens to people who already have the condition. Exposure to dust can amplify symptoms as well as trigger them.

Preventing Dust Allergies

Making small changes in our lifestyles and daily routines can minimize our contact with dust, therefore, preventing the trigger of dust allergies. Here are some practical, simple, yet very effective ways to avoid dust allergies triggers.

Shower more often. Especially after a hot day, a thorough shower can help to remove dust, dirt, and pollen from your skin and hair. By not showering consistently or regularly, you are spreading pollen, as well as germs onto all the surfaces you come in contact with. Particularly your pillow bed.
Use Eyewash. On of the first signs of dust, allergies is when your eyes turn red, itchy and start to water. This can be prevented and minimized by using a saline wash or sanitary wipes. This will help to remove the pollen and dirt from your eye, so symptoms don’t flare up.
Air Purifier. Air purifiers have become very popular in recent times. People are leaving them at their workstation desk, living rooms as well as the kitchen. Air purifiers help to remove airborne particles of dust and pollen. In turn, having one around will lead to fewer irritants to your skin and face.
Drink lots of fluids. This is the most fundamental point, regardless of what your purpose is for drinking fluids. It’s important to stay hydrated during seasons where fever and allergies are most likely to occur. Staying hydrated strengthens your bodies immune system to fight it off. Whereas being dehydrated can only aggravate symptoms and make them worse.
Take advantage of health supplements. Supplements with Vitamin D, Vitamin C, and Omega 3 acids are great for fighting allergies. Not only do they boost the immune system, but they also create stronger skin, organs, and joints. This can help you to recover faster from allergies that may have been triggered and can also increase your tolerance to pollen and dust. Supplements are great when you don’t get enough nutrients from food.
Keep your pets clean and at a distance. Particularly in the summer, it is best to stay away from furry pets. It is because they may carry pollen, dirt, dust or germs in their fur and can transfer to you from physical contact. This doesn’t mean to abandon your pet, but it might a good idea to regularly wash them more often.
Keep the house clean. Some people have allergic reactions far more often than they need, especially for those who live in dusty homes. Just by regularly cleaning the house, wiping down the air conditioner, vacuuming the floor, you can minimize the spread and development of dust in your home. If you wait too long and allow dust to accumulate before cleaning, it becomes a much harder task, and you’ll likely trigger a reaction in the process.
Dress for the occasion. If you are easily triggered by dust, or that the weather isn’t going to give you any favours, cover up with sunglasses, a hat or a long sleeve shirt. If you have eczema, it may be good to use clothing that can cover most of your skin. Disposable face masks have become very popular in recent times as they can cover your mouth and nose. This can help to prevent the spread of germs as well as preventing pollen or dirt entering your mouth or nose.
Plan from the day before. Anything can happen at any time. That’s why it’s always good to be prepared. Keep sanitary wipes, disposable face masks, eyewash, and tissues if you know you will be out in public where dust may be a factor. If you plan on staying at home, clean your house the day before, so the next day you can enjoy a clean environment without having to worry about dust allergies.