What causes allergies? It is not immediate. The body goes through a series of steps, so the allergy builds over time. Here is an easy to understand description how your allergy has developed
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Tag Archives: Allergies
Jun 2, Sublingual Drops Being Used To Help Reduce Allergies
A network of allergy clinics, known as AllergyEasy, are using sublingual drops to help reduce food allergies. Sublingual drops are put under the tongue. Here they are absorbed into the bloodstream through certain cells in the mouth. Food allergies can trigger the symptoms of eczema. These drops maybe the only other way of helping to reduce food allergies, apart from simply avoiding the offending food. It will be very interesting to see how effective these drops are
Eczema Blog
Jun 29, Milk and Egg Allergies. A Parent’s Concern
A study in the US has found that parents of children with allergies, are more concerned about milk and egg allergies, than peanut allergies. Peanut allergies can have severe complications to a sufferer. But parents say that as milk and eggs are contained in so many food products, they are much harder to avoid. Milk and egg allergies and intolerances can be a real issue for eczema sufferers. Dairy products contain sugar and proteins that can irritate your skin, and make your eczema symptoms worse You can read more about this, in TIME magazine
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Pet Allergies and Eczema: Is it Time to Switch to a Pet-Free Home?
Another great post from itchylittleworld.com – Natural remedies for eczema to soothe your itchy little world..
By Laura Dolgy (see bio below)
Do you adore animals, but you’re terribly allergic to them? If dogs, cats, or any other animals cause you or your children major allergies, it might be time to consider giving the pet to a new home. Why put yourself or your children through the torture of allergies, eczema, or asthma, if it can be avoided? But the idea isn’t ever an easy one. After all, our pets are really part of our family, how can we imagine saying goodbye?
In our post this week, we take a deeper look at pet allergies and eczema, as well as the tough decision to possibly switch to a pet-free home.
Please keep in mind that although these treatments can relieve eczema, we are in no way medical professionals. If you’re experiencing severe eczema symptoms like fever or an infection, it is best to seek medical advice immediately.
Pet Dander and Eczema and the Hypoallergenic Pet Myth
Before answering that tough question, let’s first consider whether eczema can truly be caused by pets. As mentioned in What Triggers Eczema? With Dr. Peter Lio, a major contributor of eczema symptoms are allergens – including pet allergens. When focusing on health conditions like eczema, allergies, and asthma, one of the most common allergens is pet dander. Dander is actually the animal version of dandruff! Dander is usually the cause of most animal allergies because it is so easily spreadable. It can attach itself easily to clothing or be inhaled.
Dander can appear in almost all animals, but that does not mean that dander among all species is equal. For example the dander levels between a heavily furred dog and a rabbit are very different.
Keep in mind that there is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog or furry animal. Curly haired dogs produce next to no fur, but does that mean the most common allergen, dander, is reduced to? Not necessarily according to Mayo Clinic “Some dog breeds are marketed as hypoallergenic because they don’t shed fur or they shed very little. Because these dogs don’t shed, the allergy-causing dander that sticks to their fur doesn’t get released into the air or onto the floor as much as with a shedding dog. But while you may have less dog hair with a nonshedding dog, no dog breed is hypoallergenic.”
But what if it’s not dander? You may also be allergic to a pet’s saliva and if you are unable to train your pet not to lick you and give you kisses, then saliva is a hard allergen to avoid. In our previous blog post: Pet Alternatives for People with Animal Allergies, we look at some other allergens that might be triggering your eczema.
Whatever the cause – once you learn which animal allergen is triggering your eczema, you’ll be able to work toward a more effective plan of managing your reactions.
What if I’m Not Ready to Give Away my Pet?
Giving away an animal is never easy and believe us – it’s something we do not encourage unless it is absolutely necessary. In fact – we encourage you to explore ALL other options before giving away your pet! Below, you’ll find a few suggestions on treatments and practices that can help you live a better (and less itchy) life with your furry pal.
Treatments
Nasal Irrigation
Do you have mild or moderate allergies to your pet? If so, most commonly you’ll experience watery eyes and a runny nose. If you happen to feel constant congestion, then working some nasal irrigation into your daily routine can drastically help you control those symptoms.
One of the most popular systems for nasal irrigation happens to be a Neti Pot. Many people who suffer from allergic rhinitis swear by this device because it is quite effective at removing mucus or dirt that may fall into the nasal cavity, like dander.
Homeopathy
If you happen to suffer from eczema caused by dogs or cats, then you might want to look into what homeopathic remedies can help you. Homeopathy is a great natural solution for eczema and allergy symptoms. Although, it’s always best to seek medical advice and visit with a homeopath, there are a few types you can try specifically for pet allergies such as Allium Cepa.
Antihistamines (Stinging Nettle)
Although we would never recommend over the counter antihistamines, as they are not a safe long-term solution, there are some natural antihistamines that can be used to suppress pet allergies. Surprisingly, the herb, stinging nettle is a fantastic antihistamine and can be used for eczema, hay fever and inflammation. We recommend opting for freeze-dried stinging nettle pills like this one, as the freeze-dried versions seem to react better to allergens.
Moisturize
There are also several natural topical remedies that can help one’s eczema from pet allergies. Because eczema affects the skin barrier, you want to make sure to keep the area well moisturized in order to avoid inflammation and infection.
However, because there are many types of eczema, you want to make sure to opt for a moisturizer that is made just for the type of skin symptoms you are experiencing.
- Itchy Eczema – The most common form of eczema for allergens is usually itchy, dry eczema. This type of eczema appears as red, itchy and sometimes flaky patches. Essentially the skin barrier is lacking moisture. For a deep moisturizing treatment, make sure to try Emily Skin Soothers for Itchy Eczema which uses both olive oil and beeswax to soothe dry, itchy skin.
- Red Weeping Eczema – If your skin is inflamed, red or weeping, then moisturizing skin can be a little difficult. Not only can the affected area be painful, but it is most likely extremely sensitive. If you’re suffering from weeping, red eczema, then make sure to check out EczeHerbal #1 – Oozing Eczema Treatment. This treatment uses specific Chinese Herbs to calm weeping skin and prevent further infection. Another really good one is Emily’s Hot Skin Soother.
- Scaly Eczema – Lastly, scaly, dry eczema also requires sufficient moisturizing to eliminate further infection. This type of eczema usually appears as “crocodile skin” and can easily be calmed with a variety of deep moisturizing treatments like this Organic Manuka Honey Skin Soothing Cream. This cream is full of nourishing ingredients such as beeswax, Manuka honey and Manuka oil to keep skin well moisturized.
Practices
Pet Bedding and Food
If you’re dead set on not giving up your pet, then you may want to look into whether your pet’s bedding or food might actually be causing your eczema to flare. Cleaning your furry pal’s bedding or usual hangouts can actually reduce the spread of dander and can perhaps decrease your chances of eczema flareups.
Here are a couple daily tasks you can adopt to eliminate the spread of dander, as well as possibly reduce the onset of nasty allergies:
- Dust and vacuum frequently.
- Have the dog bathed regularly.
- Keep the pets out of the bedrooms and always off beds and sofas.
- Use an air purification unit specifically made to filter out pollens, dander, and dust.
Lastly – if you haven’t checked out your pet’s food – you might want to do so as soon as possible. For people that suffer from a shellfish allergy, some pet foods can wreak absolute havoc on your system, even if you’re not the one consuming it. Gluten and soy are major fillers used in dog food as well. Make sure to check the label and ditch the food if you think it might be the main culprit of your eczema.
If you’re not able to find relief after conducting all of the above – then maybe it’s time to really consider making a pet-free home. As we already mentioned, it’s NEVER easy giving up a pet and we never recommend it unless it’s absolutely necessary. However, is it really fair to make yourself or others suffer? Think about your pet too! Shouldn’t they deserve to be cared by someone who can give them 100%? Honestly – it stinks and it’s never an easy decision, but it’s important to consider the bigger picture.
Alternatively, if your family is looking to bring home a pet, then it’s always best to do some allergy-free research beforehand! If dogs seem to trigger a reaction, try another animal, not all animal allergies are the same. It’s also great to research some alternatives to pets that do not have dander such as reptiles, fish, and some types of birds.
Whichever option you choose, remember that your health or your family’s health is just as important!
Do you suffer from pet allergies and eczema? Let us know how you handle it in the comments below!
Bio: Laura is a contributor and content developer for It’s An Itchy Little World. She is in no way a medical professional. Her comments, suggestions, and reflections are not intended to replace any medical advice. Always seek the help of a medical professional before undertaking any diet or lifestyle changes. Please see It’s An Itchy Little World’s disclaimer for information about affiliate links and more.
Pet Allergies and Eczema: Is it Time to Switch to a Pet-Free Home? appeared first on itchylittleworld.com. Come read more about natural remedies for eczema!
Oct 3, New Fabric That May Help Dust Related Allergies
Polish scientists say that they have been testing a fabric that helps with controlling dust mites. When you have a dust allergy that makes the symptoms of your eczema or asthma worse it can make for sleepless nights. Dust mites pass through the pores in normal fabrics used on your bed. The new fabric stops them getting through, but does allow air to pass through. When you have eczema this can help to stop your skin from getting too hot. Tests have shown that the fabric improves the symptoms of a dust allergy by up to 70%. After additional testing has been done the scientists think that the product will be available to buy. You can watch a short video about the fabric by clicking on the link below
Eczema Blog
Jan 14, Link Between Immune System and Food Allergies
A research team in Australia have discovered that there is a link between children who have an over-active immune system, and the development of certain food allergies. They found that children who have an over-active immune system are more likely to develop food allergies in the first few years of life. They aren’t sure why certain children have hyperactive immune cells, though they have found that certain cells are activated before or during birth. Why it happens is unknown. They are going to carry on the research to look for answers that may help to lower the risk of children developing these food allergies.
Eczema Blog
10 tips for dealing with rage, fear and anxiety about your allergies
First of all, you are not alone. The first thing you need to do, if you have a diagnosis for a serious life threatening allergy is to arm yourself with all the information you can. Get the best help, get tests done, see a specialist. Easier said than done I know, but don’t give up, if you are not happy with the advice you’ve been given keep on searching.
Find out exactly what you need to know to stay safe. Understand it’s OK to feel like this. It’s alright to feel fear, anxiety and anger. Helplessness, hopelessness and a total lost of control. But you get one chance at this life. Don’t let the fear consume you. Right now I’m not the best advert for that myself but I’m working my through the emotional assault. Don’t suffer in silence.
Here are my tips, the things that have helped me.
- Speak to people – Tell your friends and family. Do you know anyone with a similar medical condition? I have found recent allergy focused events, including The Anaphylaxis Campaign Conference and Food Matters Live encouraged me to share and talk to my fellow bloggers, parents of allergic kids and people in the allergy community. It was tough at times and I didn’t hold it together as much as I’d hoped but I came away from both events knowing that it had helps, I was making progress just by sharing.
- Contact professional organisations – I have also spoken to Allergy UK and The Anaphylaxis Campaign who both have free helplines which you can phone and also loads of advice and resources. They also have local support groups so you may find one local to you which will help you to attend. The Anaphylaxis Campaign also offer one free referral to a counsellor but do be aware, she is busy. I wasn’t able to get an appointment until 2018 but it’s worth considering as it could help you.
- Writing about it – this might not work for everyone, but as a writer and blogger, writing about my recent experience, how it makes me feel and how I plan to use these emotions positively is really helping me. I appreciate that it might not work for others but don’t knock it till you’ve tried it. So basically guys, you are my therapy. Whether you like it or not, this blog will be following my journey dealing with this. It’s already helping. And it’s already tough. Bottling it up, my earlier preferred coping mechanism wasn’t working and ultimately you have to deal with emotions and move forward.
- Update your Action Plan – One thing I realised after my recent allergic reaction was that my Allergy Action Plan needs updating. It has literally disintegrated with overuse. Having a strict plan and protocol in place can really help you and those who may need to care for you if you have a reaction know what to do. If you don’t have one, write one!
- Anger management – Feeling angry isn’t an emotion I’m used to dealing with. I’m far less tolerant and quick to rise, where before I rarely felt anger. It’s almost like a rage building in me Taming a Powerful Emotion by Gary Chapman
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)– If you think counselling might help you to deal with fear and anxiety then CBT is probably the most useful kind of treatment available. There are loads of organisations who can help, from the NHS, Mind and private counsellors. Research what’s available and find a solution that works for you.
- Health Minds referral scheme – you can self refer yourself for counselling using the NHS Healthy Minds Self Referral scheme. I have already had the initial assessment and have my first session scheduled for next week. I already feel calmer after just having organised this. The first assessment was gruelling enough and I know this will be tough, but I really think it will help me to talk about how I feel with a neutral person, someone who does not know me and is qualified to help me work through this and find ways of coping with how I’m feeling. This is the most convenient solution for me at the moment because they arrange a phone call with you on a weekly basis at a time convenient to you, which is easier to fit into my life at the moment.
- I am, I am, I am by Maggie O’Farrell – this book is beautifully written and covers Maggie’s memoirs; seventeen brushes with death. This may sound macabre and something you definitely shouldn’t be reading when faced with your own near death experiences, but I challenge you. You will finish reading this feeling newly conscious, and determined to make every heart beat count. The final chapter recounts an experience when Maggie’s own daughter has an anaphylactic attack and has to be rushed to hospital. Read this book, if you have allergies or are a mother of allergic kids – I am, I am, I am, by Maggie O’Farrell – it will help you.
- Run, Run, Run – Again this might not be for everyone but the sentiment is the same. Find something that you can do that completely takes you out of how you’re feeling. Something that clears your mind. This is running for me. I’m running my brain back to normal. Well maybe not normal, but back to stable. This could be something creative, fundraising, volunteer for a local charity. Anything that gives you new perspective. The latter being something I may look into when I can find more time. Giving something back can really help you feel your worth in society, because you are worth so much.
- Wear your Medicalert bracelet – This is really important. In my recent allergic reaction I was unconscious and couldn’t tell anyone what had happened. I had been wearing my Medicalert bracelet but when the reaction took place, that morning I had slipped it into my purse because it was irritating the eczema on my wrist. No one knew this and I was told that the paramedics were searching or one. It has made my realise I need to have more than one option of how to wear mine. I have a necklace too but need to find something softer for when my skin is sensitive. Writing this I realise I have not resolved this one yet!
I hope this helps. It’s not an exhaustive list and I may add to it as I think of other things. But as you can see, there are so many practical steps you take to help you cope.
One thing I am doing a lot of is sleeping. Emotions are exhausting. Be kind to yourself. Let your mind and body heal. Stay safe allergy warriors. Be prepared, never take risks and always, always carry your adrenaline injectors #takethekit
I will leave you with this video. If you know someone with anaphylaxis who does not carry their adrenaline, or even worse, has not been prescribed any, ask them to watch this short but very moving video
Word cloud courtesy of Worditout
nb>If you feel really depressed or have any thoughts that make you really scared, don’t know what to do and just need to speak to someone any time of day, call the Samaritans 116 123 from any phone any time of day or night. Someone will speak to you and just the act of talking could help.
May 19, Free App Can Help Track Seasonal Allergies
Allergy sufferers can download a new free app that can help track seasonal allergies. You can record and track your allergic responses as they happen. This information will then be shared anonymously with scientists to help them understand more about allergies in the UK. If you or a family member suffers from allergies and you want to get involved in this research you can find out where to download the #BritainBreathing app at here
Eczema Blog
Asthma and food allergies associated with early-onset AD
How to Stop Itching due to Dry Skin, Eczema, Psoriasis & Allergies
Another great post from itchylittleworld.com – Natural remedies for eczema to soothe your itchy little world..
Have you ever had skin so itchy, you couldn’t think of anything but scratching it raw? If you suffer from eczema, then you’re probably most familiar with the feeling. However, if you’re not suffering from eczema, there can be several other reasons why your skin may be itchy.
This blog post is dedicated to all things itchy! Learn how to stop itching today. Find out what other skin conditions can be causing itchy skin, as well as which products to avoid. Lastly, we’ll share some natural treatments that will ease your itchy skin and decrease scratching.
Please keep in mind that although these tips and information have worked for several sufferers, I am in no way a medical professional. If you’re experiencing severe symptoms or have a topical infection, it is always best to seek medical advice immediately.
What causes itchy skin?
Dry Skin
Aside from more severe skin conditions, dry skin is usually the main factor that contributes to itching. Although there are many similarities between dry skin and eczema, there are several differences as well.
The biggest factor in determining whether you have eczema or just dry skin is understanding what may cause your itchy skin. Normally, dry skin occurs when the outer layers of skin become damaged due to the sun, exposure to water (especially chlorine) or dry air (especially with heating units in the winter) or ingredients in products that strip the skin of its natural moisture.
With dry skin, skin usually feels tight and stretched, but can be slightly flaky causing the skin to look a little white, gray or ashy.
Eczema
After dry skin, this is the most common cause of itchy skin. With eczema, the itch can be nearly impossible to tolerate due to its intensity and frequency. Usually the skin will also be red and inflamed or thick and scaly or weeping and oozing. Eczema is usually chronic and is caused by stress, sensitivities to food, environmental or seasonal allergies and/or reactions to topical products.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis, although sometimes incorrectly grouped with eczema, is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that is characterized by red, itchy and patches also known as scales. With psoriasis, cells build up rapidly on the surface of the skin.
Allergies
If your skin is constantly itchy and flaring up due to a reaction to a skin care or cleaning product, food or something in your environment, you may have allergies! Allergies can create hives, rashes and intense itching and can even trigger more chronic eczema if exposed to the allergen for long periods of time. When someone reacts to something topically only with the reaction only occurring on the skin, this is called contact dermatitis.
In order to know what might be causing the itch, there are a variety of tests you can do. First, if you think you might be suffering from a food allergy, it’s best to go see a doctor or naturopath that can help you find relief.
If you feel you might already be suffering from a food allergy or sensitivity, check out our post: How to Identify Your Reaction: Allergy vs. Sensitivity vs. Intolerance Defined.
There are also a variety of allergy tests you can carry out. For more information on those, check out our blog post: How to Know Which Food Allergy Test is Best For You? Or you can work with a physician to undergo an elimination diet.
If you happen to be experiencing allergies from the clothing you’re wearing, then you might have textile dermatitis. The best way to know if a certain material or fabric might be affecting you, would be to carry out a clothing elimination test, similar to how you would carry out an elimination diet.
To learn more about which materials can cause the most irritation, as well as how to run a clothing elimination test, check out our post: Your Guide to Textile Dermatitis: Latex Hypersensitivity & Polyester Allergy Explained.
How to stop itching, what products should you avoid?
Whether you are experiencing itchy skin due to dry skin, psoriasis, eczema or allergies, the following products should be avoided:
- Artificially scented soap: You’d be surprised how certain added artificial fragrances and perfumes can irritate skin and are best avoided. Essential oils are usually ok and certain types can actually help to heal or prevent dry skin.
- Harsh cleansers: It’s best to avoid any chemical filled body washes or skin cleansers that tend to be more alkaline and not pH balanced like the skin needs. These will strip the skin of its natural moisture and can definitely lead to itchy skin.
- Alcohol: Avoid using products that contain alcohol or any sort. While some are slightly less drying than others, all forms of alcohol will without a doubt dry out skin. And if the skin is dry enough and has led to cracked skin, products containing alcohol will also irritate and burn the skin.
What products can help itchy skin?
For Dry Skin
If you know you’re experiencing itchy skin because your skin is mostly dry (or cracking), these products will help you lock in your skin’s natural moisture and provide relief:
- Organic Manuka Honey Skin Soothing Cream: This cream is made with Manuka Honey, beeswax and organic tree nut-free oils to relieve even the driest skin. Works great on the entire body, face included!
- EczeHerbal Colloidal Oatmeal Eczema Cream: If you’ve never tried oatmeal for severely dry skin, then you have to try this cream! Perfect for itchy skin and inflammation too, so that you can find relief quickly.
- Emily Skin Soothers’ Super Dry Soother: This formula was created with Chinese herbs to accelerate healing and help moisturize dry skin. A perfect choice to use on infants or children too.
For Eczema
With eczema, it’s best to look for a product that is made specifically for the eczema symptoms you’re experiencing.
- Weeping/Oozing Eczema: EczeHerbal #1 Oozing Eczema Treatment: This formula was made to calm weeping, oozing eczema that looks angry and red.
- Red Eczema: Emily’s Hot Skin Soother: Chinese herbs have been blended with natural oils to create one powerful anti-inflammatory balm to treat red eczema rashes.
- Dry Eczema: Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream: This cream gets a second mention because it’s really great for so many types of skin conditions, especially any sort of dry skin.
- Thick/Scaly Eczema: EczeHerbal #3 Dry Scaly Treatment: Another blend with Chinese herbs, but this time the formulation was created just for combating thick, scaly skin.
For Psoriasis
If you’ve been diagnosed with psoriasis these products will be a total lifesaver for you:
- Emily Skin Soother’s Liquid Soap Soother: This soap is perfect for those suffering from psoriasis, as it’s extra moisturizing and free of nasty chemicals. Unlike other soaps available today, it won’t strip or dry skin out.
- Coconut Aloe Moisturizing Serum: Coconut oil is extremely popular among eczema sufferers, but it can also be beneficial for those suffering from psoriasis. Not only does this serum contain coconut oil, but anti-inflammatory aloe vera helps keep skin cool and wounds healed.
For Allergies
If you have allergy-prone skin, check out these products that are great for those with allergies – of course – just double check the ingredients to ensure none of your known allergies are listed.
- Organic Calendula Salve: This balm is so simple and pure it only has 4 ingredients: olive oil, calendula, beeswax and vitamin E, making it more tolerable and gentle for those with many allergies.
- Grass Fed Tallow Balm: Unlike artificial balms, this mixture again uses very simple, nourishing ingredients like beef tallow for moisture and itch relief.
For General Itching
Regardless of whether you may be experiencing dry skin, psoriasis or allergies, these products will help all forms of itching:
- Little Itchy Skin Rash Treatment: This red rash treatment is perfect for soothing any red rash or itchy spot with minor inflammation. Completely beeswax-free and vegan for allergy-prone skin.
- EczeHerbal #2: Itchy Skin Rash Treatment: If you’re experiencing dry, red and itchy skin, then this is the product for you. This treatment is filled with natural Chinese herbs that are safe for infants, children, adults and even pets!
- Organic Aloe Vera Skin Soothing Spray: Cooling aloe and soothing calendula can be gently misted onto itchy skin for fast relief with this spray. It’s great to carry in your bag for itch relief on the go!
Wet Wrapping
Something that works wonders for dry, itchy skin is something you may never have heard about, wet wrapping! It’s a popular form of treatment for eczema and psoriasis, but is very effective for many other skin conditions as well. It’s basically all about soaking with water and moisture and then sealing the moisture in for two hours or more using a damp layer of clothing. Read more about wet wrapping in Our Eczema Trials: Wet Wrap Therapy.
Gloves
If you can’t seem to heal your itchy skin from the above recommended products because you’re constantly scratching, make sure to cover your hands and protect yourself from scratching with mittens and gloves! The itch-scratch cycle is no joke. Your skin may start off smooth and normal looking, but once the itching starts, you can scratch so hard that you cause a wound to open up or you’ll create thick skin which will need treatment and time to heal. When the healing begins, the itching may start again and you’re back to scratching mode all over again. So, give your skin the protection it deserves and wear gloves or mittens when you feel the urge to scratch, but it’s most important overnight. If you’re itchy in the night, you will scratch and won’t even know it until you wake up and find the evidence written all over your damaged skin.
Acupressure
You can try acupressure at home! Yes, it’s that easy! And there are a couple of points that when pressure is applied, can really help to relief itching. Check out Acupressure: A Home Remedy for Itchy Skin.
More Itchy Relief Tips from a Naturopath
Our resident naturopath, Dr. Amy Duong, is an expert in all things skin related. She has a few tips she always shares with her patients to help them soothe their itchy skin naturally. Check her tips out here.
If you continue to experience itchy skin, make sure to visit your doctor as soon as possible.
How do you stop itching? Let us know in the comments below!
Bio: Laura is a contributor and content developer for It’s An Itchy Little World. She is in no way a medical professional. Her comments, suggestions, and reflections are not intended to replace any medical advice. Always seek the help of a medical professional before undertaking any diet or lifestyle changes. Please see It’s An Itchy Little World’s disclaimer for information about affiliate links and more.
How to Stop Itching due to Dry Skin, Eczema, Psoriasis & Allergies appeared first on itchylittleworld.com. Come read more about natural remedies for eczema!