Different Kinds Of Skin Allergies

Skin allergies are triggered by exposure to allergens, the same way that other kinds of allergies are triggered. The skin reacts by swelling or developing a rash that can be scaly, red or painful. In many cases, itching occurs and this causes broken skin and other complications.

Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis or eczema are among the skin allergies that often affect young children but can also start in young adults well into the older years. The rash that develops when am individual scratches an itchy part of his skin is called eczema. The rash is the manifestation of the skin allergy being scratched. One thing that needs to be noted in people who suffer from atopic dermatitis is that, if there is no scratching, there is no eczema.

There are many skin allergies that come hand in hand with other forms of allergies. Atopic dermatitis sufferers may also suffer from asthma or allergic rhinitis. The location of the rash that develops when atopic dermatitis is scratched is usually in the face (for infants and younger children) and for older children around the inner elbows and the back of the knees (may even involve other creases in the skin).

Swelling and Hives

Urticaria (hives) and agioedema (swelling) are some forms of skin allergies that often occur upon exposure to allergens. Most often, these two symptoms of skin allergies go together but there are also instances when only one may occur to an individual suffering from skin allergies. Hives are bumps that can be any size and mildly itchy. Despite the itch, there is less possibility of breaking the skin when itching compared to atopic dermatitis.

Swelling or angioedema can be dangerous especially if it occurs internally. It can block the airways and obstruct breathing to an extent that sufferers suffocate. These kinds of skin allergies can also occur near the mouth, lips, eyes and extremities. Those who suffer from skin allergies that cause swelling may experience some burning or stinging sensation in the swollen parts of their skin.

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is another form of skin allergies that occur when the skin comes into contact with an allergen. These allergens may be substances found in make up, dyes, metals and some medication. Skin allergies that are the result of contact dermatitis usually occur in the waistband, the wrists, the neck and other specific parts of the body.

Skin allergies may be disheartening for many people because it causes discomfort and is unappealing to look at when it occurs. There are actually many different kinds of medication and herbal remedies that can be applied to the skin when these allergies occur.