Allergic Rashes

Rashes can appear on the skin if the skin is exposed to environmental irritants or allergens. Inflammation of the skin could cause itching, redness, swelling or a burning sensation. Eczema, irritant contact dermatitis and hives are inflammatory skin conditions that make the skin itchy, blotchy and bumpy. Red bumps are symptomatic of hives. Such bumps could stay on your skin from minutes to hours.

Causes

As mentioned earlier, itchy bumps may appear on the skin when one comes into contact with an allergen. The allergen could be any food item or any substance in your surroundings that your immune system might consider to be a threat. Food items like milk, shellfish, nuts, wheat, soybeans and peanuts are some of the most common allergens. Pollen, latex, insect bites and drugs fabrics could also cause allergic rashes. Plants like poison ivy and poison sumac are known to trigger allergic reactions.

At times, skin eruptions could be caused by irritant contact dermatitis. The skin becomes inflamed on coming into contact with cosmetics, metallic jewelry, synthetics or chemicals. Only the part of skin which has come in contact with the irritant gets affected. The duration of time for which the skin comes in contact with the irritant, extent of contact and the type of irritant will determine the extent of inflammation.

Atopic dermatitis or eczema could also be responsible for inflammation of the skin. Sometimes skin may become inflamed if one takes a drug one may be allergic to. Children could also get itchy bumps due to hives or papular urticaria. Babies are prone to developing diaper rash. If you use cloth diapers, make sure that the fabric softener or the laundry detergent is very mild. Watch out for any reactions after giving any antibiotic or baby food.

Treatment

If your skin is very itchy and red, you must see a dermatologist to avoid any complications. Emollients and medicated soaps or gel substitutes might be a better option in case you are suffering from contact dermatitis. If consumption of any food item triggers allergic reactions on your skin, don't consume such food items in future. Don't use cosmetic products, drugs, jewelry or fabrics that may irritate your skin. Never scratch over the affected skin as that may make you susceptible to secondary bacterial infections.

In case your little one often suffers from this skin problem, take all possible steps to maintain a clean and dust-free environment. Make sure that you don't let your baby wear a wet or dirty diaper for a long time. Check the baby's genital area, groin and upper thigh for any redness or itchiness. Use creams and lotions as prescribed by the pediatrician. Skin could become inflamed due to infantile eczema, hives or irritant contact dermatitis. So, if you see dry, itchy or scaly skin accompanied with redness, consult a doctor soon. Let your baby's skin breathe, don't keep your little one wrapped in blankets all the time.

Rashes that are caused due to exposure to an allergen can be treated with antihistamines, medicated emollients or steroids. Avoidance of the allergen or the irritant is the best way to prevent this skin problem. If you do observe patches of inflamed skin, stop yourself from scratching over the affected area. If the symptoms are severe, consult a dermatologist soon.