Table of Contents
- Global Allergy Crisis: navigating the Rising Tide of Allergens
- navigating the Rising Tide of Allergies: From Food to Cosmetics
By Archynetys news Team | Published: 2025-03-29
The World Health Institution projects that half the global population will grapple with allergies by 2025. This surge is fueled by both familiar allergens and newly identified triggers, exacerbated by pollution, climate change, and evolving dietary habits. Archynetys news investigates the emerging threats and offers strategies for identification and prevention.
The Perfect Storm: Environmental Factors and Respiratory Allergies
Respiratory allergies are becoming increasingly prevalent and severe, influenced by a complex interplay of environmental factors. The rise in CO2 emissions, coupled with increasing temperatures, is creating a perfect storm for allergy sufferers.
Pollution’s Impact on Pollen
Elevated CO2 levels are not only contributing to global warming but also making pollen more potent. Pollen grains can attach to fine particulate matter, prolonging thier suspension in the air and increasing exposure. Furthermore, pollutants can alter the structure of pollen grains, releasing smaller, more easily inhaled fragments that penetrate deeper into the respiratory system. The extended pollen seasons, beginning as early as mid-February in some regions, further compound the problem. The National Aerobiological Surveillance Network (RNSA) issued red alerts for high allergy risk in numerous departments, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Protecting Yourself: On high pollen days, consider wearing a simple surgical mask and limiting strenuous outdoor activities.Consult resources like Pollens.fr for real-time pollen forecasts.
Thunderstorms: A Double-Edged Sword
Thunderstorms, particularly those following periods of high temperatures, can exacerbate respiratory allergies. The preceding heat weakens respiratory mucous membranes,making them more susceptible to irritants. Thunderstorms then stir up pollution particles and high-altitude pollens, which absorb water, rupture, and fragment into smaller, more irritating particles. These particles are then carried downwards by atmospheric pressure, penetrating deep into the airways.
Stronger winds also convey more pollen and increase symptoms of allergic rhinitis
Dr. Silcret-Grieu, Allergist
The Mold menace: Humidity and Indoor Allergens
Increased precipitation, with a reported 15% rise in 2024, has led to higher humidity levels in homes, creating ideal conditions for mold growth and dust mite proliferation.These indoor allergens can trigger a range of respiratory symptoms.
Combating Mold and Dust Mites: Regular ventilation, frequent linen changes, anti-mite bedding (such as Immunoctem), and dehumidifiers can help reduce exposure to these allergens.
Beyond well-known skin irritants like nickel and fragrances, dermatologists are reporting a rise in allergies to substances found in common household and personal care products.
Washing Products and Paints: The methylisothiazolinone (MI) Threat
Be wary of products containing methylisothiazolinone (MI), a preservative. While banned in rinse-off cosmetics after 2015 due to allergy concerns, MI remains permitted in soaps, shampoos, detergents, flower-preserving powders, slime, and water-based paints.
This curator was prohibited after 2015 in non -rinsed cosmetic products, due to the risk of allergy. But he is always authorized in soaps and shampoos, detergents, the conservation powders to put in the water of the flowers, Slime water paintings
Professor Angèle Soria, Dermato-allergologist
Acrylates: from Nail Polish to Medical Devices
(Meta) allergenic acrylates are found in a wide range of products, including semi-permanent nail polish, artificial nail kits, surgical adhesives, dental resins, blood sugar sensors, and ECG electrodes. Exposure to these substances can lead to allergic contact dermatitis.
Essential Oils: proceed with Caution
Exercise caution when using essential oils, particularly tea tree oil. Their high concentration of active compounds can be highly sensitizing.
The ROAT test: A DIY Allergy check
If you suspect an allergy to a cosmetic product, consider performing a Repeat Open Request Test (ROAT). Apply a small amount of the product to the inner elbow fold daily for a week.Redness,itching,or irritation indicates a potential allergy to one or more ingredients.
In case of doubt and if the reaction is moderate, a dose of suspicious cosmetic product can be applied in the inner fold of the elbow, every day for a week.If the skin designed is that we are allergic to one of the substances of the formula. This is the principle of Roat test
Dr. Sophie Silcret-Grieu, Allergist and Member of the Asthma & Allergies Association
An in-depth look at the increasing prevalence of allergies, their causes, and strategies for management and prevention.
The Allergy Epidemic: A Growing Concern
Allergies are on the rise, impacting millions worldwide. Understanding the triggers and effective management strategies is crucial for improving quality of life. From food sensitivities to cosmetic reactions, the spectrum of allergic responses is broad and increasingly complex.
Pinpointing the Culprit: The Role of Epicutaneous Testing
When allergic reactions occur, identifying the specific allergen is paramount. Epicutaneous tests, also known as patch tests, are a valuable diagnostic tool. These tests involve applying a panel of allergens to the skin, typically on the back, and observing the reaction over several days.
With a panel of allergens applied to the back,the results are assessed within two to five days. This process helps identify the specific substance to avoid.
Food allergies: A Triple Threat Increase and Emerging Allergens
The incidence of food allergies, particularly in children, has seen a dramatic surge in recent decades. According to recent studies, food allergies have increased by 300% in children over the last 20 years. This alarming trend underscores the need for greater awareness and proactive measures.
The Impact of Ultra-Processed foods
Emerging research suggests a link between the consumption of ultra-processed foods and an increased risk of food allergies. These products can disrupt the intestinal mucosa, perhaps compromising the body’s natural defenses. Exposure to environmental factors like detergents and pollen may also contribute to heightened sensitivity.
New and Emerging Allergens on the Horizon
Beyond common allergens, new sensitivities are being identified. These include allergies to goat’s milk, sheep’s milk (increasingly relevant with the popularity of feta cheese), buckwheat, kiwi, and seed products.Experts also anticipate a rise in allergies to insect-based foods, as insect flour gains traction in both animal and human consumption.
In addition to the increase in allergies to goat or sheep’s milk, buckwheat, kiwi, hive and seed products, we also expect an increase in food allergies to insects reduced to flour for animal or human consumption.
Dr. Silcret-Grieu, Allergist
Understanding Emerging Allergic Syndromes
Medical professionals are also gaining a better understanding of newer forms of allergic reactions. Food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES) manifests with diarrhea and vomiting. Eosinophilic esophagitis is characterized by painful esophageal spasms. While not life-threatening, these conditions can considerably impact quality of life and warrant medical consultation for appropriate management.
Non-deadly but which can create discomfort, they must lead to consult to adapt driving, adrenaline and antihistamines not being recommended in these cases.
Dr. Silcret-Grieu, Allergist
Finding relief: The Potential of Spa Treatments
For individuals with respiratory allergies, such as asthma and allergic rhinitis, spa treatments may offer symptomatic relief. Certain thermal spas, like those in the Sun Thermal Channel network, provide specialized programs utilizing sulfur-rich thermal water.These treatments, administered in pollution-free environments, can definitely help alleviate respiratory symptoms.
Selecting appropriate cosmetic products is crucial for individuals with sensitivities.The abundance of choices can be overwhelming,but understanding key considerations can help minimize the risk of allergic reactions.
Hypoallergenic Products: A Safer Bet?
Hypoallergenic products are formulated with fewer ingredients and exclude common allergens, making them a potentially safer option for sensitive individuals.However, it’s essential to remember that “hypoallergenic” does not guarantee a complete absence of allergens.
Organic Cosmetics: Not Always Allergy-Free
While organic products are beneficial for environmental protection, they are not necessarily less likely to cause allergic reactions. Individuals can still be sensitive to natural ingredients like essential oils or nut-derived vegetable oils. Furthermore,creating homemade cosmetics with culinary ingredients is discouraged,as food products are inherently complex and can be sensitizing for allergy-prone individuals.