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Skin Conditions
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Eczema / Atopic Dermatitis

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a common chronic skin disease that causes patches of the skin to itch. Individuals suffering from eczema may also notice dryness and a red colouration in the affected areas.

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Hives / Urticaria and Angioedema

Hives, also known as urticaria, are an outbreak of swollen, pale red bumps, patches, or welts that appear suddenly on the skin. Hives usually cause itching, but may also burn or sting.

Eczema / Atopic Dermatitis

In general, eczema flares will come and go; often a result of changes in the environment.

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Eczema is not contagious, and like many diseases, cannot be cured. However, for most patients, the condition is manageable through treatment, education and avoidance of specific triggers.

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Symptoms

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Treatment

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When to see a doctor

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Hives / Urticaria and Angioedema

Angioedema

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Angioedema are similar to hives, but the swelling occurs beneath the skin, instead of on the surface. Angioedema is characterized by deep swelling around the eyes, lips and sometimes swelling of the genitals, hands, and feet.

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Angioedema generally last longer on the body than hives does – approximately 24 hours.

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Occasionally, severe and prolonged tissue swelling can be disfiguring. Rarely, angioedema of the throat, tongue, or lungs can block the airways, causing difficulty breathing, which may become life threatening.

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Causes

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It is nearly impossible to determine the direct cause of Hives and Angioedema in most patients. Hives and Angioedema form in response to histamine and from blood plasma that leaks out of small blood vessels in the skin.

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Histamine is a chemical released from specialized cells along the skin’s blood vessels. Allergic reactions to chemicals in foods, insect stings, sunlight exposure, or medicines can all cause histamine release, which, in turn, cause hives or angioedema.

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Diagnosis

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Your doctor will conduct a detailed medical interview to find the possible cause of hives or angioedema. Since there is no specific test for diagnosing hives – or the associated swelling of angioedema – testing will depend on your medical history and a thorough examination by your primary doctor, allergist, immunologist, or dermatologist.

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Skin tests may be performed to determine the substance that is causing your symptoms to present. Routine blood tests are done to determine if a system-wide illness is present.

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Treatment

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There are a number of tactics you can use to help minimize your discomfort:

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  • Avoid hot water; use lukewarm water instead

  • Use gentle, mild soap

  • Apply cool compresses or wet cloths to the affected areas

  • Try to work and sleep in a cool room

  • Wear loose-fitting lightweight clothing

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When to see a doctor

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If hives or Angioedema occur with any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor right away:

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  • Dizziness

  • Wheezing

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Tightness in the chest

  • Swelling of the tongue, lips, or face

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Eczema
Hives
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