The end of the year is always bustling with holiday parties and year-end gatherings. However, this festive atmosphere also brings potential health risks, particularly increased cases of urticaria due to food or alcohol allergies.
Risks from Unfamiliar Foods During the Holiday Season
According to Dr. Nguyen Tien Thanh, a member of the Vietnam Dermatology Association, the period leading up to Tet sees a significant rise in urticaria cases. One major cause is the consumption of uncontrolled foods at year-end parties.
Warning of allergic reactions from unfamiliar foods
Typical symptoms of urticaria – source: provided by doctors.
Dr. Thanh emphasizes that, alongside familiar dishes, many “exotic” foods such as porcupine, monitor lizard, wild boar, forest vegetables, seafood (shrimp, crab, lobster), and even insects (grasshoppers, silkworm pupae, scorpions) are often served during major holidays. These foods can trigger allergic reactions, especially in individuals with sensitive skin who have never encountered them before.
In addition, alcohol, the “main character” at parties, increases the risk of allergies. Alcohol causes blood vessels to dilate, stimulating mast cells to release histamine, leading to urticaria when combined with easily allergenic foods.
Understanding Urticaria: More Than Just Itching
Urticaria manifests as raised, itchy welts surrounded by red rings on the skin, which can last from 30 minutes to 36 hours, varying in size from 1mm to several centimeters (in severe cases).
Although urticaria is generally considered a mild condition, if not treated promptly, it can escalate into anaphylaxis—a life-threatening situation. Severe symptoms include:
- Swelling of the lips, eyes, tongue, or throat, causing difficulty breathing.
- Severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, or vomiting.
- Hypotension, dizziness, and fainting.
Dr. Thanh shared, “During the days leading up to Tet, we see many cases ranging from full-body itching to difficulty breathing and swelling. Some patients even call for help on New Year’s Eve due to severe allergic reactions.”
How to Prevent Allergic Reactions During the Holidays?
To minimize the risk of food allergies during the holiday season, Dr. Thanh recommends the following precautions:
- Be Cautious with Unfamiliar Foods:
Avoid trying exotic or unfamiliar dishes like forest delicacies, insects, or infused liquors. If you have a history of allergies, completely avoid foods that previously caused reactions. - Control Food Intake:
Maintain a balanced diet and avoid overeating rich, fatty, or protein-heavy meals at parties. Combining multiple allergenic foods in one meal increases the likelihood of developing urticaria. - Act Promptly When Symptoms Appear:
Stop consuming suspected allergenic foods immediately if you experience redness, itching, or burning sensations. Seek medical attention at the nearest facility if you experience more severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or swelling. - Prepare Medication:
Individuals with a history of allergies should carry antihistamines and anti-allergy medications prescribed by their doctor. This initial treatment is effective for managing mild symptoms, especially when immediate medical care is unavailable.
Conclusion
While urticaria is common, it should not be taken lightly, especially during the holiday season when exotic foods and gatherings are more prevalent. Pay attention to your diet and listen to your body to protect your health. If you experience any signs of an allergy, do not hesitate to seek timely medical assistance.
Source: dantri.com.vn
