Allergic diseases are among the most common chronic conditions worldwide, and the UAE has particularly high prevalence rates. Studies suggest that allergic rhinitis affects 20-30% of the UAE population, with asthma, eczema, and food allergies also significantly prevalent. Environmental factors, indoor lifestyle, and dietary changes contribute to this burden.
How Allergies Work
An allergy occurs when the immune system overreacts to a normally harmless substance (allergen). The body produces immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies specific to the allergen, which bind to mast cells. On re-exposure, mast cells release histamine and other chemicals, causing allergic symptoms.
Common Allergens in the UAE
Dust Mites
The most common cause of allergic rhinitis and asthma in the UAE. Dust mites thrive in warm, humid indoor environments (beds, carpets, soft furnishings, air conditioning systems).
Dust and Sand
Desert dust and sandstorms (shamal) carry fine particles that irritate airways and trigger allergic symptoms and asthma. Outdoor dust exposure is higher during spring and summer.
Mould
Grows in damp, poorly ventilated areas. Common in bathrooms, kitchens, and around air conditioning units, especially in the humid coastal climate.
Cockroach Allergens
Cockroach droppings and body parts are potent allergens, particularly in older buildings.
Pet Dander
Proteins in animal skin flakes, saliva, and urine. Cat and dog allergens are the most common.
Food Allergens
The most common food allergies in children and adults:
- Cow's milk
- Eggs
- Peanuts and tree nuts
- Wheat
- Soy
- Shellfish and fish
- Sesame
Insect Venom
Bee, wasp, and ant stings can cause severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).
Types of Allergic Conditions
Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)
- Sneezing, runny or blocked nose, itchy nose and eyes, watery eyes
- Perennial (year-round, usually dust mite) or seasonal
- Often coexists with asthma
- Affects sleep, concentration, and quality of life
Allergic Asthma
- Wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, breathlessness triggered by allergens
- The most common form of asthma
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
- Itchy, dry, inflamed skin
- Often starts in childhood
- Related to allergic sensitisation in many cases
Food Allergy
- IgE-mediated: Rapid onset (minutes to hours) with hives, swelling, vomiting, breathing difficulty, or anaphylaxis
- Non-IgE-mediated: Delayed reactions, often gut symptoms
Anaphylaxis
A severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction requiring immediate adrenaline (epinephrine) injection. Symptoms include throat swelling, breathing difficulty, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.
Diagnosis
- Clinical history: The most important tool. Pattern of symptoms, timing, triggers
- Skin prick testing: Small amounts of allergens applied to the skin. Positive result shows a wheal (raised bump)
- Specific IgE blood tests: Measure IgE antibodies to specific allergens
- Oral food challenge: The gold standard for food allergy diagnosis, performed under medical supervision
- Component-resolved diagnostics: Advanced testing to identify specific allergenic proteins
Treatment
Allergen Avoidance
- Dust mites: Wash bedding at 60°C weekly, use allergen-proof covers, vacuum regularly with HEPA filter, reduce humidity
- Mould: Fix leaks, improve ventilation, clean mould with appropriate products
- Pollen/dust: Close windows during sandstorms, shower and change after outdoor exposure, use air purifiers with HEPA filters
- Food allergens: Strict avoidance, read food labels carefully, carry adrenaline auto-injector if at risk of anaphylaxis
Medications
- Antihistamines: Non-sedating (cetirizine, loratadine, fexofenadine) for rhinitis and hives
- Intranasal corticosteroids: (mometasone, fluticasone) first-line for moderate-severe allergic rhinitis
- Eye drops: Antihistamine drops for allergic conjunctivitis
- Adrenaline auto-injector: For anaphylaxis risk
Immunotherapy (Desensitisation)
The only treatment that modifies the underlying allergic disease. Involves regular administration of gradually increasing allergen doses over 3-5 years. Available as:
- Subcutaneous injections
- Sublingual tablets/drops
Effective for dust mite, pollen, and insect venom allergies. Can reduce symptoms, medication use, and risk of developing asthma.
At Jabal Sina Medical Centre, our family medicine and general practice teams can assess allergic symptoms, perform skin prick testing, and develop personalised management plans for all ages.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for personalised guidance.