Allergy and the Skin

Eczema (atopic dermatitis) affects the skin, causing redness, itching and sometimes infections. When eczema worsens this is called an eczema flare. Eczema can usually be well managed by maintaining skin every day by applying moisturiser twice a day to the face and body., avoiding known triggers and/or irritants, treating eczema flares or severe eczema, preventing and/or treating infections and using immune modulating or other treatments, if prescribed for severe eczema.

Hives (urticaria) are pink or red itchy rashes that can appear as blotches or raised red lumps (wheals) on the skin. In most cases hives are not due to allergy, but can be treated with antihistamines. Chronic (ongoing) urticaria may require additional medication. 

Angioedema is a condition that causes swellings due to small blood vessels leaking fluid into the tissues, and  is very rarely caused by allergy. It can be possible to prevent swellings with medications, once the cause is confirmed.  

ASCIA information for health professionals