Eczema: Can Allergens Change Over Time?

Q: Eczema: Can Allergens Change Over Time?

Hello： There are two significant doubts： First, it is quite rare for someone to develop "atopic dermatitis" at the age of 30; while it can happen, the incidence is low, and the areas you described are not typical. <br>Could it be that the diagnosis was mistaken, perhaps it is "se

Atopic dermatitis

Hello Doctor, around the fourth quarter of last year, I started experiencing peeling skin on my face and allergy-like symptoms on my chest.
I initially thought it was due to dry skin from the winter.
However, when I visited a dermatologist this year, the doctor informed me that I have atopic dermatitis.
After testing my allergens, I discovered that if I eliminate white rice from my diet, my symptoms cease.
Today, I would like to ask the doctor if allergens can change over time, or do I need to continue avoiding white rice to prevent symptoms? Thank you for taking the time to respond.

flybird, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/07/14

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology

Hello: There are two significant doubts: First, it is quite rare for someone to develop "atopic dermatitis" at the age of 30; while it can happen, the incidence is low, and the areas you described are not typical.
Could it be that the diagnosis was mistaken, perhaps it is "seborrheic dermatitis"? Second, white rice is generally recognized as a food that rarely triggers allergies; there may be other factors at play, or you might have a unique constitution.
If avoiding white rice leads to improvement, I personally do not oppose continuing that practice.
Recently, I have noticed an interesting phenomenon where many patients come in claiming to have "atopic dermatitis," yet they do not meet the diagnostic criteria, including patients with athlete's foot.
Is it possible that this term has become trendy, and after being reported in the media, it has stuck in people's minds? Whenever "dermatitis" is mentioned, they automatically associate it with "atopic"? Wishing you peace.

Reply Date: 2008/07/14

More Info

Eczema, particularly atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can be influenced by various factors, including allergens. Your experience of developing symptoms such as peeling skin and allergic reactions can indeed be linked to allergens, which may change over time.
To address your question directly: yes, allergens can change over time. This phenomenon is often referred to as "allergen sensitization." As you age or as your environment changes, your immune system may react differently to certain substances. For instance, you may develop new allergies or become desensitized to allergens that previously triggered a reaction. In your case, it seems that you have identified white rice as a specific trigger for your eczema symptoms. This is a valuable insight, as dietary triggers can play a significant role in managing eczema.

It's important to note that food allergies can develop at any age, and what may have been tolerated in the past can become problematic later on. Additionally, other environmental factors, such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and even changes in weather, can also contribute to the exacerbation of eczema. Therefore, while avoiding white rice may help alleviate your symptoms, it is also crucial to remain vigilant about other potential allergens that could affect your skin condition.

In managing eczema, a multifaceted approach is often recommended. This includes:
1. Identifying and Avoiding Triggers: As you have done with white rice, keeping a food diary or an allergy diary can help you track what foods or environmental factors exacerbate your symptoms.

2. Moisturizing: Regularly applying emollients or moisturizers can help maintain skin hydration and barrier function, which is essential for individuals with eczema.

3. Medications: Depending on the severity of your eczema, topical corticosteroids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications like tacrolimus (Protopic) may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and manage flare-ups.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Stress management, maintaining a balanced diet, and avoiding harsh soaps or detergents can also contribute to better skin health.

5. Regular Follow-ups: Consulting with a dermatologist or allergist can provide you with tailored advice and potential allergy testing to identify other allergens that may be affecting you.

In conclusion, while avoiding white rice seems to be beneficial for your eczema, it is essential to recognize that allergens can indeed change over time. Continuous monitoring of your symptoms and potential triggers, along with a comprehensive management plan, will help you maintain better control over your eczema. If you notice new symptoms or reactions, it may be worthwhile to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.

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