Eye Opener
National Allergy Day, a resounding success
People from all walks of life joined doctors, nurses and med-reps in an afternoon lecture and video presentation of causes and cures of allergy and asthma. Free medicines and consultation were also given to asthmatic and allergic patients by doctors in celebration of the National Allergy Day, July 8. The celebration was held at the Iloilo Medical Society Building in La Paz this city Tuesday afternoon, July 8. The personalitites in the program were dominated by all physicians. Dr. Redeem Mondragon gave the invocation while Dr. Caroline Albacete sang the Pambansang Awit and the welcome remarks was given by Dr. Ma. Stella C. Paspe who also explained "How Allergy Starts." Her lecture was well received by allergy patients as Dr. Paspe is a specialist in allergy treatment. Allergy patients sighed with relief as the lady physician pointed out to them common allergy carriers such as cockroaches, rats, kiletos, passive exposure to tobacco smoke, pet, pollution, pollen, dust, dust mites and food. "Ang mas kilalang gamot laban sa" allergic rhinitis ay ang oral at nasal antihistamines, decongestant, corticosteroid sprays, cromolyn nasal sprays, Leukotriene modifiers at Allergen immunotherapy. But caution is given to allergy patients that they should consult first their doctors before using the suggested medicines.
Dr. Christopher Rey de Guzman, asthma and allergy specialist and faculty member of the CPU College of Medicine presented an overview of common allergic disorders, and explained ways and means to prevent allergy and asthma. Dr. De Guzman said that about 300 million worldwide with global initiative for asthma and 400 million allergic rhinitis and 10 to 15% people in the Philippines are affected with allergy. He told his audience that they should not take for granted their allergy and to see the doctor at once for the disease is fatal. There were so many symptoms and cures for both asthma and allergy and after the symposium, all participants were examined by physicians and given medicines. Dr. Geraldine Torrefiel-Mian who acted as emcee invited all participants to stay for they will be treated of their allergy and asthma free of charge in commemoration of National Allergy Day.