Allergic Skin Conditions

Many factors can cause skin irritation. This condition can be due to extreme heat during summers, or it could be caused by certain medications. A fungal or bacterial infection will probably cause another type of skin irritation. However, the most significant factor that causes skin irritation is an immune system disorder. Depending on the level of allergic response in each case, this reaction can likewise lead to serious skin allergy. However, a thin line exists between a simple skin rash and an allergic skin condition.

Skin Allergy vs. a Simple Skin Rash

Skin allergy and a simple skin rash may manifest the same physical attributes. Both can appear like a blister or as a simple red bump on the skin. Blisters are usually caused by extreme conditions and can appear on the skin as burns, or it can be caused by bacterial infection such as impetigo. It usually appears like a bulge of skin that contains either pus or water. Skin rashes, on the other hand, usually occur when your skin touches an item that results in skin irritation. Rashes that are caused by simple irritants can be quite painful compared with skin allergy, and it can manifest around your whole body.

Typically, skin allergies are very itchy and may create a burning or pulsating sensation. The allergic reaction on the skin does not readily appear on contact. It may take a couple of days before it actually manifests. Plus, the rash is isolated in one particular area where the irritant initially came in contact. There are several types of skin allergies, all of which can be easily diagnosed and treated with the right medical approach.

Common Types and Treatment Methods

• Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis caused by an allergic reaction to some substances is characterized by an itchy, red blister. This reaction usually occurs within 24 hours. Household or personal care products that contain high levels of allergens are the common causes of allergic contact dermatitis. These include nickel, strong perfumes, rubber-based materials, and certain beauty products.

The most useful treatment for this type of skin allergy is to avoid repeated contact with these elements. A little help from an allergist will determine which particular substance to avoid. Most people develop only a certain level of allergic reaction if they are constantly exposed to such allergens. Soaking the irritated area in cold water or a simple cold compress can also provide immediate relief, reduce the inflammation and practically cool down the burning sensation.

• Eczema

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is characterized by a scaly, itchy rash that normally affects babies. Some people also develop this skin disorder based on their family history. It usually manifests around the face and skin folds in the body such as those on the elbows and knees. Animal dander, dust and certain fabrics like wool are the most common triggering factors for this type of skin allergy. Emotional stress at work or home can also lead to such skin irritation.

The treatment for eczema focuses on eliminating the itch factor. Antihistamines and topical medications that contain corticosteroid are usually given to reduce the itchiness. A cold compress also works well in reducing the skin inflammation. There are, however, severe cases of eczema. In these cases, corticosteroids may be given orally, or antibiotics may be prescribed, depending on the root cause of the allergic reaction.