What are the common causes of hand rash allergies. How can you identify different types of hand rashes. When should you seek medical attention for a hand rash. What are effective treatments for various hand rash conditions.

Understanding Contact Dermatitis: A Common Cause of Hand Rashes

Contact dermatitis is a prevalent condition that can lead to hand rashes, causing changes in skin color, itching, and irritation. There are two main types of contact dermatitis:

1. Irritant contact dermatitis
2. Allergic contact dermatitis

Irritant contact dermatitis accounts for approximately 80% of dermatitis cases and occurs due to direct exposure to substances that affect the skin. Common irritants include:

• Hand soaps
• Rubber or latex gloves
• Nickel and gold jewelry
• Citrus and other natural acids

Are there ways to prevent contact dermatitis? Yes, avoiding known irritants and using protective measures such as gloves when handling potential irritants can help prevent contact dermatitis. Additionally, keeping the skin moisturized and using gentle, fragrance-free products can reduce the risk of irritation.

Allergic Reactions: From Minor Irritations to Severe Symptoms

Allergic reactions can manifest as hand rashes, ranging from mild irritations to severe, life-threatening conditions. Minor allergic reactions on the hands can occur due to exposure to various substances while gardening, using new lotions, or coming into contact with allergens.

In allergic contact dermatitis, the immune system overreacts to certain substances, causing symptoms such as rashes, swelling, and irritation. This differs from irritant contact dermatitis, where the substances themselves directly cause the symptoms.

Anaphylaxis: A Severe Allergic Reaction

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that causes the body’s immune system to react aggressively to a substance. It may begin with a slightly swollen rash similar to hives but can quickly progress to more severe symptoms, such as a swollen throat and difficulty breathing.

Can anaphylaxis be prevented? While it’s not always possible to prevent anaphylaxis, individuals with known severe allergies should carry an epinephrine auto-injector (such as an EpiPen) at all times and wear a medical alert bracelet. Avoiding known allergens and being prepared for emergencies are crucial steps in managing the risk of anaphylaxis.

Hives: Itchy, Raised Bumps on the Hands

Hives, medically known as urticaria, often appear as raised, bumpy rashes on the hands. These itchy bumps may appear lighter when pressed. Hives can result from exposure to irritants, allergens, underlying health conditions, or other physical triggers.

Nearly 20% of people will experience hives at some point in their lives. Hives can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-lasting). Is there a difference in treatment for acute and chronic hives? Yes, acute hives often resolve on their own or with antihistamines, while chronic hives may require more intensive treatment, such as oral corticosteroids or immunosuppressants.

Eczema: A Chronic Skin Condition Affecting the Hands

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that can cause scaly patches on the hands. These patches may be darker or lighter than the surrounding skin and often itch intensely. The condition can worsen when the skin is dry or during cold or dry weather.

While eczema is more common in children, many adults also experience the condition. Can eczema be cured? Currently, there is no cure for eczema, but various treatments can help manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups. These may include moisturizers, topical corticosteroids, and immunomodulators.

Types of Eczema

There are several types of eczema, each with its own characteristics:

• Atopic dermatitis
• Contact dermatitis
• Dyshidrotic eczema
• Nummular eczema
• Seborrheic dermatitis
• Stasis dermatitis

Understanding the specific type of eczema affecting the hands can help in determining the most effective treatment approach.

Psoriasis: An Autoimmune Condition Affecting Hand Skin

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes an overgrowth of skin cells, leading to rashes, inflammation, and raised, scaly patches of skin known as plaques. While psoriasis can occur on any part of the body, it can be particularly troublesome when it affects the hands.

The appearance of psoriasis can vary depending on skin tone:

• Light or fair skin: Pink or red with silvery-white scales
• Medium skin tones: Salmon-colored with silvery-white scales
• Darker skin tones: Violet with gray scales or dark brown

How does psoriasis on the hands differ from other areas of the body? Hand psoriasis can be particularly challenging because it may affect nail health and interfere with daily activities that require hand use. Additionally, the frequent washing and exposure to irritants that hands endure can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms in this area.

Psoriasis Treatment Options

While there is no cure for psoriasis, several treatments can help manage the condition:

1. Topical treatments (corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs)
2. Phototherapy
3. Systemic medications
4. Biologic drugs

The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the condition and individual patient factors.

Sunburn: Protecting Your Hands from UV Damage

Sunburn can affect any part of the body, including the hands. Since clothing rarely covers the hands, it’s crucial to remember to apply sunscreen to the back of the hands, fingers, and wrists when applying it to the rest of the body.

Sunburn symptoms on the hands may include:

• Redness and pain
• Itching
• Dry, peeling skin
• Blistering (in severe cases)

Does sunburn affect all skin types equally? While sunburn can affect people of all skin tones, those with lighter skin have a higher risk of burning. However, it’s important to note that people with darker skin can still experience sunburn and should take precautions to protect their skin from UV damage.

Preventing and Treating Hand Sunburn

To prevent sunburn on the hands:

• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30
• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating
• Wear protective gloves or clothing when possible
• Seek shade during peak sun hours

If sunburn occurs, treat it by:

1. Cooling the skin with cold compresses
2. Applying aloe vera or moisturizer
3. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers if needed
4. Staying hydrated

Genetic Conditions Causing Continuous Hand Peeling

Several genetic conditions can cause the skin on the hands to peel continuously. This peeling is often painless but may result in swelling, skin discoloration, and localized discomfort. The condition may worsen during summer or after frequent handwashing or exposure to water.

Some genetic conditions that can cause hand peeling include:

• Keratolytic winter erythema
• Acral peeling skin syndrome
• Epidermolysis bullosa simplex

How are genetic peeling conditions diagnosed? Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical examination, family history, and genetic testing. A dermatologist or geneticist can help determine the specific condition and recommend appropriate management strategies.

Managing Genetic Peeling Conditions

While there may not be cures for these genetic conditions, management strategies can help alleviate symptoms:

1. Gentle skin care routines
2. Regular moisturizing
3. Avoiding triggers (e.g., excessive heat or moisture)
4. Protecting hands from trauma
5. Treating secondary infections if they occur

Tinea Manuum: A Fungal Infection of the Hands

Tinea manuum is a type of fungal infection that affects the hands, similar to athlete’s foot. It typically causes a rash with a raised border. The infection can be contracted from contact with infected persons, animals, or soil containing the fungus.

Symptoms of tinea manuum may include:

• Redness and scaling on the palms or back of the hands
• Itching or burning sensation
• Dry, cracked skin
• Blisters (in some cases)

Is tinea manuum contagious? Yes, tinea manuum is contagious and can spread through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. It’s important to practice good hygiene and avoid sharing personal items to prevent the spread of the infection.

Treating Tinea Manuum

Treatment options for tinea manuum include:

1. Over-the-counter antifungal creams or powders
2. Prescription topical antifungal medications
3. Oral antifungal medications (for severe or persistent cases)
4. Keeping the affected area clean and dry

It’s important to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence of the infection.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Hand Rashes

While many hand rashes can be managed at home, certain situations warrant medical attention. Consult a healthcare professional if:

• The rash is severe, painful, or rapidly spreading
• You experience signs of infection (e.g., fever, pus, warmth)
• The rash doesn’t improve with over-the-counter treatments
• You have a sudden, widespread rash after taking a new medication
• The rash is accompanied by difficulty breathing or other systemic symptoms

How quickly should you seek medical attention for a severe hand rash? If you experience symptoms of anaphylaxis or a rapidly spreading rash, seek emergency medical care immediately. For other concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider within 24-48 hours.

Diagnostic Approaches for Hand Rashes

When you visit a healthcare provider for a hand rash, they may use various diagnostic methods:

1. Physical examination
2. Medical history review
3. Skin scraping or biopsy
4. Patch testing (for suspected allergies)
5. Blood tests (to rule out underlying conditions)

These diagnostic tools help determine the cause of the rash and guide appropriate treatment.

Preventive Measures and Hand Care Tips

Maintaining healthy hands and preventing rashes involves a combination of good hygiene practices and protective measures. Consider the following tips:

• Wash hands with gentle, fragrance-free soap
• Moisturize hands regularly, especially after washing
• Wear protective gloves when handling potential irritants
• Avoid hot water and excessive hand washing
• Use hand sanitizers sparingly, as they can be drying
• Apply sunscreen to hands when outdoors
• Identify and avoid known allergens or irritants

Can dietary changes help prevent hand rashes? While diet isn’t directly linked to most hand rashes, maintaining overall skin health through a balanced diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants may help support skin resilience. Staying hydrated is also important for skin health.

Creating a Hand Care Routine

Developing a consistent hand care routine can help prevent and manage hand rashes:

1. Cleanse: Use a gentle, pH-balanced hand wash
2. Exfoliate: Gently exfoliate 1-2 times per week to remove dead skin cells
3. Treat: Apply any prescribed medications or treatments
4. Moisturize: Use a rich hand cream or ointment, especially before bed
5. Protect: Apply sunscreen and wear gloves when necessary

Consistency is key in maintaining healthy hands and preventing rashes.

Future Developments in Hand Rash Treatment

Research in dermatology continues to advance, offering hope for improved treatments for various hand rash conditions. Some areas of ongoing research include:

• Novel biologic therapies for psoriasis and eczema
• Personalized medicine approaches based on genetic profiles
• Advanced skin barrier repair technologies
• Immunomodulatory treatments for autoimmune skin conditions
• Improved diagnostic tools for faster, more accurate identification of rash causes

How might these developments change the landscape of hand rash treatment? Future treatments may offer more targeted, effective solutions with fewer side effects, potentially leading to better management of chronic skin conditions and improved quality of life for those affected by hand rashes.

Emerging Technologies in Skin Care

Several innovative technologies are being explored for skin care and rash treatment:

1. Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems
2. 3D-printed skin grafts for severe skin conditions
3. Artificial intelligence for early detection and diagnosis of skin issues
4. Microbiome-based therapies to promote skin health
5. Wearable devices for continuous monitoring of skin conditions

These advancements may revolutionize how we approach hand rash prevention, diagnosis, and treatment in the coming years.

Causes and when to speak with a doctor

Hand rashes can result from allergic reactions, exposure to irritants, and sunburn. Health conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, can also cause hand rashes. Treatment will depend on the cause.

In this article, we look at the possible causes of a rash on a person’s hands and when to seek medical help.

Below are images of different rashes on the hands from a variety of causes.

Contact dermatitis is a condition that causes changes in skin color, itching, and irritation. Irritant contact dermatitis results from direct exposure to substances and accounts for around 80% of dermatitis cases.

These substances directly affect the skin and may cause rashes on the hands if this is the site of exposure.

Common skin irritants include:

• hand soaps
• rubber or latex gloves
• nickel and gold jewelry
• citrus and other natural acids

Contact dermatitis usually goes away once people remove the irritant.

Discover some triggers of contact dermatitis in this article.

Several substances can cause minor allergic reactions on the skin. These substances may affect the hands when a person is gardening, using a new lotion, or having exposure to a chemical with which they have an allergy.

In allergic contact dermatitis, the immune system overreacts following contact with these substances, causing a rash, swelling, and irritation. This differs from irritant contact dermatitis, where the substances themselves cause symptoms.

It is possible to treat many minor allergic reactions at home. Learn how here.

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life threatening allergic reaction that causes the body’s immune system to react aggressively to a substance. It sometimes begins with a slightly swollen rash similar to hives.

If the rash spreads quickly, it can lead to more severe symptoms, such as a swollen throat and trouble breathing.

A person who suddenly develops a rash following a sting, new medication, or exposure to another new substance should immediately contact a healthcare professional.

Anaphylaxis is a life threatening condition. Learn more here.

Hives often appear as raised, dumpy rashes. The bumps are itchy and may appear lighter when someone presses on them. The condition can result from irritant and allergen exposure, underlying health conditions, and other physical triggers.

Hives can be acute or chronic, and nearly 20% of people will experience the condition at some time in their lives. The medical term for hives is urticaria.

Find out what causes hives and how to treat them.

Eczema, sometimes called atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition. It causes scaly patches on the skin that may be darker or lighter than the rest of the skin. The patches may be all over the body or just in one place, such as the hands.

The rash often itches and may worsen when the skin is dry or during cold or dry weather. Eczema is more common in children than in adults. After childhood, eczema typically goes away by itself, but many individuals can have the condition in adulthood.

There is a variety of eczema types. Learn more here.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes an overgrowth of skin cells. This can cause rashes, inflammation, and raised, scaly, patches of skin known as plaques. The condition can occur in any part of the body.

Psoriasis tends to appear pink or red on those with light or fair skin tones, with scales appearing silvery-white. On medium skin tones, it can appear salmon-colored and feature silvery-white scales. On darker skin tones, psoriasis could look violet with gray scales or appear dark brown and difficult to see.

Psoriasis on the hands may also affect the nails. People with the condition on their hands may develop the rash elsewhere, such as on the scalp.

There is no cure for psoriasis, but some medications can help manage the condition.

More information on psoriasis is available here.

Exposure to sunlight can cause sunburn on any part of the body. Clothing rarely covers the hands, so it is important that people remember to apply sun cream to the back of their hands, fingers, and wrists when applying to the rest of the body.

Sunburn may hurt at first and then begin itching. The skin may look dry, blister, or peel. Sunburn can affect all people, although those with lighter skin have a higher risk of burning.

Find out how sunburn affects dark skin here.

Several genetic conditions can cause the skin on their hands to peel continuously. This peeling will often be painless, but it may result in swelling, skin discoloration, and localized discomfort.

The peeling may worsen during the summer or after frequent handwashing or exposure to water.

Learn more about peeling skin here.

Tinea manuum is a type of fungal infection of the hands, similar to athlete’s foot. It usually causes a rash with a raised border.

A person may contract the infection from a person, animal, or soil with tinea manuum or from touching the feet of someone with athlete’s foot. The rash is usually very itchy and can cause the nails to discolor or look misshapen.

More information about tinea manuum is available here.

Lichen planus is a common inflammatory skin condition. It causes swelling, discoloration of the skin, and bumps. It can affect any part of the body, including the mouth and scalp, but some people first notice the rash on their wrists or hands.

Find out all there is to know about lichen planus here.

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin’s deeper layers. If bacteria enter the skin, it can cause cellulitis.

A range of diseases or injuries can allow bacteria to penetrate the skin. A person can get cellulitis even after minor injuries, such as a cut from a razor or a bee sting.

Cellulitis may resemble a rash because it looks swollen and discolored, but it is a dangerous infection that can spread quickly.

Find out more about cellulitis here.

Treatment depends on the cause of the rash. It is usually safe to treat minor conditions, such as contact dermatitis and eczema, at home. The most common treatments include:

• steroid creams
• calamine lotion
• colloidal oatmeal
• moisturizers
• reducing sun exposure in cases of sunburn
• antifungal creams for fungal infections.

It is not possible to prevent all rashes. However, below are some strategies that may help:

• Use fragrance-free moisturizers to reduce the risk of irritation and allergic reactions.
• If a person has eczema, use a formulated cream, especially after washing hands.
• Wear gloves when working in the yard or using irritating chemicals.
• Avoid using medications, including medicated creams, unless necessary. This can reduce the risk of a medication-induced allergic reaction.

People should consult a doctor regarding any rash that does not go away on its own with home treatment. They should also seek medical attention if a rash starts spreading.

A person should call a healthcare professional immediately if:

• they have a fever and rash, or the rash shows signs of infection such as pus or oozing
• the rash is painful but not itchy
• the skin is very swollen
• they have other symptoms, such as symptoms of a cold or the flu
• a rash appears all over the body, especially after an insect sting or taking medication
• a person has a rash and has trouble breathing

Various substances, conditions, and infections can cause rashes on the hands.

Most rashes are not serious and will go away independently, even without treatment. If a rash hurts, appears suddenly, or does not go away, it may indicate a more serious problem.

Prompt medical treatment may ease the pain and treat the rash.

Causes and when to speak with a doctor

Hand rashes can result from allergic reactions, exposure to irritants, and sunburn. Health conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, can also cause hand rashes. Treatment will depend on the cause.

In this article, we look at the possible causes of a rash on a person’s hands and when to seek medical help.

Below are images of different rashes on the hands from a variety of causes.

Contact dermatitis is a condition that causes changes in skin color, itching, and irritation. Irritant contact dermatitis results from direct exposure to substances and accounts for around 80% of dermatitis cases.

These substances directly affect the skin and may cause rashes on the hands if this is the site of exposure.

Common skin irritants include:

• hand soaps
• rubber or latex gloves
• nickel and gold jewelry
• citrus and other natural acids

Contact dermatitis usually goes away once people remove the irritant.

Discover some triggers of contact dermatitis in this article.

Several substances can cause minor allergic reactions on the skin. These substances may affect the hands when a person is gardening, using a new lotion, or having exposure to a chemical with which they have an allergy.

In allergic contact dermatitis, the immune system overreacts following contact with these substances, causing a rash, swelling, and irritation. This differs from irritant contact dermatitis, where the substances themselves cause symptoms.

It is possible to treat many minor allergic reactions at home. Learn how here.

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life threatening allergic reaction that causes the body’s immune system to react aggressively to a substance. It sometimes begins with a slightly swollen rash similar to hives.

If the rash spreads quickly, it can lead to more severe symptoms, such as a swollen throat and trouble breathing.

A person who suddenly develops a rash following a sting, new medication, or exposure to another new substance should immediately contact a healthcare professional.

Anaphylaxis is a life threatening condition. Learn more here.

Hives often appear as raised, dumpy rashes. The bumps are itchy and may appear lighter when someone presses on them. The condition can result from irritant and allergen exposure, underlying health conditions, and other physical triggers.

Hives can be acute or chronic, and nearly 20% of people will experience the condition at some time in their lives. The medical term for hives is urticaria.

Find out what causes hives and how to treat them.

Eczema, sometimes called atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition. It causes scaly patches on the skin that may be darker or lighter than the rest of the skin. The patches may be all over the body or just in one place, such as the hands.

The rash often itches and may worsen when the skin is dry or during cold or dry weather. Eczema is more common in children than in adults. After childhood, eczema typically goes away by itself, but many individuals can have the condition in adulthood.

There is a variety of eczema types. Learn more here.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes an overgrowth of skin cells. This can cause rashes, inflammation, and raised, scaly, patches of skin known as plaques. The condition can occur in any part of the body.

Psoriasis tends to appear pink or red on those with light or fair skin tones, with scales appearing silvery-white. On medium skin tones, it can appear salmon-colored and feature silvery-white scales. On darker skin tones, psoriasis could look violet with gray scales or appear dark brown and difficult to see.

Psoriasis on the hands may also affect the nails. People with the condition on their hands may develop the rash elsewhere, such as on the scalp.

There is no cure for psoriasis, but some medications can help manage the condition.

More information on psoriasis is available here.

Exposure to sunlight can cause sunburn on any part of the body. Clothing rarely covers the hands, so it is important that people remember to apply sun cream to the back of their hands, fingers, and wrists when applying to the rest of the body.

Sunburn may hurt at first and then begin itching. The skin may look dry, blister, or peel. Sunburn can affect all people, although those with lighter skin have a higher risk of burning.

Find out how sunburn affects dark skin here.

Several genetic conditions can cause the skin on their hands to peel continuously. This peeling will often be painless, but it may result in swelling, skin discoloration, and localized discomfort.

The peeling may worsen during the summer or after frequent handwashing or exposure to water.

Learn more about peeling skin here.

Tinea manuum is a type of fungal infection of the hands, similar to athlete’s foot. It usually causes a rash with a raised border.

A person may contract the infection from a person, animal, or soil with tinea manuum or from touching the feet of someone with athlete’s foot. The rash is usually very itchy and can cause the nails to discolor or look misshapen.

More information about tinea manuum is available here.

Lichen planus is a common inflammatory skin condition. It causes swelling, discoloration of the skin, and bumps. It can affect any part of the body, including the mouth and scalp, but some people first notice the rash on their wrists or hands.

Find out all there is to know about lichen planus here.

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin’s deeper layers. If bacteria enter the skin, it can cause cellulitis.

A range of diseases or injuries can allow bacteria to penetrate the skin. A person can get cellulitis even after minor injuries, such as a cut from a razor or a bee sting.

Cellulitis may resemble a rash because it looks swollen and discolored, but it is a dangerous infection that can spread quickly.

Find out more about cellulitis here.

Treatment depends on the cause of the rash. It is usually safe to treat minor conditions, such as contact dermatitis and eczema, at home. The most common treatments include:

• steroid creams
• calamine lotion
• colloidal oatmeal
• moisturizers
• reducing sun exposure in cases of sunburn
• antifungal creams for fungal infections.

It is not possible to prevent all rashes. However, below are some strategies that may help:

• Use fragrance-free moisturizers to reduce the risk of irritation and allergic reactions.
• If a person has eczema, use a formulated cream, especially after washing hands.
• Wear gloves when working in the yard or using irritating chemicals.
• Avoid using medications, including medicated creams, unless necessary. This can reduce the risk of a medication-induced allergic reaction.

People should consult a doctor regarding any rash that does not go away on its own with home treatment. They should also seek medical attention if a rash starts spreading.

A person should call a healthcare professional immediately if:

• they have a fever and rash, or the rash shows signs of infection such as pus or oozing
• the rash is painful but not itchy
• the skin is very swollen
• they have other symptoms, such as symptoms of a cold or the flu
• a rash appears all over the body, especially after an insect sting or taking medication
• a person has a rash and has trouble breathing

Various substances, conditions, and infections can cause rashes on the hands.

Most rashes are not serious and will go away independently, even without treatment. If a rash hurts, appears suddenly, or does not go away, it may indicate a more serious problem.

Prompt medical treatment may ease the pain and treat the rash.

Do you have allergies or intestinal dysbiosis? Medical On Group Tyumen

Waking up in the morning, you looked in the mirror and saw on your face and body bright foci of redness, accompanied by itching. “Is it an allergy?” – you thought. “Where to go with this problem?” Of course, first of all, you will make an appointment with a dermatologist or an allergist, who will definitely refer you to a specialist dealing with problems of digestion and the gastrointestinal tract – a gastroenterologist.

According to many experts, the majority of patients with signs of food allergies have certain diseases of the digestive system. According to statistics, chronic diseases of the digestive system precede the onset of food allergies in approximately 53% of patients, and develop after the onset of allergy symptoms in 37% of patients. In the rest of the patients, the symptoms of any disease of the gastrointestinal tract and an allergic reaction occur simultaneously, or the manifestations of food allergies are not accompanied by obvious digestive disorders.

An increase in the permeability of the intestinal mucosa to allergens can occur as a result of certain hereditary and acquired disorders. For example, various nutritional disorders (increased consumption of animal fats compared to vegetable fats, lack of easily digestible proteins in food, as well as vitamins, starvation), frequent stressful situations, alcohol abuse, heavy smoking – all this adversely affects the state of the intestinal barrier.

Among the most common disorders in patients with food allergies are diseases of the liver and biliary tract, accompanied by a violation of the outflow of bile. Insufficient flow of bile into the intestine leads to disturbances in the processes of digestion of food, changes in the barrier function of the intestinal epithelium and promotes the absorption of insufficiently split protein molecules that have allergenic properties, and can also cause pseudo-allergic reactions by stimulating the release of biologically active substances from target cells. It is pseudo-allergic reactions that are observed most often in diseases of the liver (chronic hepatitis) and biliary tract (biliary dyskinesia, chronic cholecystocholangitis).

Many patients with various manifestations of food allergy are diagnosed with diseases of the gastroduodenal zone – chronic gastritis and (or) duodenitis, as well as peptic ulcer. At the same time, the microbe Helicobacter pylori is very often detected in the stomach, which is now of great importance as the cause of inflammatory changes in the gastroduodenal zone and the formation of an ulcer. In patients with Helicobacter pylori infection, a more severe course of some allergic diseases, in particular bronchial asthma, is noted, and other manifestations of allergy are also more common

Intestinal dysbiosis plays an important role in the development of allergic reactions in the digestive tract, skin and respiratory tract.

In healthy people, the large intestine normally contains a large number of different bacteria. For example, 1 g of the contents of the caecum contains 2 billion microbes. The normal microflora of the large intestine is necessary to maintain homeostasis (the constancy of the internal composition) of the body. The largest amount of normal microflora is represented by bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. Biologically active substances released by them (bacterial modulins) stimulate the intestinal lymphoid apparatus, the synthesis of immunoglobulins, interferon, lysozyme – anti-infective protective agents, reduce vascular permeability for toxic products of pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms. In addition, the normal intestinal microflora provides the synthesis of various vitamins, biologically active substances that affect the function of not only the gastrointestinal tract, but also the liver, heart and many other organs. Normal intestinal microflora secretes hormonally active substances, compounds with antibiotic activity, and also stimulates the physiological activity of the intestine and provides a normal stool.

Intestinal dysbiosis is widespread and there are many contributing factors. These include various nutritional disorders, in particular, a lack of vegetable fiber in the diet, the predominance of refined carbohydrates and long-term storage products with the addition of various preservatives. Another important reason for the development of dysbiosis is the use of drugs that affect the microbial landscape of the large intestine. These primarily include antibiotics and other antibacterial agents. But that’s not all: various occupational hazards, unfavorable sanitary and hygienic living conditions, including environmental changes, climatic and geographical impacts (moving from temperate climate zones to hot countries and vice versa), as well as many diseases, especially infectious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. path, contribute to the development of intestinal dysbiosis.

It should be remembered that intestinal dysbiosis not only affects the development of allergic reactions, but also contributes to a more severe course of many chronic and acute diseases of the internal organs.

Especially dangerous is the increased reproduction of microorganisms in the small intestine – the so-called bacterial overgrowth syndrome (bacterial overgrowth syndrom), which occurs when the normal motor activity of the intestine is disturbed for various reasons and the contents of the large intestine are refluxed into the small intestine. As a result, in the latter, the number of microorganisms increases thousands of times, reaching 1 million microbial bodies per 1 ml of intestinal contents. The negative effect of intestinal dysbiosis, in particular its effect on the development of food allergies, is noted even before the manifestations of intestinal dysbiosis itself appear (disturbance of the stool, bloating and pain in it, etc.). In the process of development of dysbiosis, the content of normal bifido- and lactoflora in the colon decreases, the content of Escherichia coli changes quantitatively and qualitatively, some microorganisms (in particular, staphylococci) acquire properties that are not characteristic of them normally – to carry out hemolysis (destruction of erythrocytes), and in more in severe cases, pathogenic microorganisms, including fungi, multiply in the intestines – either they should not be at all, or they are present in small quantities.

In people with intestinal dysbiosis, the permeability of the intestinal mucosa for potentially allergenic substances increases, in addition, pathogenic and opportunistic microflora itself can secrete such substances. Dysbiosis also contributes to the development of inflammatory changes in the intestine, which further facilitates the penetration of allergens into the microorganism. It is currently believed that intestinal dysbiosis occurs in almost 100% of patients with pseudo-allergic reactions and in 50-60% of patients with true allergic reactions.

Only after a complete examination and treatment of the gastrointestinal tract by a gastroenterologist, you will be able to finally deal with the problem of allergies in your body.

Article “Allergy to cold: how to overcome an unpleasant disease?”

04.12.2015

Cold for many people is one of the most unusual factors that can lead to the development of allergies. A few years ago, doctors did not attach serious importance to this problem, but recently the situation has changed dramatically. As practice has shown, literally every third person has one or another allergic reaction to the effects of low temperatures. In especially neglected situations, they manifest themselves in the form of anaphylactic shock, asthma, or fainting. To avoid all the dangers associated with an allergy to cold, you need to know the “enemy” in person.

What is a cold allergy and why does it occur

This pathology, in its essence, is an inadequate immune response to the impact of a low temperature of the environment or water. For what reason such changes occur, today it is still not known for certain. Some scientists suggest that cryoglobulins play an important role in the mechanism of an allergic reaction – special proteins that are produced in the cold and activate histamine, thus starting the allergic reaction cascade.

This pathological process is based on various somatic pathologies: chronic diseases of the respiratory, urinary and reproductive systems, infectious and parasitic diseases. An extremely important role is played by disorders of the gastrointestinal tract due to intestinal dysbacteriosis, gastritis, cholecystitis, enterocolitis, etc. In principle, almost any long-term health disorder can provoke an allergic reaction.

Symptoms of cold allergy

The disease is characterized by a rich spectrum of symptoms, however, the most common manifestations include:

• various rashes on exposed skin in the form of redness, blisters, papules, etc.;
• discomfort, itching, burning sensation in these areas;
• swelling of tongue, lips;
• redness of the sclera and lacrimation;
• nasal congestion, coughing and sneezing;
• pain in the head and chills.

Depending on whether one or several of the listed symptoms occurred, the following types of cold allergy are distinguished:

1. cold urticaria;
2. cold conjunctivitis;
3. cold rhinitis;
4. cold dermatitis;
5. cold asthma;
6. systemic allergic reaction.

Cold urticaria is the most common, and usually appears in places where the skin comes into contact with cold. However, an allergic reaction can also spread to those areas that have not been in direct contact with the allergenic factor. The sequence of pathological changes is as follows: first, redness appears on the skin, which is accompanied by severe itching. Next come the blisters. The general picture and the dynamics of changes in skin elements are very similar to burns received from nettles. In the presence of cold dermatitis, a person is worried, in addition to itching and rash, also peeling of the skin.

Cold conjunctivitis is characterized by severe tearing and burning sensation in the eyes. Unpleasant symptoms disturb only during the period of cold weather while being outdoors. Cold rhinitis is accompanied by profuse mucous discharge from the nose, frequent sneezing and a feeling of nasal congestion, and these symptoms, as a rule, disappear when the patient subsequently moves to a warm room. Cold asthma is manifested by a feeling of lack of air, shortness of breath, severe shortness of breath due to narrowing of the lumen of the bronchi.

Rarely, in some patients, low temperatures provoke the development of a systemic allergic reaction. It is accompanied by chills, fainting or even fainting, a feeling of a strong heartbeat, swelling of the legs, arms, and sometimes the torso. In isolated cases, a systemic allergic reaction can be fatal.

Cold allergy treatment

Cold allergy treatment regimens are similar to true allergy treatment regimens, and they are mainly preventive measures. Prevention, by and large, is aimed at preventing an allergic reaction by eliminating contact with a provoking factor – cold. Medications only help relieve the symptoms.

Patients prone to this pathology should prefer clothes made of natural fabrics and try to avoid hypothermia. If this fails in some situations, you should try to warm up immediately upon arrival home. Be sure to moisturize your lips with a special hygienic lipstick. If watery eyes and a runny nose appear, it is necessary to periodically massage the nose and cheeks.

In addition, it must be emphasized that any allergy, including an allergy to cold, very often appears against the background of any chronic pathologies accompanied by a decrease in immunity, and frequent stress, which also requires adequate preventive measures.