In spring, everything comes back to life, and nature is in full bloom. However, for those with skin allergies, this season can also bring some less pleasant experiences, with pollen, dust, etc. silently triggering all sorts of discomforts. So, what is the condition of spring skin allergies, what are the main causes of it, and how can we effectively deal with and prevent these uninvited "visitors"? Next, let's explore this "itchy" problem and learn how to protect yourself from allergies.
Spring is the most allergy-prone season?
Skin allergies are a common immune reaction in which the body's immune system reacts to certain substances called allergens. This reaction can be triggered by a number of different substances, including, but not limited to, food, pollen, pet dander, certain medications, cosmetic ingredients, specific metals (such as nickel), latex, and other substances in the environment. For example, some people may have an allergic reaction to seafood or certain types of nuts, while others may react to airborne pollen, pet's dander, or dust mites in their home.
In spring, as nature awakens, many plants bloom and the concentration of pollen in the air rises significantly. Pollen, as a common allergen, tends to provoke an allergic reaction in the skin. Not only do the weather fluctuate frequently and dry winds, but the intensity of UV rays also suddenly intensifies during this season, which can weaken the skin's protective barrier and make it more vulnerable to allergens.
At the same time, as temperatures warm, there will naturally be more outdoor activities, which means that people will have more opportunities to come into contact with potential allergens such as pollen, dust, and outdoor mold. In addition, spring air can carry more pollutants, including sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), which can not only cause direct irritation to the skin, but also increase the skin's sensitivity to other allergens. As temperatures rise, so do the use of cosmetics and sunscreens, and the specific ingredients in these products can sometimes trigger allergic skin reactions.
Is itching and peeling skin allergies?
Typical symptoms of skin allergies include redness, itching, swelling, rashes, and peeling. After exposure to an allergen, people may experience localized to generalized redness of the skin, often accompanied by a significant itching sensation and sometimes a feeling of warmth and tingling in the skin. In more severe allergic reactions, swelling of the skin may occur, which is mainly caused by allergen-stimulated vasodilation and increased blood flow. In addition, the allergen-triggered immune response can also lead to the formation of red pimples on the skin. In some cases, allergic reactions can also cause peeling of the skin. Therefore, once the above symptoms appear, it may be a sign of skin irritation.
Although rare, some people may experience extremely severe allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock. This condition usually manifests as itching, erythema, wheals, and swelling of the eyelids or face that appear rapidly within a few minutes of exposure to the allergen, and may also be accompanied by swelling of the throat, wheezing, and shortness of breath. In extreme cases, there may be a sudden drop in blood pressure, a rapid heartbeat, as well as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even loss of consciousness and shock. Given that anaphylactic shock can be quickly life-threatening, you should call the emergency number for help and go to the hospital for treatment as soon as you notice these symptoms.
What can be done to reduce allergies?
First, identifying and avoiding exposure to known allergens is key to managing allergic reactions. In order to identify your allergens, you can start by observing and recording your allergic reactions at a specific time and place, and keep detailed records of the food, environment, plants, animals, or chemicals you have been exposed to before the reaction occurred. This daily observation can help to initially identify potential allergens. In addition, professional medical tests, such as skin prick test, blood IgE antibody test, patch test, etc., are also effective means to confirm the diagnosis of allergens. It is equally important to consult a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment recommendations.
Once allergens have been identified, it is important to take appropriate precautions to reduce exposure to them. For example, pay attention to pollen forecasts and try to avoid outdoor activities on days with high pollen concentrations. If you must go outside, wearing a hat, mask, and sunglasses can help reduce direct skin and eye exposure. When you get home, change your clothes and take a shower in time to remove allergens that may be attached. Using an air purifier in your home and cleaning carpets, curtains, and bedding regularly can also help reduce indoor allergens. For people with a history of severe allergies, it is recommended to wear a medical warning sign and carry the necessary first aid medication with you. At the same time, share your allergies and emergency response plans with family, friends, and colleagues to ensure that you can get timely help in case of an emergency.
In addition, for people who are prone to seasonal allergies, special attention needs to be paid to skin care. Choose gentle cleansing and bath products, avoid harsh products, and take care of moisturizing and sun protection. Skincare products that are suitable for your skin type are key, and avoid frequent product changes to reduce the risk of allergies. Wearing breathable, soft clothing and using cotton bedding can also help reduce skin irritation.
Finally, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits is also essential for improving skin health. A balanced diet, avoiding greasy, spicy, sweets, tobacco and alcohol, regular work and rest, ensuring adequate sleep, maintaining an optimistic attitude and exercising moderately are all important factors in maintaining good skin condition.
Self-medication or blind attempts at folk remedies should be avoided
For patients with skin allergies, prompt and effective treatment is essential. First of all, in the event of an allergic skin reaction, it is essential to quickly identify the allergen and immediately cut off contact with it, avoiding any behavior that may exacerbate the skin condition. If allergy symptoms do not resolve within 48 hours, or if they continue to worsen, patients should seek medical help as soon as possible to avoid missing the best time for treatment. Especially in the case of anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock, it is especially important to seek medical attention immediately, as it is a matter of life.
When a patient is treated, the doctor usually performs a series of tests based on the patient's specific situation, such as routine blood tests and allergen tests. Oral antihistamines and anti-inflammatory medications are usually standard practice under the professional guidance of a doctor. In addition, topical anti-inflammatory creams are also effective in relieving skin allergy symptoms. It is important that patients avoid self-medication or blindly trying folk remedies.
During the treatment, in addition to medication, patients can also use methods such as cold compresses and moisturizing to reduce skin discomfort. Cold compresses can help relieve itching and reduce swelling, while proper hydration can promote skin repair and relieve discomfort. At the same time, adjusting the diet, maintaining a light diet, and avoiding spicy and irritating foods are also beneficial for improving skin allergies.
In conclusion, identifying and avoiding allergens in time is the first step in treating skin allergies. Medication as directed by a doctor, supplemented by appropriate nursing measures, can effectively alleviate allergy symptoms. I hope you can stay away from allergies and have a healthy and happy season this spring.
(The author is an attending physician in the Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Aesthetic Medicine, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital)
Source: China Youth Daily