Skin Conditions

Which Skin Conditions Do You Diagnose and Treat?

We evaluate and treat patients for the following skin conditions and allergic reactions:

• Angioedema
• Dermatitis
• Eczema

What Is Angioedema?

Angioedema is a swelling underneath the skin, similar to hives. It most often shows up on the face and around the lips. Unlike hives, however, angioedema affects the deeper layers of the skin. Angioedema can occur alongside hives or on its own. Although it is a common condition that can clear up within a day, it can be life-threatening. See your doctor if your symptoms continue for more than a few days.

What Causes Angioedema?

The majority of angioedema cases are triggered by an allergic reaction to a specific food, medication, pollen, animal dander, or insect bite. In some cases, angioedema is inherited from birth. The following is a list of common angioedema triggers:

• Allergic reaction (food, drug, environmental)
• Latex
• Penicillin, aspirin, and ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitors
• Pregnancy
• Certain birth control pills
• Infection
• Hereditary (C1 inhibitor protein) 

What Are The Symptoms of Angioedema?

• Rapidly-forming welts 
• Swelling and redness around the eyes, cheeks, lips
• Pain or warmth in the affected areas

What Is The Treatment for Angioedema?

Angioedema treatment will depend on its cause. However, most of the time it is treated with antihistamine medication. It can also be treated with:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs (such as oral corticosteroid) 
• Immune-suppressing drugs 
• Epinephrine injection

What Is Eczema?

Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a very common, non-contagious skin condition that causes patches of skin to become itchy, red, cracked, blistered, or inflamed. 

What Are The Symptoms of Eczema?

Eczema symptoms vary depending on the age of the individual. Babies, toddlers, and adults may be affected differently, so it’s important to watch out for the following age-related signs and symptoms.

Eczema Symptoms In Infants (under 2 years)

• Scalp and cheek rash
• Rashes that bubble up and leak fluid
• Frequent scratching and rubbing
• Can lead to skin infections

Eczema Symptoms In Children and Teenagers

• Rashes that are bumpy and knotty
• Itching that does not subside
• Rashes in the creases of elbows, knees, buttocks, and legs
• Rashes on the wrists, ankles, and/or neck
• Lightening/darkening of rash color

Eczema Symptoms in Adults

• Scaly, wide-spread rashes
• Rashes in the creases of elbows and knees
• Rashes on the nape of the neck, face, and around the eyes
• Dry skin
• Itching that does not subside
• Can lead to skin infections

What Is The Treatment for Eczema?

While there is no cure for eczema, our team can create a personalized treatment plan that will heal your skin and minimize flare-ups. Medications to treat eczema include:

• Antihistamines
• Topical corticosteroid creams
• Systemic corticosteroids (injected or taken orally) 
• Antibiotics (when skin infection has occurred)
• Antiviral and antifungal medications
• Topical calcineurin inhibitors

What Is Dermatitis?

Dermatitis is an umbrella term for a non-contagious skin irritation. There are three main types of dermatitis:

• Atopic dermatitis (eczema) - A chronic, itchy, red inflammation of the skin. 
• Contact dermatitis - A stinging/itchy rash caused by touching a substance (e.g. poison ivy) that irritates the skin or triggers an allergic reaction.
• Seborrheic dermatitis - A condition that causes scaly patches, red skin, and dandruff on the scalp, face, upper chest, and/or back. In infants, this condition is known as “cradle cap”.

What Are The Symptoms of Dermatitis?

Symptoms will vary depending on the type and exact cause of the dermatitis. However, contact dermatitis can produce severe reactions and presents as:

• Skin reddening
• Weeping/oozing blisters
• Intense itching
• Swollen eyes, face or genital area
• Skin that feels stiff, tight, dry, or cracking
• Painful ulcers

When Should I See A Doctor For Dermatitis?

Make an appointment with your doctor if you experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Painful or infected skin
• Discomfort that prevents you from sleeping
• Symptoms that are not resolving on their own

What Is The Treatment For Dermatitis?

The treatment for dermatitis will vary depending on the cause. After one of our allergy specialists evaluates you and goes over your medical history, we create a treatment plan for you. Treatment can include:

• Antihistamines 
• Cortisone creams 
• Creams and lotions (to relieve dry skin)

If you have questions about allergy, request an appointment or call our offices.