By Jastinder Bhandal

If you’ve lived in British Columbia for any length of time, you’ve probably heard someone say, “It’s just
my allergies.” During the spring and summer, many people find themselves reaching for tissues,
rubbing itchy eyes, or sneezing throughout the day. But allergies aren’t all the same, and
understanding the difference can help you know when it’s something you can manage at home and
when it’s time to seek medical attention.

As a recent medical graduate, one thing I’ve come to appreciate is just how common allergies are in
family medicine. Whether it’s seasonal pollen, certain foods, medications, insect stings, or pets,
allergies affect people of all ages and can have a real impact on quality of life.

Seasonal allergies, sometimes called hay fever or allergic rhinitis, are among the most common.
They’re caused when the immune system overreacts to substances like tree pollen, grass pollen, or
weeds that are normally harmless. Symptoms can include sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy
eyes, and throat irritation. While these allergies aren’t usually dangerous, they can interfere with
sleep, work, school, and outdoor activities.

Fortunately, there are simple ways to reduce symptoms. Checking daily pollen forecasts, keeping
windows closed on high-pollen days, showering after spending time outdoors, and washing clothes
after yard work can all help reduce exposure. For many people, over-the-counter allergy medications
or steroid nasal sprays are also effective, but it’s always worth speaking with your healthcare provider
or pharmacist about which option is most appropriate.

Food allergies are a different story. Unlike seasonal allergies, food allergies can sometimes cause
severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency. Symptoms may include
swelling of the lips or throat, difficulty breathing, widespread hives, dizziness, or loss of
consciousness. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek emergency medical care
immediately.

For many South Asian families, food plays an important role in celebrations, religious gatherings, and
family life. At weddings, community events, or large family dinners, ingredients such as peanuts, tree
nuts, sesame, dairy, and chickpea flour may be used in a wide variety of dishes. Recent research
exploring the experiences of South Asian adults with food allergies found that many people felt
uncomfortable speaking up about their allergies because they didn’t want to inconvenience others or
appear disrespectful. Others described family members who underestimated how serious food
allergies could be.

These conversations matter. A food allergy isn’t a preference or a dislike; it’s a medical condition. If
someone tells you they have a food allergy, taking it seriously could help prevent a life-threatening
emergency. Another important connection is between allergies and asthma. Many people who have
asthma also experience seasonal allergies, and poorly controlled allergies can sometimes make
asthma symptoms worse. If you find yourself wheezing, coughing, or becoming short of breath during
allergy season, it’s worth discussing this with your family doctor.

As South Asians, we’re often aware of our increased risk for conditions like diabetes and heart
disease, but allergies deserve attention too. Whether it’s a child with eczema who later develops food
allergies, an adult whose seasonal allergies seem to worsen each year, or someone experiencing a
reaction for the first time, early assessment can make a significant difference. While many allergies
can be managed successfully, recurring symptoms or concerns about severe reactions should be
evaluated by a healthcare professional.

As we continue enjoying the summer months, don’t ignore persistent allergy symptoms simply
because you think they’re “normal.” Managing allergies isn’t just about feeling more comfortable, it
can improve sleep, productivity, and overall quality of life. And if you or someone you know has a
suspected food allergy, don’t guess. Speak with your family doctor, who can help determine whether
further assessment or referral to an allergy specialist is needed. A little awareness today can help
prevent a much bigger problem tomorrow.