Feeling itchy as soon as spring comes? Who is the “culprit” of skin allergies?

　　In spring, everything revives, and nature welcomes a vibrant scene. However, for those suffering from skin allergies, this season may also bring some not-so-pleasant experiences, with pollen, dust, etc. quietly causing discomfort. So, what exactly is skin allergy in spring? What are the main causes of it? How should we effectively respond and prevent these uninvited "visitors"? Next, let’s explore this “itchy” problem together and learn how to protect yourself and stay away from allergies.

Spring is the most allergic season?

　　Skin allergy is a common immune reaction in which the body's immune system becomes overly sensitive to certain substances (called allergens). This reaction can be triggered by a number of different substances, including but not limited to food, pollen, pet dander, certain medications, cosmetic ingredients, certain metals (such as nickel), latex, and other substances in the environment. For example, some people may develop allergic reactions to seafood or certain types of nuts, while others may react to pollen in the air, pet dander, or dust mites in the home.

　　In spring, as nature awakens and many plants bloom, the concentration of pollen in the air rises significantly. Pollen, as a common allergen, often triggers allergic reactions in the skin. During this season, not only does the weather change bring frequent temperature fluctuations and dry winds, but the intensity of ultraviolet rays also suddenly increases. These factors work together on the skin, possibly weakening the skin's protective barrier and making the skin more susceptible to allergens. s attack.

　　At the same time, as the temperature warms, outdoor activities naturally increase, which means that people will have more opportunities to come into contact with potential allergens such as pollen, dust, and outdoor mold. In addition, the air in spring may carry more pollutants, including sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10). These pollutants may not only directly cause irritation to the skin, but also increase the skin's sensitivity to other allergens. sensitivity. As temperatures rise, people use cosmetics and sunscreen more frequently, and certain ingredients in these products can sometimes trigger allergic reactions in the skin.

Is itching and peeling skin allergies?

　　Typical symptoms of skin allergies include redness, itching, swelling, rash, and peeling. After exposure to an allergen, people may experience localized to generalized skin redness, often accompanied by significant itching and sometimes warmth and stinging of the skin. In more severe allergic reactions, skin swelling may occur, primarily caused by the dilation of blood vessels and increased blood flow triggered by the allergen. In addition, the immune response triggered by the allergen may cause red pimples to form on the skin. In some cases, allergic reactions can also cause skin peeling. Therefore, once the above symptoms appear, it may be a sign of skin allergies.

　　Although rare, some people may experience extremely severe allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock. This condition usually manifests as skin itching, erythema, wheals, and swelling of the eyelids or face that develop rapidly within minutes of exposure to the allergen. It may also be accompanied by throat swelling, wheezing, and shortness of breath. In extreme cases, sudden drops in blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even loss of consciousness and shock may occur. Since anaphylactic shock can quickly become life-threatening, if you notice these symptoms, you should call an emergency number for help and go to a hospital for treatment immediately.

What can be done to reduce allergies?

　　First, identifying and avoiding exposure to known allergens is key to managing allergic reactions. In order to determine your allergens, you can start by observing and recording your allergic reactions at a specific time and place, and record in detail the food, environment, plants, animals or chemicals that you were exposed to before the reaction occurred. This daily observation can help initially identify potential allergens. In addition, professional medical tests, such as skin prick tests, blood IgE antibody tests, patch tests, etc., are also effective ways to diagnose allergens. It is also important to consult a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment recommendations.

　　Once allergens are identified, it is important to take appropriate precautions to reduce exposure to those allergens. For example, pay attention to the pollen forecast and try to avoid outdoor activities on days with high pollen concentrations. If you must go out, wearing a hat, mask, and sunglasses can help reduce direct exposure to your skin and eyes. When you get home, change your clothes and take a shower promptly to remove any allergens that may be attached. Using an air purifier in your home and regularly cleaning carpets, curtains and bedding can also help reduce indoor allergens. For people with a history of severe allergies, it is recommended to wear a medical warning sign and carry necessary first aid medications with you. At the same time, share your allergies and emergency response plans with relatives, friends and colleagues to ensure that you can receive timely help in an emergency.

　　In addition, people who are prone to seasonal allergies need to pay special attention to skin care. Choose gentle cleansing and bathing products, avoid harsh products, and pay attention to moisturizing and sun protection. Skin care products that are suitable for your skin type are key and avoid changing products frequently to reduce the risk of allergies. Wearing breathable, soft clothing and using pure cotton bedding can also help reduce skin irritation.

　　Finally, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits is also crucial to improving skin health. A balanced diet, avoiding greasy, spicy, sweet foods, tobacco and alcohol; a regular schedule to ensure adequate sleep; maintaining an optimistic attitude and moderate exercise all play an important role in maintaining good skin condition.

Self-medication or blindly trying folk remedies should be avoided

　　For patients with skin allergies, prompt and effective treatment is crucial. First of all, once a skin allergic reaction occurs, it is necessary to quickly identify the allergen and immediately cut off contact with it to avoid any behavior that may aggravate the skin condition. If allergy symptoms are not relieved within 48 hours, or continue to worsen, patients should seek medical help as soon as possible to avoid missing the best opportunity for treatment. Especially in the case of severe allergic reactions or anaphylactic shock, it is particularly important to seek medical attention immediately because it is a matter of life safety.

　　When a patient receives treatment, the doctor usually conducts a series of tests based on the patient's specific condition, such as routine blood tests and allergen tests. Treatment with oral antihistamines and anti-inflammatory medications is often standard practice under the professional guidance of a physician. In addition, topical anti-inflammatory ointments can also effectively relieve skin allergy symptoms. It is important that patients avoid self-medicating or blindly trying folk remedies.

　　During the treatment process, in addition to drug treatment, patients can also use methods such as cold compress and moisturizing to relieve skin discomfort. Cold compresses can help relieve itching and reduce swelling, while proper moisturizing can promote skin repair and relieve discomfort. At the same time, adjusting your diet, maintaining a light diet, and avoiding spicy and irritating foods will also be beneficial to improving skin allergies.

　　In short, timely identification and avoidance of allergens are the first steps in treating skin allergies. Allergy symptoms can be effectively relieved by following medical treatment as directed by your doctor and taking appropriate nursing measures. I hope everyone can stay away from allergies this spring and have a healthy and happy season.

　　(The author is an attending physician at the Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Medical Cosmetology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital)

　　Su Rina Source: China Youth Daily