Commuting in Metro Manila can be nightmare! Apart from the unpredictable traffic, commuters are more likely to be exposed to allergy triggers.The engine smoke, dust and pollen surrounding you can cause endless bahing and kati problems, leaving you drained even before coming to work! For an allergy-free journey, here are ten tips to keep in mind when commuting in the city.
10. TAKE ALTERNATE ROUTES
Most commuters only know limited ways to reach their destination. Try finding other routes using online forums and apps like Waze and Google maps. These tools will help you explore alternative de-congested routes for a less stressful and allergy-free journey.
9. TRY TAKING THE BICYCLE
Not all may be able to ride a bicycle to work, especially for long distances or for those who need to be dressed and prepped, but did you know that having wind blown through you as you travel actually decreases the chance of you inhaling allergens?
8. AVOID YOUR KNOWN ALLERGY-TRIGGERS
You just don't know when allergies will strike! But it may help to plan your path and steer clear of your triggers. Choose the overpass instead of the busy highway if you're allergic to dust. Skip the garden path and choose the paved sidewalk if you're allergic to grass
7. CHOOSE TO COOL OFF DURING HOT SUMMER DAYS
The hot summer air can make air pollution worse. Ozone and smog, grass and weeds are all serious allergy triggers. So if you're allergic to these, try summer activities that don't require being out in the sun for too long. You might even be better off chilling indoors with the air purifier turned on and a cold drink in your hand.
6. DRESS PROTECTIVELY AND COMFORTABLY UNDER THE HEAT OF THE SUN
The sun's heat can trigger allergies. So if your daily commute exposes your skin to a lot of harsh sunlight and dust, you might want to dress protectively by wearing long sleeves with light fabric. Carry an umbrella in your bag at all times. It's your handy shield from the sun.
5. WEAR BOOTS OR PROTECTIVE SHOES FOR RAIN
Flooding: we get it a lot during the rainy season. It's gotten even worse, with flash floods popping up in the unexpected parts of the city! Coming in contact with these dirty pools of water can cause serious diseases and skin allergies, So simply avoid walking through them. Wear rubber boots or waterproof shoes during rain, especially if you really have to walk through ankle-deep water.
4. BE WARY OF EATING STREET FOOD
It's very tempting to try the street food you constantly see when you commute, but not all of these yummy-looking treats are safe. Street food stalls are usually unregulated by health authorities. Pollution from the streets can also contaminate the food. So try sticking to reputable establishments, especially if you are allergy-prone. Remember the saying "Usok ang nagpapasarap diyan?" and Well, this isn't true if the usok and the food will cause allergies and diseases!
3. SANITIZE REGULARLY
Touching things that get moved from one hand to another like MRT cards, bus seats, and money can trigger all sorts of skin-related allergies. So it's best to have a bottle of sanitizer on hand.
2. WEAR A FLU MASK
An easy solution to avoid inhaling allergy triggers is by bringing a flu mask as you travel. Remember to wear the mask with the blue part facing outward so it can help sterilize the air you breathe.
1. TAKE ALLERTA
The simple solution to an allergy-free commute? Take Allerta tablet. It's your long-lasting up to 24-hour allergy shield. Anytime your allergies start to act up, you have Allerta to keep you bahing and kati-free!
ASC REF. CODE: U033P112116A
If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
