Monday, 14 November 2011

Multiple Allergies and Growing Up

This young man first saw me at the age of 12 with very severe eczema and he was feeling terrible and really, who can blame him?

He was first diagnosed to have house dust mite, egg and milk allery and later with the help of his mum and himself, we gradually realised that he also had chrome, nickel, alcohol, detergent and mint allergy. That's quite a number.

His condition improved with time but he was not happy as he was the smallest boy in class and by 15 had not attained puberty. I assured him that with the elimination of his allergies, he would grow. Of course, being the awkward age of 15, I wasn't sure if he believed me.

Imagine my pride that he is now grown and training for a triathron! In fact when I met him at the park where I have my weekly walks, he challenged me for a race (with handicap of course... I'm past my prime) with the bet that if he won, further medical fees would be waived. Clever boy.

Because he was getting better in the course of his treatment, he also mentioned that he wanted me to stay alive as long as he lives so that he would always be well. What a compliment, I thought.

Allergies May Have Multiple Causes. Doctor and Patient Detective Collaboration Helps.

My learning continues.

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