The body's natural defense system is the immune system. According to the American College of Allergy and Immunology (ACAAI) , its function includes fighting off infections and other dangers to help keep your body healthy. An allergic reaction can occur when the immune system overreacts to a specific food or other substance, causing an attack. The result can include red, itchy and swollen skin. For individuals with this type of allergy, avoiding the trigger foods will keep symptoms away. For those whose skin disorder results from irritants, avoiding specific products such as lotions, cosmetics and soaps will help.
Urticaria
According to the ACAAI, urticaria (also known as hives) is one of the most common skin conditions. This condition affects an estimated 20 percent of Americans at some point in their lives. The symptoms of urticaria are sudden and include severe itching, swollen red welts or bumps on the skin. These bumps and welts can be painful and cause a burning sensation.
Causes of Urticaria
The causes of urticaria can be identified fairly easily, because the hives appear within a few minutes to hours after exposure to the trigger. Foods, medication, infection, insect stings, blood transfusions or other substances are typically the source. Urticaria can appear anywhere on the body and can be acute or chronic. The size of the hives varies from tiny to large and can blend together. These hives are short lived, lasting approximately 24 hours; however, new hives can form in other spots. The condition can last from a few hours to six weeks.
Urticaria Treatments
Avoiding the trigger is the best way to manage urticaria. In the case of an outbreak, treatments include oral antihistamines, an adrenaline injection or oral cortisone. Other medications are also available by prescription and vary depending on the type of urticaria.
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis (allergic eczema) is an allergic or non-allergic skin condition that affects between 10 percent and 20 percent of children and 1 percent to 3 percent of adults, according to the ACAAI. This condition leaves a red, itchy rash.
Atopic Dermatitis Causes
Atopic dermatitis results from an allergic reaction to something eaten, breathed or touched. Additionally, stress can be a factor. In some cases, a doctor can determine the cause of the rash and provide appropriate therapy. An allergist or dermatologist may be called upon if the condition becomes chronic or is not responding to treatment.
Atopic Dermatitis Treatment
The treatment for atopic dermatitis depends upon the condition and severity. Topical corticosteroids are the most common treatments prescribed to ease the itching and reduce inflammation. If the condition appears on the trunk of the body, arms or legs, an intermediate potency corticosteroid can be used. High-potency corticosteroids can also be used but are not appropriate for the face or genitals. Other treatments can include topical calcineurin inhibitors, tar preparations, oral medications, wet dressings, ultraviolet light exposure and allergy shots.
