Allergy experts warn about potentially dangerous
interactions with alternative therapies
World Allergy Day - Friday 8 July 2005
Leading allergy experts are warning the four million hay fever sufferers that they may be unknowingly putting themselves at risk by taking a combination of alternative therapies and prescription medications.
The research conducted by the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) highlights that 20 per cent of those who have taken herbal remedies are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications at the same time1, and according to experts, could be putting themselves at potential risk of drug interactions.
Speaking on the eve of World Allergy Day (July 8, 2005), Associate Professor Ray Mullins, Chair, ASCIA Education Committee and co-author of a recent position paper "Unorthodox Techniques for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Allergy and Asthma''2 was particularly concerned by the new findings.
"It is of particular concern that many hay fever and allergy sufferers are not telling their doctor what medications and treatments they are taking. Doctors should specifically enquire about use of alternative medications by their patients and patients should be encouraged to volunteer the information," said Associate Professor Mullins.
According to Associate Professor Mullins, "Whilst alternative therapies are believed to be innocuous, dangerous or adverse consequences can arise from such treatments, particularly if not managed with complete transparency with the patient and GP."
Furthermore, it is alarming that one-in-four allergy sufferers surveyed were told that their condition is 'curable'1. It is an unfortunate fact that hay fever, while treatable, is not yet a curable condition," he explained.
Allergic rhinitis, more commonly known as hay fever, is a major chronic respiratory disease, one of the most prevalent medical conditions in Australia, and impacts heavily on quality of life 3.
Associate Professor Mullins explained that if poorly treated, it can rapidly lead to sinusitis, ear problems, contribute to daytime fatigue and learning problems in children, and is associated with harder to control asthma.
Allergic rhinitis occurs when blood vessels inside the nose become inflamed, making them twitchy and irritable. This can be caused by a number of triggers including pollen, grass, dust mites, mould and pets.
"While most people think that allergic rhinitis is a seasonal condition limited to spring, it can occur all year round and can be particularly debilitating for people who have to put up with symptoms 365 days of the year," said Associate Professor Mullins.
Symptoms can include sneezing bouts, an itchy, runny or blocked nose, blocked ears or recurrent ear infections, watery, red, puffy or itchy eyes, a sore throat, tickling cough, bad breath and even snoring.
Associate Professor Mullins explained that the prevalence of allergic rhinitis has increased dramatically over the past few decades, particularly in developed countries. "While there are a number of hypotheses (such as the hygiene theory) as to why there has been a significant increase ? some figures suggesting a doubling of the disease in the last 30 years ? the real causes are not yet clear," he stated.
"What we do know, however, is that prevention is the best strategy to control symptoms. Sufferers should try to identify and avoid triggers such as dust and pollen. That's why accurate testing is so important. However, realistically, this can be difficult when people are exposed to so many different environmental factors. Therefore a combination of allergen avoidance strategies and effective treatments such as antihistamines, intranasal corticosteroid steroid sprays to reduce inflammation or allergen immunotherapy are most often recommended."
"For people who experience symptoms, intranasal corticosteroids sprays (once a day) are the most effective treatment available. They work by calming the inflammation in the nose which goes on to treat the symptoms. These steroids are well tolerated. There is minimal absorption into the body, with GP consultation can be used long-term and are the ideal treatment for allergic rhinitis," he said.
Associate Professor Mullins explained that a few years ago the government made intranasal sprays available over-the-counter at the pharmacy. Stronger doses are available for people with more severe symptoms by visiting a doctor.
"Many people make the mistake of using decongestants, particularly if they have a blocked nose. While these can be used in the very short-term, they can be harmful with extended use," Associate Professor Mullins said.
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To arrange an interview or for further information please contact Jennifer Stojic (0410 621 063) or Lisa Julian (0408 498 289) at Professional Public Relations on 02 9818 4044.
References:
1. GALAXY Research
2. www.allergy.org.au - the website of the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA)*
3. Bousquet J, Van Cauwenberge P, Khaltaev N. Allergic rhinitis and its impact on asthma. Journal Allergy Clin Immunol 2001; 108: S147 -S334
* ASCIA is the peak professional body of Allergists and Clinical Immunologists in Australia and New Zealand and is a member society of the World Allergy Organisation (WAO).
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