Air Pollution: Can You Develop Allergies To It?

Air pollution is a mix of hazardous gases and particulate matter that harms human health and the environment. It can cause or aggravate lung diseases, heart disease, and even affect cognitive function. With the increase in urbanization and industrialization, air pollution has been on the rise, and cases of air pollution allergies have also increased. Pollutants from sources like cars and factories can intensify allergic reactions and worsen allergies and long-term health risks from conditions like asthma. People can be allergic to air pollution and may experience symptoms such as itchiness, a scratchy throat, a runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes.

Allergic rhinitis

People with allergic rhinitis may experience symptoms only during certain seasons, such as tree or grass pollen season, while others experience symptoms all year round. You are more likely to develop allergic rhinitis if there is a history of allergies in your family or if you have certain other conditions, such as eczema or asthma. Allergic rhinitis can also lead to complications, including nasal polyps, sinusitis, and blockage of the middle ear.

The best way to manage allergic rhinitis is to prevent exposure to allergens. While this may not always be possible, there are some remedies that can help limit exposure, such as wearing a disposable face mask, keeping windows closed, and using air conditioning to clear the air. Mild cases of allergic rhinitis can often be treated with over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines, nasal corticosteroid sprays, and nasal washes with a salt water solution. For more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe medication such as steroid nasal sprays or refer you to a specialist for further tests and treatment.

Asthma

Air pollution is a mix of solid particles and gases in the air, and exposure to it can have detrimental effects on human health, particularly respiratory diseases like asthma. Outdoor air pollution is associated with an increase in allergic diseases, including asthma. The small particles in polluted air can irritate the airways and lungs, making asthma symptoms worse. People with asthma are at a greater risk from breathing in these particles and irritating gases.

Several studies have found a correlation between air pollution and the development of asthma. For example, research has shown that children exposed to high levels of air pollution are more likely to develop asthma by the time they reach preschool age. Additionally, the rapid industrialization and urbanization in many Asian countries have led to increased air pollution, and a subsequent rise in asthma cases. China, in particular, has seen a rapid increase in asthma cases since the early 2000s, which has been linked to air pollution.

Indoor air pollution can also pose a risk to people with asthma. Sources of indoor air pollution include allergens, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), mould spores, cockroaches, and dust mites. Certain activities, such as cooking, burning incense, and using scented products, can contribute to indoor air pollution. It is important for people with asthma to reduce their exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollutants, especially on days when air pollution levels are high.

If you have asthma, it is recommended to limit your time outdoors when air pollution levels are high, especially from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Staying in a well-ventilated or air-conditioned building can help reduce exposure. Additionally, avoiding outdoor exercise or strenuous work when air pollution levels are unhealthy is crucial. To improve indoor air quality, increasing ventilation, using exhaust fans, and preventing mould growth can be effective measures. For those with severe asthma, daily controller medication may be necessary to prevent deterioration of lung function and acute respiratory failure.

Eczema

Air pollution has been identified as a potential environmental trigger for eczema. Studies have found a positive association between exposure to air pollution and the development and exacerbation of eczema symptoms. Certain pollutants, such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), gaseous compounds, and heavy metals, have been linked to an increased risk of eczema. Additionally, indoor pollutants like tobacco smoke and fungal moulds have also been associated with a higher incidence of eczema.

The impact of air pollution on eczema may be influenced by geographical location. Some studies suggest that individuals living in urban areas with higher levels of air pollution may have a higher risk of developing eczema. However, other studies have found conflicting results, with some indicating a lower risk or no association between urban living and eczema. This variation in findings could be due to the complex interplay between various factors, including genetic predisposition, lifestyle choices, and exposure to other environmental triggers.

Climate change and meteorological factors can also play a role in eczema. For example, increases in outdoor temperature and humidity can reduce eczema symptoms, while lower temperatures, indoor heating, and lower indoor humidity can aggravate them. Additionally, short-term exposure to air pollution can impact eczema, as evidenced by a study that linked wildfire smoke exposure to eczema flare-ups.

While the exact mechanisms by which air pollution contributes to eczema are not yet fully elucidated, researchers have proposed several theories. One theory suggests that air pollutants can penetrate the skin and interact with immune cells, leading to inflammation and skin damage. Another theory posits that air pollution disrupts the skin barrier, allowing environmental substances, including pollutants, to penetrate below the skin's surface and trigger eczema symptoms.

Allergic respiratory disease

Air pollution has been on the rise due to rapid urbanization, industrialization, and increased energy consumption, leading to an increase in air pollution-related allergies and diseases. Allergic respiratory diseases (ARD) are among the most common allergies worldwide and constitute a significant public health and economic problem due to their morbidity and impact on quality of life.

Air pollution can cause a variety of allergic respiratory diseases, with asthma being the most prevalent. Studies have found a strong correlation between transportation-related air pollution and asthma onset, particularly in children. Other respiratory diseases exacerbated or induced by air pollution include allergic rhinitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, inflammation of the airways, lung cancer, heart disease, and strokes.

The effects of air pollution on the respiratory system are detrimental. Pollutants induce adverse effects by affecting the balance between antioxidant pathways and airway inflammation, and gene polymorphisms can modify responses to air pollution exposure. The principle air pollutants of concern are particulate matter (PM), ozone (O3), and nitrogen oxides (NOX), in addition to other indoor air pollutants. Exposure to O3 at ambient concentrations is associated with a reduction in lung function and the induction of respiratory symptoms such as cough and shortness of breath.

To manage air pollution allergies, it is recommended to limit exposure to air pollutants. This can be done by wearing disposable face masks, keeping windows closed, using air conditioning, and avoiding strong perfumes. For targeted therapy and prevention of pollution-induced respiratory diseases, it is necessary to identify susceptible subpopulations. Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is a valuable first-line treatment option for overall respiratory symptom relief.

Allergy prevention and treatment

Allergies occur when your immune system reacts to a foreign substance that your body has identified as harmful, even though it isn't. Air pollution can cause a variety of diseases, problems, and allergies in people, including asthma, allergic rhinitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, inflammation of the airways, lung cancer, heart disease, and even strokes.

Allergy Prevention

• The best way to manage allergies is to prevent exposure to air pollutants. While this may not be entirely possible, you can take measures to limit your exposure to irritants.
• Wear a disposable face mask, especially when traveling in heavy traffic.
• Keep windows closed to prevent pollutants from getting inside and use an AC to clear the air inside your room.
• Avoid using strong perfumes and ask your friends and family to do the same, especially during times when those suffering from allergies are most likely to be hypersensitive.
• Keep your windows closed to avoid polluted outdoor air from coming inside your house.
• Improve indoor air quality by controlling your contact with indoor airborne allergens.
• Keep your house clean. Good indoor hygiene can cut down on dust, animal dander, and mold, which are all common airborne allergens.
• Vacuum once or twice a week with a certified asthma and allergy-friendly vacuum and regularly clean bedding, drapes, and other materials that attract allergens.
• Keep surfaces in your home clean and uncluttered. Bare floors and walls are best, especially in the bedroom where you spend one-third of your time.
• Central heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can reduce indoor air pollutants by improving outdoor and indoor air exchange.
• Air cleaning devices with certified asthma and allergy-friendly filters can filter almost 98% of allergen particles in the air.
• Carpool or bike to work to improve the air quality in your area.

Allergy Treatment

• Non-sedative antihistamines can be used to treat allergies, but consult your doctor for the right prescription.
• Allergy medications like over-the-counter nasal sprays can help soothe uncomfortable allergy symptoms.
• If you have allergies and experience inflamed airways, be aware that irritants like smoke can worsen your allergy symptoms and even trigger asthma attacks.

Frequently asked questions