Allergology in Malaysia

Allergology is the branch of medicine that deals with the study, diagnosis, and treatment of allergies. Allergies are the immune system’s response to substances that can be harmful to the human body (allergens). Allergens can be found in the air, certain foods, everyday objects, drugs, and pets. 

A doctor who specializes in the treatment of allergies is called an allergist, while a scientist who studies allergology is called an allergologist. They can examine allergic pulmonary and skin diseases in both children and adults. In addition, they are able to examine the ear, nose, and throat diseases that are related to allergic problems. Allergist usually works with other specialists, such as ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctors, dermatologists, internists, or gynecologists. Some of the most common allergy that allergists can help treat include:

• Food allergies (such as peanuts, cow’s milk protein, meat, and fruit)
• Animals (such as insects and feathered or furry animals)
• Dust mites (tiny bugs that can be found in dust in carpets, mattresses, and furniture)
• Pollens (trees, grasses, herbaceous plants)
• Latex
• Mould
• Certain metals
• Sun.

The specialty of adult allergology focuses on the treatment of atopic eczema and urticaria, asthma and obstructive pulmonary diseases, chronic maxillary sinusitis, allergic eye symptoms, as well as drug and food allergies. Pediatric allergology concentrates on treating atopic eczemas and asthma in children of all ages, in addition to food allergies and other types of allergies.

Allergists can perform a wide range of tests and procedures, including:

• Allergy skin testing, including prick skin testing and intradermal skin testing
• Food challenges
• Aspirin desensitization
• Blood tests
• Physical exam
• Spirometry (lung function tests)
• Medication/drug challenge
• Patch testing
• Allergy shots
• Prescribing medications, such as emergency epinephrine and antihistamine.

How Long Should I Stay in Malaysia?

You should be able to leave the clinic or hospital on the same day as your allergy test or treatment. However, it is advisable that you stay at least 2 to 3 days after an allergy test to wait for the results. You will need to visit your allergist who will explain the results to you and discuss the best treatment option. If you need allergy shots, you usually require them every 2 to 4 weeks for 4 to 5 months. You can choose to travel multiple times or stay in Malaysia until the whole treatment is finished.

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

There is little to no recovery times after allergy tests or treatments. You should be able to resume your normal activities as soon as you do not experience symptoms that interfere with your ability to perform your daily activity.

What Aftercare is Required?

Your doctor will give you instructions to prevent an allergic reaction from happening in the future, which usually includes avoiding your allergens. In some cases, they will give you an emergency epinephrine autoinjector and teach you how to use it. Make sure to keep the product near you at all times. You may also be advised to let your family, friends, or those closest to you know where you keep the epinephrine and how to use it. 

What's the Success Rate?

Diagnosis and treatment of allergy are becoming more successful and safer now thanks to the continuous advancement of allergology. For example, around 85% of people who receive regular allergy shots for 3 to 5 years, experience permanent results. Medicines can also control the symptoms much better now. However, some types of treatments do have side effects and risks, such as reactions that appear as hives at the site of the injection, redness, nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchy skin.

Are there Alternatives?

In most cases, you will need to see an allergist diagnose and treat allergy, but you can also see an immunologist as the alternative. If your symptoms are found to be caused by other problems unrelated to allergy, your allergist will refer you to the relevant specialist. 

Allergology in and around Malaysia

About Malaysia

Malaysia is a rich culturally-oriented tourist destination and has a beautiful blend of modernization with a relaxed lifestyle. The population of the country is 32 Million people and Malaysia’s economy ranks in the fourth position in terms of size in Southeast Asia, The electronics, automotive, and construction industries are the biggest industries in Malaysia. The capital is Kuala Lumpur and It is the country’s largest urban area and is the cultural, commercial, and transportation center.

Presently, Malaysia stands as a renowned destination for its exemplary healthcare facilities, offering these high-quality services at notably affordable costs when juxtaposed against other globally recognized medical nations. As per predictions from the Ministry of Finance, the influx of medical tourists is expected to surge beyond 2,000,000 million by 2020. This forecasted growth can be largely attributed to the exemption of taxes imposed on medical bills.

The cities that top the list of medical travel include Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Selangor, Sarawak, and Melaka. Statistics reveal that among the 1.2 million patients who have visited Malaysia for medical care in 2017, 600,000 alone were from Indonesia. The most-sought-after medical procedures are cosmetic surgery, Brazilian butt-lift, and dental surgery. Malaysia is a favorite destination among medical tourists globally for the following reasons.

• The Country possesses a plethora of world-class hospitals that have high-tech medical equipment.
• All treatment plans match very high ethical medical standards.
• The doctors and paramedical staff are well-qualified.
• All procedures will cost you 50% less than other well known medical countries.
• English is a major language and there is good two-way communication between the doctors/medical staff and the patients.
• After an elective surgical operation, many patients will stay on in Malaysia to holiday and recuperate.

Some of the top-rated five-star medical tourism hospitals within the country include Columbia Asia Extended Care Hospital situated in Selangor, Sunway Velocity Medical Centre located in Kuala Lumpur, and Sunway Medical Centre based in Selangor.

Popular parts of Malaysia

Undoubtedly, Malaysia's appeal is immediately evident. The variety of experiences it offers, from bustling cities to idyllic landscapes, entrances visitors. Malaysia's multiculturalism, expressed through unique customs and diverse cuisines, only enhances its charm. This draws tourists from all corners of the globe, leaving them yearning for more. Succinctly, the splendor and diversity of Malaysia make it hard to resist repeated visits.

• Kuala Lumpur has a  mix of Malay, Indian, and Chinese influence which gives you a great selection of culinary delights to explore in this city. Interesting sights such as the Petronas Towers which is one of the tallest twin towers in the world. the Perdana Lake Gardens and the Menara KL Tower provide plenty of enjoyable distractions.
• Penang is an island on the west coast and the colonial city of Georgetown was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site and you can enjoy the museums, seaside fort, historic buildings. Penang is considered one of the best places in Southeast Asia to sample delicious street food of all types.

The must-visit cities in Malaysia renowned for their world-class appeal include Malacca, Langkawi, Kuching, Spaden, Johor Bahru, and Taiping.

Weather and Climate in Malaysia

Malaysia is a place that's warm all year round, as being in the tropical region. But since it's close to the ocean, the air can get pretty moist. Still, it's re-assuring to note that it doesn't get too hot, with temperatures usually staying between a pleasant 20°C and 30°C all throughout the year. Those who prefer cooler weather can visit the highlands in Malaysia, where it's generally chillier.

When planning a trip it's important to take into account the best times to visit different parts of the country. If you're eyeing the east coast, try to schedule your visit between March and September; this period is relatively drier than other months. On the other hand, the west coast is better visited from November to August. It's best to avoid the heavy rains which usually occur from September to October. With this information, you can plan to get the best out of your trip to Malaysia.

Getting around in Malaysia

The Country has a well-developed transport network and efficient rail links which makes all travel around the country easy.

It is advisable to book domestic transport well in advance during the main festivals, such as Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Pusa and Hari Raya Haji. Domestic flights and domestic express bus services are often sold out weeks before these festivals. All the major cities in Malaysia have an airport and most budget airlines operate into the country.

In the larger cities of Malaysia, you'll find that transportation is convenient with many kinds of vehicles to choose from. Specifically in Kuala Lumpur, the capital city, there's a broad range of public transportation options to get around. You can hop on buses for an affordable ride or opt for minibusses, locally known as "bas-mini" to navigate through narrower streets.

Furthermore, taxis are easily accessible in Kuala Lumpur, providing a convenient alternative when you prefer more comfort or need to reach a specific destination quickly. If you would like to experience something traditional and fun, pedicabs or "trishaws" as they are commonly known, are present in some parts of the city offering you a unique ride.

Additionally, Kuala Lumpur also boasts a well-connected train network, including rapid transit and commuter rail services, facilitating quick and efficient travel across the city. It's safe to say that in Kuala Lumpur, moving around is smooth and easy, thanks to these diverse means of transportation.

In Malaysian towns and cities, various modes of transport are used, including ferry services. In cities, the rail network is a good way to get around, especially the KL Monorail and transit trains.

Tourist Visas in Malaysia

The residents of the following countries holding a valid passport are the ones required to apply for a Malaysian tourist visa. China, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Bhutan, Serbia, and Montenegro

All other nationalities will not need a visa to visit Malaysia. You will normally be given permission to stay for 3 months on arrival. Visas for longer stays or for non-tourist purposes must be obtained from the nearest Malaysian diplomatic mission before you travel.

The Malaysian authorities are running a vigorous campaign against illegal immigration. Don’t overstay your visa, or violate the terms of entry. Even if you overstay for just a few days, you can be fined, detained, deported, and blacklisted. Flight costs will be the responsibility of the individual.

Additional Information

• Local currency: Ringgit, denoted as RM, is the national Malaysian Currency. Printed in various colors, size, and physical appearance, the Bank Negara Malaysia and the National Bank of Malaysia control the issuing of currency. Malaysia follows the Chinese Model where it has cut itself away from comparing it to US dollars. The Malaysian currency is as such not traded internationally.
• Money and Payments: world-class restaurants and retail stores accept all forms of Credit cards. In case you are not holding the requisite quantity of local currency with you, you can exchange them at exchange bureaus. You can even take out cash from the ATMs.
• Local language: The official language is Malay and English is also widely spoken, the state has a cosmopolitan population, languages such as Arabic, Hindi, Tamil, are also spoken.
• Public holidays: The local population celebrates the Gregorian New year as well as the Chinese New Year. Since a large part of the population is Indian, Malaysia also celebrates some of the traditional Indian festivals such as Pongal, Diwali, and Tamil New Year.