It’s not always fun in the sun: watch out for allergies at the beach

5th July 2023

It’s not always fun in the sun: watch out for allergies at the beach

In the UK, we have to make the most of summer while we have it. And we’ve been fortunate this year to see a lot of sun – with hopefully plenty more to come. That sunshine has kicked many of us into gear, inspiring us to get outside and enjoy the good weather. The first place plenty of people will head to? The beach.

Whether it’s sunnier shores in another country or right here on our lovely British coasts, the beach is always a great place to go. Even with all the sand getting everywhere. But what does this mean for your allergies? Here are some you need to be mindful of this summer.

The sun

As strange as it sounds, people can be “allergic” to the sun. There are a couple of ways this could come about, but we want to highlight one in particular: polymorphic light eruption. This is a scientific way of describing a rash on your skin after being exposed to the sun, very similar to an allergy.

Symptoms include an itchy or burning rash which can happen in mere hours, but can also take up to 2 to 3 days to turn up. And this can last for up to 2 weeks. It happens when the UV light touches our skin. The thought is that it alters something on the surface, which our immune system then reacts to. To combat it, stay in the shade when you can.

Sun cream

You could also protect yourself with sun cream, but this may cause issues itself. This will be a form of dermatitis – when your skin reacts to something it doesn’t agree with. It can be caused by an allergy. You might be allergic to something in the sun cream, causing your skin to break out in a rash or aggressive red patches.

Alternatively, it could be irritant contact dermatitis, which is more common in people with a history of eczema or sensitive skin. Symptoms will be similar and are more of a reaction to the sun cream as a whole rather than any one ingredient.

Pollen

Yes, pollen can still affect you at the beach. Many people assume that the coast is pollen-free. It is true that the sea breeze is more likely to blow it away, and the moisture in the air is going to give it less room to travel. But that doesn’t mean it’s gone for good.

Ragweed pollen has been found 400 miles out to sea. And up to two miles up in the air! It’s impossible to escape it forever. So don’t think you can skip out on your antihistamine this time.

Insects

We talked about insects not too long ago, and they’re just as likely to turn up at the beach. You also have beach-specific insects that live in the sand. If you’re lying on a towel on the ground, you may come into contact with them, and their bites might trigger your symptoms.

Not to mention the fact that people love to bring packed lunches with them to the beach, attracting wasps and bees who want a taste. If you know you have an insect allergy, don’t drop your guard and be as vigilant as you would usually be.

With all this said, there’s no reason you can’t enjoy your day at the beach. Have fun, get some sun, and eat an ice cream for us. Just make sure you’re doing it in the safest way possible.

If you ever have any allergy concerns, you can always talk to one of our allergy specialists. We can help you navigate the ins and outs of your condition and allow you to live the best life possible. Just call us on 02031 433 449 or register as a new patient here.

How to conquer your allergy anxieties before you go on holiday

24th May 2023

How to conquer your allergy anxieties before you go on holiday

It’s around that time of year when many of us are thinking about the summer. In particular, escaping the often dreary British Isles for somewhere much sunnier. Over the coming months, we’re sure many of you will be dusting off the suitcases and getting ready to head abroad. Have an ice cream for us.

But while travelling is stressful for practically everyone, there is a certain group for whom it is anxiety-inducing. You may be one of them. Yes, you might have an allergy, and stepping outside of your comfort zone means having to navigate any potential reactions. It can be scary – especially with life-threatening food allergies – but we don’t want you to worry. Here’s how you can handle your holiday allergy anxieties every step of the way.

Before your flight

The more prepared you are, the more you can put your mind at ease. You can always look up allergy information before you leave. There are two main places to look for this: on the airport website and on your airline’s website. Both may have different policies.

If you have any questions, you could even reach out to them ahead of time to make them aware of your allergies and ask how best to navigate them. The airline in particular might be one to look into more, as you will be stuck in the air for hours and you don’t want an allergic reaction thousands of feet in the sky.

Other than that, prepare yourself in any way you can. Make sure you have all the medication you need and the appropriate paperwork to get it through customs. Build up an allergy kit if you don’t already have one. When you have it all ready in front of you, it can help calm you down.

At the airport

This is where you can put some of your pre-flight research into action. You should know how the airport handles allergies and navigate them as you can. For example, by looking at their website ahead of time, you can see what food options are available while you wait for your flight. Choose something you know you’ll be okay with. Preferably from a chain because they should have similar food preparation procedures.

While you’re at the airport, let staff know about your allergies. Key people to tell would be the airline representative at check-in and the person checking your boarding pass as you board the plane. These will be as close to direct contact as you can get before you set off. If you can prepare them, they can hopefully prepare themselves.

In the air

You should also let cabin crew know when you’re in the air so they can retrieve any allergy advice, if they have any. To avoid any mistakes, bring your own snacks on the plane. You likely won’t be able to get them through customs, so buy them while you’re at the airport. There should be plenty of time to do your due diligence and check ingredients before you set off.

In the case of emergencies, have someone familiar with the medication. If you have an anaphylactic shock, you want someone who can administer your epinephrine shot in the case you can’t do it yourself. If you’re flying with someone you know, it can be them. But if you’re flying solo, ask the cabin crew if they have anyone trained to do it. In the event they don’t, you can always teach them.

None of this should be a burden on your shoulder, but it’s part of living with a food allergy. But that doesn’t mean your allergy anxieties have to control you and stop you from having a holiday. Be prepared, do your research, and go enjoy the sun for a week or two!

For all of your allergy concerns – including advice on how to handle your allergies abroad – reach out to our team. Our allergists are always more than happy to help. Register as a new patient today or call us on 02031 433 449.

Three tips for flying with an allergy

31st August 2022

Three tips for flying with an allergy

We’re now in the peak of holiday season. Many people are jetting off to faraway destinations to get some summer sun, sea, and relaxation. But travelling can be a stressful time. Navigating a busy airport, trying to stay under the luggage limit, not losing your passport. There’s a lot to worry about. And this stress and worry is only magnified if you struggle with an allergy.

For allergy sufferers, flights can bring a lot of anxiety. You’re confined for hours in a small space with little to no control over what food or environmental allergens you might be exposed to. And you just need to look at the stats. 9% of peanut allergy sufferers report experiencing a reaction on a flight.

But the last thing you want is for your allergies to prevent you from seeing the world. So whether you’ve got a holiday coming up soon, or want some reassurance before booking your next getaway, here’s our advice for flying with an allergy.

Do your research

A lot of the work to allergy-proof your trip should be done before you even step foot on the plane. Or even in the airport! Every airline will have their own policy on food allergies. So if you’re a sufferer, you’re going to want to do your research ahead of time.

Have a read of your chosen airline’s policies and make sure you feel comfortable with the protections they have in place. If you have any questions or want clarification, get in touch with them well in advance, preferably before confirming your booking. 

And if you’re not comfortable with what you read, explore other providers and airlines until you find one that meets your needs and expectations. It’s always better to spend a little extra time planning your trip than an eight-hour flight spent in panic mode. Also worth noting is that the airline you book through might not always be the one providing or managing the plane. So a few extra calls might be needed to confirm you’ll be good to go. 

Communicate, communicate, communicate

To make your journey as smooth as possible, you’re going to have to communicate with airport and airline staff. A lot. Perhaps you’ve requested to sit in a particular part of the plane or to board early. Even if you’ve arranged this ahead of time, you might want to get to the airport in good time just to confirm that the airline is aware of and ready to accommodate your requests.

You also can’t be too careful. So communicate with staff about your allergy at every stage of your journey. Before and during boarding, while ordering any food, before eating it, or if you start to feel any tingles or sniffles coming on. This way, you can reduce your risk of experiencing a reaction mid-flight. 

Try not to worry about repeating yourself or being demanding of staff. The priority is making you as comfortable and safe as possible for the duration of your flight. 

Keep your allergy emergency kit close 

We broke down what to include in your allergy emergency kit here. But when it comes to flying specifically, you’re going to want to keep it as close as possible. Your medications are no use to you from the luggage hold, so everything you need should stay in your hand luggage. 

Always bring more than you think you’ll need. You never know when you’ll be hit with a delay or lost luggage. And let anyone you’re travelling with – or cabin crew if you’re alone – know where your medications are and what you might need, just in case you experience a severe reaction. Also, keep medications in their original packaging where possible. This could help to reduce any dramas during airport security or bag checks.

Flying can be an exciting time. You’ve been looking forward to your holiday for months and the time has finally come. But as an allergy sufferer, you have a few extra things to think about in the lead-up. Follow these tips and you’ll be able to ensure a safe, smooth, and enjoyable flight every time.

If you have any questions about your allergies or intolerances, or what they mean for travelling, feel free to talk to one of our allergists today. Just call us on 02031 433 449, or register as a new patient.

Tips for travelling abroad with food allergies

13th April 2022

Tips for travelling abroad with food allergies

We all need a break sometimes. Actually, we all deserve a break. A chance to get away, put our feet up, drink in hand, and just while away the hours. For many of us, there’s nothing better than taking a trip abroad and soaking up the sun by the pool. Add in some good food and you have an amazing experience on your hands.

But travelling abroad is going to be a scary time for anyone with food allergies. Dealing with them at home is awkward enough. But put in a language barrier and it gets much worse. That doesn’t mean you have to miss out. You can still enjoy that special vacation. Here are our top tips for travelling abroad with food allergies.

Tip 1 – Plan, plan, plan

Of course, any holiday is going to require lots of planning. But when someone with a food allergy is involved, there are some extra preparations you’ll want to think about. The country you choose is obviously a huge factor, but when considering your food allergy needs, where you go is important.

You don’t want to be in the middle of nowhere, far away from a hospital. So look at more populated areas. And see where the nearest hospital is to your hotel of choice. If you’re in an emergency, it helps to know where to go.

Tip 2 – Research the culture

Part of the joy of travelling abroad is taking in a new culture. But you might want to look into this ahead of time to see what their cuisine is like.

Certain countries and cultures will rely on different ingredients in their meals. Italy is known for its pasta, which means you might see a lot of egg and dairy products in their food. Coastal towns and cities might have a higher abundance of fish. This is going to affect what you can eat. Even if it’s not the main part of the meal, these ingredients might work their way in there.

Tip 3 – Consider self-catering

As great as an all-inclusive resort might be, that’s less control you have over meals. Going on a self-catering holiday gives you the chance to choose what you eat. It’s not uncommon to see families go this route so they can save costs by preparing their own breakfasts and lunches.

You can even take some food with you in your suitcase, allowing you to vet ingredients beforehand. Check ahead of time what you can and can’t take with you, especially as the UK is now out of the EU. Otherwise, you can shop while you’re there. For labels with ingredients in another language, there are some nifty apps you can get that translate automatically just by pointing your camera at the product.

Tip 4 – Crossing the language barrier

Speaking of which, the language barrier is going to be an issue. If you’re out at a restaurant, it can be hard to guarantee you or your loved one is safe. Other countries might not have as strict an approach to food allergies either.

Going back to tip 1, this will require some preparation. It will be well worth getting to grips with the language and learning some key phrases. You can also have some allergy advice cards printed off ahead of time to give out to restaurant staff. These will let them know, in their own language, what you can and can’t have.

It’s going to be a challenge. But you shouldn’t let it hold you back from enjoying yourself. There are steps you can take to have fun and be safe at the same time. So if you’re thinking about a holiday abroad, keep these tips in mind.

If you’re ever unsure about what to do, talk to an allergy specialist. They can pass on helpful advice that can keep you safe and put your mind at ease. Our team is always happy to help. Get in touch with us today on 02031 433 449 to find out more.

Christmas food allergies: what to look out for

8th December 2021

Christmas food allergies: what to look out for

If you ask people what their favourite part of the festive season is, a good majority will no doubt say the food. In fact, 75% of Brits just can’t wait to gorge themselves on a Christmas feast!

But for people with food allergies, it can be another minefield – especially if you have to trust someone else to do the cooking. And which of your favourite dishes can you even eat? Let’s look at some of the likely foods you’ll have piling up on your plate and what potential allergens they might contain.

Stuffing

The perfect accompaniment to a few slices of turkey, stuffing is a staple around the Christmas dinner table. But a key ingredient is often breadcrumbs, which will affect those with a gluten intolerance.

And depending on the kind of stuffing, it may also have traces of nuts and festive fruits, such as cranberries. You can make your own stuffing and substitute the breadcrumbs with cornmeal or quinoa, and replace the nuts with dried fruits (as long as you aren’t allergic to them).

Sauces and gravy

What would the meal be without a sauce or gravy lavished over it all? But make sure to triple-check the ingredients as you never know what’s in them.

Whether it’s cranberry sauce or a meat gravy, they can be embellished with extras such as nuts to give it that extra texture. They could also have other types of fruit that you may be allergic to.

Christmas pudding

Many people love to round out the Christmas dinner with a traditional pudding. But there are plenty of ingredients that could be in there that you need to look out for. This also goes for all kinds of desserts you might dig into.

Of course, when it comes to cake, flour is a major ingredient. This isn’t great news for people with gluten sensitivities. A Christmas pudding is also likely to be stuffed with various fruits, nuts, and dairy.

It might be worth a trip down the free-from aisle at your local supermarket (if they have one). Around this time of year, they’ll no doubt have a range of festive treats sure to be free of certain allergens. Take a good look at the ingredients to see which best suits you.

There’s no reason you shouldn’t be safe to dig into your Christmas feast this year. With some extra vigilance – and some elbow grease if you’re making your own food from scratch – you can make sure everyone has a fantastic time. Just don’t eat too much!

We want you to have the safest festive period possible. If you have any allergy concerns, our allergy experts are always here to help. Get in touch with us today on 02031 433 449.

How to handle your allergies on holiday abroad

5th August 2021

How to handle your allergies on holiday abroad

Many of us have been cooped up for well over a year. As the world tentatively starts to open up, plenty of people will be itching to get away on a good old holiday abroad. Sandy beaches, cool pools, and some luxury food and drink. It sounds like a break we all need.

But for people with allergies, a holiday to a foreign country is full of unknowns. Between the food and the different environment, it can be a bit of a gamble. So what can you do to ensure you stay safe while abroad?

On the plane

The main allergy worry at airports and on planes is the food. Each airline will have its own policy on food allergies. The easiest recommendation is to say take your own food. Take your time in the terminal looking at your options at the various restaurants and cafes.

Other than that, keep your medicine with you in your hand luggage. Keep everything in its original packaging with your prescription so you can prove you need it. Some countries will have different restrictions on certain medications, so check ahead of time that it’s actually allowed.

In the hotel

Some people like to take their own bedding in case the hotel uses a product their body doesn’t agree with. Certain detergents can set you off in a rash, so packing some bedding and even taking a pillow can save you from two weeks of suffering. This also go for any complimentary toiletries, so take your own with you.

Out and about, you have to be careful of any foreign substances that might trigger your allergies. You never know if a certain insect or plant will cause you to break out or go into shock. Take plenty of insect repellent to keep them at bay.

When it comes to food allergies, the language barrier might be a huge issue. You can get translation cards that give you the phrases you need to convey the allergy attack. It’s also worth making hotel staff aware of any serious conditions either ahead of time or when you get there. You could even buy a bracelet with you or your child’s allergy on it in various languages, just in case.

Travelling abroad can be a scary experience for anyone with an allergy. But it doesn’t have to ruin your time. By being prepared and taking everything you might need, you can ensure you stay safe. If you ever have any doubts, talk to an allergy or medical professional about their advice.

To talk about your allergies with a trusted specialist, get in touch with us at the London Allergy and Immunology Centre. You can contact us on 02031 433 449.

How to take care of heat rash on holiday

19th June 2019

How to take care of heat rash on holiday

In some ways, we in the UK are lucky. While the climate is mild and bland, forcing us to pack our bags in search of sunnier skies, we don’t have to deal with the various, sometimes insect-related, dramas that come with it. One of the most common issues people face in hot climates is heat rash, which many often mistake for an allergic reaction. Here is how to deal with it so you can relax this summer.

What is heat rash?

Heat rash, also known as prickly heat, appears as tiny red bumps and itching on the skin, or sometimes, blisters. It may appear to be an allergic reaction, but it’s actually caused by trapped sweat and constant sweating, particularly in hot, humid climates. The humidity stops sweat from evaporating easily and causes excess moisture on your body for prolonged periods.

Heat rash is common in people who are used to cooler climates and travel to hotter ones as they sweat more than usual. It’s rare that you’ll see locals suffering from the same condition. Beware that some medications can increase your risk of heat rash on holiday, including medications for Parkinson’s disease, tranquillisers, and diuretics.  

How to treat heat rash

If you get heat rash, try not to scratch it. If you do, and it becomes infected, you might need further medical help beyond the at-home and over-the-counter solutions.

Heat rash often goes away on its own, but if it’s persistent, there are over-the-counter solutions which work for many people. These include:

• Calamine lotion
• Topical steroid creams to treat redness, irritation, and swelling
• Camphor and menthol to cool the skin and reduce itching

If you haven’t got your hands on medication just yet, know that washing with mild soap after sweating can reduce the amount of moisture on the skin and ease symptoms. It’s also a good idea to do your best to stay cool and avoid excessive sweating. Take cold showers and dry off quickly.

There are a range of conditions that can cause allergy-like symptoms, but some can’t be explained so easily. If you think you may have an allergy, book an appointment with one of our consultants today to get tested. It’s the best way to ease your mind and get the right treatment.

Travelling with allergies: how to plan ahead

15th March 2018

Travelling with allergies: how to plan ahead

For many people, exploring new foods, landscapes, and ways of life through travel may be an experience like no other. But, travelling with allergies can create an array of challenges. Worrying about your allergies can cause unwanted stress and dissuade you from wanting to travel. However, your allergies should not mean you have to miss out on new and valuable experiences. Whether, it’s a short break to a nearby city or an extended break across continents, planning ahead can put your mind at ease when it comes to your allergies.

Fun in the sun

If you suffer from hay fever, the time of year and destination can influence the likelihood of you reacting. Plan to travel at a time of year and to a destination with a low pollen count. This could greatly improve your experience. You may be allergic to certain types of pollen that do not exist in other countries. Or, their blooming period may be different, due to diverse climates. This could offer the perfect opportunity for you to travel abroad without having to worry about your allergies. Why not go for a swim?

For those with asthma that can be triggered by low air quality, it may be worth checking pollution information and weather forecasts for your chosen destination, before travelling there. If you must travel to a highly polluted area, the weather forecast can provide valuable insight into the likelihood of an asthma attack. This is because cold weather with no sun can cause air pollutants to sit close to the ground. This creates a thick blanket of pollution, which you may need to avoid if pollution can trigger a reaction.

As well as researching where you will go, you should also research how you will travel. Some airlines are more accommodating than others when it comes to allergies. Information on an airline’s allergy policy is available online. You can also read about other people’s real experiences with each airline, in case their actions do not reflect their policies.

Wish you were here

Accommodation is another important aspect of travel that can make or break the holiday experience of someone with allergies. Many hotels will offer allergy-friendly rooms or advertise themselves as being allergy friendly. It’s useful to ask your potential hotel if they offer these rooms or if they can make the necessary adjustments to your room to fit your allergy needs. Sometimes, if you don’t ask, you don’t get.

If you are in a country that does not speak your language, it may be worth learning a few of the key phrases necessary to describe your allergies. This may ensure that others fully understand the risk to you. This will be particularly useful in restaurants if you have a food allergy.  You need to be able to understand the menu so that you know you are ordering food that is safe for you.

It will also help to ensure that the staff understand what you are allergic to so they can make any adjustments necessary. It may also be nice for locals to experience tourists communicating in the local language. This can help you build a rapport with staff, who may then be more likely to go above and beyond to help you with your allergy needs.

Even something small like planning ahead can improve your experience of travelling with allergies. Of course, there are plenty of ways that you can prepare yourself to travel with allergies, but what if you could start the process to try and get rid of them all together?

By getting tested for the allergens that most affect you, you can start looking at the appropriate treatments. If you’re concerned about travelling with allergies and would like to discuss treatment options. Book an appointment with one of our specialist consultants today.