Tired of waking up with a drippy nose? Sick of getting itchy eyes? We hear you! Allergies are some of the most frustrating things to live with – especially when they result in symptoms like allergic rhinitis. The team at Pacific Prime CXA Singapore tells us more about different types of allergies and how we can deal with them – including getting allergy insurance that covers allergy medication.
What exactly is an allergy?
According to Allergy UK, an allergy is the response of the body’s immune system to normally harmless substances including pollen, food and dust mites. They occur when an individual’s immune system identifies the substance as a “threat”.
Common allergens:
- Pollen from trees and grass
- Proteins secreted by dust mites
- Mould
- Foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, milk and eggs
- Fur from animals such as cats, dogs, horses, rabbits and guinea pigs
- Insects such as wasps and bees
- Certain medication
Common symptoms:
- Allergic rhinitis (swelling and inflammation of the nasal passage)
- Sneezing
- Wheezing, coughing or a shortness of breath
- Nettle rash or hives
- Sinus or a runny nose
- Swelling
- Itchy eyes, ears, lips, throat or mouth
- Sickness, vomiting and diarrhoea
If you suspect that you or someone you know suffers from these symptoms, consult a doctor for more information. Physicians and GPs can perform tests to see how your body reacts to certain allergens and identify the cause.
Allergies in Singapore
In Singapore, approximately one in three people suffer from the above symptoms. More specifically 13.1% of the Singapore population suffers from allergic rhinitis, a condition triggered by allergens.
Common allergens in Singapore:
- Dust mites: Due to Singapore’s warm and humid weather, these are common causes of asthma in children and adults. In 2014, 80% of 8,000 surveyed Singaporeans had an allergic reaction to house dust mites.
- Shellfish: With large amounts of these foods being eaten in Singapore each year, this is the most common food-related allergy in Singapore. It’s also the most common cause of food anaphylaxis in adults.
- Galacto-oligosaccharide (GOS): GOS is a prebiotic found in most milk formulas in Asia, Europe and the USA, which can cause anaphylaxis.
- Peanuts: Hypersensitivity to peanuts is highly prevalent in Singapore and has been on the rise. However, a new 2023 study has shown that exposing four- to six-month-old babies to peanut butter could help prevent allergies from forming.
Being aware of the causes and symptoms of allergies is just the first step. Ensure your health and wellbeing by seeking out the medical care you need.
Treating allergies
Staying away from allergens you’re sensitive to is a common sense approach. Coeliacs will avoid gluten products, while those with shellfish allergies steer clear of seafood. Of course, some allergens may be difficult to avoid.
Hay fever and many other allergies can be relieved by the use of antihistamines. These block the histamines that cause allergic reactions and provide protection for a period of time. People with nasal irritation can use decongestants (oral or nasal sprays). Allergy shots are also helpful.
Covering allergies with health insurance
It’s important to secure comprehensive health insurance in Singapore as allergy medication and treatment for serious allergic reactions is often expensive. Allergen immunotherapy for allergic rhinitis can cost up to $200 a month. If your allergies are severe or occur frequently, the costs add up. Furthermore, most patients will also require three to five years of treatment to ensure long-term remission.
Many insurers consider allergies to be pre-existing conditions and don’t cover treatment or allergy medication. However, allergies that develop after you purchase a plan can still be covered. If you just developed an allergy but would still like to secure insurance, some insurers may offer coverage for a higher premium or a rider policy. If you’re expecting, consider a family health plan to ensure that your child will covered for allergies they could develop in their early years. For frequent travellers, Pacific Prime also offers international health insurance plans that keep you covered across the globe.
Get a free plan comparison from Pacific Prime CXA Singapore today.
Pacific Prime CXA Singapore
#09-02 Cross Street Exchange, 18 Cross Street
6346 3781 | pacificprime.sg
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