Cotton allergies: Could these 3 everyday fabrics be behind your allergy symptoms?

9th October 2024

you Cotton allergies: Could these 3 everyday fabrics be behind your allergy symptoms?

We often think of cotton as a gentle, hypoallergenic material, but for some, it can be the silent trigger behind allergy symptoms. If you’ve been dealing with itchy skin, a stuffy nose, or watery eyes, the fabrics in your home could be contributing to these issues. Let’s explore three common household fabrics that might be affecting your allergies and find some allergy-friendly alternatives to help you breathe a little easier.

1. Cotton clothing and bedding: A soft culprit?

Cotton is everywhere—your cosy bed sheets, that favourite T-shirt, or even your fluffy bath towels. But while it’s comfortable for most, cotton can irritate the skin or cause respiratory issues for some, especially due to residues from pesticides or chemicals used in fabric processing.

Allergy-friendly alternatives:

• Organic cotton: If conventional cotton is causing issues, organic cotton might be a game-changer. Grown without harsh chemicals, it’s less likely to irritate sensitive skin.
• Bamboo: Naturally hypoallergenic and moisture-wicking, bamboo fabric feels soft and cool, making it ideal for clothing and bedding.
• Silk: For those with sensitive skin, silk provides a luxurious, gentle option that’s less likely to trigger allergies. It’s smooth, soft, and naturally resistant to dust mites.

2. Upholstery and furniture fabrics: Trapped allergens everywhere

Your couch, favourite armchair, and even decorative cushions may contain cotton blends or synthetic fibres that can harbour allergens like dust mites. These common allergens can make lounging uncomfortable, bringing on sneezing fits, coughing, or even red, itchy eyes.

Allergy-friendly alternatives:

• Leather or faux leather: These non-porous materials don’t trap dust or allergens, making them a perfect choice for sofas and chairs. Plus, they’re easy to wipe clean!
• Microfiber: A tightly woven fabric, microfiber helps reduce dust buildup and is easier to maintain. It’s a smart choice for furniture, as it can be cleaned quickly and doesn’t trap allergens like traditional fabrics.

3. Cotton curtains and rugs: Hidden allergy traps

Curtains, rugs, and fabric décor might add warmth to your home, but they can also harbour dust, mould, and pollen. Cotton curtains, in particular, are magnets for dust, which can stir up allergies in those with sensitivities.

Allergy-friendly alternatives:

• Roller blinds: A chic and modern alternative to fabric curtains, roller blinds are easy to clean and less likely to collect dust and other allergens.
• Synthetic rugs: Consider nylon or polyester rugs. They’re often more hypoallergenic than cotton or wool options and can be vacuumed or wiped down easily, reducing allergen buildup.

Wondering if fabric allergies are the cause?

If you’ve tried everything but still feel the effects of allergies, you might find fabric testing could provide the answers. An allergy test can help you pinpoint specific triggers, giving you a clear path forward to an allergen-free home environment.

Take charge of your home’s comfort

Don’t let fabric allergies keep you from enjoying your space. With a few mindful swaps and a little awareness, you can create a stylish and soothing home. You don’t have to choose between the two. Why not start today? You have the option to visit our London-based allergy clinic for a comprehensive evaluation by our specialists or take advantage of our home allergy test.

Coeliac disease vs. gluten allergy

1st January 2024

Coeliac disease vs. gluten allergy

For many, the idea of a warm, crusty bread or a bowl of pasta is a source of comfort. However, for others, these ‘innocent’ indulgences can trigger a cascade of uncomfortable symptoms. The culprit? Gluten. 

Understanding the differences between the two is crucial for proper diagnosis and management.

Coeliac disease

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by eating gluten. The immune system mistakenly attacks the small intestine, leading to inflammation and damage to the internal lining. This damage impairs the absorption of nutrients, potentially causing long-term complications. 

Typically, symptoms of coeliac disease include:

• Digestive discomfort 
• Headaches
• Skin issues
• Depression and low energy
• Unexplained weight loss
• Foul-smelling stools

Self-diagnosis can be troublesome as one or more of these symptoms can show at any time. It’s essential to pay attention and notice when these symptoms are reoccurring, especially around eating gluten. 

Gluten allergy

A gluten allergy, also known as non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, shows up similarly to coeliac disease. The difference is that the body isn’t attacking itself. Regardless,  it still feels rough to experience. Typical symptoms include:

• Diarrhoea
• Tummy pain
• Fatigue
• Bloating
• Low mood and depression

Both coeliac disease and gluten allergies are significant problems in the UK. Many people suffer in silence. Currently, roughly half a million people in the UK are undiagnosed. 

This is concerning as both conditions can lead to severe consequences. If your body is attacking itself, it can stop causing malabsorption of vital nutrients, leading to unexplained weight loss and a constant state of tiredness. Skin problems can lead to infection. Take dermatitis herpetiformis, for example. This is an itchy, persistent rash that can lead to blistering lesions. Conversely, putting up with constant digestive discomfort and living through a continuous cycle of bloating, tummy aches, and diarrhoea isn’t a “normal” state of being. 

Why does this matter to me?

If you’re experiencing persistent digestive discomfort, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or the symptoms we’ve listed today after eating gluten, it’s time to explore why. Detection with an allergy test and proper management can lead to a more comfortable future. Don’t let gluten-related issues compromise your well-being. Take the first step toward a healthier, more comfortable life today.

The prospect of a gluten allergy or coeliac disease can feel daunting. It doesn’t have to be that way. Don’t delay to take the path to better health. Register as a new patient today, and let’s get to the bottom of what’s causing you discomfort. Visit our clinic in London or take a home test. Our specialists will develop a personalised action plan tailored to your specific needs, making the transition to a gluten-free life more manageable for you. 

Why are allergies and anaphylaxis on the rise in the UK? 

16th November 2023

Why are allergies and anaphylaxis on the rise in the UK? 

This year alone, the number of hospital-reported allergic reactions has doubled compared to two decades ago. In 1993, there were 12,361 admissions to English hospitals for allergies and anaphylaxis; this year alone, we’ve witnessed over 25,700 cases.

Cultural diversity 

The reason? Put simply, we’re more culturally diverse than ever. 

With a wider availability of foods worldwide, we’re increasingly exposed to allergens uncommon in the British diet. 

Specifically, legume and kiwifruit allergies are on the rise. A recent UK study testing reactions to lentils, beans, chickpeas, and green beans showed that 72% of children had an allergy to at least one. The prevalence of a kiwifruit allergy across England is as high as 60.0%, with direct skin contact being enough to trigger reactions.

Challenges in eating out

Eating and drinking out can be where the main issue lies. Despite the cost of living crisis, two in five (40%) Britons go out to eat and drink at least weekly in 2023. 

Trying new foods and flavours poses risks, especially in sauces and ingredients you’ve never encountered. Alcohol also poses a significant risk, as highlighted by a recent case involving a partygoer and pink peppercorns. The peppercorns had cross-reacted with cashew nuts, triggering her nut allergy.

The rise of artisanal-infused spirits

As artisanal-infused spirits gain popularity, botanicals, fruits, vegetables, and spices are fused into the base alcohol. Once drinks are flowing, knowing precisely what you’re consuming becomes impossible.

It’s this exposure that is contributing to the rise in allergies in England.

Preparation is key

Greater exposure means greater risk, but it doesn’t mean you must become a hermit. The best thing you can do is be prepared.

Recognising symptoms

Know what an allergy looks like. Understand the symptoms of anaphylaxis so you know what steps to take if you react to an unfamiliar allergen.

Anaphylactic shock symptoms include swelling of the throat and tongue, difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, or noisy breathing, difficulty swallowing, confusion, dizziness, fainting, and a swollen, raised, or itchy rash. If you have an EpiPen, use it immediately and call 999 for medical attention. Say “anaphylaxis” for speed, lay flat, raise your legs, and wait for medical attention. If you are pregnant, lay on your left side. 

Not all reactions are severe but don’t downplay them if you face a reaction. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Be prepared, know your triggers

Rather than leaving it to chance and reacting to anaphylaxis, it’s better to know your triggers. All restaurants are obligated to disclose ingredients, allowing you to enjoy your social life confidently.

Put your health first

The rising numbers in England underscore the severe consequences of allergies. Being prepared with knowledge about your triggers and having an Epipen dramatically reduces the potential for exposure to harm. Consider taking an allergy test to gain peace of mind.

Our allergy experts are here to guide you through the testing process and provide the support and advice you need to enjoy your life without stress. Don’t let allergies hold you back—take action now and invest in your well-being. Register as a new patient or call us at 02031 433 449 to gain confidence when enjoying your social life.

Is 2023 the time for you to get an allergy test?

14th December 2022

Is 2023 the time for you to get an allergy test?

We’re on the precipice of a new year. Oh how the time has flown by. This period of transition into a new year is a time for reflection. When they look at where they want to be in 12 months’ time, and resolve to make a change. It’s the perfect occasion to stand up and say you’re actually going to do those things you’ve been putting off.

For many, it means going to the gym, eating healthier, or making more time for themselves. But we think there’s one aspect of your health you should pay extra attention to: your potential allergies. Why not start 2023 feeling better and get an allergy test? Here’s why we think now is the perfect time.

Why take an allergy test now?

Because a new year means a new start. Also, because it’s a motivational time for many, so why not channel that into something useful? This isn’t to say you should take an allergy test if you have no symptoms. But if you have been experiencing something not quite right, and you’re struggling to put your finger on it, then it’s worth doing.

The main benefit? It can help you feel better. Maybe you’ve got a mild rash that comes or goes, or certain food turns your stomach a bit. These are the kinds of symptoms many people just get on with. But if you knew how to fight them, you wouldn’t have to deal with them anymore. You can have crystal-clear skin or feel less bloated all day.

Another good reason is it’s just safer. Knowing what you’re allergic to allows you to avoid it and the accompanying symptoms. Since some severe allergies can be fatal, being in the know is better than being in the dark.

Is there anything to worry about?

For the people who aren’t fans of going to the doctors or potentially dealing with needles, let us put your mind at ease. Allergy tests don’t have to be invasive or involve taking blood. These are options, but you’ll be glad to know about patch tests.

This is when a doctor puts patches of potential allergens on the skin to see how your body reacts to them. They have to stay there for around 48 hours before they can assess the reaction, though. A step up from this is a skin prick test. This is similar, except they make a small prick in your skin to allow the allergen to seep in. It’s mostly painless, but some do find it uncomfortable.

Of course, a blood test is likely going to be one of the better tests to take. But if you’re squeamish about this, at least go and have the conversation with your doctor or an allergy specialist to discuss your options.

What would the benefits be?

Well, you’ll be free! Free of whatever symptoms have been holding you down. And you might find it’s a huge weight off your shoulders. Even if your test comes back negative, at least you’ll be able to cross that option off your list.

We also want to stress that this is a great course of action no matter what your age. New allergies can appear seemingly out of nowhere, even as an adult. So a regular check-up is the perfect way to achieve peace of mind.

So why not start 2023 in the best way possible? As a healthy, confident person who knows what they like and don’t like. And always remember, listen to your body if you experience a new sensation. It knows what it’s talking about.

Don’t worry for a second longer. By becoming a patient with us, you have access to a team of allergy specialists who can walk you through the process and your results. Get in touch with us today on 02031 433 449.

Two big reasons to stop putting off that allergy test

12th August 2020

Two big reasons to stop putting off that allergy test

Allergies are complicated. With so many allergies out there – over 20% of the UK population suffer from one or more allergic conditions – and their ability to appear and disappear as they please, it can be difficult to separate one-off reactions from a full-fledged allergy.

That is unless you get tested.

But we get it. Getting an allergy test means scheduling an appointment, taking time out of your day to go, and waiting for results. And if you’re only suffering from minor symptoms, is it really worth it? Well, we’re here to tell you that yes, it is!

Safety

You might think your allergy is just a mild inconvenience. Maybe it’s just a stuffy nose or itchy rash that disappears on its own in a few days. But there is still potential for an allergic reaction to become dangerous. And this can happen very quickly.

In the UK, there are about 20 anaphylaxis fatalities each year. And if you aren’t even aware you have an allergy and are continuing to come into regular contact with your allergen, it can be a dangerous game to play.

Getting tested for an allergy provides confirmation of what you need to avoid. And you can stay confident that you’re safe and healthy.

Knowledge is power

Getting allergy test results allows you to take back control of your life. By knowing what to avoid, you can develop your own personalised prevention plan – a way to minimise any contact with your allergen. 

Even if your symptoms were only mild, it can be a massive relief to no longer want to scratch your skin off or to breathe through both nostrils instead of one. Allergy-proofing your environment will keep you more comfortable. And with confirmation of your allergy, you can also educate those around you to minimise your risk of contact even further.

And finally, if you’ve been unsure about what you’re reacting to, you might have avoided a whole host of possible allergens ‘just in case’. When you know what particular allergens you’re susceptible to, you can get right back to enjoying everything else you might have been avoiding.

Allergy tests are the only way to confirm exactly what your body is reacting to. And it arms you with the insight you need to minimise risk, prevent unpleasant symptoms, and take control of your allergy once and for all.

At the London Allergy & Immunology Centre, we offer expert allergy testing to get you the answers you need. If you want to book a test or find out more, get in touch on 02031 433 449.

Why everyone should be tested for allergies

14th November 2018

Why everyone should be tested for allergies

There are countless allergens in the environment and although the public has a general awareness of allergies, they, unfortunately, don’t know enough. A lot of us don’t really have a deeper understanding of how exactly allergies work. Allergens go beyond the common pollen allergies or a sneeze when around a pet dog. Often times allergens are hiding in plain sight, part of common products in everyday life such as plasters or medicine. It’s why allergy tests are so critical. We shouldn’t just expect hives, runny noses, or severe side effects like anaphylaxis as the norm. There’s a lot more to us underneath the surface.

Culture

Allergies can often go ignored and are not talked about enough. This has become evident in the way we live in the contemporary world. Many individuals opt to go gluten-free or avoid certain chemicals. While this is a personal choice and not to be judged, it has inadvertently created a culture in which allergens and intolerances are being undermined.

However, these trends could be seen to bring things like gluten allergies to the forefront of the public’s minds. Even 10 years ago not many people knew about the prevalence of gluten and gluten intolerances. It has no doubt led to more people realising they are living with a condition they didn’t realise they had. And that still may not be enough.

Risk

A factor that isn’t highlighted enough is that some allergens are often something we wouldn’t consider to be a risk. With events like Bonfire Night, Christmas, and New Year’s coming up, there’ll be a lot of fireworks. Although firework displays are fun they aren’t always fun for those with conditions like asthma, as well as those with respiratory allergies, especially if the air is damp as smoke can linger for longer.

Reactions

Another significant component of allergies to highlight is that a reaction doesn’t always occur immediately. This means that without knowing it you may experience a severe reaction later on in the day. Without knowledge about your allergies, you risk putting yourself in danger of an anaphylactic shock, which can be deadly.

Age

It’s also critical to highlight that individuals are vulnerable to developing up an allergy at any age. Even if you didn’t react at all to pollen as a child, you might be struck with a sudden case of a runny nose and watery eyes in your mid-thirties. And with more chemicals being used to grow our food and used in our cosmetics, allergy tests are essential.

Allergies need to be taken seriously and, with the right knowledge and tools, you lower the risk tenfold of danger if you are aware of your allergies. You’ll be aware of what to avoid and what to do in an emergency. We highly recommend allergy tests as soon as possible.

Request an allergy test today or contact us for more details. Find out once and for all if you really do have an allergy or not and start living a more comfortable future.

Are you nervous about your DIY home allergy test?

19th May 2018

Are you nervous about your DIY home allergy test?

Every week, we share instalments with you on allergies, how to better understand them, and what the cause might be. Recently we had a patient who (self-admittedly) made it quite difficult for her to be tested. She didn’t feel comfortable coming to the clinic. So a home allergy test kit seemed like the most viable option. She came a long way in her confidence to take the test and was kind enough to give her feedback. We thought we’d share this with those feeling hesitant about having a blood test.

Her story

“My first experience with a do-it-yourself-at-home allergy kit was horrendous. I know. It’s a weird way to start a five-star review, but I implore you to hear me out. I’ll start from the beginning.

I’m quite a stubborn individual. You’ll recognise the type; the one that rolls up their sleeves as they throw out the instructions because ‘I don’t need them’. It’s also handy to know that I am deathly afraid of needles.

After stabbing myself with all the injectors and barely a drop of blood coming out I’d convinced myself I was a vampire and it didn’t work. So I threw the kit away and thought I’d deal with the itchy skin and runny nose unaware of its cause.

Then I experienced an anaphylactic shock. Which, unsurprisingly, changed my mind. It was horrible, I was letting my dinner go down when my throat started to swell, and I could feel my airways tightening and constricting. I won’t go into the details, but it wasn’t pleasant.”

The change

“Up until this point, I’d get random bouts of allergy rashes on my hands and legs, now and then my lips would blow up like a duck in a way those craving botox would envy. It wasn’t pretty. Certain foods made me feel sick, but I’d become so used to tolerating feeling intolerant it just seemed easier to cope than to fix it.

I filled in the questionnaire on the website www.UKallergy.com and the lab sent me a home kit with a video to watch so that I could get tested properly. They were really comforting and easy to talk to about my symptoms and persuaded me – that if I follow the simple eight-step instructions – it would be easy and relatively painless.

They were right.

For one thing, I left my hands wet the first time around and so it was no wonder barely any blood could form. I didn’t stand up to let the blood circulate, and I didn’t use warm water to soften my hands first. This time, it took seconds, I got all the blood I needed with the first insertion, and really, it wasn’t that sore!

Following the instructions this time it was as they promised and I finally got the test done. I’m really grateful for the help and the support from The London Allergy and Immunology Centre.”

If you’re feeling nervous about taking your own blood for your allergy test, like patient A, there’s no need to be. We are here to help you every step of the way. Take a look at our help page. Here you’ll find step-by-step instructions and a straightforward video that will explain all. Together, we can uncover the allergens and prevent your daily discomfort.

Asthma Centre London

18th January 2018

Asthma Centre London

In our last article, we spoke about how not all wheezes require an asthma inhaler. Not to mention that allergic asthma makes up almost 60% of all asthma cases.

As allergic asthma is triggered by perennial or seasonal allergens it’s possible to fight back against the trigger. Common causes can be pets, house dust mites, pollen, or mould. The first step, of course, is to book an appointment with an allergy consultant. They can carry out a skin prick allergy test to establish what you are allergic to. Or you could have a specific IgE blood test (ISAC) done and screen for 112 allergens.

Once established, you can discuss with your consultant the immunotherapy options available to you. There are a number of asthma therapies readily available, but for the most part, these are merely coping mechanisms.

A recent study published in Allergy European Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) was carried out with the intention of establishing the effectiveness of allergen immunotherapy. The review measured the effects of both subcutaneous (SCIT) or sublingual (SLIT) routes on both; a short short-term basis, during treatment; and long-term, after discontinuation of AIT, in comparison to other methods of treatment. The patients that were studied were a variety of ages, but all had one thing in common. Each patient had a physician-confirmed diagnosis of allergic asthma. They also had a history of asthma symptoms after allergen exposure determined by a skin prick test or specific IgE.

The results

Both adults and children had the tests for sensitisation to the allergens, including trees, moulds, grass, pets, latex and weeds. The results show that AIT is an excellent remedy for those suffering from mild/moderate allergic asthma, and is the only cure that benefits the patients and reduces the symptoms by influencing the cause of the disease.

What we can take away from this review is that in some forms of allergic asthma, in addition to inhalers that help to minimise the symptoms and control the ongoing inflammatory process, desensitisation treatment can be used to influence the cause of the disease. It’s like dealing with dandelions and other weeds in your garden. You can pull the leaves and the head of the plant, but until you take its roots out of the soil, it will keep coming back for more. It’s exactly the same principle with your allergic asthma. The underlying allergic inflammation and dysregulated immune response are your pesky roots, and you need to take your trowel to them. Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is the only treatment available that actually deals with the cause of allergic asthma.

To find out more about allergen immunotherapy and to speak to one of our allergy consultants, book an appointment with us to find out more and get to the root of your allergic asthma.