Allergy Rash: Causes of Allergy rashes
An allergy rash can be maddening. It’s not just the itching it’s also usually unsightly and hard to hide. Someone experiencing an allergy rash usually wants two things immediate: relief, and answers as to why this is happening to them. An allergy rash can present itself looking like small pink bumps or hives on the skin. Often the area in and
around the area of the rash will become overly sensitive and might even feel warm to the touch. An allergy rash might simply itch, or it might even be painful, especially if it’s in the groin, stomach, underarm or breasts areas.
An allergy of any kind is the body’s response to what it mistakenly believes is a threat. This misidentified threat is called an allergen and the body tries to rid itself of it just as it would real bacteria or viruses.
The body releases chemicals, which usually work for its protection. In the case of an allergy rash this presents a problem since it’s hard to know if the allergy is something that’s come in contact with the skin, has been ingested, or is airborne and has been inhaled. In order to determine the origin of an allergy rash it’s necessary to check out all the possibilities.
Some possible contact causes or sudden mystery allergy rash are:
• Detergents
• Leather clothing
• Metal coming in contact with the skin for long periods such a belt buckle, button or stay
• Any fabric such as nylon which doesn’t allow air to reach the skin
Possible ingested origins of an allergy rash are:
• Medicines, especially antibiotics like penicillin
• Certain foods like soy, peanuts, eggs or cheese which contain proteins or molds commonly known to cause such reactions
• Food or drink containing yeast
Some common airborne allergens that can cause an allergy rash are:
• Molds
• Pollen
• Dust
If a rash persists for several days or reoccurs frequently seeking medical help is a good idea. A doctor can run tests to find the source of an allergy rash so the allergen can then be avoided if possible. The usual treatment for an allergy rash is an antihistamine either taken oral or used as lotion, cream or gel.