Types of Skin Allergic Conditions

Skin allergy is a type of allergic reaction or response of the skin when it comes in contact with an allergen or allergy triggering agent. In this condition, the skin gets irritated due to the reaction of the immune system against the allergen. After allergic reactions, people may experience itching, rashes, redness, bumps, burning, and swelling. Different allergens can be responsible for causing an allergic reaction.

Any type of skin concerns and allergies can affect anyone, as skin is the most sensitive body organ. One must consult with a dermatologist as they can help one manage and cure the allergic skin condition by providing the best treatment and care. Many types of skin allergies have similar symptoms. Hence, a skin specialist performs various diagnostic and skin tests to determine the type of allergy and provide suitable treatment to cure it effectively. Dr. Rohit Batra, MD (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology), is an expert skin allergy specialist in Delhi and provides treatments for various skin allergic conditions effectively at his clinic DermaWorld Skin Clinics.

The most common factors (allergens) that cause skin allergies are:

• Metal like nickel and lead

• Lotions

• Certain makeup products

• Bug sprays

• Drugs such as anti-itch creams or antibiotics

• Perfumes

• Cleaning products

• Poison ivy from plants

• Latex and chemicals

• Pollen grains

• Animal fur

• Seasonal changes

• Dust

• Seafood

• Nuts

• Dairy products

• Synthetic clothes

• Woolen clothes

• Harsh shampoos and soaps

The most common type of allergic skin reactions

1. Atopic Dermatitis

This is the most common type of allergic skin disorder, which causes rashes on the skin. This is a chronic condition in which the skin becomes red and itchy. In this condition, patches develop on the skin areas such as the feet, hands, neck, ankles, limbs, and upper body. It is visible from time to time and then invisible for a time period.

A skin allergy develops symptoms based on the type of reaction. Eczema shows symptoms like itching, scaly, red, and dry rash in skin areas such as the face, elbows, hands, and knees. In some cases, eczema may also release clear fluid.

2. Allergic Contact Dermatitis

In this condition, a reaction occurs when the skin gets contacted with an allergen. An allergic reaction against metal nickel and allergic to poison ivy or poison oak plant are some examples of this condition. Allergic contact dermatitis causes rashes, which usually painful. These rashes look like raised bumps and blisters. Allergic reactions after getting exposed to something may develop quickly or may take up to 48 hours.

3. Urticaria or Hives

In this condition, allergic reactions cause raised bumps on the skin. These bumps are also termed as wheals or welts. If an individual is allergic to some food item, they may get hives after having that food due to an allergic reaction. Hives look flat, itchy, and raised bumps. This may a sign of serious allergic reactions.

4. Angioedema

In this condition, swelling occurs deep in the skin. It commonly develops in skin areas such as the lips, throat, and eyelids or often develops together with hives. This condition causes swelling in skin areas like the eyelid, throat.

Diagnosis of a skin allergy condition

The doctor examines the patient's eyes, nose, chest, and throat to see allergy signs.

Some recommended allergy tests are:

• Skin prick test

• Intradermal test

• Patch test

• Challenge test

• Blood test

• Hormone test

The tests help determine the cause of the disease or allergy and help the doctor provide suitable treatment to the patient.

Treatments and Self-care

To manage the symptoms of atopic dermatitis at-home interventions are helpful. One must avoid the application of harsh soaps and irritants. People should apply moisturizing creams or lotions regularly to prevent the skin from drying. Anti-itch creams or ointments are some recommended medications to ease the issues caused by an allergy. One must take short baths and use gentle soaps and shampoos to prevent the loss of hydration from the skin.

In the case of contact dermatitis, one should try to know the causative agent and avoid that agent to treat the rash. Several medications and creams can be used to eliminate the discomfort of such symptoms. One must also avoid rubbing, scrubbing, and scratching of skin to prevent the risk of getting any secondary skin infection.

Antihistamines or a combination of medications are recommended to manage hives.

Antihistamines and corticosteroids help relieve the swelling of angioedema.

Suffering from allergic skin conditions? Consult today with the best Skin Specialist in India at DermaWorld Skin Clinics for more information.