In today's world, most of us are prone to allergies. Though it is difficult to find a single reason for the occurence of chronic skin rashes, one of the causes can be the polluted environment we live in, that comprises of all sorts of dust particles and harmful chemicals. However, some of the common reasons can be pollen, consumption of milk products or use of low grade cosmetics, and exposure to metals like nickel. But now with the help of Prick test and Patch Test it has now become possible to identify the the allergens and treat them.

Once you are aware of what is aggravating your rash, avoidance to that allergen will help in relieving the problem, as they always say:

Prevention is better than cure.

Allergens applied on the Back Positive Reactions at 48 hours
   

What are Patch and Prick Tests?

Patch Test is a simple test in which a plaster containing the extracts of common allergens is applied on your back. Readings are taken at 48 and 96 hrs, if you are allergic to a particular substance a small rash will appear at the corresponding area, hence, the offending allergen is identified.In Prick test, small extracts of common allergens are placed on the forearm and a superficial painless prick is made, readings are taken after 15-20 minutes, if you are allergic to a particular substance a small swelling will appear on the corresponding area of the arm, hence, the offending allergen is identified.

What are the common allergens?

Some of the common allergens can be pollen, molds, house dust, animal dander (skin shed by dogs, cats etc.) food products like milk, eggs, fish, chocolates, groundnuts etc., low grade cosmetics, plants, artificial jewellery, footwear, perfumes, cement and metals like nickel, cobalt.

ONE IS GENERALLY ALLERGIC TO THINGS WHICH ARE USED FOR LONG TIME PEROIDS.

What are the common allergic diseases?

Hay fever: Allergy to pollen, grass or weeds, patient develops bouts of sneezing, itching and weeping eyes, Running nose.

Allergic Rhinitis: Presents as recurrent nose blocks, sneezing and a running nose.

Asthma: Characterized by cough, wheezing and difficulty in breathing.

Urticaria: Characterized by severely itchy raised reddish patches which lasts for a few hours and subsides within 24 hrs without leaving any residual mark on the skin.

Eczema or Contact Dermatitis: Skin rash that appears as a consequence of direct contact with things as cosmetics, plants artificial jewellery, footwear, perfumes, cement, metals like nickel, cobalt.
Prick Test
What is an Alleygy?

An Allergy is an abnormal reaction to elements otherwise harmless. They can be taken into the body by being inhaled, swallowed or by contact with skin. A substance causing allergy is known as a allergen.


 

How can I discover the cause of my allergy?

Your doctor will take a thorough history of your illness and make a study of your environment at home and work (he may have to accompany you to your place of work and rest), your diet and living habits. After physical examination and detailed observation, lab tests may be required which are then followed by specific allergy tests like Patch or Prick test.

After reviewing the patient's history, detailed examination and allergy test, the doctor will be able to identify which allergens are most prominent in your case, all of which requires planning, skill and patience.

What is the treatment of my allergy?

The most important factor in treatment of an allergy is to minimize exposure to the offending allergen. However, when the allergy has flared up your doctor will prescribe you antihistaminic, nasal decongestants, oral or topical corticosteriods.