Allergies in China

Settling in China entails getting used to what will likely be a different environment and lifestyle. Part of the adjustment means coping with seasonal allergies and researching health insurance as a fallback in case conditions need medical treatment.

Common allergies

There are certain parts of China where pollen can be a concern for people with nasal sensitivity. That is especially a cause of distress during spring when flowers are in bloom and the winds spread the pollen and cause hypersensitivity reactions such as sneezing, asthma and rhinitis.

Expats who are prone to developing these reactions should always keep antihistamines handy, including nasal sprays for those who aren't normally relieved by oral medication. It is also a good idea to change one's clothes often as pollen can also stick to fabrics easily. Upon arriving in one's home, it is wise to change immediately clothes in a designated room to avoid spreading the allergens.

Food allergies

Sometimes, expats deal with food-related allergies, particularly due to eggs and seafood which are staple ingredients in most Chinese dishes. When dining out, especially in a Chinese restaurant, it is safest to examine the menu and ask when in doubt. Most of these restaurants will accommodate requests for skipping the egg or seafood.

When dealing with allergies, it is important to remember that avoiding allergens whenever possible is the single most effective way to manage them. Sometimes, expats may have to seek medical treatment when medical conditions already exist and are exacerbated by allergic symptoms. In this case, international healthcare insurance can provide great help.