During this rainy season, those who suffer from respiratory allergies  may have to deal with it a bit more, because these diseases often visit us during the rainy season. The reason is that during the rainy season, the air is highly humid, and if the weather changes frequently, sometimes hot, sometimes rainy, and sometimes having to go into a room with the air conditioning on, it may make you more susceptible to allergies.  

Dr. Sirirak Kanchanathirapong, a pediatrician specializing in allergies and immunology at Navavet Hospital, will share her knowledge on how we should take care of ourselves during this rainy season to stay away from allergies, especially for young children, which can cause parents to lose sleep every time.

What are some common allergies?

1.     Allergic Rhinitis

Caused by the nasal mucosa being more sensitive than usual, especially when exposed to allergens such as dust mites, cockroaches, animal hair, grass dust, mold, irritants such as PM2.5 dust, smoke, incense, cigarettes and various pollutants, especially exhaust pipes, which children often have symptoms of nasal congestion, itchy nose, frequent sneezing, clear runny nose, itchy cough, postnasal drip, frequent throat clearing. Some may also have itchy eyes, but will not have a fever. The symptoms tend to come and go in the morning after waking up or in the evening before going to bed. If left untreated, it may lead to sinusitis.

    2.Asthma

Caused by the bronchi responding to stimuli more than usual. Similar to air allergies, it causes bronchial constriction and swelling due to inflammation. Or when exposed to rain and caught a cold, it can also trigger asthma to flare up. Children often have a cough when running, playing, or exercising, especially at night. Chest tightness, difficulty breathing, wheezing, and shortness of breath may come and go and become chronic.

3.     Bronchiolitis

This disease is often found in children under 3 years old. It is an infectious disease caused by inflammation of the bronchioles. *It is mostly caused by viral infection, especially RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus) and other viruses such as Influenza, Parainfluenza, Adenovirus, Enterovirus, and Humanmetapneumovirus. It can also be caused by Mycoplasma bacteria. Children usually have high fever, runny nose, cough, similar to the flu for 2-3 days before. Then they will have a cough, shortness of breath, increased phlegm, and abnormal breathing, wheezing. Children need to be treated with bronchodilators, nasal washes, and suction of mucus and phlegm. Some cases may need to be hospitalized.

For young children under 2 years old who already have a history of allergies, it may trigger allergic symptoms, leading to asthma.

Avoiding what you are allergic to is the best way.

Thai children are most allergic to dust mites, cockroaches, and animal hair, respectively. Therefore, you should avoid dust both outside and inside the house. Avoid using carpets, having dolls or animal hair in the childcare ทางเข้า ufabet https://ufabet999.app area, and keep the house clean. Children with allergies should wash their noses regularly every day, especially during times when symptoms occur.

Health care in the rainy season

1. Always take care of your health.
2. Keep your body warm at all times. Try to avoid sudden changes in temperature and humidity. When the weather gets colder, wear warm clothing. Do not turn on the air conditioner too cold.
3. If exposed to mist or rain, you should quickly shower and wash your hair with warm water, and quickly dry your body and hair.
4. Eating healthy, getting enough rest, and exercising regularly will help strengthen our immune system.
5. If you have just walked through extremely hot weather, you should stand in the shade before changing to an air-conditioned room with cool air to allow your body and nose to adjust. This will help reduce allergy flare-ups.