Has your skin ever felt like it was on fire while living in Las Vegas, Nevada? If so, you have probably experienced one of the many types of skin rashes.
Normally, if something were wrong with your skin, a dermatologist would be the first person you would schedule a visit with. But I’m here to tell you that the best way to treat and prevent these skin ailments from occurring is to consult with a Las Vegas allergist.
That’s right, there are a number of skin conditions that have been directly linked to your body’s response to an allergen. As you know, an allergic reaction is the result of your body trying to fight off a harmless protein.
Below are the most common allergy-related skin conditions.
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is commonly referred to as eczema (although they are technically different). While research is currently being conducted on this disease, there is still not a lot of solid information. Experts think that the skin barrier in those with atopic dermatitis does not retain moisture, causing the patient’s skin to become dried out, leading to irritations and inflammation. Those with atopic dermatitis usually also have food allergies, asthma and allergic rhinitis (hay fever).
Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when you come into contact with something that you are allergic to. This exposure causes you to develop red, bumpy, itchy and swollen skin at the point of contact. There is no limit to what someone can develop an allergy to.
Have you ever come into contact with poison ivy? That itchy blotch you develop after you mistake it for a maple leaf is actually allergic contact dermatitis.
Hives
Hives (also called urticaria) are your skin’s reaction to your body’s release of antihistamine. Your body releases antihistamine when it is trying to protect itself from an allergen that it has mistaken as a threat. The antihistamine causes small blood vessels to leak, which results in swelling in your skin.
Angioedema
Angioedema is swelling of the deep layer of skin, also caused by your body’s release of antihistamines. Since angioedema is also the result of an allergic reaction, it is usually seen in conjunction with hives. Unlike hives, angioedema occurs primarily in the soft tissue around the eyelids, mouth and genitals.
If you or your child is experiencing any of these conditions, it is important to schedule an appointment with your Las Vegas allergist as soon as possible. Once there, your allergist will work with you to determine what is causing these allergic reactions. Don’t just live with the itch; do something about it today.
Call Nevada Ear + Sinus Institute at (702) 735-7668 for more information or to schedule an appointment.