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Is Eczema A Form Of Asthma

Airborne Triggers For Atopic Dermatitis

How I Cured Asthma, Eczema & Allergies!

When it comes to allergies in the air, inhalant allergens and atopic dermatitis are highly associated and often occur together.

Common allergies include pollen, dust mites, dogs, and cats. To diagnose inhalant allergies, we look for a history of itching, sneezing, wheezing, and coughing in a patient with exposure to the allergen. The same kind of allergy skin testing or blood testing is done for inhalant allergies. There are fewer false positives with inhalant testing than with food testing.

Testing For Food Allergies

How do we look and test for food allergies? Through skin testing and blood testing which looks at the specific IgE for the allergen. Skin tests are beneficial in that they have greater accuracy and are available for many different allergens. They are also less expensive and deliver same-day results. However, to undergo skin tests, patients have to stop antihistamines.

Blood testing is a little more convenient they have a more quantitative result, and they are not affected by anti-histamines. Blood tests are particularly preferable to skin testing if the patient is very young or uncooperative, has had anaphylaxis to a food, or has extensive eczema and theres not a good place on the skin to test.

Atopy Is The Root Of The Problem

According to the AAAAI , atopy is the genetic tendency to develop allergic diseases. People who are atopic have an overactive immune response to allergens. This commonly includes inhaled allergens and food allergens.

Atopic dermatitis is an example of this kind of an allergic disease. It causes an itchy, red, , usually in patches. In most cases, it starts at a very young age, typically before age 5. However, it is possible for adults and teens to develop . Because it is an atopic disease, it is not contagious. But it does run in families.

Atopic dermatitis is part of a group of atopic conditions that doctors call the atopic march. Other diseases in the atopic march include , hay fever , and asthma.

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Risk Factors For Rhinoconjunctivitis At 6 Years Of Age

Any parameters of anthropometry at birth, as well as sex, maternal education level, number of siblings, living in urban areas, and environmental tobacco smoke exposure were not related to rhinoconjunctivitis at age 6 .

Maternal and paternal history of asthma and allergic diseases independently increased the childs odds of having rhinoconjunctivitis .

When To Seek Medical Advice

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See a GP if you have symptoms of atopic eczema. They’ll usually be able to diagnose atopic eczema by looking at your skin and asking questions, such as:

  • whether the rash is itchy and where it appears
  • when the symptoms first began
  • whether it comes and goes over time
  • whether there’s a history of atopic eczema in your family
  • whether you have any other conditions, such as allergies or asthma
  • whether something in your diet or lifestyle may be contributing to your symptoms

Typically, to be diagnosed with atopic eczema you should have had an itchy skin condition in the last 12 months and 3 or more of the following:

  • visibly irritated red skin in the creases of your skin such as the insides of your elbows or behind your knees at the time of examination by a health professional
  • a history of skin irritation occurring in the same areas mentioned above
  • generally dry skin in the last 12 months
  • a history of asthma or hay fever children under 4 must have an immediate relative, such as a parent, brother or sister, who has 1 of these conditions
  • the condition started before the age of 2

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How To Treat An Overactive Type 2 Inflammatory Response

In the past we had a number of non-specific treatments to help better control severe Type 2 inflammation. These included medications like prednisone which could be compared to a poorly-aimed shotgun blast temporarily treating the condition but not getting to the source. Newer medications referred to as biologics have changed the way we treat Type 2 inflammation because they are specifically designed to target the cells and pathways linked to inflammation reminiscent of a sniper bullet rather than a shotgun. Instead of non-specifically treating conditions like asthma, eczema, and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis, these treatments go right to the source of inflammation, limiting side effects, improving disease control and increasing quality of life. If you have poorly controlled asthma, eczema, hives, or nasal polyps talk to the doctors at Bernstein Allergy Group to find out if you are a candidate for these biologic therapies.

How To Treat Eosinophilic Asthma

Depending on the condition your doctor may recommend certain type of drugs to manage the condition and help you breathe easily. The most common Eosinophilic Asthma treatment includes:

  • Corticosteroids
  • Leukotriene modifiers
  • Biologic therapies

Corticosteroids: These can be recommended by your doctor to take them orally or inhale them however, pills have more side effects than an inhaler so use it carefully.

Leukotriene Modifiers: Leukotriene is already present in your body that combines with eosinophils and acts as a major cause for inflammation. The leukotriene modifiers inhibits the inflammatory response caused in the body.

Biologic Therapies: These therapies are provided to the patient to block the chemicals in the body that is responsible for the inflammation and swelling. These are provided by intravenous drip or injection.

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Diagnosed With Asthma As A Kid

So back to the one disease that is widely known, understood, and rightfully appreciated as a life-threatening disease: asthma. Asthma has always taken priority because it is obviously a disease that can kill you instantly if not under control. Once I was officially diagnosed with asthma at 7 years old, I was instantly given endless resources and information for me and my parents to attend sessions at Childrens Hospital Of Philadelphia and how to make my quality of living better at home to decrease dust and more information for better lung health. I cherished a booklet I received at a young age that was in the form of a coloring book for a child to understand and learn.

What Is Eczema And Who Gets It

What is Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)? – Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Eczema is the term for a few different skin conditions. But most of the time, it refers to a common skin disease called atopic dermatitis, which causes a dry, itchy, red rash. If you scratch it, it can start to ooze and crust over. Do it over time, and your skin can get thick and dark.

Most people with eczema get it as children. Symptoms often improve by age 5 or 6, and flare-ups stop for more than half of kids by their teenage years. But many people still have the disease as adults, though their symptoms tend to be milder. Itâs less common to get eczema for the first time as an adult.

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What Can I Expect If Ive Been Diagnosed With Eczema

Nearly half of children with eczema will outgrow the condition or experience great improvement by the time they reach puberty. Others will continue to have some form of the disease. For adults with eczema, the disease can be generally well-managed with good skin care and treatment, although flare-ups of symptoms can occur throughout life.

Asthma Is Usually An Allergic Disease

In general, asthma refers to over-reactive airway disease. Airways in the lungs are overly sensitive to irritants. In the United States, allergic asthma is the most common form of the disease. This means the irritants that trigger airway inflammation and narrowing are allergens. This includes animal dander, dust mites, mold spores, pollen, and household pests, such as cockroaches. When people with breathe in these allergens or allergen particles, it causes an asthma attack. They experience , , and .

One of the risk factors for allergic asthma is having a parent or sibling with allergies or allergic asthma. This makes allergic asthma an atopic disease.

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How Do I Take Care Of Myself

Reducing your stress is very important. Try these tips:

  • Count to ten as you take a deep breath.
  • Exercise daily.
  • Try not to drink as much caffeine and alcohol.
  • Sleep eight hours a night.
  • Eat healthy.
  • Try to have a positive attitude.
  • Journal every day.
  • Talk about your life with friends, family and a therapist.

Causes Of Atopic Dermatitis

Eczema Advice

The exact cause of AD is unknown, but most cases are a combination of genetics and triggers 2

  • There are several genetic factors which may lead to AD:
    • Individuals who have a parent with a history of AD, asthma, or hay fever are more likely to develop AD 3
    • Some people have a mutation in the CARD11 gene, which affects immune system cells 3
    • Some people with AD have a mutation in the gene responsible for creating filaggrin, which is a protein that helps create a healthy outer layer of skin 3
  • There are multiple things that may trigger AD symptoms including:
    • Providers may also prescribe phototherapy 8

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Dealing With Dust Mites

As of now, there arent any good studies, which show the correlation between dust mite control and lessening atopic dermatitis. However, because most dust mite control measures are relatively easy to do, we tend to recommend them.

Dust mites love humidity, heat, clutter, and skin scale, .

To help control dust mites, try the following:

  • Encase mattresses and pillows in allergen-impermeable covers. When looking for a cover, choose a breathable fabric .
  • Wash sheets and blankets weekly in hot water, which also kills bacteria.
  • Minimize the use of carpet, upholstered furniture, and stuffed animals.
  • Keep indoor humidity low.

Are Eczema And Asthma Related

Many people who experience eczema also develop asthma. This begs the question: are eczema and asthma somehow related, and if so, what does this mean for sufferers?

In this post, well explore the correlation between eczema and asthma – including the shared genetic and environmental risk factors, defects of the skin barrier, and an overactive immune system.

Please keep in mind that although these what we discuss in this post can relieve eczema, we are in no way medical professionals. If youre experiencing severe eczema symptoms like an infection, it is best to seek medical advice immediately.

What is Eczema?

Eczema is an auto-immune disease characterized by inflammation. Those suffering from eczema have a damaged skin barrier that has trouble retaining moisture.

This is what causes the skin to appear dry, cracked, red – and be extremely itchy! Typically, these patches of inflamed skin appear on the face, hands, feet, scalp, and on the back-of-knees, but they can appear in other places as well.

A common condition, eczema affects over 30 million Americans. Although it usually develops during childhood, its possible for adults to develop eczema as well, even if they never had it as a child.

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a disease of the lungs. Medically known as chronic respiratory disease, it is characterized by inflamed airways that make it difficult to breathe.

Like eczema, it can have significant effects on home, work, and personal life.

Causes of Eczema and Asthma

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What Is Eczema What Does It Look And Feel Like

Eczema is a condition that causes your skin to become dry, red, itchy and bumpy. Its one of many types of dermatitis. Eczema damages the skin barrier function . This loss of barrier function makes your skin more sensitive and more prone to infection and dryness.

Eczema doesnt harm your body. It doesnt mean that your skin is dirty or infected, and its not contagious. There are treatments that can help manage your symptoms.

In the word dermatitis, derm means skin and itis means inflammation. The word as a whole means inflammation of the skin. Eczema originates from the Greek word ekzein which means to boil over or break out.

Planning Ahead For Your Childs Safety

What is the main cause of eczema?

Allergies, asthma, and eczema can range from being a mild disturbance to putting your childs life in danger. However, with the proper care, children are able to live happy, healthy, and safe lives.

At Stormont Vail, your childs pediatrician, immunologists, and other allergy specialists can diagnose and help manage your childs care. By being prepared and having a plan in place, allergies, asthma, and eczema can be very manageable for you and your child.

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What Questions Might My Healthcare Provider Ask To Diagnose Eczema

The conversation with your healthcare provider will need to cover a lot of information. Be sure to be specific about your symptoms.

  • Where is your eczema located?
  • What have you used to try to treat your eczema?
  • What medical conditions do you have? Allergies? Asthma?
  • Is there a history of eczema in your family?
  • How long have you had symptoms of eczema?
  • Do you take hot showers?
  • Is there anything that makes your symptoms worse?
  • Have you noticed that something triggers or worsens your eczema? Soaps? Detergents? Cigarette smoke?
  • Is there so much itchiness that you have trouble sleeping? Working? Living your normal life?

Causes Of Atopic Eczema

The exact cause of atopic eczema is unknown, but it’s clear it is not down to one single thing.

Atopic eczema often occurs in people who get allergies. “Atopic” means sensitivity to allergens.

It can run in families, and often develops alongside other conditions, such as asthma and hay fever.

The symptoms of atopic eczema often have certain triggers, such as soaps, detergents, stress and the weather.

Sometimes food allergies can play a part, especially in young children with severe eczema.

You may be asked to keep a food diary to try to determine whether a specific food makes your symptoms worse.

Allergy tests are not usually needed, although they’re sometimes helpful in identifying whether a food allergy may be triggering symptoms.

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Caring For Your Skin Can Be An Important Defense In The Battle With Allergies

One expert calls the atopic dermatitis-allergy connection a chicken-or-the-egg debate. Does a faulty skin barrier lead to allergies? Or do lead to a faulty skin barrier? Either way, taking care of your skin keeps a healthy protective barrier between you and the environment. Research has shown that people with atopic dermatitis who practice good skin care have fewer allergy concerns.

Along with prescription eczema treatment for atopic dermatitis, you can care for your skin with the following strategies:

  • Bathe or shower with warm, not hot, water and limit the time to 5 to 10 minutes.

  • Use a mild, fragrance-free skin cleanser and pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it.

  • Apply any medicines while the skin is still damp.

  • Use a thick cream or ointment to moisturize the skin at least twice a day.

The National Eczema Association has a list of products that carry their seal of approval. You can browse skin care products, hair products, sunscreens, and household products, such as detergents, for people with atopic dermatitis and other skin conditions. It may take some trial and error to find the products that are best for your skin. Talk with your doctor if you have trouble finding the right one.

Eczema Coping Tips Reducing Skin Irritation

Eczema

People with eczema have sensitive skin. Irritants such as heat or detergents can easily trigger a bout of eczema.Suggestions for reducing skin irritation include:

  • Avoid overheating your skin. Wear several layers of clothing that you can remove, as required, instead of one heavy layer. Dont put too many blankets on your bed and avoid doonas.
  • Dont use perfumed bubble bath or bath products labelled medicated.
  • Wear soft, smooth materials next to your skin, preferably 100% cotton. Avoid scratchy materials, such as pure wool, polyester or acrylic. You could try a cotton and synthetic mix material this is fine for some people with eczema. Remove labels from clothing.
  • Always wear protective gloves when using any type of chemical or detergent. You may want to wear cotton gloves inside rubber or PVC gloves.
  • Avoid chlorinated pools. If you have to swim in a chlorinated pool, moisturise your skin well when you get out.

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How Is Eczema Treated What Medications Are Used

Treating eczema can be difficult if the cause is something you cant control, like genetics. Fortunately, you may have some influence over your environment and stress levels. Do your best to figure out what triggers or worsens your eczema, and then avoid it. The goal is to reduce itching and discomfort and prevent infection and additional flare-ups.

Consider these treatment tips:

If your child has skin problems, such as eczema, you can:

  • Avoid long, hot baths, which can dry the skin. Use lukewarm water instead and give your child sponge baths.
  • Apply lotion immediately after bathing while the skin is still moist. This will help trap moisture in the skin.
  • Keep the room temperature as regular as possible. Changes in room temperature and humidity can dry the skin.
  • Keep your child dressed in cotton. Wool, silk and manmade fabrics such as polyester can irritate the skin.
  • Use mild laundry soap and make sure that clothes are well rinsed.
  • Watch for skin infections. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice an infection.
  • Help them avoid rubbing or scratching the rash.
  • Use moisturizers several times daily. In infants with eczema, moisturizing on a regular basis is extremely helpful.

Eosinophilic Asthma Diagnosis Tests Used

  • Blood Eosinophil Count Test: A blood test used to measure levels of eosinophils in your blood. Its a simple blood draw and there is no need to fast before this blood test. Also, it can only measure the eosinophil count in blood and not in lungs.
  • Sputum Eosinophil Count Test: This test is to measure eosinophils in your sputum, a mixture of coughed mucus and saliva. The practicality of the test is bit deniable as few people have trouble generating a sample however the accuracy of this test is unquestionable.
  • Bronchial Biopsy Test: This test is more invasive than the others and less likely to be used for the initial diagnosis.

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