Sore Throat & Allergies Common as Sandstorms in Saudi Arabia

Allergic disorders among primary school children in Saudi Arabia are very common in primary school-aged children in Saudi Arabia, with figures comparable to the highest risk regions in the world. These findings were published in a two-stage cross-sectional survey prevalence of allergic disorders among primary school-aged children in Madinah. Saudi Arabia has found that over 40% of children manifest symptoms indicative of allergic disease prevalence within the first eight years of life. The prevalence of sandstorms in the region adds to the health problems and cause a high occurrence of respiratory diseases. 

What Causes Allergies?

Allergies are most likely to impact the respiratory system as it is a prime target for air-borne pollutants such as dust and biological particles such pollen, bacteria, fungi as well as harmful chemicals. Biological particles that are usually found in a sandstorm contain microbes which can survive after being transported over great distances. 

The most common respiratory complaints range from eye irritation, headaches, and sleep disturbance, tightness in the chest, asthma attacks, wheezing, coughing and a running nose. A running nose is the most common of all symptoms (51.06%) and usually the first to develop. Of these symptoms, the last few can be treated in the same manner as a sore throat therefore the treatment is the same as how to treat sore throats.

How are Allergies Treated?

The easiest way to get instant relief from a sore throat is to eat a throat lozenge since allergy-induced soreness is directly manifested in the form of a 'scratch' throat or a 'raw' feeling caused by the running nose and post nasal discharge. If the symptoms persist, you can opt for steam. Steam is a natural way to clear up a blocked nose and congestion. The warm steam provides relief from the dryness of the throat and restores the moisture of the throat lining. Needless to say, during this time it is a good idea to avoid exposure to the allergens themselves but this can be difficult to practically achieve. The presence of cigarette smoke, dust mites, mold and pet dander (hair and skin particles) can escalate your allergy symptoms. In which case, it is probably best to consult your doctor. The doctor might perform a few tests to determine the allergy-causing factors and even prescribe decongestants or nasal sprays to relive the post nasal drip. They might alternatively prescribe over the counter antihistamine medicine as well.

Regardless of the doctor's choice of how to treat sore throat, prevention is still the best form of cure and a little carefulness can go a long way.