Allergic Skin Reactions

Allergens are all around us. They can be found in the air, on the ground, in everyday products, in food, and more. Many times, when you come into contact with an allergen, it can cause an allergic skin reaction. Rashes are a common skin reaction with symptoms of bumps, redness, and itching. The two most common type of rashes are eczema and hives. However, at times it may be difficult to pinpoint the exact cause for your allergic skin reaction.

Common Types of Allergic Skin Reactions:

• Hives: Also known as urticaria, hives take on the appearance of welts or red bumps that appear on the skin. Hives can appear when exposed to an allergen or as a result of an infection and tend to clear up on their own within 6 weeks. However, hives that last for longer than 6 weeks are considered chronic and the exact cause remains unknown.
• Eczema: Eczema is identified as dry, itchy, red, irritated skin. At times, eczema can become infected and appear with fluid-filled bumps that contain a clear or yellowish colored liquid. Known as atopic dermatitis, eczema is very common and affects approximately 10 to 20 percent of children and 1 to 3 percent of adults.
• Contact Dermatitis: Contact dermatitis is an allergic skin reaction that occurs as a result of exposure to an allergen or irritant. Commonly, symptoms of contact dermatitis include a rash, itching, burning, and blisters. In many cases, contact dermatitis is caused by laundry detergents, soaps, shampoos, and more. Additionally, certain metals can cause contact dermatitis, such as nickel and other alloys.
• Photoallergic Contact Dermatitis: There are certain allergens that do not cause contact dermatitis until exposed to sunlight. This condition known as photoallergic contact dermatitis, can occur with products such as perfumes, lotions, and even sunscreen.

If you are experiencing any of the above allergic skin reactions, or are prone to certain conditions, we recommend you schedule an appointment with one of our expert dermatologists today. The dermatologists at Blue Ridge Dermatology Associates P.A. specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of allergic skin reactions such as hives, eczema, and contact dermatitis. Additionally, our team will work diligently to not just treat your symptoms, but to get to the bottom of the cause in order to eliminate future occurrences.

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Don’t suffer with itchy, uncomfortable skin. Request an appointment with one of our dermatologists today. Additionally, if you have questions regarding a skin condition, we invite you to contact our office for more information.