Skin
Allergies: Avoiding the Pain and Discomfort
Itchy
rashes, unsightly red bumps, stinging swollen lumps, and painful
hives: all of these can be caused by skin allergies. Of the 50 million
Americans suffering from all types of allergies, 7% have skin allergies
as their primary complaint, and it’s no wonder; the irritation,
pain, and discomfort that accompany skin allergies can make life
unbearable, and at times it may seem impossible to avoid their effects.
Thankfully, there is hope with a number of steps you can take to
avoid the pain, discomfort, and unattractive appearance of skin
allergies.
Some
common types of skin allergies include:
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
- Contact dermatitis
- Urticaria (hives)
Skin allergies such as those listed above can be caused by a wide
variety of triggers. The best way to determine the type of skin
allergies you suffer from is with a skin allergy test from your
health care provider. Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is
a chronic condition but is one of the more common skin allergies.
Often beginning in infancy, eczema usually continues for life. Contact
dermatitis refers to skin allergies caused by fragrances, jewelry
containing nickel, poison ivy, oak, and sumac, among others. This
type of allergy is caused by external contact with an allergen,
and it often results in an itchy, red rash on the exposed area.
Affecting about 15% of all Americans each year, skin allergies known
as urticaria (hives) can be due to a variety of factors, including
food allergies.
As
with seasonal and pollen allergies, the effects of skin allergies
are best reduced by simply avoiding the allergen that triggers them.
For example, wearing long pants and sleeves in forests and fields
containing poison ivy can help you avoid triggering contact dermatitis.
Further, taking a natural allergy medication such as VÄXA Aller-Sine
can provide relief from symptoms of skin allergies before they even
occur. However, if you simply cannot avoid the allergens,
or you are in the midst of symptoms of skin allergies, natural remedies
such as mineral soaks can provide itch relief, reduce bumps and
redness, and soothe skin. Steroid creams and other topical anti-itch
creams and lotions such as calamine lotion can also provide temporary
relief. With proper preventative techniques and quick treatment,
you can reduce your skin allergies and truly live life to the fullest.
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