Allergies in Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, 10-20% of the children between 7-12 years of age suffer from bronchial asthma, and an even a higher percentage of children experience allergic rhinitis.

The most common allergen of children suffering from allergic rhinitis is cat fur, bermuda grass and mesquite. Mesquite is a small tree or a deciduous shrub found in the desert, the mesquites pollen is a potent allergen carried through sand storm dust.

Gulf countries are plagued by dust and sand storms, which is most prevalent in spring and summer months due to strong winds and during the winter-spring seasonal transition.

The majority of the respiratory diseases are caused by common allergens such as house dust mites, storage mites, animal dander, hairs, saliva, fecal particles, feathers, cotton flock, plant fragments, fungal spores and pollen grains.

With the increasing prevalence of allergic conditions resulting in higher costs of medical care, it is always wise to take an international health insurance policy in Saudi Arabia. Remember that allergies can be fatal if not treated properly. There are also a number of private health insurance companies in Saudi Arabia to choose from that offer packages that will suit one's needs.