Skin Allergy Treatment in Delhi, India

Some of the common allergic skin conditions are as follows:

• Atopic dermatitis or eczema: It is one of the most common allergic skin conditions occurring when the skin becomes dry, itchy, and irritated. It is seen more frequently in children than in adults. It may be caused due to genetic and environmental factors. It has been linked to food allergies, asthma, and seasonal allergies. Some flare-ups associated with eczema are stress, soaps, lotions, certain foods, or dry air.
• Allergic contact dermatitis: It occurs when an allergen (a substance that a person may be allergic to) comes in contact with skin by direct touch. For instance, some people are allergic to oxidized or imitation jewelry. A response to poison ivy is also an example.
• Urticaria or Hives: These are raised bumps on the skin occurring due to an allergic reaction. These bumps are also known as wheals or welts. A person may get hives on consuming foods they are allergic to. The bumps result from histamine released by the body in response to the allergen. Things besides allergies can also cause hives, such as a bug bite.
• Angioedema: It is a swelling deep in the skin. It often happens in places like the eyelids, lips, and throat and usually occurs together with hives.

Symptoms of skin allergy vary depending on the type of dermatitis. These can be explained as follows:

• Eczema: An itchy, scaly, red, dry rash appears on the face, elbows, knees, and hands. Sometimes eczema may weep clear fluid.
• Allergic contact dermatitis: An itchy and painful rash that may be raised and appear like a bump or blister; occurs immediately or within 48 hours after the skin is exposed to an allergen.
• Hives are raised, itchy, flat bumps that may be tender. They are a sign of a severe allergic reaction.
• Angioedema is a type of swelling. For example, angioedema on the eyelid can cause the eye to be swollen shut. It is an emergency when it happens in the throat because the swelling makes it hard to breathe.

An allergen is a substance-exposed to causes dermatitis that irritates the skin or triggers an allergic reaction. The substance could be one of the thousands of known allergens and irritants. These substances can cause either type of dermatitis.

After the initial contact, it takes at least ten days to become sensitive to an allergen. A person may even touch something for years before an allergic reaction becomes apparent. But once an allergy is developed, it could take less than a minute to manifest the allergic reaction. Sometimes, it may also take a day or two.

Some common irritants of contact dermatitis are:

• Plants
• Airborne substances like sawdust or wool dust
• Fertilizers and pesticides
• Rubbing alcohol
• Shampoos, permanent wave solutions
• Body fluids, including urine and saliva
• Certain plants, such as poinsettias and peppers
• Hair dyes
• Nail polish remover or other solvents
• Paints and varnishes
• Harsh soaps or detergents
• Resins, plastics, and epoxies

A person is more likely to have skin allergies if they have pre-existing skin conditions such as eczema, inflammation in the lower extremities because of poor circulation, itching in the private parts, or frequent episodes of swimmer's ear.

To diagnose a skin allergy condition, the doctor may first enquire about the skin type, symptoms, and frequency of allergy. Followed by examination of the skin and testing.

Some tests include:

• Skin prick test: If the doctor suspects an allergy, the allergen is injected on a small patch, and the skin is scratched lightly. If the body reacts, a rash will appear along with other signs of allergy, such as redness and itching, within 15 minutes. A hive may also be evident. If the hive is large, it may suggest an allergic reaction. However, it is not a confirmatory test of allergy.
• Intradermal skin test. If the skin prick test is negative, and the doctor is sure of allergy, intradermal testing can be done. Some allergens are injected into the skin, and the skin is checked for a reaction after some time.
• Blood tests (specific IgE). The doctor may take a blood sample and send it for testing to put the suspected allergen into the blood and check for IgE antibodies. These antibodies attack the allergen, and its presence may indicate an allergy. However, the chances of the test being false positive are high with this test.
• Challenge test: A small amount of allergen is consumed orally or through inhalation to check for a reaction. The doctor observes to prevent any life-threatening reaction. This test is commonly employed to diagnose allergic reactions to medicine or food.
• A patch test is carried out to confirm the diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis. A little amount of allergen is rubbed on the skin, covered with a bandage, and left for 2 to 4 days—the doctor checks for signs of a reaction — usually a rash right under the bandage.

Treatment of skin allergy differs depending on the symptoms and allergen. However, two common approaches to treating a skin allergy are:

• Avoiding the allergen, if it is known
• Symptomatic treatment by using medicines, ointments, creams, and other methods to relieve redness, pain, itching, or swelling

Some complications of skin allergy can be described as:

• Infection: Moist skin from oozing or open wounds caused by irritation or scratching is susceptible to infection from bacteria and fungi. The skin is commonly infected by staphylococcus and streptococcus, leading to impetigo. This skin condition is highly contagious. Most skin infections can be treated with antibiotics or antifungal medicines.
• Neurodermatitis: Scratching can make the skin even itchier, leading to chronic scratching and scaling. This results in the skin becoming thick, discoloured, and leathery. Such skin can be treated with corticosteroid creams, anti-anxiety drugs, and anti-itch medications.
• Cellulitis: It is a bacterial skin infection caused by streptococcus or staphylococcus bacteria. The symptoms are fever, redness, pain in the affected area, red streaks in the skin, chills, and aches. A compromised immune system in a person with cellulitis can be life-threatening.

Irritant reactions may occur after a single exposure, while it may also take multiple exposures to develop an allergy. People working in certain professions may have a higher risk of developing dermatitis.

Some jobs and hobbies that carry a higher risk of dermatitis are:

• Health care and dental employees
• Metalworkers
• Construction workers
• Hairdressers and cosmetologists
• Auto mechanics
• Scuba divers or swimmers, due to the rubber in face masks or goggles
• Cleaners
• Gardeners and agricultural workers
• Cooks and others who work with food

Reaction to an allergen occurs at every incidence of exposure. Flare-ups can be prevented by avoiding the substance. Most people with occupational contact dermatitis can try to reduce exposure to continue working without manifesting an allergic reaction.

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What is a skin allergy?
A skin allergy is a reaction of the skin to certain substances or allergens that cause symptoms such as redness, itching, swelling, and rashes.

What are the causes of skin allergies?
Common causes of skin allergies include contact with allergens like pollen, pet dander, certain foods, medications, insect bites or stings, and exposure to certain chemicals or materials.

How can I prevent skin allergies?
To prevent skin allergies, it is important to avoid contact with known allergens, use hypoallergenic products, maintain good hygiene, and keep the skin hydrated and moisturised to reduce irritation.

What are the treatment options for skin allergies?
Treatment options for skin allergies include over-the-counter antihistamines, topical corticosteroids, moisturisers, and prescription medications. Severe cases may require allergy shots or immunotherapy.

Can skin allergies be cured?
While there is no definitive cure for skin allergies, symptoms can be effectively managed through proper treatment and avoidance of allergens.

When should I consult a doctor for my skin allergies?
You should see a dermatologist if your skin allergies are severe, persistent, or affecting your daily life.

Can stress worsen skin allergies?
Yes, stress can worsen skin allergies as it weakens the immune system, thus increasing the chances of allergic reactions.

Can diet affect skin allergies?
Certain foods can trigger or worsen skin allergies in some individuals. Common food allergens include peanuts, shellfish, dairy products, and gluten.

How can I determine the cause of my skin allergies?
To determine the cause of your skin allergies, you may undergo allergy testing, which can involve skin patch testing, blood tests, or elimination diets. These tests can help identify specific allergens.

Can skin allergies be hereditary?
Yes, skin allergies can be hereditary. If one or both of your parents have allergies, you may have an increased risk of developing skin allergies.

Is it safe to use over-the-counter creams for skin allergies?
Over-the-counter creams can provide temporary relief for mild skin allergies. But consult an expert before using it.

Are there any side effects of skin allergy medications?
Some skin allergy medications, especially topical corticosteroids, may have side effects like thinning of the skin, discolouration, or increased risk of infections.

Can I develop new skin allergies over time?
Yes, it is possible to develop new skin allergies over time. Allergies can develop at any age due to changes in the immune system or exposure to new allergens.

Can exposure to sunlight worsen skin allergies?
Exposure to sunlight can worsen certain types of skin allergies, like photodermatitis or sun allergy. Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure to prevent aggravating symptoms.

Can skin allergies be contagious?
Skin allergies themselves are not contagious, but certain conditions like scabies or fungal infections can cause similar symptoms and can be contagious.

Can skin allergies lead to other health problems?
In some cases, skin allergies can lead to complications such as infections, skin damage, or anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction). Prompt treatment and management can help prevent these complications.

Can skin allergies be seasonal?
Yes, some skin allergies, such as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, can be seasonal and occur during specific times of the year when certain allergens are prevalent, such as pollen.

Can stress cause skin allergies to flare up?
Yes, stress can cause skin allergies to flare up or worsen.

Are there any long-term consequences of untreated skin allergies?
Untreated skin allergies can lead to chronic skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, or hives. Additionally, constant itching and scratching can cause skin damage and increase the risk of infection. It is important to seek proper treatment and management for skin allergies to avoid these long-term consequences.

Review

FAQs reviewed by Dr. Nidhi Rao - Consultant - Dermatology.