Skin conditions like eczema, hives, and contact dermatitis are uncomfortable, irritating, and often frustrating for those who experience them. These conditions are known for causing itchy rashes on the skin that can be difficult to treat without proper care.
As experts in allergy testing and treatment, our team is dedicated to identifying the root causes of your symptoms and creating a tailored treatment plan.
If generic treatments and over-the-counter creams haven't worked for you, it's time to see one of our allergy specialists. Schedule an appointment with us today and take the first step towards healthier, happier skin.
Though many skin conditions can cause similar symptoms, each has unique triggers and treatment methods. We specialize in diagnosing and treating these conditions using a personalized approach that takes into account your individual needs.
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, affects millions worldwide and is thought to be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, environmental triggers, and bacteria on the skin (microbiome). These factors can cause the skin's barrier to become weakened, making it more dry and susceptible to irritants and allergens. As a result, eczema symptoms often include intense itching and dry, red, or discolored patches.
Understanding your unique eczema triggers is a crucial step in our approach. Depending on your needs, the best eczema treatment might involve moisturizing therapies, topical steroids, or oral or injectable medications. We work closely with each patient to tailor a regimen that not only alleviates symptoms but also aims at long-term management and relief.
Hives can also be triggered by numerous factors and appear as raised, itchy welts that might burn or sting. In some cases, hives can be accompanied by swelling of the lips, tongue, or other areas of the body.
Chronic hives, which last longer than 6 weeks, are rarely due to allergic triggers. Managing acute hives, however, involves avoiding triggers and taking oral antihistamines, which are typically given at higher doses than taken for seasonal allergies. In severe cases, injectable medications can also be used.
Our allergy specialists will work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses the cause of your hives and provides relief.
Contact dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin that causes redness, itching, swelling, and blisters. These symptoms appear after coming into contact with an irritant or allergen, like chemicals in cosmetics, soaps, cleaning products, certain metals found in jewelry, and some plants, like poison ivy.
The best way to manage contact dermatitis is to avoid triggers, but this can be difficult. Our office offers patch testingto help identify triggers that may be contributing to your dermatitis. In addition to testing, treatment may involve topical steroids or other medications to reduce inflammation. Our approach is methodical and patient-centric, ensuring you receive the most effective treatment.
A skin patch test is a diagnostic tool used to identify the specific allergens causing allergic contact dermatitis.
The test begins with placing small patches on your skin using a strong adhesive material. Each patch has a different substance, allowing many potential allergens to be tested at once. These patches must remain dry and in place and dry throughout the testing period, meaning no bathing or showering (though sponge baths are allowed). We also advise against any exercise or other activities that could cause you to sweat.
On your next visit, the patches will be carefully removed, and the area will be examined for any reactions. If you notice any reactions after leaving our office, such as redness or irritation, have someone take a clear photo of your back to share with us during your next appointment.
During your third visit, we'll conduct a final observation of the patch area. Any reactions noted will be documented, and if you test positive for any of the allergens, you will be provided with detailed written information about them.
If you experience itching or burning in the test area at any point, do your best to avoid the urge to scratch. Scratching can aggravate your skin further and potentially make the itching even worse. Know that taking antihistamines is allowed during this period, as they do not impact the test results, but if you experience severe itching or burning, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Properly preparing for a patch test is crucial for ensuring accurate results. Our team will provide you with detailed instructions, but here are a few general guidelines to keep in mind:
Following these steps carefully will help us provide you with the most accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Patch testing can identify a wide range of allergens, including:
Our team will work with you to determine which specific allergens should be included in your patch test based on your medical history and suspected triggers. If you are concerned about a particular substance, please discuss it with your allergy provider. We also encourage you to bring samples of your own products so that these can be tested, if appropriate.
Booking an appointment with an eczema specialist near you is easy! Simply fill out our patient-friendly form to schedule an appointment online, or give us a call at (716) 631-0380. Our experienced team will walk you through the process and answer any questions you may have.