By Sheila Leftridge
Skin allergies happen when your immune system overreacts to a harmless substance, called an allergen, that touches your skin or enters your body. The most common types include contact dermatitis, eczema and hives. Symptoms often include redness, severe itching, swelling and rashes.
Common triggers can cause skin allergies or irritation. Nickel, found in jewelry, watchbands and clothing snaps, is a frequent culprit. Fragrances and dyes in lotions, soaps and makeup can also trigger reactions. Plants such as poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac are well known causes. Latex is another common trigger.
When to See a Doctor
Mild skin reactions often clear up on their own. Still, you should see a doctor or consult an allergist or dermatologist if:
• The rash appears on your face or genitals.
• Home remedies do not improve symptoms after a few days.
• You develop blisters or signs of infection, such as pus or warmth.
• You have trouble breathing or swelling of the face or throat, which may require emergency care.
As summer approaches, people spend more time outdoors. That also means more exposure to mosquitoes. I learned the hard way that I am allergic to mosquito bites.
I was visiting a friend who lives between two swimming pools. Feeling tired, I decided to take a nap outside. When I woke up, I had at least 40 mosquito bites on my arms and legs. It was miserable. I went home immediately.
That night, I could not sleep because of a burning sensation. By the next morning, the bites had become large, swollen and hot to the touch. I contacted my doctor and learned that I have skeeter syndrome.
Skeeter syndrome is an allergic reaction to proteins found in mosquito saliva. It causes large, red, swollen and intensely itchy welts. The condition is more common in children and people with sensitivities and usually clears within three to 10 days.
Unlike a typical mosquito bite, this reaction is much more intense. The affected area can swell several inches across. The skin may feel warm, firm and painful. Some people experience blistering or bruising at the center of the bite. In rare cases, symptoms can include fever, swollen lymph nodes or other flu-like signs.
The bites were extremely irritating, and I could not stop scratching. My doctor prescribed steroids and antibiotics to help clear them up. Once I understood what was happening, I made it a priority to find products that worked for me.
Now, I use an antiseptic skin cleanser twice a day during a flare-up and let it sit on my skin for a minute or two before rinsing. I also use a turmeric body scrub to help exfoliate and lighten affected areas. After that, I apply aloe vera gel to soothe my skin, followed by a lotion made for sensitive skin. I finish with an insect repellent that contains aloe and vitamin E, spraying it on my neck, back, chest, arms and legs, even when I am wearing long sleeves and pants.
Prevention
The best strategy is to prevent mosquito bites in the first place.
• Wear light colored, loose fitting clothing that covers your arms and legs.
• Use EPA registered insect repellents that contain DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus or picaridin.
• Eliminate standing water around your home, including clogged gutters, birdbaths and flower pots, where mosquitoes breed.
My friend treats his yard, but I still take precautions when I visit. I keep visits short and always bring my insect repellent.
It is also important to recognize the warning signs of anaphylaxis. In rare cases, mosquito bites can trigger a life threatening allergic reaction.
Call 911 or seek emergency medical care immediately if you experience:
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
• Swelling of the face, mouth, tongue or throat.
• Hives that spread rapidly across the body.
• Fainting, severe dizziness or confusion.
Knowing the difference between a normal mosquito bite and a serious allergic reaction can help you get the care you need. As mosquito season ramps up, taking preventive steps now may save you from days of discomfort later.
