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There’s few things as irksome as itchy skin. Unfortunately, it’s an issue many people with allergies live with. Regardless of what you are allergic to, itchy skin is a pretty common symptom. Finding a long-term, effective solution requires you to get an accurate diagnosis. If you have skin that changes color, texture, or shape, or if it becomes itchy, it’s best to see an allergist.
What Are Allergies?
Allergy refers to the immune system overreacting or overresponding to a foreign substance. The immune system produces antibodies, which are responsible for fighting harmful foreign substances to keep you healthy. If you are allergic to something, your antibodies will recognize the allergen as a harmful, foreign substance. This causes them to attack and cause a host of reactions. Allergic reactions can vary in intensity for different people. Two people who have the same allergy may not react the same way when exposed to the allergen.
Some allergic reactions are dangerous, such as anaphylaxis shock (which stops you from breathing), while others are simply uncomfortable. Examples of allergic reactions include:
- Digestive problems
- Airway restriction causing you difficulty in breathing
- Congestion, sneezing, and watery, itchy eyes
- Itchy skin, hives, and changes in skin color
Allergens that Cause Itchy Skin
Itchy skin that is caused by allergies generally comes on suddenly and intensely after you are exposed to the allergen. You will notice an urge to itch all over your body out of nowhere. Itchy skin may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as hives or redness of the skin, or it may happen independently.
Itchy skin can happen due to a variety of allergens. Keep in mind that not every allergen causes the same symptoms for every person. In fact, your symptoms may change over time when you get exposed to the same allergen. As such, if you are allergic to any of the following, you could have itchy skin as a symptom at point when you are exposed:
- Pet dander
- Dust mites
- Certain foods
- Pollen
- Insect bites
- Certain medications
- Atopic dermatitis
How Is Itchy Skin Best Treated?
If you get itchy skin as a result of allergies, the best thing you can do is take medication to reduce the bodily reaction. There are many medications available, called antihistamines, that can help alleviate allergy symptoms. However, if you have a dangerous reaction to an allergen, such as anaphylaxis shock, you will need other solutions that an allergist can discuss with you.
Allergy Diagnosis and Treatment in Illinois
If you have allergies and notice symptoms such as the ones listed above, it’s best to see an allergist – even if your symptoms are mild. You can get tested and find out what exactly you are allergic to so that you can avoid the allergens that are bothersome to you. In addition, you can come up with a treatment plan for when you do get exposed.
Request an appointment with Oak Brook Allergists if you’re seeking relief from allergy symptoms, including itchy skin. Call (630) 574-0460 to make an appointment. You can also request an appointment online. We look forward to serving you soon!
