Top 7 Food Allergies in Children

Allergy to egg, milk, soy, wheat, peanut and tree nuts represents 90% of all food allergies in children. Fish and shellfish are two other commonly seen food allergies, usually more common in adults. Each of these individual foods is discussed, including the prevalence, severity and potential outgrowth of the food allergy.
1. Milk
Allergy to cow’s milk is common in children, affecting about 2.5 percent of all infants. These children tend to also react to other milks, such as goat and sheep milk. The allergy is usually directed against one or both major milk proteins, casein and whey. The sugar in milk, lactose, does not cause allergy, but can cause food intolerance.
While 85% of children will outgrow milk allergy by age 5, being allergic to milk is a risk factor for developing other food allergies, as well as nasal allergies. Up to 10% of cow's milk allergic children will be allergic to beef.
2. Egg
Allergy to egg is the most common food allergy in children, affecting about 2.5 percent of young children. Children may be allergic to the white, yolk, or both. Many will outgrow the egg allergy by age 5, although these children are at increased risk of developing nasal allergies and asthma.
The influenza vaccine is the only routine immunization which should not be given to egg allergic children. The MMR vaccine, which was once was a concern in egg-allergic children, does not require any special procedures and typically can safely be given to children with egg allergy.
Find out how to follow a egg-free diet.
3. Soy
Soy is a legume, and related to peanut, although cross-reactivity rarely exists between the two. Allergy to soy affects approximately 0.3 percent of children, is usually outgrown at a young age, and rarely causes life-threatening reactions. Because soy is a common food allergy, and can occur in children also allergic to milk, infant formulas using hydrolyzed proteins are preferred in infants allergic to cow’s milk.
Find out how to follow a soy-free diet.
4. Wheat
Children and adults can experience a variety of immunologic reactions to wheat protein, only some of which are allergic. Wheat allergy is commonly outgrown at an early age, and it is rare for children with wheat allergy to be clinically allergic to other cereal grains (such as rice, oat and barley), although skin testing to these other grains may be positive.
Find out how to follow a wheat-free diet.
5. Peanut
Allergy to peanut occurs in approximately 0.6 percent of all people, and tends to cause a severe form of food allergy. Peanut allergy can be associated with life-threatening allergic reactions, particularly in children with asthma. Only about 20 percent of children outgrow peanut allergy, making it the most common food allergy seen in adults.
Accidental exposure to peanut containing foods is a common problem, so it is important for peanut allergic children to follow a strict peanut-free diet, wear a medical alert bracelet and always have injectable epinephrine available.
6. Tree Nut
Tree nut allergy occurs in approximately 0.5 percent of all people, tends to be severe and is less likely to be outgrown. There is a high likelihood that if a child is allergic to one type of tree nut, he or she will be allergic to another type of tree nut. While tree nuts and peanuts are unrelated foods, cross-contamination is a concern, so some experts recommend a complete “nut free” diet in children with either peanut or tree nut allergy.
7. Seafood
Allergy to seafood includes both fish and shellfish. While fish and shellfish are not related foods, these foods are usually found in the same place (restaurants). Reactions to seafood can be severe and potentially life-threatening. Allergy to either of these foods is less likely to be outgrown, and therefore is commonly seen in adults.
Since patients with allergy to one shellfish are at a high risk of being allergic to other shellfish, complete avoidance of this category of foods is advised. The same is true for allergy to fish; however, exceptions exist for both.

Do People With Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) Get More Skin Infections?

Question: Do People With Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) Get More Skin Infections?
Answer: Yes, people with atopic dermatitis are more prone to infections of the skin, particularly those of the viral, bacterial and fungal kind.

In people with atopic dermatitis, the immune system is more focused on allergies than fighting infections. This means that the skin has less infection-fighting chemicals, giving various bacteria -- especially Staphylococcus aureus -- any easier shot at colonizing.

Colonization and infection by Staphylococcus aureus causes various problems in people with atopic dermatitis. This bacterium not only causes skin infections, such as impetigo, but also produces bacterial toxins to which many people with atopic dermatitis are allergic. These bacterial toxins can worsen eczema, and treatment with antibiotics can improve symptoms in people with bacterial colonization even if there is no obvious skin infection.
Fungal infections, such as tinea and yeast infections, are also more common in people with atopic dermatitis. This may be partially due to the use of topical steroids, which can suppress the immune system of the skin, but it may also be because of the lack of special infection-fighting chemicals in the skin of people with atopic dermatitis. Treatment of fungal infections can improve the symptoms of atopic dermatitis.

Viral infections are also more common in people with atopic dermatitis. These infections can be on certain areas of the skin, such as is the case with herpes infections and molluscu contagiosum, but can also involve the entire body, as they are with eczema herpeticum. People with atopic dermatitis and severe herpes infections may require oral or intravenous antiviral medications to treat these infections.

Lastly, people with atopic skin are also more susceptible to infection, because the barrier function of atopic skin is compromised. This means that the disease itself causes breaks in the skin, where infection-causing microorganisms can enter.

What are Elidel and Protopic?

Elidel (pimecrolimus) and Protopic (tacrolimus) are topical medications used for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema). These medications, called topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs) were the first non-steroid topical medications developed to treat eczema.
Unlike topical steroids, TCIs do not cause skin thinning, pigment changes, blood vessel formation, striae formation, or loss of response with prolonged use. TCIs are also not absorbed into the body to any significant degree, unlike topical steroids. In addition, TCIs can be used on any skin, including the face and eyelids.
Elidel and Protopic are topical versions of calcineurin inhibitors, which are medications used to suppress the immune system in people receiving organ transplants as well as for people with autoimmune diseases. These medications, such as cyclosporine, can have severe side effects, including causing various forms of cancer.
While Elidel and Protopic were only approved for use in people two years and older, many doctors used these medications for infants and younger toddlers. These medications became very popular due to the lack of side effects compared to topical steroids.
Learn the basics of atopic dermatitis.
What Risks are Associated with Elidel and Protopic?
Elidel and Protopic both currently have a “black box” warning, which is a precautionary statement given to the medication by the Food and Drug Administration. This warning came about as a result of reports of children and adults who developed cancer (such as skin cancers and lymphomas) while using these medications.
The decision of the FDA to give these medications a “black box” warning was quite controversial, and went against recommendations from the professional societies of allergists and dermatologists. The reason for this was because the available data did not support that TCIs caused any increase in the risk of any form of cancer. The rate of cancer development occurring in people using Elidel and Protopic was actually below the rate expected in the general population, and the types of cancers seen were not the types seen in people using cyclosporine.
In addition, even when TCIs are used over large areas of the body, the medication cannot be detected in the bloodstream. There is also no evidence that TCIs suppress the body’s immune system whatsoever, which is probably the main reason why oral forms of these medications cause cancer.
Despite any real scientific basis for the FDA’s “black box” warning, however, Elidel and Protopic were being used by doctors for purposes for which they were never intended. These medications were probably over-prescribed for just about any itchy rash in children and adults, which is inappropriate. TCIs are still very useful medications, and I frequently prescribe these medications in my practice.
When Should Elidel and Protopic Be Used?
Elidel and Protopic are indicated as second choice treatments (topical steroids are first choice) for atopic dermatitis in adults and children two years and older. These medications should only be used for short-term flares of eczema, and should not replace the liberal use of moisturizers to maintain good skin hydration.
I tend to use Elidel and Protopic more often for skin that is prone to side effects from topical steroids, especially the thin skin on the face and eyelids and in body folds such as the armpits and groin. Because TCIs are more expensive (and there is no generic form), I tend to use cheaper topical steroids for other areas on the body with thicker skin, such as the arms, legs, hands, feet, neck and trunk.
I also discuss the above risks with any patients and parents of children for whom I prescribe Elidel and Protopic. While in general I do not have serious concerns regarding the safety of these medications (see above for my reasoning), it is the right of my patients to know what I know. I also want my patients to hear the risks of these medications from me, rather than from the internet, where they might find false information.

How Do I Know if My Child Has Allergies?

Does Your Child Have Allergies?

By Daniel More, MD, About.com

The Progression of Allergies in Children

Allergies present in different ways in different age groups. In infants and young children, allergic disease occurs as atopic dermatitis or as food allergies. Children with atopic dermatitis are at increased risk of developing allergies and asthma, which are more likely to occur in the toddler years to school-age. This pattern of progression from one form of allergic disease to another is referred to as the “atopic march”. Atopic is a term that physicians use to mean that someone is allergic to various things (foods, environmental triggers such as pollens, molds and pet dander, for example).

Atopic Dermatitis

Typically this is the earliest manifestation of allergies, is seen in 10 to 20 percent of all children, and frequently seen during infancy. Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, is characterized by itching, with rash formation at the sites of scratching. The rash is typically red and dry, may have small blisters, and can flake and ooze over time.

In infants and very young children, this rash involves the face (especially the cheeks), chest and trunk, back of the scalp and may involve the arms and legs. This distribution reflects where the child is able to scratch, and therefore usually spares the diaper area. The location of the rash changes in older children to classically involve the skin in front of the elbows and behind the knees. Food and environmental allergies have been shown to worsen atopic dermatitis.

Food Allergies

Food allergies can also present in infants and young children, and usually occur after the introduction of solid foods. Almost all children with food allergies will have some form of skin symptoms as a result of eating the culprit food, such as hives, swelling, itching or redness of the skin. These symptoms typically occur within a few minutes of eating the food in question, although can be delayed up to a couple of hours.

Other symptoms of food allergies in young children can include nausea, vomiting, stomach aches, diarrhea, breathing difficulties (asthma symptoms), runny nose, sneezing, and lightheadedness. In some cases children can experience a severe allergic reaction, called anaphylaxis, which can be lifethreatening.

Nasal Allergies

Allergic rhinitis will occur in about 50 percent of those children with atopic dermatitis. While most children won’t start to experience allergic rhinitis until grade school age, some children develop it sooner. Most children with allergic rhinitis experience symptoms from pets, dust and mold at an earlier age and from pollens at a later age.

Symptoms of allergic rhinitis include sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose and eyes and nasal congestion. Some children may also experience post-nasal drip, allergic shiners (dark circles under the eyes), and a line across the nasal bridge from an upward rubbing of the palm of the hand on the nose, a sign called the “allergic salute”.

Asthma

Asthma occurs in about 8% of all people, and is the most common chronic disease in children. The majority of cases of asthma are due to allergies. In fact, 1 in 4 children with allergic rhinitis will develop asthma. Asthma can occur at any age, although is most often seen in males in the pre-teen years and in females in the teenage years. Sometimes asthma is difficult to diagnose in very young children, and may require a physician who is an asthma specialist.

Symptoms of asthma may include:

• Coughing. This can be the only symptom in some children who have “cough-variant asthma”. The cough is often dry, hacking, and worse at night and after exercise. Some children cough so hard that it causes them to vomit. Keep in mind that there are many causes of a cough, and not all coughing is due to asthma.

• Wheezing. This is a high-pitched, musical-like sound that can occur with breathing in and out in children with asthma. This usually gets worse with other asthma symptoms, and flares with exercise and other asthma triggers. Keep in mind that not all wheezing is due to asthma.

• Shortness of breath. Some children may get out of breath faster than their friends, and as a result become less active. Children with more severe asthma have shortness of breath at rest or wake-up with this during the night.

• Chest tightness. A child may describe this as a feeling of someone squeezing or hugging them. Other children say that the chest hurts or feels “funny”.

• Other symptoms that are not specific to asthma include infants with feeding difficulties, children who are tired all of the time or who avoid sports and other activities, and children who have difficulty sleeping.

If your child is experiencing any of the above signs or symptoms, he or she may have allergies. It is recommended to see your child’s doctor so that a diagnosis can be made, or a referral sent to an allergist/immunologist for specialized allergy testing.

The Basics of Atopic Dermatitis

By Daniel More, MD, About.com

Overview

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, recurrent skin disease which commonly occurs in infancy and early childhood but can continue or start in adults. Like other allergies and asthma, atopic dermatitis tends to run in families. The skin rash associated with atopic dermatitis is called eczema.

It is important to note that atopic dermatitis is not a rash that itches. Rather, it is an itch, that when scratched, results in a rash. Therefore, if the itching can be controlled, and there is no scratching, there will be no rash (eczema).

Atopic dermatitis is very common in childhood, affecting up to 20% of kids, usually before the age of 5. The disease is less common in adults, affecting only 1 to 3% of the population, although can start at any age. It is rare to see atopic dermatitis in adults over 50 years of age.

In general, when atopic dermatitis occurs in infants, it usually is more severe, although many cases resolve or improve in later childhood. Children with atopic dermatitis are much more likely to have other allergic diseases, including allergic rhinitis and asthma.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of atopic dermatitis is made by the history of the symptoms and the examination of the patient by a physician. There is no laboratory test to diagnose this condition.

There are three criteria that must be present in order to diagnose atopic dermatitis:

1. Atopy. The person must be atopic, or have a family history of allergic diseases in close relatives. There may be rare cases in which a person has atopic dermatitis without evidence of atopy.

2. Pruritis. Pruritis is the medical term used for itching. The patient must have itching and scratching in order for the rash to occur. If the skin or areas of the rash do not itch or have not been scratched, then the person does not have atopic dermatitis.

3. Eczema. Eczema refers to the appearance of the rash in patients with atopic dermatitis, and occurs in other skin diseases as well. The rash appears red, with small blisters or bumps present. These may ooze or flake with further scratching. Over the long-term the skin appears thickened and leathery.

Location of Eczema

The location of eczema is dependent on the area of the body that is scratched. In infants and very young children this rash involves the face (especially the cheeks), chest and trunk, back of the scalp and may involve the arms and legs. This distribution reflects where the child is able to scratch, and therefore usually spares the diaper area.

In older children and adults, the location of the rash changes to classically involve the skin in front of the elbows and behind the knees. Eczema can also involve the face (especially the eyelids), and may be limited to the palms of the hands and soles of the feet in certain people.

Triggers for Itching

Itching of the skin can be caused by irritants, infections, allergies and stress. Irritants cause itching through direct stimulation of the skin, and include harsh soaps, chemicals, wool fabrics, heat and sweating. Avoidance of these irritants through use of gentle soaps, wearing cotton clothing, and keeping cool and dry can help prevent itching.

People with atopic dermatitis are more susceptible to skin infections by various bacterial, fungal and viral infections. Many are have large amounts of a common skin bacterium, called Staphylococcus aureus, which can worsen the itching and eczema. Herpes infections (similar to the kind that causes cold sores) and the virus responsible for chicken pox and shingles can cause severe skin infections in people with atopic dermatitis.

Allergies can be a significant trigger for itching in people with atopic dermatitis. Usually allergens that come in direct contact with the skin, such as animal danger and dust mites, cause the most problems, although pollens and mold spores in the air can also worsen the condition.

Food allergies can also be a major trigger for people with atopic dermatitis, particularly in children. Egg and milk allergy are the most common food allergies in children worsening eczema, although other food allergies are also common.

Allergy testing is an important part of the evaluation of patients with atopic dermatitis, and avoidance of these triggers, both environmental and food allergens, can significantly improve the disease.

Common Allergic Rashes

By Daniel More, MD, About.com

This person has atopic dermatitis on the arms. Red, scaly plaques can be seen on the inside of the elbows. In adults, atopic dermatitis usually involves the body creases, or flexural areas.

There are many types of itchy skin rashes. However, not all rashes that itch are related to skin allergies. The following are the most common types of allergic skin rashes.

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

Atopic dermatitis frequently occurs in young children, although may start in young adults, and can continue into adult life.

The rash of atopic dermatitis, often called eczema, occurs where a person scratches. In infancy, the rash occurs on the chest, cheeks and scalp, where the child is able to scratch. Older children and adult typically have the rash in the skin folds of the elbows and behind the knees, although may also occur on the face, neck, hands, feet and back.

The rash is red, often flakes or oozes, and has small blisters or bumps. There are often excoriations, or areas of broken skin, from aggressive scratching.

Urticaria (Hives) and Angioedema (Swelling)

Urticaria, commonly called hives, is an itchy rash that can occur at any age. This rash appears as raised red bumps of various shapes and sizes, and typically lasts for only minutes to hours. While it can be very itchy, a person will generally not excoriate (scratch to the point of breaking the skin and cause bleeding) themselves.

The swelling that sometimes goes along with urticaria is called angioedema, and often involves the lips, the eyes, and the hands and feet. Angioedema is usually not itchy or red, it tends to burn, sting or cause a tingling sensation. Severe swelling that blocks the ability to breathe can be dangerous and even life-threatening.

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is caused from skin contact with a substance that causes a rash-like reaction. People react to a variety of chemicals, including cosmetics, hair dye, metals, topical medications and dental materials. An example of a contact dermatitis is a rash from poison ivy, which is an extremely itchy and appears as blisters that ooze and crust after contact with plants of the Toxicodendron family.

A contact dermatitis rash may look like atopic dermatitis, but the rash is typically located only in the area of contact with the offending chemical. Common locations include the face, especially the eyelids, neck, hands and feet. Contact dermatitis to metals, such as in jewelry or snaps/buttons/zippers on clothing, commonly occurs on the neck, wrists/hands, earlobes and at the waistline.

Itching Without a Rash

It is a relatively common problem for people to have itching without a rash being present. The medical term for itching is pruritus, and this symptoms can represent a skin problem, or even an internal disease within the body.

When the itching is limited to a certain area of the body, the most likely reason is a disease process limited to the skin. The area of the body that itches often gives a big clue as to the cause of the itching.

Pruritus the involves the entire body may still represent a disease of the skin, or may be caused by metabolic problems such as thyroid disease or iron deficiency. Many medications can cause itching, particularly pain medications like codeine and morphine.

Atopic Dermatitis Treatment With Medications

By Heather Brannon, MD, About.com
Treating atopic dermatitis often requires a combination of home measures and medications, or other treatments. Because the skin in atopic dermatitis is "leaky," the foundation of treatment is improving the barrier function of the skin.
Basic Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis
Because the atopic dermatitis rash can come and go, different medications are often prescribed and used for various stages of the rash. The following are medications that may be prescribed to help manage the condition.
Topical Steroids
Topical steroids are still the first-line treatment for atopic dermatitis flares because they are effective at reducing the inflammation caused by this disease. Topical steroids come in 7 different strengths, and it is important to use the correct strength for the affected part of the body.
High-strength steroids are typically reserved for use on the arms and legs. Atopic dermatitis on the face and skin folds (armpits, groin, etc.) are usually treated with a low-strength steroid. More potent steroids are generally avoided when treating these areas, though limited and brief use -- prescribed by a dermatologist -- may help produce rapid results; patients can then be switched to a milder steroid.
Calcineurin Inhibitors
The calcineurin inhibitors are Protopic (tacrolimus) and Elidel (pimecrolimus). They are known as immunomodulators because they change some of the functions of the immune system that cause atopic dermatitis without suppressing the whole immune system. They should only be used during flare-ups.
Antihistamines
Oral antihistamines, such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine) or Atarax (hydroxyzine), can be used to treat itch associated with atopic dermatitis. It's important to note, however, that they can cause sleepiness and may not help in all cases of atopic dermatitis. Antihistamine creams should not be used on atopic dermatitis rashes because they contain chemicals that can actually worsen the rash.
Oral Antibiotics
Atopic dermatitis reduces the skin's natural defenses, making it easier for skin to become infected. If a person's atopic dermatitis is not improving as expected, this may be because the skin is infected. In this case, antibiotics are often prescribed. Antibiotics, such as Duricef(cefadroxil) or Keflex (cephalexin), are often prescribed at the first sign of infection.
Oral Steroids
Oral corticosteroids, such as prednisone, prednisolone, and medrol, may be used for more severe flares of atopic dermatitis. They are used if the rash covers a large part of the body and face. Oral steroids used long term have numerous side effects, including weight gain, thinning of the bones, and suppression of the immune system. Though they may clear atopic dermatitis well, the side effects are too risky to warrant using them as a first-line treatment. To avoid these side effects, but still benefit from the medication, oral steroids are often prescribed for a short course (5 days) to calm the rash. Topical steroids can then be used on the remaining rash.
Coal Tar
Coal tar, actually made by melting coal, has long been a treatment for a variety of skin conditions. Shampoos and soaps containing coal tar can help with mild cases of atopic dermatitis. Coal tar tends to work better on thickened skin that is not scaly, or to ease very early symptoms of itching. However, coal tar can be very irritating to already inflamed skin. It is OK to try coal tar for mild cases of atopic dermatitis, but use should stop immediately if there is any increase in itching or redness of the rash.
Leukotriene Inhibitors
Leukotriene inhibitors, such as Singulair (montelukast) or Accolate (zafirlukast), are medications that may help reduce the inflammation that leads to atopic dermatitis. These medicines are often used to treat other allergy-related diseases, such as asthma and allergic rhinitis (seasonal allergies). Though they may be recommended by some, there is currently no good data that shows that leukotriene inhibitors improve atopic dermatitis.
Other Immune-Suppressing
MedicationsMany medications are being investigated to see if they can be used to treat atopic dermatitis. Most of them are used to treat other related diseases, such as psoriasis or allergic rhinitis. These medications include:
Cyclosporine
Interferon
Methotrexate
Azothiaprine

Atopic Dermatitis Home Treatment

By Heather Brannon, MD, About.com
Atopic dermatitis is a persistent, itchy skin condition that comes and goes. Even though there is no cure for atopic dermatitis, with the right knowledge, it can be managed. This means that you can:
- Reduce itchiness, redness and scaling
- Go longer with normal, non-itchy skin
- Take care of flare-ups before they get worsen
First, Keep in Mind that Avoiding Allergens May Not HelpWe have long recommended various strategies to reduce exposure to certain allergens such as reducing dust mites, waiting to give solid foods to infants until they are older, restricting certain foods in the diet for moms who are pregnant or breastfeeding, breastfeeding as long as possible and avoiding pollen.
While these strategies seem to make sense based on our knowledge of what causes atopic dermatitis, recent medical studies do not clearly show that they actually help.

But Avoiding Known Triggers Is Helpful

Of course, if certain triggers have caused flare-ups in the past, it makes sense to avoid these triggers. Examples of common triggers include:
- Perfumes or scented skin care products
- Exposure to cats or dogs
- Known food allergies -- especially to milk, eggs, peanuts and shellfish
- Heat, perspiration, or low humidity
- Rough clothing, especially wool
- Viral skin infections such as herpes simplex
- Stress and anxiety

How to Minimize Scratching

To break the itch-scratch cycle, you have to stop scratching. For some people this may seem like an almost impossible goal, but here are some things that can help:
- Taking antihistamines like Benadryl or Zyrtec can help control itchiness and prevent scratching during sleep
- Cut your nails short
- Wear mittens at night to keep from scratching
- Use loose gauze wraps to protect the skin
- Slather on the right moisturizers to help with itching

Atopic Dermatitis Skin Care

Good skin care for atopic dermatitis is one of the most important measures you can take to keep flare-ups from starting. And if you do have a flare and need to use medication, if you've taken good care of your skin, it will heal faster.

Eczema Skin Care

How to Take Good Care of Your Skin if You Have Eczema

By Heather Brannon, MD, About.com
It is important for people with eczema and their loved ones to understand how to take care of their skin because using the wrong soap or moisturizer can cause flare-ups that are itchy or painful. On the other hand, using the correct soap or moisturizer can calm down inflamed skin or prevent flare-ups.
Eczema - "Leaky Skin"
In general people who have eczema have "leaky skin," meaning the barrier function of their skin does not work well. Practically this means:
- Anything that goes on the skin soaks in to the deeper layers that activate the immune system.
- The skin loses water and the natural oils that normally moisturize it and keep it supple. These changes cause the skin to be drier than normal skin and more sensitive to anything that comes in contact with the skin.
Water - Good or Bad?
You would think that putting water on the skin would moisturize it more, but the opposite is true. Plain water that comes in contact with the skin evaporates and takes with it many of the skin's natural oils called natural moisturizing factor (NMF). The more often the skin has contact with water, the drier it gets unless those natural oils are replaced. But your skin has to come in contact with water when you bathe and wash your hands. Is it more important to bathe to clean the skin or avoid water to keep the skin moisturized? The following are some guidelines to follow when it comes to water contact:
- Water temperature should be tepid -- hotter water takes more oils away than cooler water.
- The length of contact should be short -- no long, hot showers especially if you have a flare-up.
- Using antibacterial gels for hand-washing does not cause the skin to dry out because the alcohol does not bind to NMF taking them away when it evaporates.
- When drying off, pat the skin dry with a towel until the skin is not dripping -- do not rub the skin vigorously.
- Use a good moisturizer on the skin immediately after any contact with water.
Soaps for Eczema
The effect of soap on the skin is not good for people with eczema. Most soaps, especially bar soaps, dry the skin out. Liquid cleansers are much less damaging to the skin than bar soaps. Using an emollient-rich liquid cleanser that leaves a moisturizer on the skin when the soap is washed off is the best choice for people with eczema. For specific product recommendations, see the best soaps for eczema.
Moisturizers for Eczema
Not only is it important to use a moisturizer often (up to three times a day), it is important to use one that does not contain perfumes, fragrances or essential oils, because these are all potentially very irritating to eczematous skin.
Moisturizer Recommendations
I don't have one moisturizer I would recommend over the others -- they all have pros and cons. The following are different types of moisturizers to consider:
The moisturizers for scaly eczema would be a good choice if you have a lot of flaking without a flare because they can sting if applied to open areas on the skin.
The emollient moisturizers are a low-cost option, especially if you are in the middle of a flare-up, because they are not irritating.
The new ceramide moisturizers help the skin heal faster during a flare, but the only low-cost option does not have published data proving it is effective. If you can afford them, these moisturizers would be a great choice with or without a flare.

Atopic Dermatitis Treatment Overview

By Heather Brannon, MD, About.com
We are learning more and more about the best ways to treat atopic dermatitis - the most common form of eczema. Atopic dermatitis is never cured, but it can be managed. Taking care of your atopic dermatitis means learning about condition, practicing good skin care, and having appropriate medicine for flare-ups.
While a visit to the dermatology is often needed, after that, atopic dermatitis is one of those diseases that requires people to manage their (or their child's) condition on their own -- because changes can occur from day to day. Someone who knows how to manage their atopic dermatitis can do a lot to keep it under control.
Skin Care
More Important Than You ThinkThere is an astounding amount of research under way to help doctors understand the stratum corneum, the top layer of skin. Even more astounding is how complex this tiny layer -- about 10 cells thick -- is. Recent research has shown that using the right liquid cleansers and moisturizers in a consistent skin care routine can not only keep the skin from drying out as much, but also replace the skin's natural oils that are low in atopic dermatitis.

Things You Can Do at Home
Atopic dermatitis is known as "the itch that rashes." Managing itching is an important part of managing atopic dermatitis.

Medications for Atopic Dermatitis
Most people need medications at some point to manage their atopic dermatitis. Some people have to use medication every day because their atopic dermatitis is severe, while others only have to use medication for flare-ups. Often people have a range of medication they can use stronger ones for severe symptoms and milder ones for milder symptoms. It is important to know how and when to use the medications you are prescribed. If you ever have any question about your medication, you should always ask your doctor.

Aromatherapy For The Respiratory System

By Kathi Keville, Mindy Green
Afflictions of the respiratory system include irritation and infection of the ears, nose and throat. Respiratory problems also may involve congestion, which can be decreased by inhaling rosemary (especially the verbenone type), hyssop (use var. decumbens only), tea tree, eucalyptus, lavender or peppermint. Cypress helps dry up a persistent runny nose, and peppermint, tea tree and eucalyptus reduce sinus infection. Anise and cypress help reduce coughing.
Many asthma sufferers wage a constant battle with low-level congestion. Don't use essential oils during an asthma attack, but between attacks try a chest rub of German chamomile, frankincense or lavender. The chamazulene in chamomile releases cortisone from the adrenals. During an asthma attack, give a bath or treat the feet with these oils. (Hyssop can also be used, but be careful to only use var. decumbens.)Ninety percent of respiratory ailments are caused by viruses. Oils of thyme, rosemary, peppermint, ravensare, tea tree, eucalyptus, bergamot, black pepper, melissa and hyssop inhibit most flu viruses. Lemon and eucalyptus oils are effective against bacteria that cause staph, strep and pneumonia infections. A 2-percent dilution makes an effective antiseptic gargle or vapor steam.
Steam treatment carries essential oils directly to sinuses and lungs, and provides warm, moist air to help open nasal and bronchial passages. To do a steam, boil a pan of water, turn off the heat, cool 1 minute, add 3-6 drops of essential oils to the water, and use a towel to corral the steam around your head as you breathe deeply. Essential oils can also be used in many humidifiers, or as an ingredient in steamy hot bath water.If steaming is impractical-at the office, say, or while traveling-inhale a tissue scented with the oils, or use a natural-products nasal inhaler. These are sold in natural food stores, or you can make your own:

Homemade Nasal Inhaler
- 2 drops eucalyptus
- 2 drops rosemary
- 1 drop peppermint
- 1 tablespoon rock salt
Place a few pieces of rock salt in a vial and add the oils. The salt will quickly absorb the oil. Inhale.
An aromatic diffuser-a glass piece (often hand-blown) connected to a small electrical compressor- disinfects the atmosphere by releasing droplets of essential oil as a cool, fine mist. One advantage to using a diffuser is that the essential oil vapor can be directed into the nose, throat or even ear passages. It can be turned on in a sickroom for 10 to 15 minutes every hour to clear airborne bacteria.
Do not use thick oils such as vetiver, sandalwood, vanilla, myrrh and benzoin in a diffuser unless they are diluted with a thin oil-such as the citruses, eucalyptus or rosemary-or mixed with alcohol. If oils sit too long in a diffuser, they oxidize and thicken. Also, expressed citrus oils often contain sediment that may clog a diffuser.
To clean or unclog it, soak the glass unit in alcohol and unplug the opening with a pin or toothpick. Rinse and air dry.Diluted essential oils can also be used as a throat spray through "nebulization." A nebulizer sprayer, with its long spout that reaches to the back of the throat, used to be a standard item in the home medicine cabinet. A perfume atomizer or spray bottle will work just as well.If you don't have a diffuser, simply combine water and essential oils in a spray bottle. Studies show that a two-percent dilution of eucalyptus oil kills 70 percent of airborne staph bacteria.

Disinfectant Room Spray
- 3 drops eucalyptus
- 1 drop peppermint
- 2 drops pine
- 1 drop tea tree
- 2 drops bergamot
- 1 ounce of waterCombine ingredients.
Shake well before using. The combination is also suitable as a chest rub. (Replace the water in this recipe with a carrier oil.)Generations of Europeans, especially singers, have gargled sage, thyme or marjoram tea sweetened with honey to relieve laryngitis and tonsillitis. A few drops of essential oils diluted in two ounces of water may also do the trick. In case of sore throat, gargle frequently, at least every half-hour.

Throat Spray/Gargle
- 1/2 cup thyme or sage herb tea
- 3 drops each cypress, lemon, tea treeShake well to disperse the oils before each use. For a gargle, half a teaspoon of salt may be dissolved into the solution.

For lung congestion a salve or a massage oil containing essential oils can be rubbed over the chest, back and throat. The oils will be absorbed through the skin and lungs as the vapor is inhaled. Place a flannel fabric on the chest after rubbing in the oil to increase warmth. Commercial "vapor balms" still use derivatives of essential oils (or their synthetic-oil counterparts), such as thymol from thyme and menthol from mint, in a petroleum ointment base. Natural alternatives are also sold in natural-food stores.

Vapor Balm
- 2 teaspoons peppermint oil
- 3 teaspoons eucalyptus oil1 teaspoon thyme oil (chemotype linalol is best)
- 1 cup olive oil
- 3/4 ounce beeswax

Melt beeswax into olive oil over very low heat. Cool a bit, add essential oils and stir. (Be sure to keep your face away from the oils as you stir them in.) Allow to harden. Store at room temperature.
Poultices are an age-old remedy for chest congestion. A ginger or onion compress on the chest breaks up lung congestion and makes breathing easier. Onions also help curb asthma and allergic reactions.

Poultice
- 1 onion, chopped and 1/4 cup ginger, gratedwater
Lightly cook together in a little water until soft. Cool slightly, mash and apply to the chest while still warm. Cover with a soft cloth.Herbal Adjuncts-Herbs that loosen mucus from the lungs include elecampane, horehound and mullein.

Respiratory relaxants, such as wild cherry bark and wild lettuce, are used in cases of extreme spasmodic coughing. Demulcent herbs, which soothe inflamed mucous membranes, include flaxseed, marshmallow root and licorice. Use these herbs in a tea, tincture, pills or syrup.

Allergies Are on the Increase

By Jane Thurnell
A third of the population believe that they suffer from allergies, and even though some of these people may be mistaken, everyone agrees that eczema, asthma, hay fever, irritable bowel syndrome, etc. are now more and more common. So, what has happened?It is often unclear why a person has a tendency to be allergic or intolerant to a range of substances. Medical practitioners talk about atopic individuals - atopic means out of place. To the unknowing this sounds like a medical diagnosis, but in fact all it means is: You have a tendency to have allergies; you may have several different symptoms caused by your allergic reactions; this often runs in families; we don't know why. Describing someone as an atopic individual is not saying anything the person does not already know about themself!
Genetic Predisposition
Allergy problems undoubtedly do run in families, so there may be a genetic component, although the exact mechanism is not clearly understood. Some small genetic mutation can cause the immune system to be triggered more easily, so that family members sharing this mutation will all have a tendency to allergic reactions, although not necessarily to the same substances, but this does not explain the rise in the incidence of allergies in recent years.
Severe Virus Infections
A severe virus infection can lead to damage to the immune system, so that the individual is more likely to develop allergies in the future. Again, although this may explain why someone has allergies, the incidence of virus infections is not on the increase.So we have to look elsewhere to explain the rise, and there are several completely different possibilities.
Parasites
One allergy theory now being proposed is that the lack of the proper enemies (liver fluke, tapeworms, etc.) has led to an idle immune system finding inappropriate work in allergic reactions. There are many antibodies produced in the body to protect it against invasion by harmful organisms. IgE antibodies deal effectively and quickly with the extreme danger of infection by large parasites, such as tapeworms. Parasites' effect on health can be devastating, so over the years individuals with efficient IgE mechanisms have lived to reproduce and pass on their genes at a greater rate than people with a less efficient IgE mechanism.The IgE antibodies are also involved in allergic and hypersensitivity reactions, so people with these inherited efficient IgE mechanisms are more likely to suffer allergy problems than people who have inherited a less efficient system. This super-charged immune system was a plus for an asthma sufferer's distant ancestors inhabiting a world with many life-threatening parasites, but now leads to a trigger-happy immune system firing off inappropriately.Other practitioners (notably Hulda Clark in Cure For All Diseases) take the opposite view, and see many allergy symptoms as being a reaction to an infestation of parasites.
Excessive Cleanliness
The obsession with the danger of 'germs' is thought to have led to an increase in allergies. Much of this obsession with cleanliness seems to be driven by the media and advertising. Headlines about 'killer bugs', and advertisements that claim a product kills even more germs have led many people to buy more and more products to wipe out these dangerous enemies.A view now gaining ground among many researchers and some doctors is that a certain level of dirt is good for us, particularly during infancy and early childhood when the immune system is maturing.T-helper cells in the immune system recognize foreign antigens and then secrete substances to activate other cells to fight the invader. In pregnancy the T-helper cells that attack invaders directly without producing antibodies (Th1 cells) are less active, as these could lead the mother's system to reject the fetus.This means that the T-helper cells that are responsible for antibody reactions (Th2 cells) are more prominent. These are the ones that are involved in allergic reactions. The new baby's immune system has the same emphasis as the mother's had during pregnancy. It is believed that the exposure of the very young to some level of dirt is beneficial in that it helps to rebalance the immune system to emphasize the T-helper cells that are not involved in the allergy process.In an excellent article ('New Scientist' July 18th 1998) Garry Hamilton talks about 'the gentler side of germs'. If the young are not exposed to 'dirt', the immune system does not go through this rebalancing process, and a tendency to allergy can result. Linda Gamblin in 'The Allergy Bible' cites several medical research projects, which support the idea of allowing children to be exposed to dirt and minor infections to help protect against allergies.
Vaccination
Our children are now being vaccinated against a bigger and bigger range of diseases. While some of these are serious, many are mild illnesses that were once considered part of a normal childhood. Many alternative practitioners consider that these childhood illnesses help to prime the immune system so that it is better able to cope with a whole range of illnesses later in life.This view is not accepted by most of the medical profession, and indeed it would be difficult to prove. However, there is some evidence that vaccination alters the ratio of T-helper cells and T-suppresser cells. This would be likely to have an effect on the vaccinated child's susceptibility to allergy reactions. It is also known that most vaccines stimulate the branch of the immune system that is concerned with the more extreme immune reactions to invaders such as parasites (New Scientist July 18th 1998).
Ubiquitous Presence Of Some Foods
Before the advent of freezers and airfreight most people ate local foods in season. Now most fruit and vegetables are available all year round, so that our systems are exposed to the same foods continually without respite.There has been a dramatic increase in people experiencing soya allergy, since soya has become a common ingredient in many processed foods. In Europe and North America rice allergy is relatively uncommon, whereas in Asia where it is consumed more frequently it is much more common.
Technological Developments
Developments that make modern life more comfortable have also led to an increase in allergies. With the advent of air conditioning, central heating and wall-to-wall carpeting, house dust mites and moulds such as alternaria have an ideal environment in which to thrive. Modern offices with sealed windows mean that everyone is exposed to the perfumes worn by other people. The increasing use of plastics, formaldehyde, benzene etc. have led to all of us being exposed to an amazing variety of chemicals.
Contamination By Environmental Pollutants
The chemicals in diesel fumes are known to damage the outer membranes of pollens. This means that when the pollen is breathed in, the pollen proteins are immediately in much closer contact with the delicate membranes in the mouth, nose and lungs than they would be if the pollen had not been damaged in this way.It has now also been suggested that the immune system is reacting to some harmless substances because they have been contaminated by environmental pollution: the immune system does not recognize the food, for example, if it has molecules from tire rubber attached to it. These molecules sometimes appear similar to enzymes produced by parasites and so the immune system attacks the 'parasite'.Although more and more evidence is accumulating for a role for environmental pollutants, this does not explain why New Zealand, which is relatively unpolluted, has one of the highest incidences of asthma in the world.
Electro-Magnetic Pollution
An increase in electro-magnetic pollution has run parallel with the increase in allergies. The scientific jury is still out on the danger of mobile phones, power lines, etc., but many people are becoming more concerned about our constant exposure. People who are sensitive to computers, etc. often also show many symptoms typical of allergic individuals. In some cases correcting this sensitivity to electro-magnetic sources, results in all or most of the adverse reactions disappearing. (I recommend health kinesiology for this.)
Stress
The pace of life is quickening all the time: modern technology gives us more possibilities and many of us want to experience as many of these as we can. A survey found that half of the 950 young people in their 20's interviewed said that they would feel a failure if they did not own a home by 26, were not married by 27 and not both rich and parents by 29. Many of the interviewees said they were prepared to sacrifice a healthy diet and way of life to achieve this. These expectations and pressures are not conducive to long-term health and can also lead to stress and allergies. Pre-packaged, processed foods eaten in front of the television, too much alcohol, too little fresh air and exercise all take their toll.Sometimes particular traumatic events can explain a particular allergy. One of my clients was allergic to wool and tea. She told me that when she was a small child she had pulled a cup of hot tea on to herself. At the time she was wearing a wool sweater, and the tea soaked into the sweater and burnt her very badly.DietIt is now well known that bottle-fed babies are more likely to be prone to allergy problems than breast-fed ones. Sudden or early weaning can contribute to the problem too.Sadly the modern diet may be abundant in calories, but there is more and more evidence that it is low in some important nutrients. People are eating more pre-processed foods, which may be nutritionally compromised.Soil is becoming depleted of some minerals, because they have long been taken up by plants grown in the soil. If the mineral is not in the soil, it cannot be in the plant, and so it is not available in the foods we eat either.It is unlikely that there is one simple answer as to why people are allergic, intolerant or sensitive in general or to particular substances. Research is still being carried out in this fascinating area. Fortunately with the tools that are available it is not necessary to know why someone has allergy problems in order to be able to detect and correct them.
Jane Thurnell-Read is a writer and researcher on health, stress, alternative medicine, and happiness. Visit her web site http://www.healthandgoodness.com for tips and information on how to live a happier, healthier life no matter how busy you are.

Allergic Eczema - Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Allergic eczema appears in individuals who have a family history of allergy. Besides eczema, they may be have other manifestations of allergies such as asthma or seasonal sneezing as well.SymptomsWith children, it begins in the first year of life. The skin on the cheeks, scalp and at the creases of the body is dry and cracked. Because of itching and irritation, it is red and sometimes oozing.Initial lesions consist of dryness and redness over the skin with uniform pinhead-size eruptions. There is an oozing of serum from these lesions.Crusts form oozing vesicles there and the whole area gets infected with bacteria, producing pus. At this stage, the child not only has irritation locally but may also have a general reaction in the body in the form of fever.If the eruptions become chronic are aggravated by continued rubbing and scratching, swelling and thickening of the skin may result. Chronic lesions darken the colour of the skin as well.
Causes
Causes of allergic eczema may be susceptibility to certain foods, pollens and dusts or to certain substances with which the skin comes in contact, and in latent allergens in adults. Wool and nylon clothes are also known to aggravate the lesions in some cases.Among factors which often have an unfavourable influence on the course of the disease are rapid changes in temperature, emotional tensions, dusty environments, alkaline cleansing agents, including common toilet, soaps, contact with greasy topical medicaments and infections like cold and sinusitis. Diseases associated with high fever, however, often exert a temporary beneficial action.Diagnosis Diagnosis of the attending allergies, in these cases is very important in order to cure the condition. This is done by means of clinical tests for avoidance and re-exposure to the suspected items.
Treatment
Keeping the skin moist through applications of creams, oils and ointments is helpful.Antihistaminic creams also reduce itching and in severe cases, application of ointments containing corticosteroids proves helpful. Some of the commonly used substances that cause this reactions and the site of reaction are as follows!Substance ---> SiteStocking, shoes, chappals, clothing ---> Feet legs + bodyPlants, vegetables detergents, kerosene oil ---> HandsDeodorant ---> ArmpitsNecklace ---> NeckLipstick ---> LipsNose Drops ---> Nose and area the noseSpectacles ---> Bridge of the noseEarrings ---> EarlobesEye cosmetics ---> Eyelids and area around the eyesHair Dyes ---> Forehead, behind the ears and back of the neck, scalp

Got Red Eyes ? Allergic Conjunctivitis Is Treatable

by: Brue Baker

Eye allergies affect millions of people every year. There are a few different eye allergies and allergic conjunctivitis is one of the most common. Although it does affect a lot of people allergic conjunctivitis happens to be one of the most treatable eye conditions, both in children and in adults. In order to treat conjunctivitis however, one must know the major causes. There are many different factors that can cause allergic conjunctivitis, including:* Viruses* Bacteria* Irritating substances* Sexually transmitted diseasesTreatment For Allergic ConjuctivitisThere are a few different treatment options when it comes to the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis. One is topical decongestants, which are medicines that help to reduce redness in the eyes by constricting small blood vessels in the eye. As a result the eyes look less pink and are less irritated in general. However, these are not recommended for long term use and typically doctors will only suggest that the patient use them for a couple of weeks at the very most.
There are also many topical antihistamines that are available for treatment of allergic conjunctivitis which also help to reduce redness in the eyes but as well swelling and itching. There are topical steroids which are often recommended and which must be used with careful consideration because otherwise they can be potentially dangerous. The specific treatment plan for allergic conjunctivitis that is going to work best will have to be determined by a medical professional. Your doctor will take your personal characteristics into consideration as well as a number of other factors including how severe the condition is and how long you have been dealing with it for. All of these issues are going to play an important role not only in the matter of the doctor deciding on the appropriate treatment, but also on how you can prevent yourself from getting it again in the future.There are many other eye allergies that one can develop as well and of course prevention is always the best method. Some prevention methods include:* Washing your hands frequently (especially after meals and going to the bathroom)* Avoiding shaking hands as much as possible* Not using anyone else's cosmetics* Not using other people's personal items Just as one would to prevent a cold, it is important to stay guarded against bacteria and disease because this is how the conjunctivitis, allergic or not, begins. The best way to stay guarded is to amp up your immune system.
You can do this through exercise, following a healthy diet of organic fruits and vegetables as well as taking a natural immune booster such as Echinacea or Interferon. If you have already developed conjunctivitis make sure that you go see your doctor and follow any of their recommendations. Otherwise remember to follow the preventative measures listed above to keep you out of the doctor's office in the future. Good luck on you journey towards health and wellness!

10 Winter Skin Care Tips

" The weather outside may be unsightly, but your skin doesn't have to be. How to banish dry skin and give your winter skin care regimen a boost."

By Susan Davis WebMD Feature
Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD

For many people, the cold clear days of winter bring more than just a rosy glow to the cheeks. They also bring uncomfortable dryness to the skin of the face, hands, and feet. For some people, the problem is worse than just a general tight, dry feeling: They get skin so dry it results in flaking, cracking, even eczema (in which the skin becomes inflamed).
"As soon as you turn the heat on indoors, the skin starts to dry out," Bonnie LaPlante, an esthetician with the Canyon Ranch resort in Lenox, Mass., tells WebMD. "It doesn't matter if you heat your home using oil, wood, or electricity. The skin gets dry."
Sound familiar? Read on to get WebMD's top 10 tips for boosting your winter skin care regimen, so that your skin stays moist and healthy through the winter months.
1. Seek a Specialist
If you go to your local drugstore, you'll be hard put to find a salesperson who can give you good advice. That's why going to an esthetician or dermatologist even once is a good investment. Such a specialist can analyze your skin type, troubleshoot your current skin care regimen, and give you advice on the skin care products you should be using.
But that doesn't mean you'll be stuck buying high-end products. "Inexpensive products work just as well as high-end ones," says David Voron, MD, a dermatologist in Arcadia, Calif. "In fact, the extra price you pay for the expensive stuff is often just for packaging and marketing. What's most important is how your skin responds to the product -- and how you like its feel, not how much money you paid for it."
2. Moisturize More
You may have found a moisturizer that works just fine in spring and summer. But as weather conditions change, so, too, should your skin care routine. Find an "ointment" moisturizer that's oil-based, rather than water-based, as the oil will create a protective layer on the skin that retains more moisture than a cream or lotion. (Hint: Many lotions labeled as "night creams" are oil-based.)
But choose your oils with care because not all oils are appropriate for the face. Instead, look for "nonclogging" oils, like avocado oil, mineral oil, primrose oil, or almond oil. Shea oil -- or butter -- is controversial, because it can clog facial pores. And vegetable shortening, LaPlante says, is a really bad idea. "It would just sit on the skin," she says. "And it would be really greasy."
You can also look for lotions containing "humectants," a class of substances (including glycerine, sorbitol, and alpha-hydroxy acids) that attract moisture to your skin.
3. Slather on the Sunscreen
No, sunscreen isn't just for summertime. Winter sun -- combined with snow glare -- can still damage your skin. Try applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen to your face and your hands (if they're exposed) about 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply frequently if you stay outside a long time.
4. Give Your Hands a Hand
The skin on your hands is thinner than on most parts of the body and has fewer oil glands. That means it's harder to keep your hands moist, especially in cold, dry weather. This can lead to itchiness and cracking. Wear gloves when you go outside; if you need to wear wool to keep your hands warm, slip on a thin cotton glove first, to avoid any irritation the wool might cause.
5. Avoid Wet Gloves and Socks
Wet socks and gloves can irritate your skin and cause itching, cracking, sores, or even a flare-up of eczema.
6. Hook Up the Humidifier
Central heating systems (as well as space heaters) blast hot dry air throughout our homes and offices. Humidifiers get more moisture in the air, which helps prevent your skin from drying out. Place several small humidifiers throughout your home; they help disperse the moisture more evenly.
7. Hydrate for Your Health, Not for Your Skin
If you've heard it once, you've heard it a thousand times: Drinking water helps your skin stay young looking. In fact, it's a myth. Water is good for your overall health and "the skin of someone who is severely dehydrated will benefit from fluids. But the average person's skin does not reflect the amount of water being drunk," Kenneth Bielinski, MD, a dermatologist in Oak Lawn, Ill., tells WebMD "It's a very common misconception."
LaPlante agrees. "I see clients at the spa who drink their 10 to 12 glasses of water a day and still have superdry skin. It just doesn't do that much."
8. Grease Up Your Feet
Yes, those minty foot lotions are lovely in the hot summer months, but during the winter, your feet need stronger stuff. Try finding lotions that contain petroleum jelly or glycerine instead. And use exfoliants to get the dead skin off periodically; that helps any moisturizers you use to sink in faster and deeper.
9. Pace the Peels
If your facial skin is uncomfortably dry, avoid using harsh peels, masks, and alcohol-based toners or astringents, all of which can strip vital oil from your skin. Instead, find a cleansing milk or mild foaming cleanser, a toner with no alcohol, and masks that are "deeply hydrating," rather than clay-based, which tends to draw moisture out of the face. And use them a little less often.
10. Ban Superhot Baths
Sure, soaking in a burning-hot bath feels great after frolicking out in the cold. But the intense heat of a hot shower or bath actually breaks down the lipid barriers in the skin, which can lead to a loss of moisture. "You're better off with just warm water," LaPlante advises, "and staying in the water a shorter amount of time."
A lukewarm bath with oatmeal or baking soda, can help relieve skin that is so dry it has become itchy, Bielinski notes. So, too, can periodically reapplying your moisturizer. If those techniques don't work, go see a dermatologist. "You may need a prescription lotion to combat the dry skin," Bielinski says. "Or you may have a condition that isn't simply dry skin and that requires different treatment."

Top 10 Causes of Skin Allergy

By Daniel J. DeNoon WebMD Health News
Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD

Jewelry metals and fragrances top the list of substances most likely to cause serious skin rashes, Mayo Clinic dermatologists report. When you get a skin rash after contact with an allergy-causing substance (an allergen) doctors call it allergic contact dermatitis. It can be a devastating condition, says Mayo's Mark D. P. Davis, MD.
"Patients with contact dermatitis can get a very itchy rash from head to toe, or in a confined area," Davis says, in a news release. "If it's on the hands and feet it can be disabling, and patients at times can't do their jobs."
How do you know what causes your itchy rash? Using a panel of common allergens, doctors put a small amount on a patch of skin and see whether there is a reaction. It's called patch testing. Davis' and other Mayo researchers patch tested more than 1,500 patients with a series of up to 73 allergens in their study. The top 10 culprits:

1. Nickel (nickel sulfate hexahydrate). A metal frequently encountered in jewelry and clasps or buttons on clothing.
2. Gold (gold sodium thiosulfate). A precious metal often found in jewelry.
3. Balsam of Peru (myroxylon pereirae). A fragrance used in perfumes and skin lotions, derived from tree resin.
4. Thimerosal. A mercury compound used in local antiseptics and in as a preservative in some vaccines.
5. Neomycin sulfate. A topical antibiotic common in first aid creams and ointments, also found occasionally in cosmetics, deodorant, soap, and pet food
6. Fragrance mix. A group of the eight most common fragrance allergens found in foods, cosmetic products, insecticides, antiseptics, soaps, perfumes, and dental products.
7. Formaldehyde. A preservative with multiple uses. It's found in paper products, paints, medications, household cleaners, cosmetic products, and fabric finishes.
8. Cobalt chloride. Metal found in medical products; hair dye; antiperspirant; objects plated in metal such as snaps, buttons or tools; and in cobalt blue pigment.
9. Bacitracin. A topical antibiotic.
10. Quaternium 15. A preservative found in cosmetic products such as self-tanners, shampoo, nail polish, and sunscreen or in industrial products such as polishes, paints, and waxes.
Davis reported the findings at this week's annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology in San Francisco. When a patch test is positive, the best thing for patients to do is to avoid the substance to which they are allergic. Treatment with corticosteroid cream can help -- but 3% of patients are allergic to the cream, Davis says.
How well does patch testing work from the patient's point of view? In another conference report, Mayo's Leigh Ann Scalf, MD, and colleagues surveyed about 1,500 patch-test patients.
More than three out of four said they were at least "somewhat satisfied," and more than half said they were "very satisfied." After testing, 58.3% of patients reported improvement in their condition. Why so few? A third conference report suggests an answer. Davis, Scalf, and Joseph Genebriera, MD, find that fewer than half of patch-test patients remember all of the things that make them itch.

Air Purifiers - How They Help Allergies If You Have a Problem

By Art Emiss
We get hundreds of calls from clients during the year asking; Should I buy an air cleaner or air purifier for their home or business? The first question we ask them is: Why do you think you need an air cleaner? Some say, we think the air in our home is dirty or we are concerned about the air quality in our business. Our next answer is another question; Have you had an Environmental Inspection in your home or office? Ninety per cent of the time, the answer is no.The next answer they provide is; We do not need an Environmental Inspection.
There are a large number of individuals that think about purchasing an air purifier for their home or office every year. Most of these individuals are concerned about Clean Air.
A good quality Air Cleaner will begin at about $300 such as the Austin Air Filter. There are a lot of bargain priced inferior products on the market, but remember, you get what you paid for. Before buying an Air Cleaner, check the quality out before buying it. First place to check is Consumer Reports, they will give an unbiased opinion after testing different models of Air Purifiers.
I read a lot of articles on the Internet, ninety per cent of them try to scare you into buying an Air Cleaner by using the following words: toxic air, toxic mold, toxic chemicals, harmful particles, dangerous particles, dangerous second hand smoke, toxic ozone and etc. When you see an add written with these words, start to question the validity of the product. Air Cleaners are meant to enhance your life thru cleaner air.
Going back to the basic question, have you had you home or business tested to see if you really have a problem. We have been in multiple homes where the individual claims that mold is attacking them and contaminating their home. A recent example of this is one of our clients told us that mold was making her sick. The basic question we always ask everyone is; Have you had a water leak or a flood in the last two years. Her answer was no. Next question; Have you seen any visible mold growing in the home recently. These are important questions because a lot of individuals blame mold for other allergens in the home.
We did an inspection of the home and found minimal mold in the A/C. There was no real moisture in the walls so we began to question the validity of the clients' self diagnosis. We did find high levels of fibers in the Air Conditioning Return Air Plenum. That was the first clue; we then knew it was not be a mold problem as the client had self diagnosed. We took air samples and sent them to the lab for id.Two days later we got the answer to our clients problem, it was high levels of skin cells and carpet fibers in the air. How interesting, we called the client and informed them about the testing results. We then proceeded to ask additional questions like; what is the quality of your vacuum cleaner. Is it a HEPA rated vacuum cleaner like the Miele. The answer was no, it was a 10 year old vacuum cleaner that someone gave them. I recommended that they dispose of the vacuum cleaner and buy a high quality HEPA rated vacuum cleaner like the Miele.
If you have high levels of skins cells in your home, you have Dust Mites. Dust Mites thrive on skin cells, especially in carpeting. We also recommended they remove the carpet and install tile. The client did and the allergy disappeared after the carpet was removed. She did not know she was allergic to Dust Mites.
In Conclusion: the moral of the story is not everyone needs an Air Cleaner but needs to clean up their home of certain contaminants such as skin cells. These contaminants can only be identified from an Environmental Inspection. If the client had bought an Air Cleaner, it would have helped some but the problem would still be there. Remember, you must find and fix the problem, not use a temporary measure such as an Air Cleaner. I am not saying, do not use an Air Cleaner, I am saying clean up your house before buying an Air Cleaner to see if that is your problem.

11 Unexpected Allergy Causes

By Kirsten Whittaker
Typical allergy causes like pollen from trees and grasses aren't the only items that might have you reaching for the tissues... some unexpected things you probably have in your home right now might also be causes of allergies and cause allergy symptoms to flare up.
There are eleven lesser known triggers to watch for...

1. Candles - the odors from scented candles can inflame your nasal cavities, according to James Wedner, M.D., chief of allergy and immunology at the Washington University School of Medicine. Those with allergies are likely to have a runny nose or watery eyes when near a burning candle. Candles with scents like pumpkin are usually best tolerated. If you're having trouble with a candle, try to move away, extinguish it outside or get some fresh air yourself.
2. Perfume - has hundreds of chemicals, mostly untested on people, and when mixed with the essential oils in the perfume and sprayed into the air they can cause a person to sneeze, feel congestion or get a headache. It's hard, but ask people around you to go easy on the spray scents and suggest body creams and lotions as their scents aren't quite as strong. You might also keep a small fan in your office or car to keep the air moving.
3. Soaps and detergents - you might be surprised to learn that most of the itching you think is caused by a cleaning agent, is actually the fault of a perfume additive. Look for "no additives", "unscented" or "phthalate-free" on the label. When drying clothes, use a sheet of aluminum foil in the dryer (instead of smelly static cling sheets) to get rid of static without the strong odor. You can also try a scent-free, no-additive dryer sheet.
4. Stuffed animals - can get chock full of dust mites, a problem for an estimated 15% of people. You can try washing (in water 140 degrees or hotter), drying and then repeating (usually monthly) for favorite toys. Toys that can't be washed can be put in a plastic bag in the freezer for a few hours; this will also kill the mites. Store toys on a shelf, rather than on the bed.
5. Carpeting - it's warm on your feet and feels wonderful, but even if you vacuum all the time, you still have dust mites. Your best bet if you have a persistent allergy is to take out the carpeting and replace it with wood or tile and use area rugs instead. Wash the rugs monthly, and keep the humidity of the space below 50%. Dust mites thrive in humid environments.
6. Spices - add zing to your food but as they come from pungent plants they also can bring on everything from sniffling to swelling of the nasal passages, itching and burning in the lips. Avoid the troublesome ones including coriander, poppy seeds, pepper, dill, paprika, cumin and saffron - often found in Indian and Middle Eastern dishes. If you're not sure which spices are the trouble, try writing down what you eat each time you have an allergy attack and see if you can find a common theme.
7. Christmas Trees - the staple of the holidays is a place where mold grows very fast... especially if the tree is put into a bucket of water or damp soil... a moist, dark place mold just loves. Many people are either allergic to or irritated by the mold spores. A fake tree is the answer for many, with pine scented candles providing that must have "smell". If you must have a real tree, avoid one that's been cut weeks in advance, as its probably already ripe with mold. Be stingy with water once the tree is at home and keep it up for as short a time as possible.
8. Wall paint - the solvents and synthetic resins often lead to itchy eyes and headaches, with oil based paints being particularly troublesome as they continue to release chemicals even after they dry. Keep the windows open as you work, and try to have fresh air circulating in the space for up to four weeks after finishing the work. Paints with low levels of VOCs send fewer chemicals in the air, but this isn't a guarantee you won't still have trouble with them.
9. Alcohol - it's not an allergy to alcohol (which is rare) but the grains and additives used to make the liquor. Wheat or sulfur dioxide preservative can also cause stuffy noses or rash. New York allergist Wellington Tichenor, MD also mentions grains like corn, barley and rye as well as fruit flavorings that can be troublesome too. You might try to drink grain free liquors like potato vodka, rum or tequila and skip flavored liqueurs. Look for wine labeled "sulfite-free".
10. Buttons on Blue Jeans - are often made from nickel which can be a trigger for rashes in up to 20% of women. These can be itchy, red and sometimes causes blisters and are often treated with topical creams. To avoid these symptoms replace the buttons with plastic ones or coat the button with clear nail polish, a remedy found to work by a recent St. Louis University study.
11. Lemons and limes - limonene, the zesty compound in lime and other citrus fruits, leaves many with watery eyes and a burning feeling in the nose. You might even have irritation on your skin if you touch, eat or drink products with limonene. Treat any rash with topical hydrocortisone creams and skip the garnish with your drink or salad. Watch for lime in salad dressings, marinades and desserts as well.
Many allergy causes (allergens) can be avoided but you'll need to keep your eyes open for 'hidden' causes of allergies like the ones mentioned above.
Next just head on over to the Daily Health Bulletin for more tips on allergy causes and get 5 free revealing Health reports

Skin prick tests identify asthma risk for toddlers with eczema

Toddler with eczema who have a positive skin prick test for allergy have almost triple the risk of developing asthma than those with a negative test, says an Australian study.
The study, led by the University of Melbourne, is the first to clearly demonstrate that skin prick tests can be used to assess how likely it is a baby or toddler with eczema will go on to develop asthma later in childhood.Researcher Adrian Lowe, from the University of Melbourne's School of Population Health, says the study shows that toddlers who have positive skin prick tests have a much higher risk of developing asthma by the time they are seven.They are also more likely to develop hayfever, particularly if their skin prick test results suggest a possible food allergy."There has been much discussion about the links between eczema and other allergic diseases such as asthma but this study is the first to clearly demonstrate that among children with eczema there are certain groups who are at much higher risk,'' Mr Lowe says.As part of the study, 620 Melbourne children with eczema were skin prick tested for allergies to cows' milk, egg white, peanut, house dust mite, rye grass and cat hair.Skin prick tests were conducted on the children at six months, one and two years of age. The children's allergy status was then followed up five years later when the children had turned seven.The study, published in the international journal Clinical and Experimental Allergy, also included researchers from the John Hunter Children's Hospital, Monash University and Murdoch Children's Research Institute.Mr Lowe says the study shows that skin prick testing may have benefits for the management of childhood allergies."By identifying high risk children we can explore ways of avoiding potential allergens that could exacerbate their condition," he says.Mr Lowe says although eczema is extremely common – affecting up to 20 per cent of children – only a very small percentage are tested for allergy."
Given that specialist allergy testing requires a referral and long waiting lists it is not surprising that children are rarely tested," he says.Mr Lowe says the study also shows how skin prick testing has the potential to boost future research into the links between eczema and other allergic diseases."Previously researchers have studied children with eczema as if they were one homogenous group,' he says. "By showing that there are two distinct categories of children with eczema, future studies can separate these groups and we may be able to more accurately pinpoint the causes of allergic diseases in the longer term."The research was funded by Dairy Australia, VicHealth, Nestle and the Asthma Foundation. The University of Melbourne has received a grant from the National Health and Medical Research Council to extend the study to follow children into their teenage years.

www.healthnewstrack.com

Home remedies for allergy

Allergy in general terms can be defined as hypersensitivity of some foreign particles on your skin or any part of the body. Different individuals have different kinds of patience level for foreign particles. At the time when some people can not adjust with such elements present in their surroundings, then you may be suffering from various skin problems that are popularly called as skin allergies.
There is a sure fire way of verifying whether your skin pain or affliction is a form of allergy or not. And in case, if you got a skin trouble due to the reason that has affected nobody else then certainly you got skin allergy. For instance, few people are exposed to dirt but if it harms you in a stronger way, than it is sure that you are allergic to dirt and dust.
If you are suffering form skin allergies such as hives, dermatitis and others skin ailments and want to use home made medication, ayurvedic medicine is the best cure that provides you instant relief form the pesky problems of skin allergies.
Allergy home remedy skin treatment includes sandalwood, madhuca, henna, holy basil and cassia that provides you relief from the skin allergy such as itching, rashes and dryness. Applying sandalwood paste and oil is highly useful in treatment of eruptive allergies.
Apart from such a home made treatment, make sure that you eat a healthy and balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and proteins. Make sure that take vitamin A and E as it is very useful for the rejuvenation of the skin. Along with this, intake of fruits will help you in detoxifying your body. However, apart from allergy home remedy skin; make sure that you take proper care of your skin by keeping it dry.
Make sure that you keep young children away from your contact as skin allergy is contagious. Taking bath with neem leaves as it will help in soothing your skin. Neem has antiseptic properties that will ensure perfect skin. The best thing about allergy home remedy skin is that it is free from any side affect.

www.skinallergymedical.com

About allergy akin rash

A skin rash is usually a skin inflammation which is different from the normal colour and texture of the skin. It can be a result of allergies to food, chemicals, plants, insects, animals and other environmental factors. This allergies skin rash can affect a specific area of the body or some times the entire body.
Though all allergies skin rashes are not infectious, some are. The most common symptoms of allergies skin rashes are blisters, blotches, bumps, redness or swelling, followed by itching and even fever in some cases. Apart from this, these skin rashes may be seen in various shapes, and are usually white or red in colour.
If proper medication is not given on time, the situation may worsen. There may be many causes for allergies skin rashes including certain foods, perfumes, detergents and plants. It can also be caused due to insect bites, skin allergies, rubbing by a poorly fitted cloth or by a fabric which is rough on the skin.
Some times people may also get skin rashes by wearing a certain piece of jewellery. Dangling necklaces, rings or chains may cause irritation to the skin when in contact. Either the material used to make these pieces may cause the rash, or may be that they have a rough edge or spot that is causing rash on your skin. A qualified dermatologist will be able to decide what is the problem and cause of the allergy, and what treatment should be given to the patient.
Contact dermatitis is allergies skin rash caused due to touching something that was contaminated or that did not suit the chemistry of your body. Eczema is a kind of skin allergy that is mostly seen in people with asthma. Other types of allergies skin rashes include acne, cellulitis, boils, hives, infected hair follicles, chicken pox, measles, shingles and herpes.
If the condition is serious, you may contact a dermatologist for skin biopsy in order to rule out chances of diseases like skin cancer.

A brief overview about cat skin allergy

Cats are the man’s best friend and cat allergy is mostly common with all those people who have cats as their pet at home. Many people who possess cat allergy believe that they are allergic to cat’s hair. But, actually these people who are suffering from this cat allergy occurs because of a protein that is present in cat’s skin and saliva.
However, the cat allergy symptoms can appear in various forms, they can manifest even singularly and even in combination, and moreover they can come and disappear for no clear reason. So you may be wrong in judging that those symptoms can be due to cold or a sore throat. Some of the real reasons of cat allergy is ringing and clogged ears, watering, burning and red eyes, skin rashes and also cold and sore throat.
Cat skin allergy is mostly seen in those people who are sensitive to this kind of protein. Cats bear a protein in their skin that is known as Fel d 1 and due to the increase in production of protein that depends on hormone level of animals. The male cats consist of high allergic protein that basically affects individuals having cat skin allergy to be rather more sensitive in male cats despite female cats.
Cats are said to be known as clean animals and they constantly groom themselves by licking their body, which transfer the protein into their fur from their saliva and skin. While the protein gets dumped in the body, it is then released into the air and if a person is allergic to this protein, it may exhibits the sign of cat skin allergy. These cat allergens stay in the air for longer period of time and it is difficult to eliminate it from the furnishings of home.
The best ways to determine whether you are suffering from cat allergy is by removing cats from the house for almost two weeks and vacuum and clean each and everything your cat was in touch with and see whether the symptoms are lessened or disappears

www.skinallergymedical.com

Treating Your Dog Allergy

by: David Cowley
Did you know that living with an indoor dog can actually help a child to be safer from allergies? There is a chemical that dogs release called endotoxin that actually helps the immune system to develop which is beneficial for children.Usually those that have a dog allergy have developed this sensitivity by being in contact with a dog after their immune system has already developed.While dogs may be man's best friend, a dog allergy can be very difficult for anyone to live with if they love their pet.What can a person do in order to treat this sensitivity, other than send their pet away?
For one thing remember that the chemical that causes a dog allergy usually comes from their saliva and not their skin.This is unlike a cat allergy, which is usually triggered by cat hair and dander. A dog's saliva contains albumin, which causes an allergic reaction in many. So obviously the first thing you need to do when you have a dog allergy is keep the dog from licking your hands and face! When the dog licks themselves this sticky protein is deposited on the hair along with dead skin cells. When the dog hair comes into contact with dust, clothing, curtains, furniture, or you, the protein will stick to the surface of the object. After playing or wrestling with your dog, this saliva can trigger an allergic reaction that lasts for hours.
It also helps to make sure the dog is outside as much as possible. When the dog is indoors he will spread the allergen all around the house that much more, causing the reaction of your dog allergy. It can also help to remove the carpeting in your house in as many rooms as possible; opt for hardwood floors in various rooms. The less carpet you have, the less allergens will stay in the home.For the carpeted rooms, vacuum often with a HEPA equipped vacuum cleaner. Air cleaners can make a really big difference in the severity and frequency of allergy attacks.
Even though your dog allergy is probably not caused by his skin or hair, be sure to bathe the dog at least once or twice per week. This removes allergens that are clinging to his skin and fur. Keeping your home scrupulously clean is also imperative when you have a dog allergy.
Steam clean your carpets once or twice per year. Most vacuums will blow the smaller particles of dust back into the air through the exhaust so you will need to get a vacuum that has some type of HEPA filter that traps microscopic particles of dust from being blown back into the air.Dust all your furniture and surfaces several times per week with a damp cloth (a dry cloth only spreads dust around rather than actually getting rid of it), and don't forget to regularly clean window blinds and curtains as well.
If none of these things help and you don't want to get rid of your dog, talk to your doctor. He or she can recommend options to treat your dog allergy with medications and other options. You may also get regular shots which help your immune system to build up a tolerance for the dog as well.Of course for a severe dog allergy you may just need to part with your pet. Being able to breathe is of course much more important than any family pet. Always consult your doctor before using this information.

Attack against allergy mold

by: RHendersen
Certain individuals who suffer from allergies, especially certain seasonal allergies, may gain relief at different points in the year. But unfortunately, for people who suffer from an allergy mold, the suffering can continue unabated year round.Mold spores are released into the environment in cold, dry weather, as well as in humid conditions. Reactions to an allergy mold usually occur during the summer months, but because mold has the ability to grow in various locations, reactions could surface at any time throughout the year. Although there are many different types of molds, only a small few will cause an allergy mold. Outdoor mold will thrive on damp leaves, rotting bark, or grass.
Indoor molds may develop in damp areas of the home such as laundry rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, basements, or attics. People who suffer from an allergy mold will exhibit the same symptoms as normal allergy sufferers, such as skin irritation, chronic sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, and chest and nasal congestion. A doctor will perform a skin test to receive a specific allergy mold diagnosis. Once diagnosed, a treatment plan to attack the ongoing symptoms and prevent future reactions will be developed. The first step in attacking an allergy mold is to eliminate possible substances within the home that contain mold or could produce mold in the future. A HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter attachment should be contained in the central air conditioning unit in order to catch mold spores before they circulate throughout the home. The home should have proper ventilation and contain exhaust fans inside of the bathrooms. Carpet should be removed from any areas that could possibly become wet or damp. Sinks, tubs, and kitchens should be scrubbed and cleaned frequently due to the speed of mold growth.
Humidity levels within the home can be decreased by the installation of a dehumidifier or by increasing the temperature in order to minimize dampness. Any possible leaks within the home should be repaired as soon as possible to eliminate the possibility of mold growth in certain areas. Any water should drain away from the foundation of the home to eliminate wet plants, grasses, or leaves from allowing mold growth. Assuring that damp areas are dry can prevent spores from filtering into the air and producing an allergy mold reaction. If all of the above measures have been taken to reduce the presence of mold, there are other allergy mold treatments available. Certain medications can eliminate allergy mold reactions. Some over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines, nasal sprays, or decongestants, can reduce symptoms. For severe allergy mold, a doctor may need to recommend a prescription strength allergy treatment. Attacking the allergy mold by staying away from possible growth of spores, taking precautionary cleaning measures, making speedy repairs within the home, protecting yourself with medications, and even using a face mask when you are within contact of mold spores can lead to successful allergy mold relief. But, if symptoms still arise, a doctor may need to recommend another form of treatment or medication. Talking to your doctor about the allergy mold and the specific symptoms associated with it can mean success in the battle against mold.

Some Natural Treatment Option For Babies Allergy

by: David Cowley
Dealing with a baby allergy can be difficult for parents; they often work very hard to keep their child from whatever they have an allergy to and then often need to help the child cope with an allergy attack when it does happen. It's imperative for a parent to understand natural treatment options for any baby allergy as of course you never want to give your child any over-the-counter or prescription medication unless first advised by your doctor. Medications designed for adults can be harmful and even fatal for a baby.
First of all, remember that it's very common for a child to suffer from a baby allergy. Allergies are the result of the immune system not responding properly to fight off irritants and of course a baby's immune system is nowhere near as developed as it should be. Allergies can and often are outgrown by children, so even if your child has severe allergies now this doesn't mean he or she will be suffering from them forever.
Also, when dealing with a baby allergy make sure you're not doing anything to irritate it further. While your baby may be allergic to certain food or elements in the air, switching to allergen-free detergents and personal care items can help tremendously. Be sure that whatever you use for your baby allergy that you're not overmedicating as this can only further irritate the allergy. Get a HEPA filter for the home or the baby's nursery, and apply a warm wet cloth to the baby's chest to clear any lung irritations.
Use Eucalyptus or olbas oil in boiling water and allow the child to inhale the steam that is being generated. This treatment is also very good for any type of stuffy nose due to a cold, flu or allergy problems. Both readily diffuse into the air and can provide benefits to nasal and bronchial areas. If your baby suffers from air-borne allergies then an environment with a high humidity will be of benefit because air with a high humidity content does not carry air-borne contaminates well. Extra moisture in the air will also help to remove any pollen or other allergy producing pollutions from the air.
When treating a baby allergy for the skin, use products that list oils as their first ingredients rather than the diaper rash cream you get at the pharmacy. Sunflower oil, cocoa butter, aloe, shea butter, olive oil, rosewater, and other natural oils are going to be better on baby's skin than harsh creams and treatments. Make sure the products also have no synthetic fragrances. Zinc oxide is also a natural treatment option for a baby allergy of the skin as it forms a natural urine barrier to protect the skin from wet diapers.
If you have done all you can to treat the baby allergy then it's time to see a doctor. While parents often prefer to use natural ingredients and avoid harsh medications and other treatments, it is also important that a child be treated properly especially in the case of a severe allergy. Failure to see a doctor and get medical intervention in severe cases can result in tragedy. So use all the natural treatment options you can for your own baby allergy but don't rule out bringing your precious baby to the doctor as well.
Always consult your doctor before using this information.
This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.

A Successful Allergy Treatment

by: RHendersen
Millions of people suffer from allergies each year. When certain materials come into contact with a person suffering from a specific allergy, their immune system mistakenly believes the material to be harmful. In response, the body will then produce histamine and other chemicals as a form of protection. Due to the presence of these chemicals within the body, reactions will take place such as a rash, swelling, and itching. In some cases, people may be affected by objects within the environment such as pollen, pollutants, mold, and dust. Reactions to environmental substances may include eye or skin irritations or breathing difficulty. In all cases, finding a successful allergy treatment is dependent on the type of allergy.
The most important step in successful allergy treatment is to avoid the materials that are causing the allergy symptoms. In order to prevent an allergy reaction, testing must be completed to find out which specific substance is causing distress within the individual. Allergy treatment must begin with testing the skin to find out what substances react with the skin when they make contact on the body. An allergist, a doctor that specializes in allergy treatment, will use a scratch test or a patch test to introduce various materials onto the skin to see if the skin has a reaction. If the site of the skin test reacts with redness or swelling, it is determined that the individual is allergic to the corresponding allergen. The doctor will then recommend the right course of action for an allergy treatment based on the results of the skin tests. The doctor will also obtain a detailed medical history and a detailed description of the types of allergy episodes the individual has encountered. Several options are available in allergy treatment. Avoidance of the substances causing an episode can prevent distress. Pets, mold, pollen, dust mites, or certain foods, depending on your allergy, should be eliminated from your daily life and exposure should be kept to a minimum. Allergy medications may also be recommended by your doctor and include antihistamine, decongestants, mast cell stabilizers, or leukotriene modifiers. These medications can help reduce inflammation, block histamines, or eliminate nasal and sinus congestion.
Allergy medications can be utilized on a short term basis, or if the allergy is more severe, a long term medication may be recommended. Short term medications do not require a prescription but can cause drowsiness. A long term allergy treatment may require a prescription medication that does not cause the same side effects as a short term over-the -counter medication. Allergy treatment depends on the specific allergy symptoms and the recommendations of the doctor. Certain over-the-counter medications could be used such as nasal sprays, creams, eye drops, pill or liquid decongestants, and antihistamines. Prescription strength allergy treatment may be suggested by doctors if the allergy is severe and needs a quick resolution due to shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing.Each individual will require their own specific allergy treatment. There are many options to help relieve the discomfort allergy sufferers experience during allergy attacks. Working together with the doctor and routinely monitoring your current health status can lead to successful management of outbreaks and long term allergy treatment.