Eczema is a chronic skin condition that impacts millions of people. It is characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Topical treatments are often prescribed to address eczema. However, these often only provide temporary relief. More advanced treatment is necessary to address the condition. What many people do not know about eczema is that it is closely linked with allergies and asthma. Common allergens can trigger or worsen flare-ups. Because of this connection, many patients benefit from advanced asthma treatment. You may wonder, can immunotherapy help with eczema?
Can Immunotherapy Help with Eczema?
The link between eczema and allergies is more common than people think. Because of this connection, allergy immunotherapy has been shown to be a promising treatment option. This is specific to patients whose eczema is linked to environmental allergies. Common allergens include dust mites, pollen, mold, pets, and even seasonal irritants.
Immunotherapy is a treatment designed to retrain the immune system. When successful, it helps the immune system react less strongly to allergens. It is a standard treatment option for asthma, allergic rhinitis, pet allergies, and dust mite sensitivity. Research has now shown that it can also help patients with eczema whose symptoms are triggered by environmental allergens.
The Link Between Allergens and Eczema Flare-Ups
Many people think of eczema as just dry or irritated skin. However, it is a skin condition closely linked to the immune system. Exposure to specific allergens can trigger flare-ups in patients with the condition. Understanding the connection can help reduce your risk for unwanted symptoms.
Allergens and Skin Inflammation
When someone with eczema is exposed to an allergen, the immune system can overreact. When the immune system overreacts, it causes inflammation. Inflammatory chemicals are released to protect you, even though the allergen is relatively harmless. The chemicals irritate the skin and can lead to several unwanted symptoms. This includes burning sensations, dry patches, scaly skin, itching, or redness. When this occurs, the skin barrier weakens. This makes it much easier for allergens and other irritants to penetrate the skin and exacerbate flare-ups.
Allergy-related eczema differs from other types, as it often shows clear patterns. The cause of flare-ups is often easily identifiable. Common allergens include dust mites, pet dander, pollen, mold spores, and cockroaches. Reducing your exposure to known triggers is essential. However, in many cases, this is not always possible. When the reaction occurs, it activates the immune system and triggers eczema symptoms. Treating the underlying allergies is essential for long-lasting relief. Immunotherapy has been proven to improve eczema associated with allergies.
Immunotherapy Treatment for Allergy-Related Eczema
Allergies play a significant role in triggering eczema. Addressing the root cause of your unwanted symptoms is essential. This provides long-term relief and can improve your overall quality of life. Immunotherapy is one of the most effective ways to retrain the immune system. Retraining the immune system results in a weaker reaction when exposed to allergens.
Subcutaneous Immunotherapy
Subcutaneous immunotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for allergy-related eczema. It is one of the most widely researched methods, providing long-lasting results. It is also called an allergy shot. It is delivered in the upper arm and includes a series of shots. Initially, patients receive weekly injections. Over time, the dosage is increased to ensure the immune system safely adjusts. Once the build-up phase is complete, the dosage switches to monthly shots. This ensures long-term tolerance and helps control symptoms.
The medication trains the immune system, which improves symptoms in several ways. Allergic inflammation and immune overreaction are reduced. Skin irritation is also minimized with treatment. Many patients notice a reduction in the frequency and severity of allergy-related eczema flare-ups. The need for topical or oral steroid medications decreases. Patients who experience persistent flare-ups with confirmed allergies benefit from treatment. Consult with New York’s top asthma doctor to determine if the treatment is right for you.
Sublingual Immunotherapy
Sublingual immunotherapy is another effective medication for allergy-related eczema. It involves taking medication orally. It is either a tablet or a solution that is placed under the tongue daily. This is a needle-free option that does not require you to be in the office. The medication is absorbed through immune cells in the mouth. When taken consistently, it reduces immune system reactivity.
Sublingual treatment is especially effective for patients with eczema related to dust mites, pollen, or pets. It offers several advantages compared to allergy shots. It is a simple, at-home treatment with a lower risk of side effects. It provides excellent results and reduces the need for steroid creams. It essentially prevents flare-ups before they even begin.
Immunotherapy Reduces the Need for Steroid Medications
Steroids are commonly used to manage eczema. However, it is not the best long-term solution. It comes with several unwanted side effects. This includes stretch marks, increased risk of infection, and skin thinning. Rebound flare-ups can also occur with long-term steroid use. Immunotherapy effectively reduces the need for steroids.
Immunotherapy reduces the immune system’s reaction to allergens. Over time, this reduces the frequency of flare-ups. It also reduces the severity of flare-ups. The decrease in inflammation reduces the need for additional medications. Most patients notice a reduction in the need for steroid medications after immunotherapy treatment. Immunotherapy addresses the underlying allergy triggers. This reduces symptoms and the need for symptom management medication.
Is Immunotherapy Right for Me?
Deciding whether immunotherapy is right for you can be straightforward with the help of a specialist. When you go to your first appointment, discuss your triggers and symptoms. Include information on the frequency and severity of your flare-ups. Below you will find what patients benefit the most from immunotherapy.
- Flares around pets, pollen, or dust
- Symptoms that worsen during allergy season
- History of asthma
- History of allergic conditions
- Reliance on steroid creams
- Unresponsive to topical medications
- New York’s Top Asthma Doctor
If you struggle with eczema related to allergies, contact Dr. Shukla and his team at the Asthma & Sleep Institute today to schedule an appointment!
