Which Treatment Option for a Chemical Allergy Is Best?
More than 80 million people in the United States have allergies. From avoiding triggers to using medications like antihistamines or corticosteroids, the right approach for treating a chemical allergy depends on how severe your reaction is and what’s causing it.
Some people find relief with simple lifestyle adjustments or over-the-counter medicines, while others may need prescription treatments or guidance from a specialist to keep reactions under control without disrupting their daily lives.
See Srinagesh Paluvoi, MD, FAAP, FACAAI, and our team at Allergy & Asthma Affiliates in Lansdowne or Gainesville, Virginia, for a customized plan. Here’s a clear, no-nonsense breakdown of your options.
Chemical allergy symptoms
Being familiar with chemical allergy symptoms helps you determine if you should seek treatment. Examples of symptoms include:
- Scaly, crusty, tender, or red skin
- Oozing blisters
- Itching
- Burning
- Hives or rash
- Swollen face or eyes
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
See Dr. Paluvoi at the first sign of an allergic reaction to experience lasting relief.
Chemicals that may cause allergic reactions
A chemical allergic reaction might be caused by things like:
- Deodorizers
- Air fresheners
- Smoke
- Cleaning products
- Perfumes, colognes, and deodorants
- Paint thinners
- Nail polishes
- Nail polish removers
- Varnishes
- Ink
- Asphalt
- Tar fumes
- Gasoline and diesel fumes
- Chlorine
- Some medications
- Latex
During allergy testing at Allergy & Asthma Affiliates, Dr. Paluvoi can test for these and similar chemical allergens. He may also screen for seasonal allergies, food allergies, and asthma.
Best treatment options for chemical allergies
Dr. Paluvoi reviews your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and the results from your allergy tests to determine which chemical allergy treatment is right for you.
Allergen avoidance
Allergen avoidance is the first line of defense to eliminate allergic reactions to chemicals. You might need to avoid a chemical entirely or wear nonallergenic gloves to reduce the risk of exposure. If you’re allergic to a medication you take, your provider may offer alternative options.
Medications
Dr. Paluvoi might recommend a hydrocortisone cream, an antihistamine, or a prescription-strength topical steroid to ease symptoms of a chemical allergy. He could prescribe systemic steroids if your allergic reaction is widespread and severe.
EpiPen®
If you have severe allergies, keeping an epinephrine pen (EpiPen) on hand can be life-saving. Your personalized chemical allergy treatment plan varies by the type and severity of reactions you experience.
Protect yourself from chemical allergy triggers
The key to symptom relief is finding out which chemicals you’re allergic to and protecting yourself from exposure. Follow up with Dr. Paluvoi routinely to avoid future reactions and complications.
Experience chemical allergy symptom relief by contacting our office by phone or booking an appointment online today.
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