SKIN ALLERGY OVERVIEW

Skin irritations are caused by a variety of factors.  These include heat, immune system disorder, medications and infections.  When an allergen is responsible for triggering an immune system response, the irritation is an allergic skin condition.

Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when your skin comes in direct contact with an allergen.  For instance, if you have a nickel allergy and your skin comes in contact with jewelry made with even a very small amount of nickel, you may develop red, bumpy, scaly, itchy or swollen skin at the point of contact.

Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a chronic skin condition related to immune dysfunction in the layers of the skin.  It usually begins in infancy or early childhood.  It is  often associated with asthma, allergic rhinitis (hay  fever) or food allergy.  This progressive sequence is called atopic march.

Urticaria (hives) are an inflammation of the skin triggered when the immune system releases histamine, causing small blood vessels to leak leading to swelling in the  skin.  Swelling in deep  layers of the skin i called angioedema.

Hives can result from non-allergic causes such as heat or exercise.  Hives can also be an allergic reaction to medications, foods or insect bites.

Although often uncomfortable and sometimes painful, hives and eczema are not contagious.

Angiodemea is swelling in the deep layers of the skin, often seen with urticaria (hives).  Angioedema most often occurs in soft tissues such as the eyelids, mouth or genitals.

Angioedema is called  “acute” if the condition lasts only a short time (minutes to days). This is commonly caused by an allergic reaction to medications or foods.

Chronic recurrent angiodedema is when the condition returns over a long period of time.  It most often does not have an identifiable cause.

Hereditary angiodedema (HAE) is a rare, but serious genetic condition involving swelling in various body parts including the hands, feet, face, intestinal wall and airways.

Skin conditions are one of the most common forms of allergy treated and managed by an allergist/immunologist, a physician with specialized training and expertise to accurately diagnose your  condition and provide relief for your symptoms.

article provided by AAAAI

Pet Allergy Overview

Almost 62% of U.S. households have pets, and more than 161 million of these pets are cats and dogs. *Unfortunately, millions of pet owners have an allergy (allergic rhinitis) to their animals.

The proteins found in a pet’s dander, skin flakes, saliva and urine can cause an allergic reaction or aggravate asthma symptoms in some people.  Also, pet hair or fur can collect pollen, mold spores and other outdoor allergens.

An allergen is a normally harmless substance that triggers the immune system to overreact in people with allergies.   This response can cause allergy symptoms such as sniffling, sneezing and itchiness and watery eyes.

Contrary to popular  opinion, there are no truly “hypoallergenic breeds” of dogs or cats.  Allergic dander in cats and dogs is not affected by length of hair or fur, nor by the amount of shedding.

Giving up a pet in order to prevent allergy symptoms isn’t always necessary.  An allergist/immunologist has specialized training and experience to accurately diagnose your symptoms and develop a treatment plan to  help you or your  child manage allergy symptoms and potentially keep your furry friends.

*Source: American Pet Products Manufactures Association 2009-2010 National Pet Owners Survey.

Food Allergies and the Holidays

Now that the holidays are here, it is party season.  Party season means food, and often new foods.  For most people this is fun and exciting, a chance to try new things.  But for a small group of people these unfamiliar foods can be dangerous.

Did you know approximately 6% of allergy sufferers have food allergies? These allergies can range from mild to deadly.  This post isn’t meant to scare you, but simply to help make you aware of the most common food allergies to ensure a successful party.

The most common food allergies are eggs, meats, milk, peanuts, fish, shellfish, soy and wheat.

Here are a few tips for hosting a party:

·        if you are hosting a potluck have each person create a recipe card or label for their food

·        for buffet style parties put a label on each food; maybe even list the main ingredients

·        serving a seated dinner; create a menu with a simple description of each course

·        prepare allergy friendly recipes. Click here for some recipe ideas

Here are a few tips for allergy sufferers when you attend a party:

·        tell your host about your allergies

·        be prepared incase you unexpectedly encounter a food you are allergic to

·        even if a food is typically safe for you to eat; you can never be too careful

·        be sure to bring your EpiPen with you if you have food allergies

Dealing with food allergies and the holidays can easily be managed with just a little preparation.

Happy Holidays and safe eating!

** this article does not replace medical advice

Who Should See An Allergist?

First things first, what is an allergy?

Dictionary.com defines an allergy as:

an abnormal reaction of the body to a previously encountered allergen introduced by inhalation, ingestion, injection, or skin contact, often manifested by itchy eyes, runny nose, wheezing, or skin rash.

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI), asthma and other allergic diseases are two of the most common health issues.  Approximately 50 million Americans have asthma, hay fever or other allergy related conditions.

Allergies and asthma frequently occur together and can often be sparked by the same triggers.  Many ordinary substances can prompt allergic reactions.  The most common triggers are plant pollens (trees, grasses and weeds), molds, household dust, pets, foods, medicines, insect stings, etc.

No one is immune to allergies and asthma; they can affect anyone no matter their age, gender or race. Typically allergies and asthma are most common in children but can make their first appearance at any age.  Occasionally, allergies can be outgrown and symptoms may subside naturally.

Traditionally allergy and asthma symptoms develop over time and the symptoms may become common, but with the help of an allergist, symptoms can be controlled and often prevented.

What is an allergist:

An allergist is a doctor who has spent 9 years training to becoming a specialist in the field of allergy and immunology; just like Dr. Richard Page.

Effectively controlling allergy and asthma symptoms requires strategic planning on the part of an allergist and will lead to a better quality of life.

Signs you should see an allergist:

• Your allergies are causing you to have chronic sinus infections, nasal congestion or difficulty breathing.
• Over-the-counter medications cannot control your allergy symptoms.
• You experience several months of hay fever or other allergy symptoms.
• Allergies or asthma decrease your quality of life.

If you think you are suffering from allergies give us a call today to make an appointment 972-271-6811 or 972-548-1145.