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Both food allergies and eczema can be a severe disruption to an individual’s life. If both are present, you may be wondering if they are somehow linked. It’s important to know what causes both conditions and what can be done about it. Allow us to answer a few frequently asked questions about the association between food allergies and eczema:

Why does eczema occur?

Healthy skin will protect itself from irritants and allergens that come into contact with it. However, if eczema is present, this protection is compromised. Irritants and allergens will enter the skin, causing inflammation, redness, oozing, and other eczema-related symptoms.

Can food allergies cause eczema to form?

Food allergies do not directly cause eczema, but they may contribute to eczema flare-ups. It is not uncommon for people who suffer from eczema to develop food allergies, but eczema is not the cause of this development. Eczema develops due to a gene variation; food allergies develop due to an immune system disorder.

What is the allergic march?

Eczema is often referred to as atopic dermatitis. To best understand the allergic march, it’s important to understand the term atopy. According to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology,

“Atopy refers to the genetic tendency to develop allergic diseases such as allergic rhinitis, asthma and atopic dermatitis (eczema). Atopy is typically associated with heightened immune responses to common allergens, especially inhaled allergens and food allergens.”

When this genetic tendency is present, it can lead to other allergic diseases developing such as a food allergy, hay fever, and asthma. Often, eczema is the first sign of the allergic march. Although not all individuals with eczema will experience the allergic march, it’s important to talk to an allergist and get tested for allergies.

Talk to Langford Allergy about your food allergy and/or eczema.

Food allergies can be eliminated; eczema can be managed! Our team can equip you with the knowledge and treatment necessary to take back control of your skin and immune system so you can sleep better at night and thrive during the day. Make an appointment with one of our friendly team members today: 478-787-4728