Living in a tropical country like the Philippines during the rainy season exposes us to a unique set of allergens that interfere with our well-being. From the extra pollen that floats in the air once the rain stops to the microscopic dust mites that lurk in our homes, these allergens can turn fun moments into uncomfortable experiences.
By identifying the specific allergens that affect us, adopting simple lifestyle changes, and using the right medication, we can improve our daily lives. From changing our home environment to minimize exposure to allergens like mold and dust mites, to understanding how pet dander triggers our reactions, every step is important. It’s not about completely eliminating allergens, but equipping ourselves with the right knowledge to confidently navigate our daily routines.
“While rain washes away pollen and reduces pollen levels, it also causes plants like grasses and weeds to grow, flower, and produce more pollen. A humid environment also helps the growth of molds and dust mites. The rainy season, therefore, can be a boon or a disaster for allergy sufferers,” said Dr. Madeleine Sumpaico, Pediatric Allergist and Immunologist.
Understanding the causes of allergies and adapting to lifestyle changes
The Philippines is known for its high humidity, high temperature, and abundant vegetation. While these environmental factors contribute to the beauty and richness of our surroundings, they can also be potential causes of common allergies.
- Mold
The onset of the rainy season brings a high risk of mold growth, thanks to the wet and dark conditions it creates. Mold, a variety of fungus that produces spores in the air, has the ability to grow in many environments, both indoors and outdoors, including bathrooms, basements, and even leaves. While usually associated with the warmer months, mold can persist year-round if it finds a welcoming environment inside your home.
Taking steps to eliminate mold and prevent its growth is important to avoid triggering allergies and asthma symptoms. You can do this by ensuring proper ventilation in wet corners and reducing humidity in your home.
- Dust Mites
Similar to molds, dust mites are tiny creatures that thrive in the rain, especially for long periods of time, which are usually found on soft household items such as bedding, textiles, plush toys. , and carpets. They reproduce rapidly and have a slow death rate, especially in poorly ventilated areas full of dust. Dust mite allergies can occur year-round.
The most effective way to manage dust mite allergies is to minimize exposure to them. While it’s impossible to completely eliminate dust mites from your home, you can reduce their population by using allergen-free bed sheets, washing bedding weekly, and vacuuming regularly.
- Pollen
Pollen is produced by trees and plants and is a major contributor to seasonal allergies or more commonly called “allergic rhinitis.” Despite its small size, it can be easily carried by the wind and inhaled. If you live in an area where there are many trees that release a lot of pollen, allergy symptoms can occur year-round.
Avoiding pollen can be difficult, but you can reduce your exposure to pollen by staying indoors on dry and windy days or wearing a dust mask when pollen counts are high.
- Pet dander
Dander is a very common allergen in the country, mainly due to the large number of Filipinos who keep furry pets such as cats and dogs in their homes. It is found in saliva, urine, and animal skin, and is constantly shed by all cats and dogs, regardless of their breed. In addition, it can easily be transferred from one house to another, even if you do not have pets of your own.
If you have a pet allergy, it is important to minimize your contact with them. In addition, if you are outside, especially in areas with pets, it is advised to avoid walking around the house with your shoes on and take a quick shower and change your clothes.
The importance of using the right medicine
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough to manage your allergies, finding an effective medication is important. “We are proud to be recognized as the preferred choice for individuals seeking relief from allergies in the Philippines. Our commitment remains strong in providing Filipinos with the support they need to effectively manage their allergies and improve their benefit,” said Crismer Tria, franchise lead for self-care, Kenvue Philippines.
Benadryl has become synonymous with allergy relief, providing comfort and convenience to those in need. Its active ingredient, diphenhydramine, is an antihistamine that helps suppress the body’s allergic reaction, allowing it to effectively target symptoms such as sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, and skin irritations. The availability of different formulations, including oral tablets, capsules, and topical creams, also allows individuals to choose the most appropriate option for their specific symptoms.
Allergies are a common issue faced by Filipinos, affecting their overall health and daily routine. To effectively manage these allergies, it is important to identify common allergies and understand their causes. In addition, proper use of medication plays an important role in relieving symptoms. That’s why Kenvue Philippines strives to provide access to appropriate allergy medications such as Benadryl. Known for its proven effectiveness and variety of formulations, Benadryl remains a trusted brand among many relief-seeking Filipinos. By using this medicine, individuals can regain control of their lives, ensuring a better quality of life without the burden of allergies.
Consider the incredible power of daily care today. Visit www.kenvue.com for more information.
