A skin allergy occurs when your immune system overreacts to a substance that is usually harmless. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Rashes: These are common and can be caused by many things, including contact with plants, medications, and food.
- Hives: These are raised, itchy welts or bumps. They can be triggered by contact dermatitis, insect bites, medications, and food.
- Eczema: This is a chronic condition that causes dry, itchy skin. It can be triggered by allergens, but also by stress, dry weather, and other factors.
- Contact dermatitis: This occurs when your skin comes in direct contact with an allergen.
The substances that cause allergic reactions are called allergens. Some common allergens include:
- Food: Peanuts, shellfish, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, and nuts
- Pollen: This is released by plants and can trigger allergies in the spring, summer, and fall.
- Latex: This is found in gloves, condoms, and other products.
- Drugs: Some medications can cause allergic reactions.
- Other things: Dust mites, pet dander, mold, and insect bites.
If you have a skin allergy, it's important to avoid the allergen that is triggering your reaction. You may also need to take medication to relieve your symptoms.
