Eczema and Seasonal Allergies

It’s that time of the year where people’s allergies start to flare up due to the increased amount of pollen in the environment. Those who suffer from eczema should be a lot more careful during pollen season because of its effect on their allergies. These environmental allergens can cause people’s eczema to flare up, resulting in rashes that can last for as long as the individual is exposed to the allergen. Studies show that those who have eczema during their youth are more likely to suffer hayfever (seasonal allergies) or asthma later on.

Here are some stats from the National Library of Medicine:

• Up to 80% of children who have eczema go on to develop allergic rhinitis or asthma
• Around 30% of babies who have eczema end up developing asthma as a result
• 60% of children with severe eczema end up developing asthma as a result

People who have eczema have thinner barriers on their epidermis, meaning allergens like pollen can easily permeate the outer layers and make their way to the bloodstream. When an eczema trigger like pollen reaches the bloodstream, the immune system goes on overdrive to try to fight it off, resulting in an anti-inflammatory reaction like a flare-up.

So how can those with eczema protect themselves during pollen season? The best way is to stay indoors for as much as possible, and to regularly replace their home filters to keep pollen out. To add to that, they need to keep their skin moisturized daily as it can help with the itching that comes with the eczema rashes. Getting tested for allergies is also a good way to figure out which types of plants, trees or grass can cause flare ups. Allergy shots can also be a long term solution to stop allergy symptoms, which can help lessen their eczema flare ups.