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9:42 AM 26th April 2022
lifestyle

Allergy Awareness Statistics

 
As this week as been allergy awareness week here are some allergy awareness statistics which might surprise you.Searches for the question ‘What does an allergic reaction look like’ has increased by 400% in the past 30 days.

44% of British adults now suffer from at least one allergy and the number of people living with allergies in the UK is rising by 5% each year.

Almost a third of sufferers have had to change their lifestyles to reduce their allergic reactions.

The UK is one of the top three countries in the world in terms of the highest rate of allergies.

Whilst genetics can play a part in whether you have an allergy, diet changes and air pollution can also play a part – there is evidence to suggest that pollutants stimulate pollen production and increase the release of antigens in pollen grains.

Unbeknown to some, cleaning products contain ingredients that are known to trigger allergies. These are called ‘volatile organic compounds’, or VOCs, and evaporate into the air causing flare ups.

Simple cleaning tips if you suffer from allergies

Dust can build-up on mattresses over time, which can aggravate symptoms in allergy sufferers. A top tip is to give your mattress a once over with the vacuum regularly, which will help reduce dust and in turn reduce symptoms.

To stop dust particles getting knocked into the air, try dusting with a damp cloth instead of a traditional duster, it traps the dust and still gives a good clean.

Opt for Allergy UK accredited cleaning products. The Allergy UK endorsement gives a clear indication that products have been scientifically tested to a protocol developed by a panel of international allergists and scientists. They are proven to reduce/ remove the allergens shown, or that the product has significantly reduced allergen content.

If left to build up, mould and mildew in bathrooms can cause breathing difficulties among allergy sufferers. Experts recommend using a naturally derived spray cleaner twice a week on all hard surfaces and wipe away any dirt to keep airborne dust or mould at bay.

Don’t worry though – finding mildew in your bathroom doesn’t mean it’s unclean – mildew is caused by humidity and moisture, which makes the bathroom an ideal place for it to form.

The best way to prevent mildew in bathrooms is to keep the room ventilated using an extractor fan or by keeping the window open after a bath or shower. However, an extractor fan can also get dusty, which can also lead to airborne dust which exacerbates allergies. Make sure to clean dust away regularly by wiping with a damp cloth.

Don’t forget to check the washing instructions on your shower curtain as you may be able to put it through the washing machine! If not, leave it to soak in a naturally-derived cleaner in the sink or bath.

As well as using Allergy UK accredited laundry products on your clothes and bedding, use it to wash children’s soft toys so they’re fresh and clean, and don’t irritate sensitive skin.

For more information:
https://www.allergyuk.org/
https://biod.co.uk/