Myths and Truths of Respiratory Allergies - Airfree SG

Myths and Truths of Respiratory Allergies

Understanding the Myths and Truths of Respiratory Allergies

There are still many great debates about allergies and respiratory issues within the medical world.  This is the reason we are here with the Myths and Truths of Respiratory Allergies.

For this reason, we decided to write a question and answer blog for this week.

For example, one constant debate is regarding the babies room.  Should a baby live in a clean, sterile environment, as opposed to an environment exposed to allergens, i.e., pets, plants, etc. which will expose the child to allergens, so that their bodies can build up a resistance.  Which is best?  The debate goes on, so it is still best to consult with your pediatrician. 

Here are six frequently asked questions from both the medical community and the general public, along with answers:

1) Exposing the child to dust, pollen, pet dander, etc. during childhood increases the risk of respiratory allergy?

This is perhaps one of the most controversial questions. There is no scientific evidence to answer definitively. However, according to studies exposing children to the dust of rural areas can, in fact, reduce the risk of developing respiratory allergies in the future.

It is important to note, this does not apply for those who live in large cities, which seems to be related to an increase in the rate of respiratory diseases.  If a child already has allergies, the best practice is to remove him the allergen from the child’s environment. Only a test performed by a specialist can attest to which substances the child is allergic to.

2) Am I allergic to pet hair?

Most people are not allergic to the hair of animals; it is more likely that you are allergic to the oil released from pets glands and saliva, which contains the allergens, that people are allergic too. 

3) If I adopt a short-haired dog, will this reduce my allergy to these animals?

Unfortunately, if a person is allergic to dogs, it is not possible to know if a short-haired animal would make a difference.  However,  There are designer dogs, which have been bred to be allergen free, which might be a better option, but always consult with your doctor first.  Some allergen free breeds include cockapoo, Bichon Frise, Basenji, etc. 

4) Whenever I encounter a cat, I start to sneeze or I need to use my inhaler.  Should I not have a cat?

It is always best to consult with your allergist or doctor, but most likely certain animals or breeds would work best for you as each pet has its own type of allergen.

5) I am asthmatic, so I do not participate in sports.  Am I doing the right thing?

It is never good to be sedentary and avoid the participation of sports.   Playing sports can help increase your lungs ability to breath deeply, and sports offer many other benefits for children; however it is always best to consult a specialist, who will indicate the best practice in each case.

6) I am allergic to eggs, should I avoid the flu vaccine?

It is always best to consult with your doctor about any vaccines. However, for the flu vaccine, the amounts of egg allergens present in the vaccine are very low and studies have shown that they cannot trigger allergic responses.

We hope that this whole piece of content will help you to understand the myths and truths of Respiratory Allergies.