In the latest issue of the scientific journal Allergy, a study reported that a large majority adults in Singapore – approximately 80 per cent of them showed allergic reactions to house dust mites and other allergens. With such a high number of allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis, there is a need to help the public manage the symptoms and create awareness on avoiding allergens to prevent discomfort and triggers.
One-stop diagnostic centre for adult allergic conditions
Allergy sufferers can now seek relief at the SGH Allergy Clinic. The clinic offers comprehensive and co-ordinated clinical care to patients with allergic disorders and asthma. Also known as SGH Allergy Centre, the centre not only provide consultation for common allergic condition, but it also offers a range of diagnostic testing to pin-point and confirm the allergens for patients.
Suspected allergy-related disorders or chronic condition like atopic dermatitis and asthma can now be evaluated, managed and treated in one convenient location.
Allergic conditions that they provide consultation for include:
- Skin Allergies ( Urticaria or Hives, Eczema, Atopic Dermatitis, Contact dermatitis, Angioedema)
- Allergic Rhinitis
- Asthma
- Drug Allergy
- Food Allergy
In addition to specialist consultation, they also provide an extensive skin tests and diagnostic services to pin-point suspected allergens such as :
- Skin prick test
- Patch test
- Blood Ig E test
- Food challenge
- Drug challenge
Skin prick test is primarily to identify specific food and selected external allergens (eg. dust mites, pet dander, pollen etc). A sample of the allergen is pricked on a section of the forearm to check of immediate allergic reaction.
Patch testing is generally done to see whether a particular substance is causing allergic skin irritation (contact dermatitis). During a patch test, a large area on the back is applied with 20 to 30 extracts of substances that can cause contact dermatitis. These can include latex, medications, fragrances, preservatives, hair dyes, metals and resins. The patch needs to be on the back for about 48 hours. Irritated skin at the patch site may indicate an allergy.
As part of the comprehensive services offered, the clinic also provides education and counselling services (eg. allergen avoidance) for patients.
Event : Public Forum on Adult Allergies
SGH Allergy Centre recently organized a free public forum, with talks given by doctors on how to copy with adult allergies. It received overwhelming response and more than 150 people attended the event. In addition to understanding different form of adult allergies and how to cope with them, the attendees also had the chance to find out more about different products that can help them manage their condition.
During the event, Skinshare Singapore was invited to share about how shielding lotion can help to protect and prevent skin contact allergy. Many were excited to discover the difference the difference between conventional moisturizer and shielding lotion.
During your next visit to the polyclinic, you may request for referral for consultation if your condition persists. For enquiries or appointments to SGH Allergy Centre, please visit their official website or contact : Tel : 6321 4377 .
View the selection of hypoallergenic, skincare products which can help to relief & manage your eczema/dermatitis at our online shop. You may filter products based on the condition/stage of your skin & symptoms :
- Dry,scaly skin
- Red, inflammed, itchy
- Very dry, cracked skin
- Wounded/oozing skin