If you are one of the millions worldwide who suffer from skin allergies, you know firsthand how uncomfortable and frustrating they can be. Skin allergies occur when your immune system reacts to a substance it sees as harmful, even though it may not be. This reaction can cause various symptoms, from redness and itching to hives and swelling. There are many types of skin allergies Silver Spring, each with its triggers and symptoms.
Skin allergies can be caused by:
- Environmental allergens: These can include pollen, dust mites, and mold.
- Food allergens: Common therightmessages food allergens include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, and fish.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as antibiotics, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause allergic reactions.
- Insect bites and stings: Bee stings, mosquito bites, and other insect bites can cause allergic reactions in some people.
- Chemicals and irritants: Exposure to chemicals in products such as soaps, lotions, and detergents can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
- Genetics: A family history of allergies or eczema can increase your risk of developing a skin allergy.
Common skin allergies
There are many types of skin allergies, each with its triggers and symptoms, including:
- Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes red, itchy, and inflamed skin. Various factors, including environmental allergens, irritants, stress, and genetics, can trigger eczema.
- Contact dermatitis: When a material that irritates or sets off an allergic reaction comes into touch with your skin, it might result in this skin rash. This allworldday can range from nickel and poison ivy to latex and certain compounds in soaps and detergents.
- Hives: Hives, also known as urticaria, are red, itchy, and raised welts on the skin that can appear anywhere on the body. An allergic reaction to food, medication, insect bites, or environmental allergens typically causes them.
- Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes skin cell buildup, resulting in thick, scaly, and itchy skin patches. Stress, injury, infection, and certain medications often trigger it.
- Rosacea: Rosacea is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that makes the face appear red, flushed, and with visible blood vessels. Sun exposure, stress, alcohol, and spicy foods are common causes.
- Angioedema: Angioedema is a swelling of the deep layers of the skin, usually around the eyes and lips, but can occur elsewhere in the body. An allergic reaction to food, medication, or environmental allergens often causes it.
Skin allergies treatment options
The treatment options for skin allergies depend on the type and severity. Treatment may involve avoiding triggers, using topical creams or ointments to reduce inflammation and itchiness, taking oral medications such as antihistamines or steroids, and making lifestyle changes to reduce stress and promote skin health. For severe allergic reactions, emergency medical attention may be necessary, including the use of epinephrine injections. In some cases, referral to an allergist or dermatologist may be necessary for further evaluation and management.
If you suspect a skin allergy, speak with your allergy specialist at the Allergy & Asthma Clinic of Maryland.
