At Vellore Speciality Centre, I see many patients, both children and adults, who have been managing allergy symptoms for years without a proper diagnosis. World Allergy Week is a good opportunity to address that gap. As a paediatric and adult allergy specialist in Vellore, I want families to understand that allergies are not minor inconveniences. They are medical conditions that deserve proper evaluation and care.
Allergies are becoming increasingly common across the world. Millions of children and adults suffer from allergic diseases that affect their daily life, sleep, school performance, and work productivity. Despite this, many people continue to ignore allergy symptoms or rely on self-medication without identifying the actual cause.
The theme of World Allergy Week 2026 is Allergy Care is Essential Care. This message reminds us that allergies are not minor problems. They are medical conditions that deserve proper diagnosis and treatment. Improving access to allergy care can significantly improve quality of life and prevent serious complications. (World Allergy Organization)
What is an allergy?
An allergy occurs when the body's immune system reacts excessively to substances that are normally harmless. These substances are called allergens.
Common allergens include:
- House dust mites
- Pollen
- Pet dander
- Cockroaches
- Mould
- Certain foods such as milk, egg, peanut, tree nuts, and shellfish
- Medicines
- Insect stings
What are the common symptoms of allergy?
Depending on the affected organ, allergy symptoms may include:
Nose:
- Frequent sneezing
- Runny or blocked nose
- Itchy nose
Eyes:
- Redness
- Watering
- Itching
Lungs:
- Recurrent cough
- Wheezing
- Breathlessness
- Chest tightness
Skin:
- Itchy rash
- Eczema
- Hives (urticaria)
- Swelling of lips or face
Digestive System:
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhoea after certain foods
When should you see an allergy specialist?
Consult an allergy specialist if you have:
- Persistent sneezing or nasal allergy
- Recurrent wheezing or asthma
- Skin rashes that keep returning
- Food-related allergic reactions
- Drug allergies
- Repeated sinus infections due to allergy
- Frequent use of allergy medicines without lasting relief
Why does allergy testing matter?
Allergy testing helps identify the exact trigger responsible for your symptoms. Once the trigger is identified, your doctor can recommend:
- Allergen avoidance measures
- Appropriate medications
- Allergy immunotherapy (desensitisation treatment) in selected patients
Treating the underlying allergy often provides better long-term control than simply treating symptoms.
Can allergies be prevented?
Although not all allergies can be prevented, good control is possible by:
- Keeping your home free from dust accumulation
- Washing bedding regularly in hot water
- Avoiding cigarette smoke
- Controlling indoor dampness and mould
- Following prescribed inhalers or medications correctly
- Avoiding known food or drug allergens
- Taking as advised in patients with asthma and chronic lung disease
A message for families
Living with allergies does not mean living with restrictions. With an accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and regular follow-up, most allergic conditions can be controlled effectively.
This World Allergy Week, take your allergy symptoms seriously. Early diagnosis and proper care can help you breathe easier, sleep better, and enjoy a healthier life.
Happy World Allergy Week 2026! Allergy Care is Essential Care.
To consult Dr Nihala Tarannum H at Vellore Speciality Centre, 1315, South Avenue Road, Phase 2, Sathuvachari, Vellore, call 0416 222 0052 or +91 87543 24052.
Written by Dr Nihala Tarannum H, M.B.B.S., DCH, DPSM, FAAP, ICPP (Paediatric Pulmonology), Consultant Paediatrician and Paediatric & Adult Allergy & Asthma Specialist, Vellore Speciality Centre, Vellore, Tamil Nadu.
Add a Comment