Allergens are everywhere, in plants, chemicals, toxic substances, foods, and medications. When you are exposed to a substance you are allergic to, you will have a reaction. One of those reactions can be a skin rash. If you have an allergic reaction rash, it can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and itchy. An allergic rash can also take a few days to resolve. Our dermatologists Dr. W. Edward Collins, and Dr. Janna Nunez-Gussman in Beaumont, TX can help.

Causes of an Allergic Rash

Allergies are caused by exposure to a substance, known as an allergen. Allergy symptoms can be different for everyone, from sneezing, coughing, and breathing difficulties, to an allergic reaction rash forming on your skin. Allergic reaction rashes can be caused by:

• Foods, including dairy, peanuts, and seafood
• Medications, including antibiotics
• Exposure to environmental toxins
• Exposure to harsh chemicals
• Exposure to plants including poison ivy and poison oak

Signs and Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction Rash

An allergic reaction rash can look like a diffuse, red, bumpy rash, which can cover your face, neck, chest, back, shoulders, and legs. Allergic reaction rashes often itch and can cause discomfort and pain.

What You Can Do to Prevent an Allergic Reaction Rash

If you know what you are allergic to, that’s great, because you can avoid the substance. If you don’t know, you should consider allergy testing. Also, remember to:

• Wear long sleeves and pants if you are hiking in an area with poisonous plants
• Wear protective gear, including gloves and glasses, if you are handling chemicals
• Observe your symptoms if you are taking a new medication, especially antibiotics
• Pay attention to your diet, especially when eating out, if you have food allergies

How Our Dermatologist Can Help with an Allergic Reaction Rash

Our dermatologist is an expert on the diagnosis and treatment of allergic reaction rashes and may recommend:

• Antibiotics, if the rash has caused an infection
• Cortisone cream, to reduce itching
• Oral corticosteroids, to decrease redness, swelling, and itching
• Aveeno or oatmeal baths, to reduce itching
• Prescription antihistamines to decrease itching

Want To Know More?

To find out more about the causes, signs, symptoms, and treatment of an allergic reaction rash, talk with the experts. Call Dr. W. Edward Collins, and Dr. Janna Nunez-Gussman at W. Edward Collins, M.D., P.A. in Beaumont, TX. You can reach them in the office by calling (409) 835-1333, so call today.