Although spring is not a season in Singapore, you can feel something in the air as you leave home. It could be the dust of the city, pollution, or perhaps it’s allergy season.
Don’t panic immediately, as it might not be what you think. Perhaps it’s allergic rhinitis or hay fever.
Most people that suffer from allergic rhinitis can experience it triggering in the most unlikely of situations, in the most unexpected of times. It can begin in public or even at home.
However, many questions may occur to you. For example, how can you tell if it’s allergic rhinitis, and how do you avoid it? Is there a treatment available if you’re part of the population that experiences it? Read on for more information.
What is allergic rhinitis?
Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, occurs when your immune system comes into contact with allergens in the air. These allergens or irritants are so microscopic that you can easily breathe them in through the nose and mouth.
Those allergens include plant pollen, dust, pet dander, spores, and the like. To most people, inhaling these irritants is harmless. However, for those with allergic rhinitis, the immune system may feel like the body is under attack. Because of that, it reacts by releasing a natural chemical called histamine into the body.
What are the symptoms, and what does histamine do?
Upon the release of histamine in your system, you will experience different symptoms across different body parts, especially in your respiratory organs. These can manifest into the following.
- Nasal congestion (stuffy or runny nose) as a result of excess mucus generation
- Itchiness in the throat, nose, or eyes, as well as puffiness in the eyes
- Headache or pain in the temples
- Fatigue or general discomfort
- Wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing
Although some of these symptoms can overlap with COVID, there is no need to panic. The main difference is that allergic rhinitis can be easily treated and pass quickly with medication. Meanwhile, COVID symptoms can include diarrhoea, loss of taste or smell, fever, and chest pain.
If you’re unsure about your current situation, it’s best to attend an online consultation in Singapore to be sure.
How do you treat allergic rhinitis?
Fortunately, you can treat allergic rhinitis with various allergy medications. Here is a short list of what your doctor may prescribe you.
- Antihistamines: Can be taken orally. Some are available over-the-counter.
- Decongestants: Come in pills, drops, nasal sprays, or inhalers.
- Corticosteroid: Can also come in nasal sprays.
- Allergen immunotherapy: A series of immunisation shots.
As always, it’s best to consult with your doctor first to be prescribed the suitable medicine or treatment.
Conclusion
Should you rather stay safe and remain at home instead of visiting a clinic, you can consult a virtual doctor in Singapore by downloading the MyCLNQ app now to access telemedicine in Singapore.
With our handy app, you can book an appointment easily and have quick access various to healthcare services through your smartphone! A medical professional will be happy to assist you virtually, even from the comfort of your room.