Treating allergic rashes is usually straightforward if you know exactly what you're treating. There are several types of allergic rashes, including contact dermatitis, eczema and rashes caused by food allergies. They're all similar in that they cause an itchy skin rash, but each has a different treatment.
Treatments for Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a rash caused by something touching your skin. Common triggers include poison ivy, nickel jewelry and latex gloves. The first treatment for contact dermatitis is to remove the trigger and wash the skin with soap and water. For minor rashes, calamine lotion can help relieve the itching. For moderate rashes, steroid creams will decrease inflammation and itching. Hydrocortisone and triamcinolone are two commonly available over-the-counter steroid creams. For severe rashes, antihistamine pills, such as diphenhydramine, may help, as well as prescription-strength steroid creams or pills from a doctor.
Treatments for Eczema
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a recurrent itchy rash often on the face or around the elbows and knees. To prevent eczema, limit bathing to five to 10 minutes and use lukewarm, not hot water. Emollients, which are thick creams that smooth and soften the skin, are a common treatment for allergic rashes caused by eczema. Antihistamine pills help control itching, and sedating antihistamines such as diphenydramine are especially effective at night. If emollients and antihistamines don't work, steroids are another treatment. Steroid creams such as hydrocortisone are available over the counter; if they don't work, then steroid pills might be prescribed. Your doctor might recommend several other treatments, including tar-based creams, therapy with ultraviolet light and stronger medications that suppress the immune system, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians,
Treatments for Food Allergy Rash
Food allergies often cause urticaria, an itchy, bumpy rash that looks like mosquito bites. Urticaria is best treated by not getting it in the first place--avoid triggers such as peanuts or shellfish. Antihistamines are the standard treatment for this allergic rash. Diphenhydramine and hydroxyzine are antihistamines that cause drowsiness. Loratidine and cetirizine are antihistamines that do not usually cause drowsiness. Usually steroid creams are not helpful, but a doctor might prescribe an oral steroid, such as prednisone, to help treat severe cases of food allergy rashes. If the swelling extends into the lips, tongue or throat, you need immediate medical treatment. These are symptoms of a life-threatening condition called anaphylaxis, according to the Mayo Clinic.
