Skin allergies can be annoying. You have a constant red, itchy rash somewhere on your body, and you probably don’t know why or what triggers it.
People who are susceptible to allergic reactions are most often unaware that something close to them is the problem’s source. It becomes even more mysterious if this is your first time experiencing an allergic reaction.
Therefore, it is crucial to have a qualified physician to help you figure out what the trigger is and how to treat it. But you might be wondering, what kind of a doctor treats skin allergies?
Should I book an appointment with my family doctor, an allergist, or a dermatologist? Just like you, many skin allergy patients do not know who they should consult.
Skin allergy is exaggerated skin sensitivity. It happens due to the reaction of your immune system to something that is generally considered harmless. Doctors call it an allergic reaction, and it can cause bumps, redness, swelling, heaves, rash, itchiness, etc.
This article will help you figure out which specialist to call for your skin allergic reaction.
Difference between a dermatologist and an allergist
Different people have different skin allergy triggers. For example, you might get an itchy rash if you eat certain foods, touch your pet or come into contact with a pollutant. But who do you visit to get treatment? A dermatologist or an allergist?
A dermatologist specializes in diagnosing and treating general skin issues. These include nails, hair, and mucous membranes. They treat the entire spectrum of skin diseases, including diseases as simple as psoriasis and the more complicated ones like skin cancer.
On the other hand, An allergist is a physician specializing in treating allergic reaction or immunological responses that occurs suddenly or occasionally.
They identify the allergy through the use of hypersensitivity tests or sometimes skin pricks. Once they have identified the allergy and the trigger, an allergist will develop an individualized treatment plan to treat the patient.
Types of allergic skin conditions
Below are some of the most common reactions that might need you to book an appointment with a specialist immediately.
Allergic contact dermatitis
This is when your skin immediately reacts when it comes to contact with something that others consider harmless. For example, some people are allergic to lilies and get swelling or severe itchy rash when they touch them. This condition is well manageable, as you can avoid the triggers if you are aware of them.
Atopic dermatitis or eczema
This condition is more prevalent in children than adults. It makes the skin quickly dry, irritable, and itchy. Skin specialists associate Eczema with many triggers, it can be hereditary (Inherited from family), or it can be due to external factors such as food allergies, seasonal allergies, soaps, etc.
Urticaria
Urticaria (or chronic hives) is an allergic reaction that leads to red itchy welts on the skin. These can be very uncomfortable and can interfere with your daily life. It is mainly caused by the consumption of foods that you are allergic to. The body automatically releases the histamine in response to the allergen after you eat these foods.
When should I see an allergist?
Sometimes, the skin rash or heaves might look normal, and you might even be tempted to treat it with over-the-counter drugs. But it is never that simple. Sometimes a simple rash can signal something more severe, and it is always advisable to consult a physician.
Book an appointment with an allergist immediately if you experience any of the following;
- A sudden rash on your body.
- Batches of red or itchy skin patches appearing anywhere on the body
- If your skin becomes too sensitive to heat, exercise, and water.
- Itchy scalp
- Painful swelling on any part of the body
Conclusion
So there you have it. Both a dermatologist and an allergy doctor Manassas VA can treat skin conditions, but an allergist is more suitable to treat skin allergies. It is therefore recommended that you visit an allergist if you suspect that you have an allergic reaction. But if you are not sure, call your family doctor and ask them to refer you to the right specialist for your skin condition.