CHICAGO, Nov. 16, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Winter months can
bring on the itch as cold weather and indoor heat dry out the skin.
It's possible, suggests Chicago allergist, Brian Rotskoff, MD of
Clarity Allergy Center, that your winter itch could be caused by
more than just the weather. For some people itchy, dry skin is just
that, but for others it can be a symptom of atopic dermatitis
(eczema), contact dermatitis, or hives (urticaria). Before stocking
up on skin soothers, Dr. Rotskoff suggests getting a better handle
on your exact condition. His practice specializes in allergy skin
testing, as well as allergic rhinitis (hay fever), allergy
drops/allergy shots, asthma, childhood nasal allergies, and the
full range of sinus and allergic conditions.
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20121116/NY15182)
"Chronic skin rashes can be very frustrating, not to mention
uncomfortable," sympathizes Dr. Rotskoff. "With patch testing, I
can isolate potential allergens that may be causing chronic eczema
or contact dermatitis. If the results are positive, I help patients
create avoidance plans to minimize their exposure and reduce future
outbreaks. This is especially important for children at risk of
angioedema."
Skin testing by an allergy expert is the best route to long-term
skin solutions, but Dr. Rotskoff offers up these general guidelines
for understanding your skin condition.
What is contact dermatitis?
- Chronic rash that occurs as the result of physical contact with
an allergen
- Typically an allergy to metals, fragrances, plants, and
cosmetics/perfumes
What is atopic dermatitis (eczema)?
- A more persistent type of eczema
- Chronic rash that appears on the limbs, scalp, neck, and
cheeks
- Aggravated by environmental allergens and food allergens, as
well as stress and heat
- Most common in children, with onset around age 5
- Often outgrown by adolescence
What are hives (urticaria)?
- A rash that migrates from one area of the body to another
within hours
- Can be short-term (less than 6 weeks) or chronic (months or
years)
- Sometimes accompanied by angioedema (swelling), wheezing, and
shortness-of-breath
- Can be idiopathic (spontaneous) or autoimmune
(reaction-based)
- More complex to diagnose because may or may not be
allergen-based
"Whether a patient's skin condition is linked to allergies or
not, there are several things that can be done to limit irritation
and improve comfort," adds Dr. Rotskoff. "Daily strategies like
applying thick moisturizers after bathing, using hypoallergenic
detergent, and keeping your house temperature below 76
degrees can help. It's best to avoid long, hot baths or showers,
harsh soaps, and fragranced or perfumed products."
As appropriate, Dr. Rotskoff recommends anti-histamines or
topical prescriptions medications to reduce inflammation and ease
symptoms. Some asthma medications and even acid reflux products can
help manage outbreaks of hives.
To prep your skin for the harsh season ahead, contact
Brian Rotskoff, MD,
www.ClarityAllergyCenter.com or 773-877-3500. Clarity Allergy
Center offices are located in Chicago, North
Chicago, and Arlington
Heights, short distances from Lincolnwood, IL, Skokie, IL, Park
Ridge, IL, Morton Grove,
IL, and Niles, IL,
Mount Prospect, IL, Palatine, IL, Elk Grove, IL, Buffalo Grove, IL, Bartlett, IL, Lake
Zurich, IL, Schaumburg, IL,
and Elgin, IL.
Clarity Allergy Center Office Locations and Contact
Details:
Chicago Office:
3000 N. Halsted St, Suite 611
Chicago, Illinois 60657
Ph: 773-877-3500
North Chicago Office:
4801 W. Peterson Avenue, Suite 306
Chicago, Illinois 60646
Ph: 773-877-3500
Arlington Heights Office:
125 South Wilke Road, Suite 100
Arlington Heights, Illinois
60005
Ph: 773-877-3500
SOURCE clarityallergycenter.com