Did you know that research shows that presenteeism – working but not being fully functional because of health problems – can affect your productivity by a third? A common cause of presenteeism is allergies, because outwardly you may look fine, even though you could be feeling terrible. As South Africa moves from winter to spring, and tree pollen levels are at their highest, allergy triggers abound. Here are common allergy triggers in the workplace and a few tips on managing your allergies so that it doesn’t affect your productivity!

What triggers allergies at work?

1. The AC. You can’t be allergic to an air conditioner, but you can be allergic to the air it circulates! The air can be contaminated with pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold, mildew, and of course, bacteria and viruses. In large buildings with ventilation systems, toxins released by microorganisms that live within them can cause allergic reactions too.
2. Other common workplace allergens include cigarette smoke, humidity and cold air, perfume and scented products, fresh paint, dust, and foods.
3. Depending on the type of job you have, you may also be exposed to animal dander and secretions, plant products (such as cotton or grain dust), wood dust, chemicals, dyes, and chemical fumes.

How to manage your allergies in the workplace

• Find out exactly what you are allergic to. This will help you to get the best treatment and help you to make your work environment more conducive.
• Ensure that your work area is well-ventilated, and that it’s dusted regularly.
• If your allergies are flaring you out at work, your allergies may have been triggered the night before.
• Inform colleagues and your employer about your allergies to avoid a future trigger.
• Indoor plants may also be a home to dust and mold; they should be regularly dusted, watered and the topsoil removed to prevent mold growth.
• While it may be difficult to control the air quality at the office, at home, consider the following:
  • If you use an AC, clean dust and debris, including around the outdoor AC unit.
  • Replace the air filters of the AC regularly.
  • Keep your home mold-free. Read more
• Use non-drowsy antihistamines during the day to treat allergy symptoms.
• Always carry your allergy medication with you.
• Speak to your doctor if you can’t avoid your triggers, for instance, if you are a painter or do construction. Uncontrolled allergies can hamper productivity and lead to presenteeism. However, with knowledge of your triggers and proper symptom management, you can put your best foot forward.

References

1. Allergy Foundation South Africa. (2022). Steps to manage seasonal pollen symptoms in South African cities. Allergy Foundation South Africa [Online]. Accessed on 10 August 2023. Available from https://www.allergyfoundation.co.za/steps-to-manage-seasonal-pollen-symptoms-in-south-african-cities/#:~:text=Trees%20may%20release%20pollen%20all,have%20very%20low%20winter%20temperatures
2. Bruce, D. F. (2021). How to Put Allergies Out of Work. WebMD [Online]. Accessed on 7 August 2023. Available from https://www.webmd.com/allergies/allergies-at-work#:~:text=Dust%20mites%2C%20pollen%2C%20and%20mold,make%20it%20hard%20to%20breathe
3. Dimitrova, M. Common Allergens in the Workplace and How to Avoid Them. News Medical [Online]. Accessed on 7 August 2023. Available from https://www.news-medical.net/health/Common-Allergens-in-the-Workplace-and-How-to-Avoid-Them.aspx
4. Goter, A. (2018). Why Does Air Conditioning Make Me Cough?. Healthline [Online]. Accessed on 10 August 2022. Available from https://www.healthline.com/health/allergic-to-air-conditioning#causes
5. Hemp, P. (2004). Presenteeism: At Work—But Out of It. Harvard Business Review [Online]. Accessed on 11 August 2023. Available from https://hbr.org/2004/10/presenteeism-at-work-but-out-of-it