|
The Allergy and Asthma Clinic In observation of
Memorial Day
|
||||||
Hives and other Allergic Skin Problems Hives are red, itchy swollen blotches on the skin. They often appear suddenly and go away within a few hours but sometimes they can last several days. They frequently Hives are usually caused by exposure to some substance to which you are allergic. Things that cause hives include foods such as tree nuts, peanuts, shellfish and medications such as antibiotics or even aspirin. The best way to treat hives is to try to avoid what causes them. Allergy medicines such as antihistamines can also be used to give a patient quick relief. Sometimes, it is necessary to take medication on a regular basis to try to prevent the hives from starting in the first place. For patients who have continual problems with hives or other allergic skin conditions, an allergy evaluation can be helpful. Your allergist will try to identify the source of your problem and then develop an effective treatment plan to help prevent these irritating skin conditions from occurring. Fortunately, most patients who have skin allergies can be given significant relief so that the skin problems bother them less and do not interfere with the quality of their life. Atopic Dermatitis?Atopic dermatitis is a long-term skin disease. "Atopic" refers to a tendency to develop allergy conditions. "Dermatitis" means swelling of the skin. The most common symptoms of atopic dermatitis are:
Scratching the skin can cause:
Often, the skin gets worse (flares), then it improves or clears up (remissions). Who Gets Atopic Dermatitis?Atopic dermatitis is most common in babies and children. But it can happen to anyone. People who live in cities and dry climates may be more likely to get this disease. When children with atopic dermatitis grow older, this problem can improve or go away. But the skin may stay dry and easy to irritate. At other times, atopic dermatitis is a problem in adulthood. You can't "catch" the disease or give it to other people. What Causes Atopic Dermatitis?The cause of atopic dermatitis is not known. It is likely caused by both genetic (runs in the family) and environmental factors. People with atopic dermatitis may go on to develop hay fever and asthma. How Is Atopic Dermatitis Diagnosed?Diagnosis is based on the symptoms. Each person has his or her own mix of symptoms that can change over time. Doctors will ask for a medical history to:
Doctors also may ask about:
There isn't a certain test that can be used to check for this disease. But you may be tested for allergies by a dermatologist (skin doctor) or allergist (allergy doctor). Things That Make Atopic Dermatitis WorseIrritants and allergens can make atopic dermatitis worse. Irritants are things that may cause the skin to be red and itchy or to burn. They include:
Allergens are allergy-causing substances from foods, plants, animals, or the air. Common allergens are:
Stress, anger, and frustration can make atopic dermatitis worse, but they haven't been shown to cause it. Skin infections, temperature, and climate can also lead to skin flares. Other things that can lead to flares are:
How Is Atopic Dermatitis Treated?Treatment works best when the patient, family members, and doctor work together. Treatment plans are based on:
You need to carefully follow the treatment plan. Try to notice what is or isn't helpful. Symptoms usually improve with the right skin care and lifestyle changes. Atopic dermatitis treatment goals are to heal the skin and prevent flares. Your doctor will help you:
You and your family members should watch for changes in the skin to find out what treatments help the most. Medications for atopic dermatitis include:
Other treatments include:
People with atopic dermatitis should not get the smallpox vaccine. It may cause serious problems in people with atopic dermatitis.
|
appear in clusters and can be very uncomfortable.
© The Allergy & Asthma Clinic | Allergy & Asthma | 290 Baldwin Avenue
San Mateo, California 94401 | Disclaimer, Privacy & Terms of Use |