Seasonal Allergies

[willus]

An Allergist recently told me that tree, grass, ragweed, dust mites and mold are the cause of the allergic reaction I’m experiencing.  I have a stinging burning sensation in my skin especially where my clothing make contact with my skin.  Some times I my skin feels like its being picked with tiny needs.  If I scratch the any area of skin small red bumps appear.  I’ve tried anti-histamines both with and without a prescription with very little improvement.

I’d like to know how do allergies affect the body’s immune system.  Is it from breathing in the allergen, direct contact with the skin or both?

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

I am skeptical.  A great many people are allergic to trees, grass, and the others, but I can't recall seeing any patients with the kind of symptoms you have whose condition was caused by allergies like those.  I'm really not sure what is causing your symptoms.  Are you perhaps coming in contact with fiberglass, or some other substance which produces small particles which can irritate the skin?  You ought to consult with a skin doctor about this.

Has your allergist suggested treating you for the allergies you are said to have?  

Best.

Dr. Rockoff