If a person has developed a skin allergy, the doctor selects the treatment (drugs) individually for each patient. Almost everyone experiences allergies during their lifetime. Often, allergies in the form of skin rashes are found in childhood. An allergic reaction can be manifested by local and general symptoms. These include lacrimation, nasal discharge, development of conjunctivitis, edema, exanthema on the skin. What are the causes of a skin allergic reaction and what is the treatment for this condition?
Features of skin allergies
Allergy is a condition caused by hypersensitivity immune system in response to various stimuli. With the primary exposure to allergens, a similar reaction does not occur. At initial contact, sensitization of the organism develops, which, upon repeated exposure to a foreign agent, causes an allergy. Skin manifestations of allergies are the most common. Allergies on the skin can manifest as urticaria, eczema, the development of contact dermatitis. Almost every second person has an increased allergic background. The incidence of this condition is constantly increasing. This is due to environmental pollution (water, air, soil), the massive use of various food additives, a wide range of drugs with various side effects.
Allergens surround a person everywhere. People contact them at work, at home, at a party, and even on the street. Skin allergies are complex mechanism development. In people predisposed to it, in response to the penetration of the allergen, immunoglobulin E is formed in the body. After the allergen itself is detected, the formation of immune complexes occurs. The immunoglobulins bind to mast cells and basophils. These complexes circulate in the body. Upon repeated contact with the allergen, various factors inflammation (histamine). This leads to the characteristic symptoms of an allergic reaction.
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Etiological factors
Skin allergies can develop for a variety of reasons. Contact with an allergen is possible when inhaling air containing various chemical compounds, when using food products and in direct contact with the skin. The most common contact allergy is on the skin. Main etiological factors are:
- inhalation of pollen;
- eating various foods that cause an inadequate reaction;
- contact with washing powder;
- the use of various perfumes and cosmetics;
- contact with pet hair.
Allergens can be: some medications(antibiotics, adrenomimetics), soap, creams, shampoos, synthetic fabrics, latex rubber, food additives, spores of certain plants and fungi. Often, skin allergies develop upon contact with dust. A rash on the skin can be the result of an insect bite. Skin manifestations can be detected after inhalation of vapors of paints. Skin allergies in young children occur when artificial feeding, use medications. A child can be born with an increased allergic background if the mother, while carrying the baby, ate food containing a large amount of nutritional supplements. Equally important in the development of allergies is hereditary predisposition.
There is a theory that the state of the immune system is affected by personal hygiene of the body. This is confirmed by the fact that the population of disadvantaged countries suffers from allergies much less frequently than people living in developed countries. The whole point is that for normal operation immunity, human skin must constantly come into contact with foreign agents. With excessive body hygiene immune cells begin to respond inadequately even to safe antigens. This contributes to increased sensitivity.
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Allergic dermatitis
Often a disease such as allergic contact dermatitis develops. This pathology refers to professional. If a person has already been in contact with the allergen, then the time from the moment of repeated contact to the onset of symptoms is less than 3 days. Currently, several thousand substances are known that can cause dermatitis. This group includes:
- plant allergens (hogweed, citrus fruits, chrysanthemums, ragweed, garlic, pine);
- various metals (nickel, chromium, gold, copper);
- preservatives;
- medications;
- cosmetical tools;
- synthetic fabrics.
Most often, allergic dermatitis affects the skin of the face, hands, feet. The main signs of skin allergies in dermatitis are:
- hyperemia skin;
- puffiness;
- dry skin;
- the appearance of bubbles;
Often, against the background of this, there is increased irritability, sleep disturbance. On examination, the area of the skin lesion has clear boundaries. The basis of dermatitis is a delayed-type reaction. Atopic dermatitis is often diagnosed in childhood. This disease occurs in chronic form. It is characterized by skin inflammation and swelling. The risk group includes children under one year old. The first symptoms of allergy may appear when the baby is transferred to artificial feeding and in the process of introducing complementary foods. The disease can last for years and then turn into an adult form.
Skin symptoms in atopic dermatitis are as follows: 
- bright pink erythema on the cheeks, buttocks, or extremities;
- peeling of the skin;
- pain syndrome;
- white crusts;
- dry skin;
- cracks in the skin.
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Other types of allergies
Allergies can develop as acute or chronic urticaria. With urticaria, blisters appear on the skin of a person, which resemble those of a nettle burn. Most common causes its appearances are: the use of certain products, non-compliance with the regimen of the use of drugs, insect bites. With chronic urticaria, the rash can persist for one and a half months. Sometimes Quincke's edema develops in parallel. In certain cases, the so-called physical urticaria progresses.
It is formed against the background of exposure to adverse climatic factors, exposure to direct sunlight, in the process of strong sweating of the body. Another form of allergy is dermatographism. Its peculiarity is that the main triggering factor is skin damage (scratching). Eczema is an allergic disease. With it, vesicles filled with liquid, erosion, nodules, scales, and crusts may appear on the skin. Skin rashes in most cases are observed on the face and limbs. Additional signs include itching, burning, and scratching of the skin.
Attention Medical Center in Novosibirsk.
An allergic reaction develops against the background of a hereditary predisposition or a malfunction of the immune system. This is because immune cells perceive certain substances, which are called allergens, as hostile agents. Most often, the first sign of an allergy is a skin rash, which can have different localization, intensity and area of the lesion.
The most common types of skin allergies are:
- atopic dermatitis;
- contact dermatitis;
- hives;
- angioedema;
- eczema;
- neurodermatitis.
Each of these types of allergies is accompanied by one common symptom - a skin rash, but they have different course, cause and treatment.
Allergies in a child are divided into types depending on the etiology skin rash. To prescribe treatment, it is necessary to establish the nature of the development of the disease and the cause of the rashes on the skin.
food allergy
It develops against the background of an allergic reaction to a certain product and is accompanied by the following symptoms:
- stomach ache;
- violation of the stool, more often diarrhea;
- severe itching certain areas of the skin, aggravated at night;
- skin rash, often localized on the inner surface of the elbows, under knee joint, on the abdomen, chest, face;
- swelling of the lips;
- occasionally nausea and vomiting may occur.
The causes of food allergies are:
- heredity;
- the penetration of antibodies into the body of a child in the womb or breastfeeding;
- artificial feeding;
- failure of an immature immune system;
- permanent violation of the intestinal microflora;
- pathology of the mucous membrane of the digestive system.
Main preventive measure should be proper nutrition mothers during breastfeeding and during pregnancy. Breastfeeding should be a priority in the first six months of a baby's life.
Allergy contact form
Allergy develops after contact with organic or inorganic substances:
- penicillins;
- ammonia and its compounds;
- formalin;
- nickel and chromium salts;
- uric acid.
Symptoms in this case can be different and manifest individually, the main ones are:
- redness and swelling of the skin;
- rash in the form of spots, red dots, blisters;
- dryness, peeling and itching of the skin in places of rashes;
- when combing, weeping wounds may occur at the sites of injury.
With large areas of rashes in a child, the temperature may rise, he becomes restless and does not sleep well.
Hereditary or congenital allergies
Usually in this case, an allergic runny nose and cough join the skin rash, this type of allergy is dangerous because serious diseases can develop against its background in the form bronchial asthma, hay fever and eczema.
The main symptoms are:
- sneezing
- swelling of the nasal sinuses;
- constant congestion of the nasal passages;
- redness and tearing of the eyes;
- skin rashes, accompanied by itching and swelling.
In this case, the allergen can be in the air that the child breathes.
Hives
Types of allergies in children Urticaria is mainly a disease of young children under three years of age, it rarely develops in adolescence. A characteristic sign of urticaria is the appearance of blisters of red or pink color, which can be not only different size, but also in different shapes.
The child experiences severe itching, anxiety, blisters can merge, increase and cause even more discomfort. Any allergen can cause hives. In severe urticaria, there is a risk of developing Quincke's edema, which causes swelling of the airways and an asthma attack.
Edema may spread to the digestive organs and cause prolonged vomiting bringing no relief. The disease can cause damage to the central nervous system and the cerebral cortex. The condition is extremely dangerous for the life of the baby and can lead to death.
With any rash in a child, in order to avoid serious consequences need to give him antihistamine and see a doctor.
In adults, allergies are mainly hereditary, occupational or contact in nature and have several varieties.
Atopic dermatitis
This type of allergy often occurs in children and is associated with disorders in the immune system, but there are exceptions, and the disease develops in adults. Rashes affect mainly the face, places under the knees, on the bend of the elbows, in the groin, in the back or chest. Allergens present in foods that a person eats can cause exacerbations.
contact dermatitis
Such an allergic reaction on the skin in adults appears mainly with prolonged contact of the body with chemicals or drugs. This may be due to professional activity person or treatment of any chronic disease that requires long-term treatment medicines.
It is characterized by severe itching, hyperemia of the skin, blistering rash, which ultimately contributes to the formation of weeping wounds. Over time, the wounds dry out and form dry scales.
Eczema
This disease is a consequence of chronic dermatitis, is very difficult to treat and is accompanied by a number of disorders in the body's metabolic processes.
Eczema is characterized by redness of the skin, swelling and rash small bubbles that are filled with a sticky liquid. In places of rash, the skin itches, flakes and burns. The patient's sleep is disturbed, the person becomes irritated, and the ability to work decreases.
Neurodermatitis
skin allergy The etiology of neurodermatitis in psychological state person. With increased nervousness, impulses from the central nervous system irritate the nerve endings and cause itching of the skin in various places:
- inner surface of the elbow;
- area under the kneecap;
- groin area;
- inner thighs.
The rash first appears as papules that cover dry, hardened scales. The affected areas cause a lot of anxiety to the patient, the person suffers from itching, burning, which aggravates his mental state.
Causes of skin allergies depending on location
Allergy in the form of skin rashes photo can tell about the cause of its occurrence, depending on the localization:
- If the rash appears on the face in the form of red spots on the cheeks, the cause may be pets, food allergy or contact with chemicals. To eliminate symptoms, first of all, it is necessary to exclude contact with allergens and switch to diet food. You need to take an antihistamine medication and drink an absorbent to remove toxins from the body. Topically, ointments can be applied to treat dermatitis.
- The rash may appear on the arms or legs in different places, usually these are irregularly shaped pink-red spots. With a progressive allergic reaction, the spots can merge, forming a large area of \u200b\u200bdamage to the skin. A person experiences excruciating itching, children suffer the most, it is difficult for them to control the desire to scratch the rashes. In such cases, glucocorticosteroids and hormonal ointments are additionally prescribed.
- If the rash affects the stomach and back, the cause is more likely to be a food allergy or a reaction to drug therapy, and contact with a pet can also cause such irritation. Sometimes taking an antihistamine is enough, but it is better to consult a doctor.
What to do if a rash appears on the skin?
First of all, it is necessary to exclude contact with the allergen, if a person does not know the reason why the rash appeared, you need to remember what happened over the past day: what was eaten, what medications were taken, what chemicals or other irritants were in contact with. In any case, you need to do the following:
- take an antihistamine - Loratadin, Zodak, Suprastin;
- rinse skin under cold shower without application cosmetics, this procedure will have a calming effect and eliminate bacteria from the skin that can join the inflammatory process and cause skin diseases;
- if there is puffiness on the skin, you can apply a cooling compress from the infusion of sage, string or chamomile.
Not recommended for self use. hormonal ointments, especially in children. Any medicine has contraindications, and taking the drug without a doctor's prescription can worsen the patient's condition.
The skin (epidermis) is the most large organ that the human body has. It is the first barrier to various viruses and bacteria that strive to penetrate our body. In addition, the skin protects our body from various adverse temperature or chemical effects.
To carry out this function, the tissues of the epidermis are supplied with a large number of immune cells. But immune cells, in addition to protecting our body, also serve as direct participants in allergic reactions. In view of this, skin manifestations accompanying allergic diseases can be found very often. on the skin, is directly related to exposure to allergens. An allergen can come into contact both directly with the skin and cause allergy symptoms when ingested (food, drugs, etc.). On the skin, an allergic disease can be expressed in various types of symptoms, but it is always a noticeable rash that occurs after contact with the allergen.
The appearance of rashes on the skin is one of the clearest signs that there is an allergy to certain substances or factors. The localization of a skin allergic reaction can be different. In fact, the entire surface of the skin has this potential. The scale of allergic reactions can also be very different, from small lesions on the elbows, to an extensive rash affecting most skin covers.
Causes of skin allergies
An allergy, no matter what type it is, is always a disease that develops as a result of certain disorders in the functioning of the immune system. During this deviation, the immune system begins the production of special proteins - antibodies that contribute to the production of stimulants of allergic reactions. The task of these processes, during an allergic reaction, is the removal of allergens. In this case, it means the penetration of these substances through the skin, which contributes to the appearance of various rashes.
hereditary factors
Skin allergies are a disease that can be hereditary. Pay attention to the word "may", which indicates given probability, but does not serve as a 100% guarantee of its occurrence in a child burdened with allergic heredity.
Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract
In addition to the hereditary variant of the development of allergic reactions, the occurrence of a skin type of allergy may also be associated with impaired performance. gastrointestinal tract. With disorders or diseases of the digestive system, the process of breaking down food proteins into amino acids can be disrupted. This leads to the fact that whole protein complexes, which the body perceives as hostile elements, enter the patient's blood. Antibodies are proteins in their structure, therefore they instantly combine with foreign proteins in the blood and cause allergic reactions, which leads to skin rashes.
Nutritional supplements
Additives that are used to produce modern food products are increasingly becoming a cause of skin allergies. Being completely alien components of nutrition, they more and more often provoke allergies. The most vulnerable to this are young children who love to consume various store-bought sweets. These foods are filled with various sugars, artificial colors, and sweeteners that make them appealing in both flavor and color. Alas, such sweets, in addition to their appearance, not only do not have nutritional value are also harmful to health.
Unfavorable environmental situation
Modern industrial production is accompanied by the release of various harmful components into the atmosphere. This explains one very revealing fact: in general, residents of large cities with a developed industrial infrastructure suffer from allergic diseases. The waste products themselves can be allergens and provoke allergic skin reactions. In addition, they have an adverse effect on the development of immunity, which becomes overly irritable due to constant contact with irritants.
Excessive household sterility
Oddly enough, excessive sterilization of human conditions is just as harmful as a complete lack of hygiene. The life of a modern person is a sanitary and hygienic environment, located on high level, which deprives the immune system of contact with many adverse environmental factors. But, for its normal formation, this contact is simply necessary. The immune system was created to fight external aggression. At total absence this factor, it begins to form with various failures.
Allergies and malnutrition
Recently, globalization has led to the widespread introduction into the human diet of those products that his body was not ready to face. Inhabitants middle lane, and even more so, the northern regions have never seen such products as citrus fruits, kiwi, avocados, etc. Tropical fruits do not fit into the diet of a European person in any way, and naturally, they are perceived by his body as alien.
Another cause of allergic reactions is improper, unbalanced and untimely nutrition. Just the kind that sins modern man. Low content products of high biological value, in favor of various semi-finished products and refined products has Negative consequences for the immune and digestive systems, which leads to the development of skin manifestations of allergies.
Types of skin allergies
Skin manifestations of allergies can occur when allergens enter the body. various kinds. The most common culprits for this are food components, drugs or insect bites. Not the last role in the development of skin manifestations of allergies can be played by the components of cosmetics, household chemicals as well as fabrics. The skin, due to the fact that they can often and for a long time in contact with these allergens, become susceptible to various skin manifestations of allergies.
In addition, allergies can also be provoked by heat and cold factors that affect its surface. This leads to certain metabolic changes within the cells of the epidermis. As a result, the released substances, in the presence of high sensitivity, can provoke the development of an allergic skin reaction.
Allergic dermatitis
Dermatitis is a type of skin allergy accompanied by the development of inflammatory processes under the influence of an allergen. Allergic dermatitis it can be localized within individual areas, or it can be of a general nature and spread over most of the skin. Localization of dermatitis is typical for its contact form, which develops with direct exposure to the allergen on the skin area. Basically, the manifestations of the contact type of dermatitis are characterized by location in places of direct contact with the allergen.
Symptoms of dermatitis
There are several stages in the development of dermatitis. The first stage is characterized by the appearance of red swollen areas or peeling. In the future, there is the occurrence of frequent nodular rashes, which then burst. The content released during this turns into a hard crust. With dermatitis, sensitive areas of the skin secrete a large amount of a specific fluid. This manifestation of an allergy on the skin accompanies frequent itching, which leads to the fact that the patient combs certain areas of the skin. As a result, this appears traumatization and further aggravation of the symptoms of the disease.
Skin manifestations in the form of dermatitis can often be found with food allergies. With this disease, they develop after a significant amount of time. From the moment the allergen enters the body to the development of symptoms of dermatitis, it may take several days, and in some cases, even several weeks. In some cases, itching appears before the onset of skin transformations, and not after or during them.
Photo of allergic dermatitis
Neurodermatitis
Neurodermatitis is a skin manifestation of an allergy, the development of which is greatly influenced by factors of the nervous system. With stress, irritability, insomnia, its symptoms are greatly enhanced. With neurodermatitis, there is an increase in the synthesis of antibodies by B-lymphocytes during secondary contact with the source of allergy. Its symptoms can not only intensify, under the influence of mental factors, but also occur due to the presence of nervous disorders. Often the cause of the development of this type of skin manifestations is depression, irritability, psychosis and other disorders of the normal functioning of the nervous system.
Symptoms of neurodermatitis
The main symptom of neurodermatitis is the appearance of a rash on the skin that looks like a collection of small bubbles in in large numbers. Most often, this form skin disease manifested on the neck, face, elbows and knees, as well as in the groin area. Localization of neurodermatitis may not be limited to these areas. In the case of the appearance of symptoms of the disease in one area, for example, on the elbow, we are talking about a limited form of neurodermatitis. At the same time, it can be localized in large areas of the skin.
With neurodermatitis, dry skin appears, outer layer the epidermis is covered with small falling scales. Itching leads to the fact that the outer layer of the skin is largely traumatized. In this case, bleeding wounds appear, which aggravate the course of the disease. Itching can also provoke increased insomnia, while lack of sleep provokes nervousness and exacerbates the symptoms of neurodermatitis.
Photo of neurodermatitis
Hives
Urticaria is skin variety an allergic reaction that occurs with the appearance of a specific rash, which is indistinguishable from the burn left by nettle leaves. Urticaria may be the only allergic symptoms and develop along with other manifestations of this disease. The acute form of this disease can occur almost immediately after interaction with a provocative substance. In this case, it is very easy to determine its causes. While the development of chronic urticaria can occur after many days, after contact with the allergen.
Urticaria symptoms
Symptoms of urticaria are the manifestation of characteristic rashes that have a slight swelling and a round shape. Their color ranges from pink to deep red. Areas of inflammation are warmer to the touch than unaffected skin. If this disease is manifested intensively, then the body temperature can be significantly increased. In addition to direct interaction with the allergen, the symptoms of urticaria can be caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation or low temperatures. Very common is solar, as well as cold urticaria.
Photo of urticaria
Treatment of skin manifestations of allergies
In the treatment of allergies on the skin are used as general funds(tablets, injections), as well as special hormonal ointments, creams and gels, for direct treatment at the site of an allergic reaction. Treatment is determined by the doctor, based on general condition the health of the patient, the intensity of skin manifestations and the type of disease. An important role in the choice of medicines is played by age, as well as the presence or absence of pregnancy.
Antihistamines used in the form of tablets to relieve swelling of the skin, itching, rashes and other results of an allergic reaction. If the skin is not the only organ affected by an allergic reaction, then the use of antihistamines will help eliminate other allergic manifestations. Corticosteroid preparations for local application allows you to accurately neutralize the skin forms of the manifestation of the disease, with minimal risk side effects for the whole organism. If the allergic reaction is severe, injectable corticosteroids are used.
Please note that this article is for reference only and does not serve as a self-diagnosis or treatment. If you experience symptoms of an allergy, we strongly recommend that you immediately consult a doctor.
In the last decade, the number of children suffering from allergies has increased significantly. Toddlers react to food, environment and other factors. Pathology most often manifests itself on the skin. As the baby grows, the symptoms also change. Gradually, the respiratory tract is exposed to the main blow, which can adversely affect overall health.
What types of allergies do children have, and why does pathology occur? What is the problem for the baby, and what consequences can it lead to? How to treat an allergic reaction in different ages? What prevention will be the most effective? Let's figure it out together.
It is impossible to raise a child and not face any type of rash.Causes of the disease
The response of the immune system to the stimulus occurs for many reasons. It is impossible to 100% determine the factors that caused the allergy, but there is a list of the most possible causes.
Allergies in children are most often manifested in the following cases:
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Symptoms and signs may be blurry and indistinct. Without a full examination, it is not always possible to immediately diagnose the disease.
The response appears not only on the skin, it is involved respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, mucous membranes. The rash may be accompanied by coughing, runny nose, sneezing, nausea, vomiting, swelling of the tongue, or other symptoms.
Characteristic signs on the skin:
- burning, itching, pain;
- redness of the skin;
- dryness, peeling;
- tissue swelling;
- rash (vesicles, blisters, nodular seals, vesicles, etc.).
All parts of the body are affected by the rash, especially the face, scalp, neck, limbs, buttocks, and abdomen. Visible symptoms appear some time after contact with an irritant.
Varieties of allergic reactions in children by type of origin
An allergy is a response of the immune system to an external or internal irritant, to which the immune system is hypersensitive. Pathology has many types and forms.
Food allergies often occur to red berries.
Classification by type of origin:
- Food. It often affects children in the first year of life. It often goes away on its own. However, some people are allergic to certain foods forever. Allergens can be: red berries, fruits and vegetables, citrus fruits, legumes, nuts, milk, seafood.
- Aeroallergy. It occurs due to the inhalation of an irritant that enters the lungs and settles on the mucous membrane of the nasopharynx.
- For pets. The opinion that wool is the main allergen is erroneous. Children react negatively to animal proteins contained in saliva and toxic substances excreted in the urine. In addition, dogs bring dirt from the street, and with it bacteria and fungi.
- For medicine. It appears at a younger age, less often in adolescence. negative action provide antibiotics (especially penicillin), anesthetics, some vitamins.
- For house dust. Dust mites are microscopic, easily inhaled and often cause backlash immunity.
- For chemicals. This includes cleaning products, harsh chemicals, air fresheners, or man-made synthetic fibers (poor quality clothing, soft toys).
- on natural factors. These can be bee, wasp, mosquito or bumblebee stings. Touching some plants leads to burns. In some cases, there is an allergy to cold or sun (we recommend reading:).
- Pollinosis. Seasonal phenomenon when concentrated in the air high concentration pollen from flowering plants. The problem affects both adults and children.
Seasonal allergic rhinoconjunctivitis
Types of allergies according to the nature of the rashes
Outwardly, allergies manifest themselves in different ways, which can be seen by looking at the photos of patients with a description. The same type of problem may differ in different children, for example, food allergies cause both urticaria and Quincke's edema (depending on the level of immunity sensitivity).
The most common types of disease according to the nature of the rash on the skin:
- contact dermatitis;
- atopic dermatitis;
- eczema;
- urticaria (we recommend reading:);
- neurodermatitis;
- angioedema;
- Lyell's syndrome.
contract dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a disease that affects the upper layers of the skin (epidermis). It appears as a result of exposure to the immune system and the body as a whole of an irritating allergen. Pathologies are prone to infants, one year old babies and older children.
Contract dermatitis most commonly affects the arms, legs, back, and neck (very rare on the face)
Contact dermatitis for a child younger age- a frequent occurrence, since the immune system is not fully formed. It can appear for any, even insignificant reason. The environment plays an important role. Dirt in the house, irregular personal hygiene at times increases the chances of the disease.
External manifestations:
- skin redness, swelling;
- the appearance of keratinized areas prone to severe peeling;
- painful vesicles filled with clear liquid or pus;
- burning, itching (sometimes pain almost unbearable).
An unpleasant rash usually affects places where clothing is always attached (legs, arms, back, neck). Less often it appears on the face.
Atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is an acute reaction of the skin to an irritant or toxin, which is characterized by an inflammatory process. The disease is difficult to treat, prone to relapse and transition to a chronic form.
Depending on the age group the patient, the pathology is characterized by different localization of foci of inflammation: in children under 1 year old - this is the face, folds of the arms and legs; starting from the age of 3, rashes often appear in the folds of the skin, on the feet or palms.
Atopic dermatitis on the face of a child
The seborrheic type (not to be confused with seborrhea) covers the scalp. Atopy may appear on the genitals or mucous membranes (GI tract, nasopharynx).
Symptoms of the disease:
- significant swelling;
- redness;
- peeling;
- rash of nodular type, filled with exudate;
- burning, itching and pain;
- dryness and cracks in the skin;
- the formation of crusts that leave deep scars.
Food allergies are one of the most common causes of illness. However, pets, dust or unsuitable hygiene products also often provoke dermatitis.
Pediatricians note that pathology rarely occurs on its own. In the complex, the child has gastrointestinal diseases or other systemic disorders.
Eczema
Eczema is inflammatory process upper layers skin. It is chronic with periodic remissions and relapses, often develops in parallel with atopic dermatitis.
The main source of the problem is an allergic reaction, especially if the baby has a genetic predisposition. Eczema appears under the influence of several factors - allergies and disorders in the body (immune system, gastrointestinal tract).
Characteristic signs:
- redness;
- severe itching and burning;
- many small vesicles that gradually merge into one continuous focus of inflammation;
- after their opening, an ulcerative focus appears, exudate is released;
- when healing, the wounds are covered with crusts.
Hives
Urticaria is a dermatological disease of allergic origin. IN early age characterized by acute short-term attacks, eventually becomes chronic.
Urticaria all over the body in a child
The disease looks like a lot of blisters that differ in shape and size. Their color varies from transparent to bright red. Each blister is surrounded by a swollen border. The rash is very itchy, as a result of which the blisters burst or merge into continuous erosion.
Skin pathology, which is neuro-allergic in nature. The disease manifests itself after 2 years. Frequent diathesis can serve as a prerequisite. It is distinguished by a long course, when acute relapses are replaced by periods of relative rest.
Neurodermatitis looks like a cluster of small light pink nodules. When combing, they can connect. The skin becomes red without outlined borders. Scales, seals, hyperpigmentation appear.
Quincke's edema
Quincke's edema is a sudden acute reaction of the body to natural or chemical factors, most often caused by allergies. This serious pathology requiring urgent first aid and a full medical examination.
Quincke's edema
Angioedema is characterized by a significant increase in the soft tissues of the face (lips, cheeks, eyelids), neck, hands and feet or mucous membranes (swelling of the pharynx is very dangerous). The swelling can last from several minutes to several days. Swelling in the mouth makes speech difficult and interferes with normal eating. There is no burning or itching. Touching the swelling does not cause pain.
Lyell's syndrome
Lyell's syndrome is a very serious and serious disease which is characterized by an allergic origin. It is accompanied by a strong deterioration in the general condition of the patient, damage to the entire skin and mucous membranes. Outwardly, the disease resembles second-degree burns. The body becomes blistered, swollen and inflamed.
Usually, such a reaction occurs after taking allergen medications. At the first symptoms, you should consult a doctor, which will increase the chances of recovery. Forecasts for a cure are disappointing (in 30% of cases, a fatal outcome occurs). Fortunately, Lyell's syndrome only covers 0.3% of all allergic drug reactions. After anaphylactic shock, it ranks second in terms of danger to the patient's life.
Allergy diagnostics
After the examination, a qualified specialist will prescribe a series of studies that will help to accurately identify allergens. At the initial appointment, parents must provide:
- how the baby eats (what he ate recently before the rash appeared);
- mothers of infants - about their diet and introduced complementary foods;
- Are there any allergies in the family?
- whether pets live;
- what plants prevail near the house, etc.
Required tests:
- blood test for immunoglobulin;
- allergic tests (skin, application, provocative);
- general detailed blood test.
To determine the etiology allergic rash, would need general analysis blood
Treatment with medication
Proper treatment of allergies is essential, it will save you from complications and further health problems. It is important to protect the child from allergens - irritants and drug therapy. The course of treatment is different for patients of different age categories. Commonly used antihistamines and local treatment skin. Drugs are prescribed exclusively by a specialist.
Therapy for newborns
Some doctors deny congenital allergies as an independent pathology. It arises through the fault of the mother, often unintentionally. This leads to the use of allergens in food, bad habits, past illnesses. In addition, allergies can appear already in the first days or months of life.
First of all, a nursing mother should review her diet, eliminating all possible allergens. Infants on artificial feeding are selected hypoallergenic or lactose-free mixture.
In the acute course of the disease, children under 1 year of age are shown antihistamines:
- Fenistil drops (contraindicated up to 1 month);
- drops of Tsetrin (from six months);
- Zyrtec drops (from six months) (we recommend reading:).
With a rash, local treatment is prescribed (smear 2 times a day):
- Fenistil gel (relieves itching, soothes the skin);
- Bepanten (moisturizes, improves tissue regeneration);
- Weleda (German cream containing natural ingredients);
- Elidel (an anti-inflammatory agent prescribed after 3 months).
Treatment for babies over 1 year old
After the age of 1 year, the list of approved drugs increases slightly. Nevertheless, up to 3 years, therapy should be predominantly prophylactic (the baby should be protected from the irritant).
Antihistamines:
- Erius (suspension);
- Zodak (drops)
- Parlazin (drops);
- Cetirizine Geksal (drops);
- Fenistil (drops);
- Tavegil (syrup), etc.
For skin rashes, the same ointments are used as for newborns, or as directed by a doctor. To cleanse the body of toxins, absorbents are taken: Polysorb, Phosphalugel, Enterosgel, Smecta. It is recommended to take vitamins.
With a protracted or severe course of the disease, doctors resort to taking hormone-containing drugs (Prednisolone). Immunomodulatory therapy at this age is undesirable. In extreme cases, a gentle medicine is selected (for example, Derinat drops).
Management of symptoms in children older than 3 years
Starting from the age of 3, it becomes possible to begin to eliminate the problem itself. Medications only relieve symptoms, but they cannot cure allergies.
An effective method is specific immunotherapy(SIT). It can be used from the age of 5. The allergen is gradually introduced to the patient in clear doses. As a result, an immune defense is formed in him, and sensitivity to an irritant disappears. In parallel with the SIT, measures can be taken to increase immune protection, improve blood composition, etc.
To eliminate symptoms, you can add to the above medicines:
- Suprastin;
- Diazolin;
- Cetrin;
- Claritin;
- clemastine.
How long does an allergic reaction take?
How long can an allergic reaction last? It depends on individual hypersensitivity, health status and duration of contact with the irritant.
On average, it can last from several minutes to several days (4-6 days). Seasonal pollinosis occupies the entire flowering period and can take up to a couple of months. It is necessary to protect the baby from exposure to the irritant and carry out symptomatic treatment.
What is the danger of an allergy in a baby?
Skin allergies in children are potentially dangerous, especially if not properly treated. Diathesis or dermatitis cannot be ignored under the pretext that all children have it.
Risk factors:
- the transition of an acute reaction into a chronic form;
- the appearance of a protracted atopic dermatitis or neurodermatitis;
- risk of anaphylactic shock, Quincke's edema;
- bronchial asthma.
Allergy Prevention
It is impossible to completely protect the baby, but you can follow simple rules that will positively affect his health. Proper Prevention reduce the risk of allergies.
Skin allergy - a type of response human body to the action of the allergen. Its forms are very diverse and cause great discomfort and can be very life-threatening.
Allergy is an immunopathological process that occurs when an allergy pathogen is exposed to the body. Allergy symptoms are extremely diverse, but almost always accompanied by some kind of skin damage - at least.
What is a skin allergy
The pathogenesis of any type of allergy develops according to the same scenario. In fact, this is the body's immune response, but amplified several times. The mechanism of allergy consists of 2 stages:
- early immune response phase- when an allergy pathogen appears, IgE plasma cells are produced and bind to the receptors of mastocytes and basophils. With the reappearance of the allergen, IgE is reactivated, which serves as a signal for the synthesis of histamine and other inflammatory mediators - interleukin, cytoxin. Substances entering surrounding tissue, cause contraction of the smooth muscles of the walls of blood vessels, irritate the nerve endings, increase the secretion of mucus, and so on. Outwardly, this manifests itself as itching, sneezing, runny nose, rash and swelling on the skin;
- late response phase due to the accumulation of leukocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes at the site of the alleged inflammation, and the body perceives such a reaction as a signal of inflammation. Under their action, functional tissue is gradually replaced by connective tissue, which has a very negative effect on the state of organs. The second phase, as a rule, appears 4-6 hours after the first and lasts 1-2 days.
Skin allergy is a component of this process. Its characteristic features are:
- and, sometimes very strong;
- And . Edema can reach a significant size and develop extremely quickly - for example;
- rashes of various types, urticaria, may appear.
Localization of rashes is different. With external stimuli, the areas in contact with the allergen are the first to suffer when the pathogen enters the body respiratory or through the alimentary tract, any part of the body may be affected.
What is a skin allergy, the video below will tell:
Varieties
Classification allergic diseases produced in several ways. Since most allergies are accompanied by any, they often use a classification related to the nature of the pathogen, and not to the characteristics of the manifestations.
Origin
This division is convenient because each group has characteristic symptoms, which allows you to quickly find the root cause of the disease.
- Respiratory– Its typical symptoms are runny nose, throat irritation and sneezing, which can progress to laryngitis, tracheitis and rhinosinusitis. This is the only form of allergy that is rarely accompanied by skin inflammation.
- Contact- First of all, it appears on the skin. The appearance of red spots, itching, swelling and even blisters clearly indicate contact with some irritant- household chemicals, plants, animals. This group includes dermatosis, urticaria,.
- food- accounts for 90% of all allergies according to statistics. Most often, the pathogens are citrus fruits, eggs, exotic fruits, sweets, cocoa. Food manifests itself in the form, urticaria,. Much more possible severe violations associated with changes in blood composition.
- Insect- response to insect bites. A local reaction follows in the form of urticaria or severe edema. Often, insect bites are accompanied by low pressure. With a particularly severe form of the disease, it is possible.
- Medicinal- is formed during a cross-reaction to medicines and products. This type of allergy is not treated, the only way to avoid its manifestations is to avoid the use of appropriate medications. The local reaction is expressed in the form of edema and redness of an indefinite form.
- infectious- manifests itself with a high sensitivity of the body to certain microorganisms. The form of manifestation is the most diverse.
By appearance
According to the nature and type of rashes, several characteristic types of lesions are distinguished.
- Atopic dermatitis- caused by pollen, animal hair, bites, contact with household chemicals. Manifested as itching, dryness and irritation of the skin. Usually localized. It often occurs in children from 2 months.
- - is a response to the direct effect of an irritant: household chemicals, cosmetics, industrial reagents. It is characterized by redness, swelling of the skin, rashes, accompanied by severe itching. Blisters and skin erosion may occur.
- Hives- for the similarity with contact with nettles, these rashes got their name. It manifests itself in the form of red spots and flat pale pink blisters up to 5 mm in diameter. The rash is very itchy, while the blisters burst, and the urticaria captures new areas of the skin. Urticaria is caused not only by contact with plants, but also by insect bites, or by wearing too tight clothes against the background of sweating. It also occurs
- Eczema – acute form allergies. Abundant rashes are accompanied by the appearance of many bubbles. The latter burst easily, which leads to erosion of the skin, the formation of nodules and scars. Eczema is accompanied by severe itching, which causes insomnia, nervous disorders, loss of appetite. Eczema is provoked by both external factors - household dust, and internal - disturbances in the endocrine system.
- Toxicoderma– usually caused by an acute infection or inappropriate medicine. Toxicodermia looks like pink or red rashes, which soon lead to the formation of blisters.
- Neurodermatitis- may be an independent disease associated with skin inflammation, but more often it is a sign of an allergic reaction. Forms rashes in the form of red spots of various sizes. Spots can turn into plaques that merge with each other, often accompanied by swelling of the skin. Usually, neurodermatitis causes itching, which worsens at night. Neurodermatitis is a very specific response. Very often it is not caused by objective factors, but is the result of a strong nervous experience.
- - swelling of adipose and mucosal tissue. Usually accompanied by . The symptom develops extremely rapidly and is very dangerous. Most often, edema is localized on the face - eyelids, lip, cheek, but the mucous membrane of the mouth and the respiratory tract can also swell.
- - Extreme, most severe drug allergy. In this case, blisters form on the skin, and rather quickly turn into ulcers, cracks and open wounds. Illness causes severe dehydration, toxic damage to the kidneys, liver, gastrointestinal tract. In the absence of urgent medical attention, it leads to death.
- - a form of exudative erythema, accompanied by inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes. On the skin, it appears as a bright red rash, which soon begins to bleed. There is severe itching, swelling, feeling. The syndrome usually occurs with an allergy to medications or as a consequence infectious diseases. It is extremely rare in children.
The video below will tell about the types of skin allergies:
Localization
Unlike sensitization, that is, the formation of a connection between the allergen and the cells of the body, which can take 2-3 weeks, an allergic reaction develops extremely quickly, literally before our eyes. Localization at different forms diseases are different.
- So, with contact forms, rashes and swelling are formed at the site of contact. If we are talking about household chemicals, then these are usually hands and forearms.
- The same goes for insect allergies: lesions develop at the site of the bite and very quickly.
- Eczema, urticaria, dermatitis most often appear in areas with the most delicate skin: forehead, temples, neck, elbow, knee, foot. In a child, rashes instantly capture both cheeks, and chest, and shoulders, and back.
- Quincke's edema most often appears on the face.
- Neurodermatitis can appear anywhere on the body. If the reaction is caused by stress, localization is often associated with the organ that is associated with this type of excitement.
Rash with skin allergies in adults (photo)
General symptoms and clinical signs
For all varieties of the disease, there are common signs. It is impossible to diagnose allergies on them. But, since the reaction occurs very quickly upon contact with the allergen, often, relatives guess the real source of poor health.
In adults
Allergy develops very quickly, so you need to know about its types not so much in order to inform your doctor, but in order to help the patient. And in this sense it is necessary to distinguish mild symptoms and severe form.
Symptoms mild form are:
- rash, itching, possibly blisters at the site of contact with the allergen;
- tearing eyes, redness;
- copious but clear discharge from the nose;
- sneezing - allergies are characterized by sneezing in series.
In these cases, it is enough to wash the place of contact - the bite mark, for example, with warm water, apply a cold compress and drink some kind of antihistamine - suprastin, chloropyramine.
The severe form has the following features:
- hoarseness, difficulty swallowing and pronunciation, incoherent speech;
- shortness of breath, throat spasms, difficulty breathing;
- strong general weakness, dizziness, possible loss of consciousness;
- increased heart rate, low blood pressure;
- nausea and vomiting are possible, but not with all types of allergies;
- as a rule, the patient experiences acute fear, falls into a panic.
In these cases, an ambulance should be called immediately. Before the ambulance arrives, you need to remove tight clothing, ensure air flow, remove the allergen, if its nature is known - plant pollen, animal. If vomiting is observed, care should be taken to ensure that the patient rolls over on his side and does not swallow his tongue. Cardiac arrest requires chest compressions and artificial respiration.
In children
The disease can occur at any age, including newborns. The tendency to an allergic reaction to a particular irritant is partially inherited. General symptoms are not much different from the signs of the disease in adults, but their intensity is higher, and the rate of development is lightning fast.
From the side of the skin, the signs are as follows:
- redness, dryness, severe peeling;
- swelling of the skin and fatty tissue, blisters. Moreover, an allergy in a child immediately captures a large area.
From the side of the respiratory tract:
- sneezing - in series;
- itching in the nose, burning, copious discharge;
- severe cough, shortness of breath, suffocation;
- bronchial asthma.
From the gastrointestinal tract, the following symptoms are possible:
- intestinal disorders;
- nausea, vomiting;
- swelling of the tongue, oral cavity;
- colic.
The most dangerous for a child is anaphylactic shock. Its signs are:
- sudden, rapidly developing;
- convulsions;
- rashes all over the body;
- involuntary urination, defecation, severe vomiting;
- loss of consciousness.
In such cases, you need to act immediately.
Diagnostic methods
The listed symptoms, if they do not indicate a specific source or are not pronounced, do not always indicate an allergy. To confirm such a diagnosis, appropriate studies are prescribed.
- - the simplest and most indicative test for hypersensitivity. To do this, a very small amount of the alleged allergen is injected into the thickness of the skin - pollen, dust, Chemical substance, within the pre-marked area on the forearm. Inflammatory reaction usually develops within 30 minutes. Its intensity indicates the strength of the allergy - from slight redness to the appearance of hives.
Rarely, but when skin test there may be a complication - a phase of delayed response. In this case, the effect of the allergen will be observed not for 6 hours, but for 24.
- Determination of IgE concentration- an antibody to the corresponding allergen. An amount that exceeds the norm for the age of the patient indicates an allergy to a particular irritant.
- Application samples- a mixture of paraffin, petroleum jelly and some allergens. Stays on the skin for days. They are carried out to establish the cause of contact dermatitis and eczema.
- - the most accurate, but also the most dangerous method of determination. Its essence is reduced to the introduction of the alleged allergen and monitoring the patient's response. Provocative tests are allowed to be carried out only in relation to adult patients.
Antihistamines for treatment
Skin allergy treatment requires integrated approach To get rid of the disease, both medicines and ointments for external use are needed. Highest value given during treatment antihistamines. The mechanism of their action is, in general, the same: drugs block cell receptors, and they do not produce histamine. Accordingly, the allergic reaction stops.
Skin allergies are rather a variety of manifestations of allergies than the disease itself. And although rashes and itching are rarely pleasant, nevertheless, compared with other reactions, they can be considered relatively safe and harmless.
How to deal with skin allergies, this video will tell:
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