Skin allergies are one of the most common problems seen by the allergist, and one of the most debilitating problems experienced by people.

The topic of allergies has become normal in our lives, and certainly most of us have experienced this problem at any time, but what really is an allergy?

An allergy is an irregular reply by a person's immune system against a normally inoffensive substance. A person without allergies would be immune to this substance, but when a person who is allergic encounters the trigger, the body reacts by releasing chemicals which cause allergy symptoms.

It is known that allergies are disorders of the immune system. Most allergic reactions are a result of an immune system that responds to a "false alarm." When a harmless substance such as dust, mold, or pollen is in contact with an allergic person, the immune system may react dramatically, by producing antibodies that "attack" the allergen. The result of an allergen entering a receptive person's body may include wheezing, itching, and other similar symptoms.

Symptoms

A person with an allergic skin may develop the following allergies and symptoms: Contact dermatitis, which is quite harmless for most people, symptoms such as redness, blisters, inflammation, and scaling are developed. Urticaria (Hives), its rash consists of circular, raised welts on the skin that are usually itchy and occur in batches. Hives can vary in size, and can be caused by medication, foods, and insect bites. Eczema is a skin condition characterized by itching and a red rash. Eczema is actually dermatitis that is in advanced, with symptoms such as blisters, scabbing, oozing, and discoloration.

Often, the best way to treat allergies is to prevent them from occurring; this is accomplished through the avoidance of allergic triggers. Nevertheless, you cannot always avoid them. Medications and/or immunotherapy can help people to treat their allergies. There are numerous medications at hand for the treatment of allergies, depending on the type of allergy a person develops. While medications are efficacious, they do nothing to change a person's underlying allergic disease. To avoid most skin allergies it is advised to use moisturizers such as natural skin balms daily to hydrate and soften skin, and reduce itching. When washing dishes or clothing use soapless cleansers or non-alkaline soaps, wear gloves, and don't allow your hands to be always wet.

Allergies have multiple symptoms, and the most common medications used to treat them are antihistamines. Antihistamines provide ease to allergy symptoms but can have side effects of drowsiness and sedation.