Allergic Reaction

Common Allergic Triggers for Tourists

Traveling exposes you to allergens you might not encounter at home. The most frequent triggers include:

• Food Allergies: Nuts, shellfish, dairy, and other ingredients common in Italian dishes

• Insect Bites: Bees, wasps, and mosquitoes, especially in coastal and rural areas

• Pollen: Seasonal trees, grasses, and flowers, particularly in spring and summer

• Medication Reactions: New prescriptions or antibiotics taken abroad

Pro Tip: Always carry allergy information in Italian, especially when dining out.

Symptoms to Watch For

Allergic reactions range from mild to severe. Key symptoms include:

• Skin reactions: Hives, redness, or itching

• Swelling: Lips, tongue, or face

• Respiratory signs: Sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes

• Digestive symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain

• Severe reactions (anaphylaxis): Difficulty breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat

Important: Rapidly worsening or severe symptoms require immediate medical attention.

First Aid for Allergic Reactions

Mild Reactions

• Take antihistamines if safe for you

• Wash affected skin with mild soap

• Avoid further exposure to the allergen

Severe Reactions (Anaphylaxis)

• Use an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed

• Call 118 immediately

• Keep the person lying down and calm

• Monitor breathing until help arrives

How to Get Medical Help in Italy

• Emergency Services: Call 118 for serious or life-threatening reactions

• Pharmacies: Pharmacists provide advice and OTC remedies

• Online Consultation: English-speaking travelers can contact myDearDoc for guidance. Doctors can assess symptoms, advise on next steps, and recommend nearby clinics if needed

Prevention Tips for Tourists

• Food Safety: Ask about ingredients at restaurants or street food vendors; carry allergy cards in Italian

• Insect Protection: Use repellents and avoid high-risk areas

• Medication Awareness: Carry a list of allergies and medications

• Travel Health Kit: Include antihistamines, an epinephrine injector (if prescribed), and topical creams

Conclusion

Allergic reactions don’t have to ruin your trip. Being informed, prepared, and having access to English-speaking medical advice via My Dear Doc ensures you can manage mild or severe reactions safely. Stay proactive and enjoy your travels in Italy with peace of mind.