Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in Atopic Dermatitis and Chronic Urticaria: Why They Matter in Modern Allergy Care

6th June 2026

Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in Atopic Dermatitis and Chronic Urticaria: Why They Matter in Modern Allergy Care

The management of chronic allergic skin conditions is evolving rapidly. Increasingly, healthcare professionals recognise that understanding how patients feel and function in daily life is just as important as measuring clinical signs and laboratory results. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are helping bridge this gap by bringing the patient’s voice directly into clinical decision-making.

Patient-reported outcome measures help clinicians understand symptom burden, quality of life and treatment response in atopic dermatitis and chronic urticaria

What Are Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs)?

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are validated questionnaires completed by patients that assess symptoms, quality of life, treatment effectiveness and the overall impact of disease on everyday activities.

Unlike laboratory tests or physical examinations, PROMs capture the aspects of disease that only patients can truly describe. This is particularly important in conditions such as atopic dermatitis (eczema) and chronic urticaria (hives), where symptom severity, itching, sleep disruption and emotional wellbeing may fluctuate significantly between clinic visits.

PROMs help clinicians better understand the burden of disease, monitor treatment response and support shared decision-making between patients and healthcare professionals.

The PROMUSE Study: Understanding Why PROMs Are Underused

A landmark international study published in the World Allergy Organization Journal in 2026 investigated why PROMs remain underused in routine clinical practice despite their recognised value.

The PROMUSE study was conducted through the international UCARE (Urticaria Centres of Reference and Excellence) and ADCARE (Atopic Dermatitis Centres of Reference and Excellence) networks and involved physicians from specialised allergy and dermatology centres worldwide.

Importantly, Professor Michael Rudenko of the London Allergy and Immunology Centre was among the international co-authors contributing to this global collaboration examining the implementation of patient-centred outcome measures in allergic skin disease.

Key Findings

• Many clinicians recognise the value of PROMs but face practical barriers to implementation.
• Time constraints remain the most commonly reported challenge.
• Many physicians believe patients dislike completing questionnaires.
• Lack of integration into electronic health systems limits routine use.
• Some clinicians feel PROMs may interfere with the doctor-patient relationship.
• The greater the number of perceived barriers, the less likely physicians are to use PROMs regularly.

Interestingly, the study found that concerns regarding patient dissatisfaction and interference with clinical interactions were among the strongest factors associated with reduced PROM use.

Professor Michael Rudenko’s Clinical Perspective

As both a co-author of the PROMUSE study and a practising Consultant Allergist and Clinical Immunologist, I believe the findings highlight an important opportunity to improve patient-centred care in allergy and dermatology.

In everyday clinical practice, many patients experience symptoms that cannot be fully appreciated through examination alone. A patient with chronic urticaria may have minimal visible hives during a consultation but may have experienced severe symptoms throughout the preceding week. Similarly, a patient with atopic dermatitis may appear clinically improved while still suffering from significant itching, sleep disruption and reduced quality of life.

PROMs provide a structured way to capture these experiences and ensure they become part of the clinical conversation.

Importantly, PROMs should never replace clinical judgement or specialist assessment. Rather, they should complement traditional medical evaluation by helping clinicians understand the patient’s perspective more accurately.

The most effective PROMs are simple, relevant and easy to complete. They should focus on outcomes that matter most to patients while providing meaningful information that can guide treatment decisions.

Modern medicine is increasingly moving towards personalised and precision healthcare. In this context, understanding how a disease affects an individual’s daily life is becoming just as important as measuring objective disease activity.

Future developments are likely to include digital symptom tracking, integration with electronic health records, mobile health applications and more sophisticated patient-centred outcome measures developed with direct patient involvement.

Ultimately, successful allergy care requires both scientific expertise and a clear understanding of the patient’s lived experience. PROMs can help bridge that gap and support better outcomes for patients with chronic allergic diseases.

Professor Michael Rudenko MD PhD FAAAAI
Consultant Allergist and Clinical Immunologist
London Allergy and Immunology Centre

PROMs in Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis affects millions of people worldwide and often causes substantial physical and psychological burden. Symptoms such as itching, sleep disturbance, skin pain, embarrassment and reduced self-confidence may significantly impact daily life.

PROMs help clinicians understand:

• Severity of itching
• Sleep quality
• Impact on work and school performance
• Emotional wellbeing
• Treatment satisfaction
• Long-term disease control

By incorporating patient-reported outcomes into routine care, clinicians can gain a more complete picture of disease burden and treatment effectiveness.

PROMs in Chronic Urticaria

Chronic urticaria is characterised by recurrent hives, swelling (angioedema) or both. Symptoms may fluctuate unpredictably and can have a major impact on quality of life.

Patient-reported outcome measures are particularly useful for:

• Assessing symptom control over time
• Evaluating treatment effectiveness
• Monitoring disease activity between visits
• Supporting treatment optimisation
• Identifying patients who require escalation of therapy

Several validated urticaria-specific questionnaires are now widely used in clinical research and specialist practice.

The Future of Patient-Centred Allergy Care

The future of allergy and dermatology care will increasingly focus on combining clinical expertise with patient-reported outcomes, digital health technologies and shared decision-making.

The PROMUSE study suggests that while barriers remain, clinicians and healthcare systems have an opportunity to redesign PROM implementation in a way that is both efficient and meaningful for patients.

Importantly, future PROM development should involve patients directly, ensuring that questionnaires reflect the outcomes that matter most to those living with allergic disease.

When Should You See an Allergy Specialist?

You may benefit from specialist assessment if you experience:

• Persistent eczema despite treatment
• Chronic hives lasting longer than six weeks
• Recurrent angioedema
• Sleep disturbance caused by skin symptoms
• Reduced quality of life due to allergic disease
• Uncertainty regarding diagnosis or treatment options

A specialist allergy assessment can help establish an accurate diagnosis, optimise treatment and identify factors contributing to persistent symptoms.

References

Cherrez-Ojeda I, Robles-Velasco K, Giménez-Arnau A, et al. Why physicians underuse patient-reported outcomes in atopic dermatitis and chronic urticaria: Insights from the UCARE/ADCARE PROMUSE study. World Allergy Organization Journal. 2026;19:101398.

Additional references available upon request.

Travelling with allergies: How to tell the difference between allergies and illness

13th June 2024

Travelling with allergies: How to tell the difference between allergies and illness

Travelling is a rite of passage. It’s always an exciting adventure to experience new places rich with unique foods, spaces, flavours, textures, and cultures. However, this excitement can sometimes come with unexpected and uncomfortable health symptoms. Travelling with allergies can be frustrating, especially when you don’t realise you have them.

Understanding whether these symptoms are due to allergies or illnesses can help you enjoy your trip to the fullest. Here’s a guide to help you differentiate between the two.

Itchy eyes

• Allergy: When visiting Japan during cherry blossom season, you might experience itchy eyes due to pollen allergies.
• Illness: In contrast, itchy eyes in a crowded city like New Delhi could indicate an eye infection, particularly if accompanied by redness and discharge.

Stomach discomfort

• Allergy: Trying spicy street food in Thailand might cause stomach discomfort if you have a food allergy, such as to certain spices or shellfish.
• Illness: On the other hand, stomach discomfort in Mexico could be a sign of foodborne illness or traveller’s diarrhoea, especially if accompanied by fever and vomiting.

Skin rashes

• Allergy: In the Mediterranean, sun exposure combined with new skincare products might trigger a photodermatitis allergy, causing a rash.
• Illness: In tropical regions like Brazil, a skin rash might be due to an insect bite or infection, especially if it spreads or is accompanied by other symptoms like fever.

Respiratory issues

• Allergy: Visiting a city with high pollution levels, such as Beijing, can worsen respiratory allergies. Look for symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath.
• Illness: Similar symptoms in a place with a high prevalence of respiratory infections, like during flu season, might indicate an illness.

Take control of your health

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned, it might be a good time to consider allergy testing. Allergy tests can help determine the specific triggers causing your discomfort, allowing for targeted management strategies. Our testing methods are precise and patient-friendly, providing you with the knowledge you need to improve your quality of life.

Don’t let unexplained symptoms control your life. By identifying the underlying issues, you can embark on a path to better health, comfort, and peace of mind. Take one of our tests today or register as a new patient to take the first step towards feeling more awake and in control of your health.

Foods with hidden lactose

26th February 2024

Many

Foods with hidden lactose

Isn’t it interesting what we put off when it comes to our health? It’s almost become an inside joke that Googling health symptoms often leads to overblown conclusions. The same reluctance applies to visiting the doctor. Long wait times and the difficulty of taking time off work are deterrents. Plus, sometimes, we don’t want to face potentially bad news. In fact, two-thirds of Brits delay doctor visits due to fear of receiving bad news. Instead, they try self-soothing with home remedies or embark on elimination diets based on guesswork.

Lactose intolerance is often self-managed without a proper diagnosis and plan. The challenge is that avoiding lactose is more complex than just steering clear of traditional dairy products. Lesser-known sources of lactose can inadvertently sneak into the diet, undermining these efforts.

The health concerns of sneaky lactose

Persistently consuming lactose when you’re intolerant can worsen symptoms and negatively impact your well-being. Severe diarrhoea can lead to significant health problems, including nutritional deficiencies, unintended weight loss, and even anaemia.

These symptoms can also cause dehydration. In severe cases, acute kidney injury is due to insufficient fluid absorption. Moreover, relying solely on dairy products for calcium intake can be risky for those with lactose intolerance. Calcium is crucial for healthy bones and preventing osteoporosis, so it’s vital to include alternative calcium sources, such as calcium-rich plant-based foods and fortified products, in your diet.

Hidden lactose

If you’re actively avoiding lactose, here are some foods with hidden lactose to watch out for:

• Bread and baked goods: Many store-bought breads, pastries, and baked goods contain milk powder, whey, or butter, adding lactose to these products.
• Cereal: Many brands coat their breakfast cereals with milk or contain milk-based additives.
• Processed meats: Deli slices, sausages, and hot dogs may contain lactose as a binder or flavour enhancer.
• Soup: Tomato- or vegetable-based instant soups and mixes can have milk powder or cream for thickening or flavour.
• Crisps: Flavoured crisps and similar snacks often use milk or cheese powder for seasoning.
• Cooking kits and seasoning sachets: With the rise of convenient cooking solutions, many ready-to-use kits and sachets contain milk. For instance, the Maggi So Juicy range’s Sweet and Sticky BBQ mix includes milk.
• Medications and supplements: Some prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as dietary supplements, may use lactose as a filler or binding agent. With a diagnosis, your doctor knows to prescribe medication suitable for you. Without it, it’s challenging to know whether or not your medications and supplements are lactose-free.

Do you suspect you’re lactose intolerant? 

Navigating a lactose-free diet can be tricky. Especially due to lactose’s unexpected presence in various foods. Being vigilant about reading labels and understanding ingredients is key. But there’s more to it. Lactose intolerance needn’t be daunting, but it can lead to underlying health issues if undetected. To be safe, getting an allergy test is a wise step for definitive answers.

If you’re nervous about having a test for suspected lactose intolerance, rest assured you’re in safe hands. Reacting adversely to lactose isn’t something you need to face by yourself. Register as a new patient today, and let’s start the process of helping you feel better. 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.

Gluten explained

12th January 2024

Gluten can feel tricky to get your head around. Let’s run through it together to understand the effect of gluten on your body.

Gluten explained

As our shelves and restaurant menus fill up with “gluten-free” options, there are rising concerns around gluten. Often painted in a bad light, gluten can feel tricky to get your head around, let alone work out if you can eat it or not. To cut through the noise, let’s explore gluten and its impact together. 

What is gluten?

In its simplest form, gluten is a naturally occurring protein. Typically, it’s found in a number of grains, such as wheat, rye, spelt, and barley.

Therefore, you’re likely to find it in a number of staples, such as bread and pasta. As the rise of processed and on-the-go foods continues to grow, gluten is increasingly being used in other foods such as soups, sauces, drinks, cosmetics, nutritional supplements, and processed meats. With more uses comes more cases of reactions for people with diets and lifestyles that might not typically include the usual gluten culprits. 

When gluten doesn’t agree with you

The rise of being “gluten-free” out of choice as a diet supports a narrative that gluten is bad for you. Humans have been eating gluten for as long as we’ve been cooking and producing foods from grains. Gluten isn’t bad for all people, but it’s also not suitable for all people, depending on how your body digests the protein. When things go well, gluten can be an excellent protein source. When things go not so well, it could be the culprit behind a number of painful issues. 

Typically, if your body is reacting badly to gluten, you could either be experiencing:

• Celiac disease; or 
• Gluten intolerance (non-celiac sensitivity) 

The difference between the two is that celiac disease is when your body’s defence system (immune system) is triggered when you eat gluten, and your body starts to attack itself. In contrast, intolerance (non-celiac sensitivity) is when your body doesn’t like gluten, but it’s not reacting in the same way as celiac disease. It can still feel painful and make your stomach and body feel bad, though, so it’s not any less relevant, whichever one may be affecting you. 

How do you know you’re reacting badly to gluten?

Signs of a negative response to gluten usually develop within minutes to hours after being eaten and can often include a combination of:

• Anaemia (low red blood cell count)
• Bone pain or osteoporosis
• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
• Delayed Growth in Children
• Depression and Anxiety
• Digestive issues, such as diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, abdominal pain, gas, fatigue
• Headaches
• Infertility or miscarriages
• Irritability
• Joint pain
• Migraines
• Mouth ulcers
• Muscle pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Skin problems such as eczema, rashes, dermatitis herpetiformis
• Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
• Weight loss

Do you suspect a negative gluten response?

Our approach to managing allergies is personalised and tailored to your specific needs. If gluten is causing you problems, we’ll work with you to develop a treatment plan that may include dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and expert guidance on how to live a gluten-free life while maintaining good nutrition.

Understanding gluten can feel overwhelming, but it’s not something you have to go through alone. Don’t hesitate to take the next steps towards better health. Register as a new patient today, and let’s start the process of helping you feel better. 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.

6 items that surprisingly aren’t gluten-free

6th January 2024

6 items that surprisingly aren’t gluten-free

So you’ve recently discovered you either suffer from coeliac disease or a gluten allergy and now you’re adjusting to a gluten-free life. 

That’s easy, right? If gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, then by avoiding those grains, you’re all good. 

Yes and no. If you really were sticking to a clean diet and lifestyle where you made your own products and cooked everything from scratch with complete visibility of where all your food and product ingredients come from, then yes, navigating coeliac disease or a gluten allergy really can be that simple. 

However, the reality is that for most people, it is less organic than we’d like it to be. Sometimes, it’s easier to grab a store-bought sauce or pop out for dinner as a treat, and most of us buy our bathroom products from a shop. 

While the apparent gluten culprits, such as bread and pasta, are easy to cut out, some unexpected sources of gluten might catch you off guard.

One of the more interesting triggers we found is that gluten isn’t only in food products anymore. We gathered some of the top items with hidden gluten for you to keep an eye out for. 

1 – Make-up

We were most surprised by make-up being at risk of containing gluten. 

Namely, you’ll find these in:

• Lip products
• Foundation and face powder; and
• Hair care 

Lipsticks, lip balms, and lip glosses may contain ingredients derived from wheat or other gluten-containing grains. These products can be inadvertently ingested when applied to the lips. Conversely, some foundations and face powders may include gluten-containing binders or additives. These products can come in contact with the skin and, in some cases, cause skin reactions. There’s been an increase in wheat products being used in shampoos, conditioners, and hair styling products. While hair care is unlikely to be consumed (we hope not), if you have sensitive skin, contact with the scalp can be problematic.

2- Supplements

Health supplements are another sneaky mask of gluten. While our stance is to try to get your vitamins directly from the food source, it can be more complex. Some nutritional supplements, including vitamins and minerals, use gluten as a filler or binder in their formulations. Some herbal alternatives specifically contain forms of gluten. Look out for wheatgrass or barley grass. Protein powder typically contains gluten-based additives or flavourings.

3- Sauces and dressings 

Salads are often considered a safe haven for those avoiding gluten, but the dressings can be a hidden culprit. Many commercial salad dressings use wheat-based thickeners or malt vinegar, both of which contain gluten—soy sauce – a staple in many Asian dishes – is traditionally made with wheat. 

4- Processed meats

When you’re avoiding grains, you wouldn’t expect meat to cause an issue. However, certain processed meats, such as sausages, hot dogs, and deli meats, may contain gluten as fillers or binders. Be cautious with pre-marinated meats as well, as the marinades may contain gluten-based ingredients. In extreme cases of gluten intolerance, consider the diet of the meat you’re consuming. Cheaper meat is more likely to be on a heavily grain-fed diet. 

5 -Imitation seafood

Fish isn’t where you’d expect to find gluten, but artificial variants are likely to contain it. Some imitation seafood products, such as crab sticks or artificial crab, contain gluten as a binding agent. 

6 – Chips and roast potatoes

While potatoes themselves are naturally gluten-free, the preparation process of chips and roast potatoes can introduce gluten. Some restaurants coat their chips and potatoes with flour or use a shared fryer for both gluten-containing and gluten-free items. 

Managing your adverse reaction to gluten

While not everyone with a gluten allergy or coeliac disease will experience adverse reactions to gluten-containing cosmetics or supplements, you need to be aware of these potential sources of gluten exposure. Manufacturers are becoming increasingly attentive to gluten-free labelling in the cosmetics and supplements industry.

Maintaining a gluten-free lifestyle requires a vigilant approach, as gluten can hide in unexpected places. By carefully reading labels and choosing whole, unprocessed foods, you can enjoy a diverse and flavorful diet without the worry of gluten surprises. Being aware of these less obvious sources of gluten empowers you to make informed choices and embrace a gluten-free lifestyle with confidence.

If you’re unsure if you are allergic to gluten

If you’re eating these foods with unfavourable consequences, there is a chance what you’re experiencing is an undiagnosed gluten intolerance or coeliac disease. Underdiagnosis of coeliac disease is a significant problem, and it is estimated around half a million people in the UK are currently undiagnosed. Sometimes, the worry of a lifestyle overhaul can stop you from getting tested. Don’t let it. 

If you’re yet to diagnose an issue with gluten but you can relate to the experiences we describe in our blog, why not take a test and find out for yourself today? Register as a new patient today, and let’s start the process of helping you feel better. 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. 

Will my baby have the same allergies as me?

7th December 2023

Will my baby have the same allergies as me?

Navigating life with allergies, from meticulous label-reading to pre-checking restaurant menus, becomes a well-honed skill. As an expectant mother, the question naturally arises: “Will my baby have the same allergies as me?” It’s a common concern among moms-to-be, which can feel worrying. 

We wanted to give you some peace of mind that it doesn’t have to feel that way. 

The reality is that allergies can have the potential families. If you’ve been careful to avoid certain things to stay allergy-free, you might be wondering if your little one will face the same challenges.

The honest answer is perhaps…but there’s no real hard or fast rule to say they will either way. It depends on two major factors.

Nature

Understanding allergies and how they’re passed down is like a family recipe. Your genes are the ingredients, and yes, they play a part. If one parent has allergies, there’s a higher chance your baby child might, too, and it’s even higher if both you and your partner have them. But it’s not a guarantee. While genes play a significant role, they’re not the only influence factor as to whether or not your baby will have allergies. 

Nurture

The environment your baby grows up in matters, too. Exposure to allergens can either build up protection, making allergies less severe or delayed or rendering them more sensitive later on. It’s a delicate dance between genetics and surroundings.

What does this mean for you as a parent? 

For parents, it’s a balancing act. While you can’t predict allergies, taking a test to identify potential triggers can provide peace of mind. Raising your child while being mindful of signs of allergies, especially in the early years, is a proactive approach. If allergies do emerge, it’s not anyone’s fault; it’s the result of the intricate interplay between nature and nurture.

Signs your baby might have an allergy 

Any child can develop allergies at any time, whether you or your partner have them or not. Sometimes, they’re just fleeting as your little one is growing. Cows’ milk, for example, is something a high percentage of infants are allergic to. Over 90% of children will become tolerant of milk by age 6.

The best you can do to manage symptoms is first to be aware of them:

• hives or rashes
• itching
• wheezing or shortness of breath
• red, itchy, and/or watery eyes
• coughing and/or wheezing
• runny nose
• sneezing

If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to take action. By taking a test, you can figure out precisely what might be causing the issues, and with guidance, you’ll have an action plan to help you manage the symptoms. Armed with this info, you can create a home that’s comfy and safe for your little one.

As you step into this journey of parenthood, know that you and your child, with a bit of help from our in-house paediatrician, will figure it out together. Many parents fear the process of diagnosis and worry about what comes next. 

Your concerns about your baby’s health are entirely valid, but facing allergies with infants isn’t as daunting as it seems. At our London-based allergy and immunology centre, we understand that the well-being of your baby is your top priority. Our experienced paediatrician is here to provide compassionate support and guidance. If you suspect your baby has a cow’s milk allergy or if you’re unsure about the symptoms you’re witnessing, register as a new patient today and let’s start the process of helping your baby feel better.

Navigating Christmas allergies

28th November 2023

Navigating Christmas allergies

It’s official. We’ve seen the Coca-Cola truck, Mariah Carey has defrosted, and Michael Buble is on the radio: Christmas is here. 

That means so is party season. Wearing our warmest jackets, we head out to the Christmas markets with our loved ones, huddled over mulled wine and overpriced but tasty cheese purchases. Boozy Christmas parties and catching up with friends and family, old and new, await us. 

With the holiday season just around the corner, many of us eagerly anticipate the joyous festivities that come with Christmas. 

However, amidst the twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the aroma of seasonal treats, it’s essential to be aware of potential allergens that could turn the most wonderful time of the year into a season of discomfort. 

When you’re breaking your familiar routine of the previous 11 months, and you’re in new environments, perhaps you’re meeting the future in-laws for the first time; you increase your exposure to unfamiliar triggers. This can lead to unexpected allergic reactions. 

As we approach the festive season, we wanted to give you a heads-up on common Christmas allergens, how to differentiate allergy symptoms from cold-related sickness, and what you can do to pave the way for more comfortable future celebrations.

Common Christmas allergens

Christmas trees

While the majestic presence of a real Christmas tree may evoke the holiday spirit, it can also bring unwelcome allergens such as mould spores and pollen into your home. If you think Christmas trees are a trigger for you, consider opting for an artificial tree to minimise exposure.

Ornaments and decorations

Dust and mould can accumulate on stored decorations throughout the year. Give them a thorough cleaning before decking the halls to avoid triggering allergies when unpacking.

Festive foods

Nuts, shellfish, and dairy are frequently present in holiday dishes. If you or your loved ones have food allergies, be vigilant about ingredient labels and cross-contamination in shared spaces. 

Poinsettias and holly

These classic Christmas plants can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Keep them out of reach if you have small children or pets prone to exploring.

Scented candles and potpourri

The enticing aromas of holiday candles and potpourri may hide potential irritants. Opt for unscented or hypoallergenic alternatives to create a cosy atmosphere without compromising your respiratory health.

Spotting allergies vs. cold-related illness

It can be challenging to distinguish between allergy symptoms and those of a cold, especially during the winter months. Allergy symptoms typically include:

• Itchy eyes and nose: Allergies often cause itching, which is less common in colds.
• Sudden onset: Cold symptoms usually develop gradually, while allergies can strike suddenly.
• Duration: Colds generally resolve within one to two weeks, whereas allergies may persist as long as the allergen is present.
• Fever: Allergies rarely cause a fever, whereas colds often do.

Taking Action

If you suspect you have Christmas-related allergies, taking a simple allergy test can provide valuable insights into your triggers. 

Armed with this information, you can take proactive measures to minimise exposure, such as choosing allergy-friendly decorations, communicating dietary restrictions at gatherings, and creating an allergy-conscious holiday environment.

This Christmas season, give yourself the gift of a joyful and symptom-free celebration. By getting tested and understanding your allergies, you can plan and ensure that future Christmases are filled with the warmth and joy that the season deserves. Don’t let allergies dampen your holiday spirit—take the necessary steps to make this and every Christmas a truly merry and 

allergy-free occasion.

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 make your future Christmasses as comfortable as they should be.

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.

Does my baby have an allergy to cow’s milk?

6th November 2023

Does my baby have an allergy to cow milk?

Parenthood is a journey filled with wonder and joy, but it also comes with its fair share of concerns and challenges. “What does that cry mean?” “Am I doing it right?” “What’s that rash?” These are just some of the many questions you may have already antagonised over as a new parent. “Does my baby have an allergy to cow milk?” is up there too. 

Having an allergy to cow’s milk is common in babies.  Especially when they’re bottle-fed. In the first year of life between 1.8% and 7.5% of infants are reactive to the protein. The good news is, it’s not always an issue for life. By age 3, more than 75% of children will have outgrown their milk allergy, and over 90% of children will become tolerant of milk by age 6.

Recognising the symptoms

Most allergies or intolerances will show up similarly. If you notice signs of colic (excessive crying when you can’t for the life of you figure out why), vomiting, diarrhoea, eczema, and extreme fussiness, it could be a sign that something is causing your baby discomfort. It can often take time for these symptoms to appear and they gradually worsen.

Test for the issue

Once you spot that there is an issue, the next best step is to test to understand the cause of the issue. It could be an allergy to cow’s milk, or it could be something else. Once you are able to identify the cause of the issue, you can take steps to help your baby feel better. 

What the future looks like when your baby has a cow milk allergy 

Many parents fear the process of diagnosis and worry about what comes next. Your concerns about your baby’s health and potential cow’s milk allergy are entirely valid but management isn’t as daunting as it seems. Managing a cow’s milk allergy in an infant often involves a change to their diet. Rather than relying solely on online sources or self-diagnosis, it’s better to get expert advice so that you can better plan what’s next. A qualified paediatrician will guide you on suitable formula options, breastfeeding techniques, and the introduction of solid foods that are free from cow’s milk that give your baby a better quality of life. 

At our London-based allergy and immunology centre, we understand that the well-being of your baby is your top priority. Our experienced paediatrician is here to provide compassionate support and guidance. If you suspect your baby has a cow’s milk allergy or if you’re unsure about the symptoms you’re witnessing, register as a new patient today and let’s start the process of helping your baby feel better.