Dry skin could be from more than cold weather

MILWAUKEE - During the cold winter months, your skin may appear dry or red and itchy. That annoying itchy rash may signify eczema, an allergic skin condition, or be the initial sign of another allergic condition.

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is one of the most common skin diseases in the United States. The condition affects nearly 9% of the overall U.S. population and 15% of children, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI).

Children who suffer eczema normally develop an allergic rash on their faces, elbows and knees. Common signs to look for are skin that is oozing or overly dry. Eczema can also be a sign that other allergic conditions are present, such as food allergies, allergic rhinitis and even asthma. If skin symptoms get worse after eating, or if wheezing or other breathing problems occur during an outbreak, people should see an allergist/immunologist.

"The first step in treating an allergic condition is knowing what it is," said Donald W. Russell, MD, Fellow of the AAAAI and chair of its Urticaria and Angioedema Committee. "Once we are able to know what we are dealing with, preventing and managing the condition will be easier."

Allergist/immunologists like Dr. Russell will work with you to determine the condition's cause, whether it is allergies, irritants, or other triggers.

"Knowing what causal factors trigger your outbreak will help control future ones," Russell said. "Seeing an allergist/immunologist can help to determine these factors and help inform patients of the potential harm products, such as your hand soap, could cause."

To help prevent future eczema outbreaks, the AAAAI offers the following tips:

• Avoid the agent that caused the outbreak such as food, oils, lubricants and latex (an allergist/immunologist can help determine)
• Take cool showers
• Moisturize frequently
• Avoid sweating or overheating
• Reduce stress
• Avoid scratchy materials
• Avoid scratching/rubbing, which might spread the rash

To find an allergist/immunologist in your area call the AAAAI's Physician Referral and Information Line at 1-800-822-2762 or visit the AAAAI's website at www.aaaai.org.

AAAAI Topic of the Month
For more information on allergic skin conditions, check out the Topic of the Month feature on the AAAAI Web site. The topic serves to educate the public by offering:

• Definitions of the most common allergic skin conditions
• Ways to tell if you have an allergic skin condition
• Tips to prevent an allergic skin condition

The AAAAI represents allergists, asthma specialists, clinical immunologists, allied health professionals and others with a special interest in the research and treatment of allergic disease. Established in 1943, the AAAAI has more than 6,500 members in the United States, Canada and 60 other countries. The AAAAI serves as an advocate to the public by providing educational information and a physician referral directory through its Web site at www.aaaai.org.

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