You’ll find information about the different medicines available to treat skin allergies, such as allergic eczema or reactions to insect bites and stings. Don’t forget this is only a guide talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you’ve any questions about treatments for skin allergies. Allergies are your body’s reaction to a substance it views as a harmful ‘invader.’ For example, coming into contact with what is normally a harmless substance, such as pollen, might cause the immune system (the body’s defense system) to react. Substances that cause these reactions are called allergens.
What is an Allergic Reaction
Allergic reaction is way the body responds to the allergen. A chain of events occur that result in an allergic reaction, described here.The first time an allergy-prone person is exposed to a specific allergen (such as pollen), the body responds by producing allergic (IgE) antibodies. The job of these antibodies is to find molecules of the offending substance in the bloodstream and tissues and to escort them to the body’s mast cells (a type of white blood cell) for destruction. As the mast cells destroy the allergens, a chemical called histamine is released into the bloodstream. A large amount of histamine swells body tissues (inflammation), causes itching, enlarges blood vessels, increases secretions, and causes bronchospasm (tightening of muscles that surround the airways).
Skin Allergic Reaction
What are the Symptoms of Allergies
Mild
Mild reactions include local symptoms (affecting a specific area of the body) such as a rash or hives; itchiness, watery/red eyes, hay fever, and runny nose. Mild reactions do not spread to other parts of the body.
Moderate
Moderate reactions include symptoms that spread to other parts of the body. Symptoms may include itchiness, hives, and/or swelling, and breathing difficulties.
Severe
A severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, is a rare, life-threatening emergency in which the body’s response to the allergen is sudden and affects the whole body. Anaphylaxis may begin with severe itching of the eyes or face. Within minutes, more serious symptoms appear, including throat swelling (which could result in difficulty swallowing and breathing); abdominal pain; cramps; vomiting; diarrhea; hives; and swelling (angioedema). Mental confusion or dizziness may also result, since anaphylaxis may cause a drop in blood pressure.
Natural Treatment for Skin Allergies
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar makes for one of the best skin applications to help treat irritation and rashes. It has a good antiseptic and antifungal action and this makes it a good anti-itching agent. Dip a cotton ball or cloth in a little apple cider vinegar and dab on the itchy area. Or if you feel a general itchy sensation all over the body, add a cupful into your bath water.
Neti Pot and Saline Rinse
Neti pot because I’m a big scardey cat about pouring things in my nose, but I have friends who swear by it, and I’ve used saline nasal spray before. (If you use one, I’d love to hear your experience in the comments!) The basic theory is that you use a Neti Pot filled with a sterile saline solution to flush out the sinuses of allergens and irritations.
Allergic Reaction
Herbs and supplements
Several herbs and supplements—including spirulina, eyebright, and goldenseal—have been studied for allergy treatment. The plant extract butterbur, which is thought to reduce airway inflammation, has produced what are perhaps the strongest results. In a pair of clinical trials led by a Swiss research team, butterbur tablets eased symptoms just as much as the over-the-counter antihistamines fexofenadine and cetirizine, respectively.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal contains compounds that reduce inflammation. This is a popular trick that’s been around for ages and it’s also commonly used for poison ivy and eczema. You can add oatmeal to your bath, or make a dressing.To make oatmeal dressing, add a bit of water to a cup or bowl of plain, organic, uncooked oatmeal (ground or steel-cut work
best for this), then let it sit for a few minutes until it reaches a paste-like consistency. Apply the paste to the itchy area as needed.
Quercetin
Quercetin is a natural bioflavonoid that is said to help stabilize mast cells to keep them from releasing histamine. It is also a potent antioxidant that is said to help reduce inflammation. It is best used as a long term remedy and many people start taking it about 4-6 weeks before allergy season to help prevent allergy symptoms.As with any herb, you should check with your doctor before using, especially if you have a liver problem, are pregnant, or are on hormonal contraceptives.
