Skin allergies are common and many different agents can give rise to allergic reactions. Common agents include medications or drugs, chemicals, dyes, airborne agents and foods.
A simple, quick and inexpensive form of testing when an allergy is suspected. The skin prick test introduces a tiny amount of allergen into the skin, often on the inner forearm. These tests can be carried out on all age groups, including children.
You may be allergic to something that you have come into contact with. A patch test is a procedure that helps you identify this substance(s). During the test, pieces of tapes containing the allergens will be placed onto your back, and the readings done few days later.
The allergen-specific antibody (IgE &/or IgG) test (also known as RAST, Radioallergosorbent Test) is a blood test used to screen for an allergy to a specific substance. Allergy skin reactions include hives, eczema and dermatitis. This is especially useful if symptoms are recurrent and appear to be tied to triggers, such as exposures to particular foods or environments, and if other family members are known to have allergies. Sometimes your doctor may recommend other blood tests if indicated.
To treat allergies successfully, identify and avoid the cause of your reaction. The skin reaction that has already occurred has to be treated as well. Treatment would include topical creams, oral medications and/or injections, depending on the severity and type of the reaction. Often, a course of medication is required to calm down the allergic reaction that has already occurred. In very severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary for more intensive therapy.
Topical Creams
Oral Medications
Injections
Depending on the allergic reaction pattern as well as the suspected agent causing the allergy, special tests can be done to determine if the agent(s) suspected is truly the cause of the allergy.
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