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Diseases 101

Skin Allergies

Red, bumpy, scaly, itchy or swollen skin - any of these signs may mean you have a skin allergy.

The most common allergic skin conditions are:

Symptoms of a skin allergy include:

  • A strange rash
  • Red, scaly or itchy skin
  • A swelling of the deeper layers of the skin, such as the eyelids, mouth or genitals
  • Dry, flaking skin
  • Inflamed or blistered skin

Skin allergies are painful and unpleasant, but there are things you can do to treat and prevent an allergic skin reaction.

Some people are allergic to latex, a substance often found in rubber gloves and balloons. Signs of latex allergy may resemble those of contact dermatitis. But sometimes latex allergy causes a serious reaction called anaphylaxis. This life-threatening condition requires immediate medical treatment. If you think you are having this kind of reaction, call 911 immediately.

Skin allergies can take several forms and have a variety of causes. To find out what is causing your skin condition, talk to an allergist/immunologist - a doctor with special training to manage allergies and asthma. An allergist can also help you develop a treatment plan. To find an allergist/immunologist near you, use the AAAAI's Physician Referral Directory.

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