Common Breathing Problems in Kids and How to Treat Them - Cedar
Rashes On Skin: Is It A Sign Of Blood Allergy? Read To Know
Skin rashes are widespread and can be caused by a variety of reasons such as allergies, infections, irritants, and underlying medical disorders. While some rashes may indicate an allergic reaction, not all skin rashes are associated with a blood allergy. Let's look at the possible causes of skin rashes and the role of allergens in their development.
Allergic Reactions"Allergies develop when the immune system reacts abnormally to ordinarily harmless substances. Skin rashes can indicate an allergic reaction, particularly if they arise soon after being exposed to an allergen," said Dr Sanjay Gupta, Dermatologist, DMCH, Darbhanga. Common allergies that can cause skin rashes include some foods, drugs, insect stings, latex, and environmental allergens like pollen or pet dander.
Also read: Effective Ways To Protect Your Skin From Sunburn Ahead Of Summer
Contact Dermatitis"Contact dermatitis is a type of skin reaction that occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with an irritant or allergen. This can result in redness, itching, swelling, and the development of a rash," said Dr Chaudhary. Common irritants and allergens that can cause contact dermatitis include soaps, detergents, cosmetics, nickel which is found in jewellery, and certain plants like poison ivy or poison oak.
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)Eczema is a chronic skin condition characterised by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. While the exact cause of eczema is unknown, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including allergies. People with eczema may experience flare-ups triggered by allergens such as certain foods, pollen, pet dander, or environmental pollutants.
Hives are raised, red welts that can appear suddenly on the skin and may be accompanied by itching or burning sensations. They are often caused by an allergic reaction to food, medication, insect stings, or other allergens. Hives typically resolve on their own within a few hours or days but can be indicative of a more severe allergic reaction in some cases.
Some medications can cause allergic reactions that manifest as skin rashes. This can occur as a result of an allergic reaction to the medication itself or to an inactive ingredient within the medication. Common culprits include antibiotics (such as penicillin), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and certain types of chemotherapy drugs.
Blood Allergy and Skin RashesWhile certain allergic reactions can lead to skin rashes, the term "blood allergy" is not commonly used in medical terminology. Allergic reactions typically involve the immune system's response to allergens that enter the body through various means, including ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact. If you suspect that a skin rash is related to an allergy, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.
Also read: Vitamin C For Skincare: Experts Explain How It Helps In Reducing Wrinkles And Pigmentation
Skin rashes can be a symptom of various underlying causes, including allergies, infections, irritants, and skin conditions. While allergies can contribute to the development of skin rashes in some cases, not all rashes are indicative of an allergic reaction. It is essential to identify the underlying cause of a skin rash to determine the appropriate treatment and management approach. If you experience persistent or severe skin rashes, seek medical attention for proper evaluation and guidance.
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Dear Doctor: Evidence Shows Eosinophilic Esophagitis Is Often Caused By Food Allergies, Sensitivities
DEAR DR. ROACH: After reading your recent column on difficulty swallowing, I wanted to write in about my experience with dysphagia.
An endoscopy with dilation and biopsies confirmed that I had eosinophilic esophagitis. My gastroenterologist suggested a one-food elimination diet. I am allergic to the protein in milk, so no dairy products for me! It's only been four months since my last endoscopy, but I have not experienced difficulty swallowing. In addition to eliminating all dairy products, I'm still very careful about how I eat (by taking smaller bites of food, for example). -- P.R.
ANSWER: Eosinophilic esophagitis is an immune-mediated disease of the esophagus. Swallowing difficulty, especially with solid foods, and symptoms of heartburn that don't get better with the standard treatments are the hallmark symptoms of this unusual condition.
Your gastroenterologist is on top of the literature. A study from 2023 showed that a diet eliminating all cow's milk products was just as effective at controlling the disease as a much more onerous elimination diet of six foods. This is strong evidence that eosinophilic esophagitis is caused by food allergies/sensitivities, in at least a large number of people.
Some people with eosinophilic esophagitis may still need medical therapy, and those who have developed strictures in their esophagus may need treatment. But food elimination diets, usually starting with cow's milk products alone, is an effective first-line treatment for many. Thanks for writing!
DEAR DR. ROACH: I am a 75-year-old man who has just been diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia (TN) in the left side of my face. It's the most terrible pain I've ever had. Is there a treatment for this condition, except being on medicine for the rest of my life? -- P.H.
ANSWER: The trigeminal nerve is responsible for the motor and sensory innervation to the face. It is called trigeminal because of its three divisions: V1 to the forehead; V2 to the upper jaw; and V3 to the lower jaw and ears. TN is most often caused by the compression of the root of the nerve, usually deep in the brain. The compression is most often caused by a blood vessel, but it can be caused by a tumor or another structure.
TN is sometimes misdiagnosed as dental pain, and other conditions (such as neuropathy after shingles) can be misdiagnosed as TN. But an experienced neurologist or pain management specialist can usually make the diagnosis through a careful history review and physical exam. An MRI is usually obtained to find the location of the nerve compression.
Although the pain of TN is usually described as sharp and sudden with brief paroxysms of pain, some people have continuous pain or other types of pain patterns. Medications are the usual first-line treatment for TN, and some people do very well with treatment. The pain of TN can come and go, with remissions lasting for months or later. Anti-epilepsy and antidepression drugs are most often used.
When medications are ineffective, surgical and radiation treatment can be considered, although it has its own risks, which is why it is not the first-line treatment. Unfortunately, surgical relief may also not be long-lasting.
Many of my patients and readers have found help from support groups for TN, such as FacePain.Org and LivingWithFacialPain.Org.
Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med.Cornell.Edu or send mail to 628 Virginia Dr., Orlando, FL 32803.
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Zyrtec Vs. Zyrtec-D For Allergies
Medically reviewed by Femi Aremu, PharmD
Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Zyrtec-D (cetirizine and pseudoephedrine) have similar names and uses.
However, the key difference between the medications is that, in addition to cetirizine, Zyrtec-D contains an additional ingredient, pseudoephedrine, a nasal decongestant.
Cetirizine is an over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine. Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant. Zyrtec-D is an OTC combination medication of the two. Decongestants help relieve nasal congestion by reducing swelling.
While pseudoephedrine is available OTC, there are restrictions for purchasing. In some states, pseudoephedrine may be classified as a controlled substance.
This article will discuss the similarities and differences between Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D.
Zyrtec vs. Zyrtec-D: What's the Difference?The key difference between Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D is the additional ingredient, pseudoephedrine, found in Zyrtec-D.
Both Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D provide relief from allergy symptoms. They both contain cetirizine, an antihistamine. Antihistamines are a class of medications that help relieve allergy symptoms by blocking histamine, a natural body chemical that triggers these symptoms.
However, Zyrtec-D also contains pseudoephedrine, a decongestant, to minimize nasal congestion. Decongestants are a class of medication that helps relieve symptoms associated with colds, allergies, and sinus infections. They are not recommended for long-term use.
While both are used for allergies, Zyrtec-D offers targeted relief for congestion, making it suitable for individuals experiencing both allergy symptoms and nasal congestion.
The two medications also differ in the minimum age at which they can be used, purchasing restrictions, and available dosage forms.
Zyrtec can treat skin reactions (hives) associated with allergies, but Zyrtec-D has not been approved for this use.
Zyrtec
Zyrtec-D
Active ingredients
Cetirizine
Cetirizine, pseudoephedrine
Drug class
Antihistamine
Antihistamine, decongestant
Appropriate use
Adults and children 6 years and older
Adults and children 12 years and older
Availability
OTC
OTC with restrictions
Restrictions
None
Buyer will not have direct access to medication and there is a limit on the amount that can be purchased
Dosage forms
Tablet, syrup, solution
Tablet
Dosing
Once daily
Up to two times daily
One of the major distinctions between Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D is accessibility. While pseudoephedrine-containing products do not require a prescription, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has restricted the amount of these products that can be purchased.
Pseudoephedrine is commonly used to make methamphetamine (meth). Meth is a highly addictive, illegal drug that is often abused and can lead to severe side effects.
Because of this, Zyrtec-D likely won't be located with other OTC medications and may be found behind the pharmacy counter.
Restrictions may vary by state, but in general, you could be required to provide additional information, such as photo identification to prove your age, name, address, and signature, to purchase Zyrtec-D, even though a prescription isn't required.
What Does the D in Zyrtec-D Stand For?The "D" in Zyrtec-D stands for "decongestant." As the name implies, this medication contains pseudoephedrine, a decongestant that relieves nasal symptoms.
Zyrtec-D combines cetirizine with pseudoephedrine for allergy and nasal decongestion relief. Pseudoephedrine relieves congestion associated with allergies and other respiratory conditions by shrinking swollen blood vessels in the nasal passages.
What Are Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D Used For?Both medications effectively relieve various allergy symptoms such as runny or itchy nose, sneezing, runny or itchy eyes, and itchy throat. Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D are used to relieve these symptoms in people with seasonal and perennial (year-round) allergies.
Zyrtec-D treats the same allergy symptoms as Zyrtec. Zyrtec-D provides the benefit of treating nasal congestion and sinus pressure in addition to allergy symptoms.
How Do They Work?Zyrtec works to relieve allergy symptoms by blocking histamine receptors. Histamine is released by the body and results in allergy symptoms. Blocking these receptors helps minimize allergy symptoms.
Similarly, Zyrtec-D treats allergy symptoms and nasal congestion by blocking histamine receptors and reducing the swelling that causes congestion.
Which Is More Effective?Determining whether Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D is more effective depends on which specific symptoms need to be treated. Both medications contain cetirizine and are effective at lessening allergy symptoms and reducing symptom severity.
Clinical trial data comparing the efficacy of cetirizine and pseudoephedrine together to either medication alone revealed that the two medications together, as found in Zyrtec-D, are more effective than with either medication alone for the treatment of allergy symptoms.
If nasal congestion or sinus pressure are concerning symptoms, Zyrtec-D may be the more effective option when compared to Zyrtec alone because it contains a decongestant. Zyrtec may be less effective than Zyrtec-D at relieving nasal congestion.
Safety and Side EffectsIn general, Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D are well-tolerated medications but side effect risks do exist.
Common side effects associated with Zyrtec use include:
Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Headache
Fatigue
Stomach upset
Because Zyrtec-D contains pseudoephedrine, there are additional potential side effects, such as:
Increased heart rate
Elevated blood pressure
Dizziness
Lightheadedness
Nausea
Difficulty sleeping
Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or heart disease, may need to avoid medications containing pseudoephedrine.
If side effects occur, they are usually mild. Contact your healthcare provider if side effects occur and worsen or fail to improve. Seek medical attention if symptoms have not improved after taking Zyrtec-D for seven days.
PrecautionsIt's important to be aware of precautions and safety warnings associated with Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D use to ensure the medications are taken appropriately and safely.
Consult with your healthcare provider before taking Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D if you have liver or kidney disease. Avoid taking other medications that make you drowsy or using alcohol while taking either medication.
Individuals with the following medical conditions should discuss the appropriateness of taking Zyrtec-D with a healthcare provider to avoid complications:
Use caution when operating a vehicle or machinery while taking either medication until you know how the medication affects you. Neither Zyrtec nor Zyrtec-D are recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding people.
Adults over 65 should speak with their healthcare provider to ensure safety and appropriateness before taking Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D.
Follow the dosing recommendations and instructions provided on the medication label. Because Zyrtec-D is an extended-release or long-acting medication, tablets should be swallowed whole to ensure the medication is safely absorbed.
Drug InteractionsIt is important to be mindful of potential drug interactions to avoid adverse effects.
Zyrtec-D should not be used by people taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), an older class of medications used to treat Parkinson's disease, depression, and other mental health conditions.
MAOIs can cause dangerously high blood pressure when taken with Zyrtec-D due to the pseudoephedrine component.
Examples of MAOIs include:
If you are taking or have taken an MAOI, ensure that at least two weeks have passed since stopping the medication before starting Zyrtec-D.
Use caution when taking Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D with other medications or substances that may cause drowsiness, such as alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, and certain antidepressants.
Reviewing all medications, including OTC products and supplements, with a healthcare provider before using Zyrtec or Zyrtec-D can help ensure safe and effective treatment for allergy symptoms and congestion.
SummaryZyrtec and Zyrtec-D are OTC medications commonly used to treat allergy symptoms. They both contain the antihistamine cetirizine. Additionally, the "D" in Zyrtec-D stands for decongestant. Zyrtec-D contains the decongestant pseudoephedrine, making it effective in treating nasal congestion.
Both medications can effectively treat allergy symptoms in adults and children, but Zyrtec-D may be preferred if symptoms include nasal congestion.
Both medications are available OTC, but because of the abuse and misuse potential of pseudoephedrine, Zyrtec-D purchases are regulated. Be prepared to provide additional information such as photo identification, your name, address, and signature at the pharmacy.
Key differences between Zyrtec and Zyrtec-D include their active ingredients, the minimum age at which they can be used, purchasing restrictions, and available dosage forms.
Moreover, because it contains pseudoephedrine, Zyrtec-D may cause additional side effects like increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as hypertension or heart disease, should talk to a provider before use.
Read the original article on Verywell Health.
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