Archive for the ‘Allergies’ Category
Angioedema is the swelling that occurs in the deeper layers of the skin or mucus membranes. While it is often associated with allergies, there are different types of angioedema that may be a result of other causes. Angioedema is often thought of as the typical skin presentation associated with a ‘fat’ lip, swollen eyelids and cheek but it can also cause swelling within the airways and gut.
Angioedema in an anaphylactic reaction requires immediate medical attention.
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Nappy rash is a common problem affecting many newborns and toddlers and the dermatitis can be both painful and itchy. The redness and inflammation associated with nappy rash may worry most mothers but nappy rash treatment is goes beyond just applying ointments and creams to ease baby’s suffering. In babies with other skin conditions, like eczema, a nappy rash can be compound the skin dermatitis and treatment should be focused more on prevention rather than treatment alone.
Mary T., 6 years old, had been brought in by her mother complaining of recurrent itchy skin rashes at her elbows and knees. Mary’s case history revealed that she had suffered with infantile eczema at the age of 6 months and this persisted till 2½ years of age when a mild case of hay fever (allergic rhinitis) began. Repeated prescriptions of corticosteroid creams, emollients and anti-histamines had offered some relief for her early episode of eczema but it had seemed to have resolved spontaneously at the time.
Hives (urticaria) is a skin condition known for its characteristic itchy red raised rash that occur as bumps or patches intermittently. Sometimes called welts, wheals or swellings, the rash has a tendency to appear and disappear with very slight trace of having existed after a few hours since they are a superficial (surface) reaction. Hives may be accompanied by angioedema, a deeper lying rash or swelling, affecting the eyes and lips.
Sneezing in the morning may be a daily occurrence for many allergy sufferers and involves bouts of non-stop sneezing for a few minutes after waking. Less commonly, the sneezing persists throughout the morning or even the day. This proves both uncomfortable and embarrassing as prolonged sneezing is usually accompanied by a red nose and watery eyes.
In most itchy skin conditions or acute rashes, an anti-histamine or corticosteroid is prescribed for oral use. Anti-histamines can cause drowsiness which may not be practical during working hours and prolonged use of oral corticosteroids can have a host of side effects. Both are contraindicated in pregnant women although they may be used in severe cases.
This formula may also be effective in treating other allergic conditions including hay fever or post nasal drip depending on the severity of your allergy.