An allergic reaction is a specific type of sensitivity to something you’ve eaten, inhaled, or touched. The thing that you’re allergic to is called an allergen. Your body interprets the allergen as foreign or harmful, and it reacts to the allergen as a form of protection.
You can have an allergic reaction in any part of your body. The face is a common site of allergic reactions involving your skin.
Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever, can occur in early spring and cause a number of symptoms that affect the face.
This includes eyes that are:
Severe allergies can lead to allergic conjunctivitis, an oozing inflammation of the conjunctiva of your eyes.
Creatures of all kinds can cause allergic reactions.
People with puppy allergies don’t react to the animal’s hair or fur, but they do react to its saliva and dander (skin cells).
If you are allergic to cats, dogs, or other animals, you may sneeze and become congested. Animal-induced allergic reactions also cause hives and rash. Hives are a raised lump on the skin that regularly appears on the neck and face.
Insect bites and stings can cause hives and marks.
You may have eczema if patches of itchy, scaly skin appear:
The cause of eczema is completely understood.
People with asthma or seasonal allergies are more likely to develop a skin condition, albeit necessarily. In rare cases, eczema can also be related to a food allergy.
You might get a red rash or hives on your face if you’ve touched a substance that your body perceives as an allergen. This reaction is called contact dermatitis.
It can be triggered through ingredients ranging from poison ivy to safe food to a new laundry detergent logo.
You may have a reaction anywhere your skin has touched the substance. Since most people touch their face several times a day, it’s not uncommon to have contact dermatitis near the eyes or mouth.
Food allergies are among the most common types of allergies.
The severity of food allergies varies. You may experience nausea after eating a certain meal, while others may experience a rash or swelling around their lips.
A severe, life-threatening food allergy can lead to swelling of the tongue and windpipe. This reaction is called anaphylaxis and requires immediate medical attention.
Most of the most common food allergies in the U. S. UU. se they owe to:
Drug allergies are rare. They vary in severity and types of symptoms they cause.
When they occur, they cause rashes on the face and arms. In addition, drug allergies can cause hives, generalized facial swelling, and anaphylaxis.
Medications that could possibly cause allergies include:
Anaphylaxis is your immune system’s overreaction to an allergen. When it progresses to the point where your body begins to shut down, it’s called anaphylactic shock.
Anaphylaxis and anaphylactic shock are the most serious allergic reactions you can have.
Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
Anaphylactic surprise is characterized by other symptoms and symptoms, such as:
Call 911 or your local emergency department for anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock. If left untreated, they can be fatal.
If you’re not sure what causes your rash or hives, keep a diary of your diet, products, and activities to see if there’s a trend. It’s a smart idea to keep your doctor informed at all times.
The Healthline FindCare tool can provide you with features in your domain if you want to locate a number one care doctor or allergist.
In addition to anaphylactic reactions, many allergic reactions to the face can be treated after consultation with a doctor.
In some cases, taking an over-the-counter antihistamine or applying a topical corticosteroid (e. g. , hydrocortisone) can help your body avoid reacting to the allergen in a short period of time.
Over-the-counter antihistamines include:
It’s best to talk to a doctor to find the right treatment for your allergic reaction.
Last exam on February 1, 2022
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January 24, 2024
Written By
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Feb 1, 2022
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