An allergy is a reaction by the immune system to something that is normally harmless, such as a food, a metal or a fragrance. In the skin, allergies can cause itchy rashes, hives and swelling.
Two main types of allergy affect the skin, and they are tested for in different ways. Immediate allergies, such as food allergy, cause symptoms within minutes to two hours and are investigated with skin prick or blood tests. Delayed allergies, such as contact allergy, cause a rash a day or two after contact and are investigated with patch testing.
Many people with hives or swelling assume they have an allergy, but often no allergic cause is found. Our consultant dermatologists can find out what is really going on, and arrange the right tests.
Allergies
Not every rash, hive or swelling is caused by an allergy. Your consultation with one of our dermatologists will find the likely cause, and, where it will help, arrange skin prick or blood tests for suspected food or medicine allergy, or patch testing for contact allergy.
Types of Allergy
Food Allergy
Reactions to foods, from an itchy mouth to swelling and anaphylaxis.
Contact Allergy
An itchy rash caused by something touching the skin, diagnosed with patch testing.
Urticaria
Hives: raised, itchy wheals that are often not caused by an allergy.
Angioedema
Swelling of the lips, eyes or skin, with several possible causes.
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