Urticaria from synthetics. All about fabric allergies

Such a phenomenon as an allergy to synthetics is a relatively new type of reaction of the human body. Serious diseases caused by various allergens - external and internal irritants - today are no longer such harmless manifestations as several centuries ago.

For example, in the time of Hippocrates, an allergy could appear in a small category of people when eating certain foods, and in ancient Rome, the famous doctor Galen noted the appearance of a runny nose caused by the smell of roses. However, these were isolated cases, and the real scope of the epidemic began only with the development of technological progress, the introduction of harmful production, the creation of food substitutes and food flavor enhancers, synthetic materials, fabrics, artificial fur and household chemicals.

According to analysts, allergy is a disease directly related to the development of civilization. Environmental problems are gradually causing new manifestations of allergies in more than a small number of people, which is caused by a violation of the natural metabolic process in the environment of living organisms.

Mankind began to seriously think about solving this problem, looking for ways to neutralize and protect against harmful effects and allergization, involving not only international environmental services, but also entire medical associations.

Allergy to synthetic fabrics

In addition to allergic reactions to food and household chemicals, in recent years, an allergy to clothes and shoes made of synthetics has become widespread. In this case, the situation is aggravated by the fact that specialists have learned to produce fabrics not from pure natural fibers, but to create synthetic materials through chemical experiments.

Their list is quite large, and every year the range of clothes from them increases, since they are much cheaper than natural ones. In particular, they include the following:

viscose;
microfiber;
acrylic;
fleece;
polyamide;
polartec;
membrane;
elastane, polyester and so on.

Moreover, with regard to aesthetic qualities, synthetics are outwardly quite attractive and have a high percentage of strength. Such fabrics are made on the basis of polymers in specialized workshops, and modern markets and shops are filled with just such clothes. In addition, bed sets, towels and underwear are made from synthetics. And everything would be fine if people did not show up for such products.

It is worth noting that synthetics still create some inconvenience and discomfort when worn: they do not pass air well enough, they are difficult to wash, they do not absorb moisture very well, they become electrified, they hold an unpleasant odor for a long time and, in the end, cause allergies.

The body begins to blister or rash, itch, redden and swell. As a result of the use of synthetics, serious problems may begin to develop. Therefore, when making a purchase, you must always pay attention to the composition of the fabric. And if the thing does not fit, then sadly, it is better not to wear it. If you are allergic to bed linen fabric, it is better to change it to a natural set.

contact dermatitis

One of the diseases that appeared against the background of the use of synthetics is contact dermatitis. Usually, at first, the disease makes itself felt by mechanical action on the skin in the places of seams and bends of clothing, in the area of the collar and folds. Here much depends on the quality of material processing, the structure of the fiber itself and the wear time. Allergy manifests itself in this disease in slow motion.

The main symptoms of the disease are the appearance of irritations in certain areas of the skin that are in direct contact with the allergen. Moreover, manifestations can appear even some time after wearing synthetic clothing or using inappropriate underwear. Characteristic signs are reddening of the skin, the appearance of bubbles filled with a transparent liquid composition, the presence of swelling in the contact area and itching. Bubbles should not be touched to avoid infection. Gradually, as they disappear, ulcers appear instead, and when the inflammation process subsides, crusts remain on the skin for some time.

Treatment of contact dermatitis is carried out by local exposure to special ointments and creams. For example, such as advantan, elidel, zyrtec, erius and locoid. It is recommended to apply therapeutic agents twice a day, while the course itself is two weeks. For more severe lesions, the use of special dietary therapy is recommended, as well as corticosteroid preparations for oral use.

Allergic dermatitis

Another characteristic disease is, which proceeds in the form of a peculiar reaction of the body to the effects of synthetics and other possible irritants. Like contact dermatitis, this type of pathology develops slowly.

In order for the first signs of the disease to appear, direct interaction with the allergen must be long enough. In this case, not antibodies, but immune cells, mostly lymphocytes, take part in the reaction. The clinical picture is characterized by signs resembling the development of eczema. Large red spots appear on the affected areas of the skin, after which small bubbles form in their place, which begin to get wet, and subsequently noticeable defects remain on the surface of the epidermis. There is the appearance of crusts and scales.

The lesions were initially those places that had contact with synthetic tissue. Each allergy gradually begins to affect not a separate area, but the whole body as a whole, affecting the organs even from the inside. External manifestations are only evidence of the presence of allergic dermatitis. And of course, the fact that it is desirable to stop the disease at the very beginning of its development is indisputable.

Clarification of the diagnosis of this disease for specialists is not difficult. Direct questioning of patients and careful visual examination of skin lesions helps in this. Allergic dermatitis has quite characteristic specific manifestations, and modern methods allow, in addition, to confirm the diagnosis with the help of special ones. This technique makes it possible not only to verify the correct diagnosis, but also to specify the direct source - the allergen. The essence of the procedure is that a small scratch and a substance that is supposed to be an irritant are applied to the skin with a needle. After some time, at the site of the sample, in the presence of a source, a slight inflammation appears in the form of spots and edema. The main condition for the test is the complete absence of other skin diseases.

Summarizing

The treatment of this disease, like any other allergy to synthetics, especially in an advanced stage, is not an easy process. First, you should completely abandon clothing made of a certain material.

It is best to use natural fabrics such as linen and cotton.

As for woolen sweaters, they can cause a negative impact to no lesser extent. Therefore, they should be worn over cotton shirts. Further symptoms are removed with antihistamine drugs, which are available in the form of drops and are prescribed for oral administration. There are a number of drying anti-allergic agents in the form of ointments and gels.

Allergy today is one of the dangerous diseases, fraught with serious pathological consequences. Therefore, its neutralization is a necessary measure. And the sooner treatment is started, the better.

Many people suffer from various types of allergies. And one of the most common is an allergy to synthetic materials. Clothes and bed linen are made from this material.

In people who have delicate and sensitive skin, in everyday life they may encounter such a problem as an allergy to clothing made from synthetic fibers. Such unpleasant reactions of the body give a person discomfort and discomfort on the skin. In addition, a tendency to be allergic to synthetics can be a consequence of the fact that a citizen has a disease. Only a medical specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe treatment.

When an allergic reaction appeared in a person precisely because he wears an everyday thing made of synthetic materials, then such a citizen should remove clothes from his wardrobe and replace them with an everyday item made of natural fibers. Even if the label contains the full composition of the product, then such information should not be completely trusted. After all, an allergy can manifest itself not only on the composition of the product, but also on paint.

There are several reasons why you may be allergic to synthetic material. Such reasons include:

chemical cause lies in the fact that in some types of wardrobe element there may be a pungent odor and rich colors;
Mechanical damage to the skin occur due to the fact that when a site with strong sweat secretions comes into contact with a synthetic material, normal air exchange does not occur;
Psychological reason occurs at the moment when a person puts on an everyday thing made of synthetics, but at the same time understands on a subconscious level that such material can be harmful to health. Even the smallest symptoms, such as slight redness and small pimples from the interaction of the body with synthetics, can cause panic attacks in the consumer. If such a panic state in a person lasts for a long time, then it is better for such a citizen to seek help from a professional psychologist.

The fact that a person experiences discomfort precisely because of the contact of the skin and a synthetic everyday thing can be understood by the following nuances:

An allergic reaction manifested itself precisely in the place where the skin was in contact with the clothes.
Symptoms may not appear immediately, but only when wearing one type of clothing again.
After a person has removed a thing made of unnatural fiber, redness does not go away.
If a person sleeps on bed linen made from non-natural materials, then redness may appear on his body after sleep.

In order to accurately determine the cause, the patient should pass a special analysis. This analysis can be done in two ways:

When visiting a polyclinic at the place of residence;
In a private medical facility.

You can understand that a person felt bad because of wearing an everyday item made of unnatural fiber by the following symptoms:

It becomes difficult for a person to breathe, runny nose, suffocation.
Redness of the skin.
Eyes tear.
Peeling of the skin.
Skin itching.
A small consumer of such a wardrobe element may experience dermatitis.

If a person has a severe allergic reaction to clothing made from synthetic fibers, then such a consumer may experience an anaphylactic shock. This condition is accompanied by the following symptoms:

Decreased blood pressure.
Fainting.
Spasms.

Most often, discomfort when wearing synthetic things appears in a person on the following parts of the body:

Wrists.
Groin area.
Stomach.
Elbow bends.
Neckline.

It should be borne in mind that the most sensitive parts of the body are those places that have increased sweating. These areas of the body include:

Armpits.
Skin folds.
Place under the chest.

What to do, what and how to treat

If a citizen has an allergic reaction while wearing synthetic clothing, the following steps should be taken:

Take off everyday things that cause discomfort;
Examine parts of the body whose skin is damaged;
To alleviate his condition, a person needs to use medications. You can use the following medicines depending on the symptoms.

With irritation and redness of the skin, antihistamines should be taken:

In order to cleanse the body of allergens, a person should use enterosorbents:

If the patient has itching on the skin, then he needs to take:

For a speedy recovery, damaged areas of the body can be applied:

As healing creams that will help the skin quickly gain a healthy look, you can use:

In addition to pharmaceutical preparations for the treatment of this disease, you can also use medicinal herbs:

It should be borne in mind that any use of pharmaceutical preparations or medicinal herbs must be mandatory agreed with the attending physician.

In order to avoid such unpleasant consequences in the future after wearing a thing made of synthetics, you should take into account the following tips:

For washing things, it is necessary to use special washing powders that do not cause discomfort to the consumer of the washed thing;
Try not to wear too bright wardrobe items, since a rich color indicates that this item has a large amount of dyes that can cause disease;
Socks must be made of cotton. And you need to change this item of clothing every day.

For people with sensitive skin, it is worth buying everyday things made only from natural materials. Such materials include:

As can be seen from the above, an allergic reaction occurs even to wardrobe elements that have synthetics in their composition. It is possible to cure such an unpleasant disease, but for this, first of all, you need to get rid of the clothes that bring inconvenience to a person. Secondly, as soon as the first symptoms of allergies appear, you need to go for an examination to a qualified specialist. Thirdly, it is worth remembering that it is best to prevent the disease than to treat it for a long time later.

Allergy to synthetics: causes, symptoms, first aid, treatment methods

Allergy is a disease that affects millions of people around the world, not only adults, but also children. How many varieties of this disease exist, even an experienced specialist will probably find it difficult to say - on the pollen of flowering plants and in the sun, on certain foods and low temperatures, on detergents and animal hair. The list seems to be endless.

Is it possible to be allergic to synthetics? Yes, unfortunately this type of disease is widespread. That's what we're going to talk about today. You will learn what causes the disease, how it manifests itself, how to deal with it and whether there are ways to prevent it. Photos of symptoms of an allergy to synthetics are often published in medical publications. Allergy manifests itself in people with hypersensitivity to many external stimuli. The disease delivers to patients not only physical, but also psychological discomfort.

Synthetic materials are for the most part the strongest allergens, so the reaction to them in people predisposed to the disease resembles the symptoms of dermatitis - swelling of the skin, itchy red spots. Most often, an allergic reaction occurs in the bikini area, on the abdomen, décolleté, shins, and back. With untimely treatment, the transition of the disease to a chronic form is possible.

Common synthetic fibers

It is no secret that today it is almost impossible to buy clothes made entirely from natural fabrics. And this is understandable: synthetic fabrics are durable, lightweight and easy to care for. Clothes from them are worn well, retain their shape and color well. The cost of such things is much lower than that of clothes made from natural fabrics.

Such advantages make synthetics very popular, but only as long as there is no allergy. Popular synthetic fabrics that are most often allergic to:

fleece - synthetic knitwear, which is made of polyester and is used for sewing insulated clothing;
taslan is an innovative fabric, in some cases it has a breathable structure;
lavsan - affordable fabric, which is a type of polyester and is produced during oil refining;
perlon - artificial silk;
meryl - light, but durable material, very pleasant to the body;
velsoft is an ultra-thin new synthetic material, which is called new generation synthetics (microfiber).

Before purchasing fabrics or things, an allergic person should make sure that they do not contain synthetic fibers. They are of several types:

polyurethane (spandex, elastane);
carbon chain - containing carbon atoms in its composition;
polyester (lavsan, vikron);
polyamide (kapron, nylon).

Heterochain - containing carbon atoms and other elements:

polyvinyl alcohol;
polyolefin;
polyacrylonitrile (cashmilon, acrylic, orlon);
polyvinyl chloride.

Causes of allergy to synthetics

Experts identify several main reasons that can cause allergic reactions to synthetics.

The disease is caused by textiles that retain moisture during sweating, when the body gets rid of salts. When wearing synthetic clothing, they interact with the skin and cause irritation, manifested by redness, swelling, itching and burning. In addition, an allergy to synthetics occurs if coarse threads and pile were used in tailoring. As a rule, after the cessation of contact with the allergen, allergic symptoms also disappear.

Chemical

Sometimes clothes have good breathability, but the symptoms of the disease only increase. In this case, familiarize yourself with the chemical composition of the material used. Often, manufacturers add dyes to synthetics to give a presentation and improve the quality of things. Sometimes they have a pungent odor and even leave marks on the skin. In contact with it, such tissues cause not only contact dermatitis, conjunctivitis, rhinitis and allergic cough, but can also provoke a rapid allergy to synthetics with Quincke's edema and anaphylactic shock.

People who are prone to allergic reactions of this type should wash in neutral detergents and thoroughly iron clothing containing synthetic fibers before first use. If the symptoms persist, it is better to refuse such things.

Psychological

Quite often, an allergy to synthetics in adults is of a psychological nature, when a person perceives synthetics as a material that can harm him. As a result, he develops a fear of using polymer and synthetic products. In this case, when the slightest redness, slight itching, pimple appears, he panics and perceives such symptoms as the onset of the disease. It is interesting that in such situations even pure cotton leads to a psychological reaction, so a person who suffers from such a phobia needs to consult a psychologist.

Photos showing allergy symptoms make it clear that people suffering from such an ailment have a hard time. Allergic reactions to the use of synthetic materials cause contact dermatitis and are manifested by the following symptoms:

severe itching;
skin redness;
peeling and the appearance of ulcers.

You need to know that an infection can get into the erosive formations when combing, and this will lead to inflammation of the skin. Therefore, try not to scratch the rash, but seek help from a dermatologist in a timely manner. In addition to skin rashes, symptoms of an allergy to synthetics can be expressed by the following signs:

runny nose with dry congestion or with mucous discharge from the nose;
conjunctivitis with photophobia and lacrimation.

Complicated symptoms are dangerous with attacks of nausea, anaphylaxis with symptoms of hypertension, dizziness, tachycardia, and suffocation. At the first signs of an instant allergy, immediately take an antihistamine and call an ambulance.

Damage zones

Symptoms of an allergy to synthetics in adults (we posted a photo in this article) appear most often on areas of the skin in contact with clothing:

neck and décolleté;
elbow bend;
wrists;
inguinal zone;
abdominal area.

allergies in pregnant women

This type of allergy often occurs during pregnancy due to the weakening of the immunity of the expectant mother. If synthetics cause an allergic reaction, discard synthetic underwear, because it, adjacent to the body, can provoke unwanted symptoms. Try replacing synthetic clothing with cotton. It should be pleasant to the touch and not cause allergic symptoms.

Be sure to inform your doctor about the manifestation of an allergy, since not all drugs for treatment can be used during pregnancy. The doctor selects drugs taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient and the duration of her pregnancy.

Allergy in children

More than 40% of children worldwide, according to WHO, are allergic to synthetics. From birth, modern babies are surrounded by synthetic and polymeric materials: bathing products, baths, nipples, toys - all this is made from synthetic materials. Parents should be aware that breastfed babies are much less prone to allergic reactions. It has been established that the composition of mother's milk includes immune cells that protect the baby from adverse environmental influences. In addition, babies are less likely to get sick.

An allergy to synthetics in a child most often manifests itself in the form of rashes on the legs, therefore, when diagnosing this part of the body, special attention should be paid.

Allergy treatment

Unfortunately, it is completely impossible to get rid of an allergy to synthetics, but depending on the symptoms and individual characteristics of the body, dermatologists and allergists prescribe complex therapy. It involves the use of local and oral preparations, traditional medicine.

Treatment of this disease is most effective only after the exclusion of contact with the allergen.

Antihistamine treatment

Antihistamines of different generations are prescribed depending on the symptoms. The most effective drugs include:

These medicines are sold in pharmacies without a prescription. However, do not self-medicate. Medicines are prescribed by a doctor in accordance with individual indications.

Local treatment

The allergist will also prescribe local therapy, taking into account the severity of the patient's condition. With minor manifestations of an allergy to synthetics, non-hormonal ointments are first prescribed:

"Levosin", "Fucidin" - drugs that help fight allergies aggravated by a secondary infection.
"Solcoseryl", "Radevit" - drugs that promote the healing of damaged skin.
"Panthenol", "Bepanten" - moisturize and soften the skin, reduce peeling and itching.

Depending on the hormonal activity, glucocorticosteroids are divided into three groups:

with a mild course of the disease, weakly acting corticosteroid ointments are prescribed - "Prednisolone", "Hydrocortisone";
with severe allergies, drugs with a moderate effect are prescribed - Fluorocort, Afloderm;
in case of severe allergic reactions, when other drugs have not brought the desired result, highly active glucocorticoids are used - Haltsinokid, Dermovate.

Folk remedies

You should not count on the fact that traditional medicine will help get rid of an allergy to synthetics completely, but they will reduce the manifestation of symptoms and alleviate the condition:

Decoctions of chamomile and mint soothe the skin, reduce burning and itching. To do this, you need to make ice cubes from decoctions and lubricate the skin with them during bouts of itching.
Skin rashes will help remove a decoction of chamomile with a string. Wash the affected areas of the skin with it three times a day.
Baths, compresses and lotions from a decoction of bay leaf and string are effective.

Disease prevention

Preventive measures to prevent allergy to synthetics are much simpler than for other types of this disease.

Completely eliminate contact with the allergen, give preference to clothes made of cotton and linen.
To reduce the risk of allergic reactions, carefully choose bedding, studying the composition of textiles.
Be sure to wash new items using the extra rinse cycle.
For newborns and babies, buy only cotton diapers, undershirts, sliders. If it is revealed that the child is allergic, regularly consult with specialists to monitor his condition. To increase the immunity of the crumbs, do not give up breastfeeding.

Symptoms and treatment of allergies to synthetics

The list of the most popular synthetic fabrics includes acrylic, polyester, elastane, viscose, lycra or acetate. Refusal to wear things from these artificial materials does not always give the desired result. Modern natural fabrics are partly composed of industrial additives - their fibers are often treated with chemicals in order to increase the practicality of the fabric. In case of a predisposition to an allergy to synthetics, special attention should be paid to the purchase of new products and the reaction of the body to them.

Allergy manifestations are the result of a malfunction of internal processes. In the case of matter, most often they are a consequence of the influence of a strong external stimulus on the body, but sometimes the cause of the pathological reaction lies in the person himself.

Factors that trigger the development of an allergic response can be:

Mechanical. The result of close contact of artificial matter with the skin. Synthetics do not absorb moisture well, so the sweat released by the human body lingers on the surface of the body. Wet epidermis is quickly rubbed with a cloth, and metabolic products released with sweat increase irritation. Such a reaction can not be considered an allergy, because the symptoms are not relieved by taking antihistamines. Characteristic changes in the composition of the blood in this case occur only against the background of damage to significant areas of the body.
Chemical. Symptoms appear in response to the action of the reagents that were used during the production of the fabric. Such a reaction often occurs in newborns, and even if they purchase items made of 100% cotton or linen for them. Natural fibers are often subjected to additional processing with chemicals, which leads to the appearance of traces of irritation. Bright colors are especially dangerous for people with sensitive skin.
psychological. Hypochondriacs and people who react sharply to any information about illnesses can themselves inspire the idea that they have allergies. The result will be the appearance of exactly the symptoms that they expect. Despite the absence of the stimulus, the body reacts as if it were there. Taking antihistamines acts as a placebo and may have the desired effect. Also, the increased sensitivity of the epidermis is due to stress, overwork, physical or emotional exhaustion.

Identifying the cause of an allergy and eliminating it is the first step to getting rid of the problem.

Even if the irritant is obvious and after eliminating contact with it, the condition returned to normal, it is better to contact a specialist and undergo a complete diagnosis. This will make sure that a particular allergen is intolerant and establish possible additional negative factors, which is important for effective relapse prevention.

In the case of a negative response of the body to synthetics, the clinical picture often develops gradually. A person may not even suspect that he has an intolerance to some tissue if he wears things that are not suitable for himself for a short time or rarely.

Symptoms of an allergy to synthetics can be different:

Some people notice symptoms in themselves, but due to their mild severity, they do not pay much attention to them. However, ignoring the signs of increased reactivity of the body is fraught with the development of serious complications.

Possible Complications

Anaphylactic shock

Quincke's edema

Purulent skin lesions

Diagnostics

Skin tests

Blood test for IgE

The blood of people contains special cells - immunoglobulins E, according to the level of which one can suspect an allergy. In the biomaterial of a healthy person, they are present in small quantities. Against the background of the development of a pathological immune response, their volume increases markedly.

Normal values of immunoglobulin E depending on age:

0 - 2 years: not higher than 64 mIU / ml;
2 years - 18 years: not higher than 150 mIU / ml;
Over 18 years old: not higher than 110-120 mIU / ml.

By the value of the numbers received, the allergist can not only confirm the presence of problems, but also establish the type of irritant. Under the influence of a number of external or internal factors, the initial data may change, but only slightly.

Elimination therapy

Treatment of an allergy to synthetics begins with the exclusion of the patient's contact with the irritant.

If possible, it is recommended to refuse to wear not only the product or type of fabric that causes a negative response, but in general from artificial materials. At a minimum, you should make sure that potentially dangerous things do not come into contact with the skin. The use of underwear made from natural fibers that have not been subjected to additional processing can eliminate many problems. New things must be washed before wearing so that they no longer pose a danger to an allergic person.

Medical treatment

Relief of allergy symptoms is carried out with the help of antihistamines. Additionally, it may be necessary to take or externally use auxiliary medications. Only if you treat the disease in a complex way, you can count on a quick and lasting effect from therapy.

If you are allergic to synthetics, the following medications can be used:

Traditional medicine methods

Often, allergists and dermatologists recommend to their patients the use of traditional medicine in the fight against manifestations of the pathological reactivity of the body. Before starting such therapy, you must obtain permission from the attending physician to use a particular technique.

In the treatment of skin manifestations of an allergy to artificial tissues, the following procedures have proven themselves well:

These approaches are effective, but this does not mean that they can be limited. Traditional medicine should be used only as an aid. It does not replace the need for mandatory traditional manipulations.

Ways to prevent relapse

After recovery, a person with an allergic status should not relax. Unpleasant symptoms may return with the next contact with the irritant or in case of an increase in the reactivity of the body. To minimize the likelihood of the influence of these two factors, you need to learn a few simple rules for preventing allergy relapses.

To reduce the risk of recurrence of the disease, you need:

Reduce the likelihood of contact with the allergen. Bed and underwear should be made from natural materials. Wearing synthetics should be abandoned or an exception should be made only for outerwear. Underwear and socks should be changed daily. It is undesirable that bright products come into contact with the skin.
Be careful when buying new things.
Allergy sufferers are not suitable for things that are labeled - "Bleached with chlorine." This is an aggressive reagent that can trigger an immune response.
Items that do not require ironing are usually treated with formaldehyde, which is dangerous if you are sensitive to chemicals. The fabric of products that are allowed to be washed in a typewriter is impregnated with artificial resins and is also dangerous for an allergic person.
Engage in strengthening the body's immune defenses. This will help vitamin complexes, hardening measures, taking enterosorbents.
Forget about bad habits. Smoking and alcohol abuse increase the reactivity of the body, which increases the risk of developing or exacerbating allergies.

Synthetic materials are widely used in the production of curtains, furniture upholstery, carpets, tablecloths and other household items. When buying these products, you should also be careful, because you have to constantly contact them.

What to do if the allergy does not go away?

You are tormented by sneezing, coughing, itching, rashes and redness of the skin, or maybe your allergies are even more serious. And the isolation of the allergen is unpleasant or even impossible.

In addition, allergies lead to diseases such as asthma, urticaria, dermatitis. And the recommended medicines for some reason are not effective in your case and do not fight the cause in any way ...

Comments, reviews and discussions

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For the prevention and treatment of allergic diseases, our readers are advised to use the remedy " Alergyx". Unlike other products, Alergyx shows consistent and stable results. Already on the 5th day of application, allergy symptoms are reduced, and after 1 course it disappears completely. The tool can be used both for prevention and for the removal of acute manifestations.

Synthetic fabric as a causative agent of allergies

Allergy to synthetic fabrics, characteristic of people with hypersensitivity of the skin, can literally poison, if not life, then health. How to avoid unpleasant manifestations of an allergy to synthetics and what to do if the disease has already made itself felt?

The vast majority of clothes sold in stores are made from synthetic materials with the addition of certain chemical solutions and dyes.

Even if a product is listed as 100% cotton, this does not guarantee that the natural fiber has not been treated with chemicals during the manufacturing process of the finished product.

After all, it is through the use of non-natural substances that clothes acquire a rich and stable shade, the strength and elasticity of matter increase.

On the back of the medal - acute allergic reactions caused by synthetic things. With constant and tight contact with artificial tissue on sensitive skin, irritation may occur.

The 5 most "favorite" parts of the body, on which itchy allergic rashes most often appear:

neck (collar touch area and décolleté area);
hands (especially wrists);

In critical cases, blisters and spots caused by intolerance to synthetics cover up to 100% of the skin. Very much suffer from synthetic fibers and places with excessive sweating - armpits, skin folds, lower chest (in women).

An allergic reaction to tissue is not always limited to dermatitis. Often severe itching and red spots are accompanied by peeling, bouts of runny nose, copious tearing (due to irritation of the mucous membranes of the eyes), suffocation, and can even lead to anaphylactic shock.

What is fabric made of

The composition of artificial matter includes synthetic fibers, which irritate the mucous membranes and skin.

The most common types of threads used when sewing synthetic clothes:

polyester- elastic and soft, but insufficiently hygroscopic material;
acetate- a fiber reproduced from acetylcellulose, malleable, able to retain its shape for a long time;
elastane- flexible and resistant to external influences material, capable of taking on its original presentation after stretching;
acrylic- one of the products of the oil industry; durable and resistant, but poorly breathable and highly electrified;
lycra- strong, dense and at the same time very elastic fiber; widely used in the manufacture of products that fit snugly to the body;
viscose- artificial material, the properties of which are as close as possible to the properties of natural tissues; It is made from wood pulp and has good hygroscopicity.

The moderate use of each of these fabrics in the production of clothing is fully justified. And an allergy to synthetics most often occurs not from the materials themselves, but from chemical products that are actively used for dyeing, color fixing, increasing wear resistance, protecting against moths and other treatments.

The impetus for the manifestation of a negative reaction of the body to synthetic material can be several factors. It happens that the root cause of allergies is not artificial clothing, but the person himself. But first things first.
And so, the causes of allergic rashes.

Mechanical

Directly artificial fabric acts as an irritant due to its low hygroscopicity, which contributes to moisture retention.

When a person sweats, synthetic fabric not only retains liquid droplets in the fibers, but also does not allow the material to "breathe", and the necessary natural air exchange does not occur. Moisture has no way to evaporate. And because of the excess of salt in the toxins released from the sweat glands, irritation only intensifies.

Photo: Rubbing with a cloth in the armpit

Also, the body can react to pile, prickly threads, wool, seams. Intense friction gives rise to inflammation of the skin, leading to reddening of the affected areas and itching.

When, after removing the synthetic product, the skin calms down and such manifestations do not bother, this is a sign of an allergy to the fabric.

Chemical

If everything is in order with hygroscopicity and other features of matter, and the symptoms, nevertheless, continue to disturb, the reason for this must be looked for deeper.

Namely - in the chemical composition, which was used in the processing of fabric in order to improve the quality and improve the presentation:

all kinds of dyes that sometimes dye the water so intensely when washing the product;
chemicals that, if the accepted norms are not observed, give themselves out as a pungent smell of oil.

All this can bring a person with susceptible skin to a serious allergic reaction up to poisoning and irreversible consequences. Therefore, before wearing synthetics, the product must be washed well.

If, after removing clothes and hygiene procedures, the symptoms of irritation subside, you will have to get rid of synthetic things.

Psychological

Often, it is not synthetics that should be blamed for the manifestation of allergies, but the person himself. After watching "useful" programs about the inevitable harm of artificial matter, people develop a subconscious fear of irritation.

Many people have serious phobias about skin rashes in the form of red dots, blisters and small swellings. Self-hypnosis does serious things.

This may seem fantastic to some, but often even relatively harmless synthetic clothing can cause severe allergies in especially impressionable people.

To understand whether this is really a reaction to the fabric or just a psychological mania, contact a competent specialist for examinations and tests for skin sensitivity to synthetics.

Diagnostics

And it happens the other way around - a person does not see allergies at close range, not to mention manias and phobias. Just an allergy to artificial clothing is not always manifested by severe itching and profuse dermatitis.

Sometimes it can be rare spots that itch slightly.

Occasionally, a person sneezes, perceiving it as dust on the nasal mucosa or a small cold. Everything would be fine, but with untimely diagnosis, the disease can develop from a temporary stage into a chronic one.

How to identify clothing allergies

To independently diagnose the negative reaction of the body to clothing, it is enough to check and compare how the skin responds to contact with synthetic fabric.

Particular attention should be paid to hypersensitive areas of the body (neck, abdomen, knees, wrists).

Do you feel tingling, itching, discomfort, reddened and blotchy skin? In this case, there is only one way out - the complete exclusion of synthetics from the wardrobe.

If it's brand new, try washing it thoroughly and check again for skin reactions.
When the body reacts equally sharply to all things made of artificial fibers, this is a sign of a mechanical factor.

Allergy to individual items of clothing is characteristic of chemical irritation. This means that such a tissue was treated with a substance (or several at once), upon contact with which the skin is in unnatural conditions for normal functioning.

What to do if you are allergic to fabric

What to do if synthetics, as it turned out, is an unacceptable material for the skin? How to competently approach the treatment of allergies in an infant? And what to do if the disease manifested itself during pregnancy?

The clothes of a newborn baby, in principle, should not contain artificial fibers, since the baby's skin is incredibly sensitive. And the reaction to chemicals and harsh material can be too unpredictable, from rashes to anaphylactic shock.

First of all, you need to get rid of synthetic products.

Do not check every artificial sliders for a negative reaction? If it turned out that the baby is susceptible to synthetics, from now on look in stores only for little things made from natural, natural fibers.

Be sure to contact a specialist who will give valuable recommendations and prescribe a treatment that is most appropriate for the age and condition of the child.

Children's wardrobe should consist entirely of things that are safe for health. Avoid too bright, saturated shades - this is a sign of an excess amount of dyes. An atypical and unpleasant pungent odor should also be a reason for suspicion.

Is it possible to be allergic to seeds? How to identify it and how to treat it? Read here.

During pregnancy

While a woman is preparing for the birth of a child, she needs to take care of not only her health. If the expectant mother is allergic to synthetic fabrics, it is better to be especially prudent during pregnancy.

First you need to eliminate the cause that causes a negative reaction.

And this means - for all 9 months, clothes adjacent to the body (underwear, shirts, turtlenecks) should not contain synthetics.

It is necessary to inform the doctor even at the initial stages so that he prescribes drugs and gives general recommendations for the safe wearing of synthetics.

Video: What to look for when choosing a blanket

The success and rate of treatment of this type of non-food allergy depends on the stage of its development (temporary or chronic).

The first step towards getting rid of the disease is to eliminate the causes.

That is, minimizing the use of synthetics, wearing only over natural fabrics, or completely eliminating the irritant. And how to treat further - with medicines or folk remedies, everyone decides for himself.

drugs

Ideally, treatment is prescribed by an allergist or dermatologist.

And for an independent fight against allergies, you need to arm yourself with antihistamines.

For example, Desloratadine or Loratadine help well with complex exacerbations of the disease. And the elimination of light rashes can be entrusted to drugs such as Fenistil, Tsetrin.

Folk remedies

Common Healing Herbs:

a frozen decoction of chamomile and mint will help to quickly relieve irritation and eliminate severe itching;
infusion on bay leaf can be used as a bath or make lotions. A decoction of the same composition helps no worse than infusion;
A decoction can also be prepared from a mixture of herbs of succession and chamomile. With a filtered liquid, wipe the skin affected by an allergic rash.

What is an atopic type allergy? Read here.

Can a baby be allergic to cheese, and how does it manifest itself? Read here.

Preventive measures

To prevent irritation from becoming chronic, it is necessary not only to successfully cure, but also to prevent possible relapses. If you do not want to provoke new bouts of allergy to synthetic materials, give preference to cotton or linen items, as well as silk clothes.

First of all, it should be underwear and all products that have direct contact with the skin.

For washing, use only powders with a hypoallergenic composition.

Allergy to synthetics is not the most common type of negative reaction to an irritant. Symptoms of this disease are easily preventable, treatable, and provoking factors can be eliminated at any time.

Choose clothes not only for beauty, but also for smell and color. Unnaturally saturated colors can cause an allergic reaction, as can foreign odors.

Clothing made from synthetic fibers is usually much cheaper than natural items. Therefore, not everyone can afford to fill the entire wardrobe with cotton and silk outfits.

Yes, I want to wear bright clothes too. So that the variety in the closet does not lead to uniformity in the reaction of the body, replace at least the underwear adjacent to the body with natural matter.

Allergy to synthetics, fabric, clothing, viscose

Allergy to synthetics occurs in people with hypersensitivity to external stimuli and causes psychological and physical discomfort to the patient.

According to the latest WHO data, it is allergic reactions in the human body that lead to the occurrence of most deadly diseases. And it all starts with the fact that a person has an itchy nose, sneezing, runny nose, red spots on the skin, in some cases suffocation.

7 million people die each year due to allergies, and the scale of the lesion is such that the allergic enzyme is present in almost every person.

Unfortunately, in Russia and the CIS countries, pharmacy corporations sell expensive drugs that only relieve symptoms, thereby putting people on one drug or another. That is why in these countries there is such a high percentage of diseases and so many people suffer from “non-working” drugs.

Synthetic materials are considered strong allergens, as a result of which the allergic person feels the symptoms of dermatitis - red itchy spots, swelling of the skin and other signs of allergy.

Often, an allergic reaction occurs in the décolleté, bikini area, abdomen, back, legs. With untimely therapy, the allergy can become chronic, which is fraught with complications.

Reference! Women are more likely than men to be allergic to synthetics, since the skin of females is more sensitive, and there are more synthetic things in the wardrobe of the fair sex. Cotton fabric is softer and does not have allergenic properties, but sometimes cotton causes allergies when textiles are treated with chemicals.

Causes of allergy to synthetics

Experts identify 3 reasons that contribute to the development of an allergic reaction to synthetic products.

Mechanical

Allergies are caused by textiles that retain moisture during sweating. During sweating, the body gets rid of excess salts, which, when wearing synthetic clothing, interact with the skin and cause irritation in the form of redness, swelling, itching and burning sensations on the skin.

Irritation from clothing

Moreover, an immune response occurs if coarse threads, woolen materials, pile were used in tailoring. Usually, after the cessation of contact with the allergen, allergic symptoms disappear.

Attention! The younger the child, the more susceptible the baby is to synthetic materials. Therefore, newborns and infants are advised to buy cotton clothing that is breathable.

Chemical

If the clothing has good breathability, but allergy symptoms are increasing, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the chemical composition of the material.

To improve the quality and give a presentation, manufacturers add dyes to synthetics that have a pungent odor and in some cases even leave marks on the skin due to bright and unnatural colors.

Contact with the epidermis, odors lead not only to contact dermatitis, rhinitis, conjunctivitis and allergic cough, but also cause the development of rapid allergies with Quincke's edema and anaphylactic shock.

Important! Allergy-prone people should wash and iron synthetic clothing thoroughly before first use. If symptoms persist, synthetic material should be discarded.

Psychological

It happens that a person perceives synthetics as a harmful material, as a result of which a fear develops before the use of synthetic and polymer products. Under the influence of self-hypnosis, a person perceives a pimple, the slightest redness and slight itching as an allergy and panics.

Interesting! In such situations, even pure cotton leads to a mental reaction, so a person suffering from a phobia needs to consult a psychologist, and in severe cases, a psychotherapist.

Synthetic allergy symptoms

Most often, allergies due to the use of synthetic materials lead to contact dermatitis with the following symptoms:

Redness of the skin at the site of contact with the allergen;
Feeling of intense itching;
Peeling;
The formation of ulcers.

It is important! When combing, an infection can get into the erosive formations, which leads to inflammation of the skin. Therefore, do not scratch the rash, but consult a doctor for a treatment appointment.

In addition to allergies on the skin, immune responses to synthetics are expressed by such signs:

runny nose with mucous discharge from the nose, dry congestion;
conjunctivitis with lacrimation, photophobia.

Complicated symptoms threaten anaphylaxis with symptoms of hypertension, bouts of nausea, tachycardia, dizziness, suffocation. At the first sign of an instant allergy, take an antihistamine and call an ambulance.

Signs in children

According to WHO, more than 40% of children suffer from allergic manifestations to synthetics, because from birth, children are surrounded by polymer and synthetic materials. Baby baths, bath products, toys, nipples - everything is made of synthetic material.

Reference! Breastfed babies are less susceptible to allergic reactions. It is proved that in mother's milk there are immune cells that protect the baby from the negative effects of the environment. Moreover, babies get sick less, because it is known that medicines contribute to the formation of allergies.

In babies, contact allergies most often appear on the legs, so when diagnosing, attention should be paid to this part of the body.

Allergy to synthetics in babies

Signs in pregnancy

Often, allergies occur during pregnancy due to the physiological weakening of the immunity of the expectant mother. If synthetics provoke an allergic process, it is advisable to refuse to wear synthetic underwear, because panties and bras, adjacent to the body, can serve as provocateurs of symptoms. Replace synthetic clothing with cotton products that are pleasant to the touch and do not entail allergic symptoms.

Attention! Report any allergies to your doctor, as not all drugs are suitable for treatment during childbearing. The doctor will select therapy taking into account the individual characteristics of the woman and the duration of pregnancy.

Synthetic allergy treatment

It is impossible to completely overcome an allergy to synthetics, but depending on the individual characteristics of the body and symptoms, allergists and dermatologists prescribe complex treatment. Therapy consists of oral medications, local preparations and traditional medicine.

Fact! There are temporary and chronic allergies. Treatment is prescribed taking into account the allergic type.

Therapeutic measures to get rid of symptoms will help after exclusion of contact with the allergen. Synthetics should be replaced with things made from plant materials - cotton, linen fabrics should be preferred.

Allergy to synthetics on legs

Antihistamine treatment

Depending on the symptoms, antihistamines of different generations are prescribed:

Suprastin;
Telfast;
Cetrin;
Desloratadine;
Zirtek and other medicines that are sold in pharmacies without a prescription.

Important! Medications are prescribed only by a doctor according to individual indications, so you should not experiment with self-medication.

Topical treatment of allergies to synthetics

An allergist or dermatologist prescribes local therapy based on the severity of the patient's condition. With mild manifestations of an allergy to synthetics, treatment begins with non-hormonal ointments:

Fucidin, Levosin - contribute to the fight against allergies with the addition of a secondary infection;
Radevit, Solcoseryl - drugs favor the healing of the outer layer of the skin;
Bepanthen, Panthenol - soften and moisturize the skin, minimize itching and flaking.

Glucocorticosteroids are divided into three groups depending on the hormonal activity in the preparations.:

Weak corticosteroid ointments are prescribed for mild allergies to synthetics - Hydrocortisone, Prednisolone;
Drugs with a moderate effect are prescribed for severe allergies - Afloderm, Fluorocort;
Highly active glucocorticoids are recommended for use in severe allergic manifestations, if other ointments have not brought results - Dermovate, Galtsinokid.

Folk preparations

The means of traditional healers will not get rid of allergies completely, but they favor the reduction of symptoms and alleviation of the condition:

decoctions of mint and chamomile soothe the skin, reduce itching and burning. To do this, make ice cubes from the decoction and lubricate the skin with severe bouts of itching;
from allergy symptoms with skin rashes, chamomile decoction with the addition of a string will help. Wash the affected areas of the skin 3 times a day;
baths, lotions and compresses from a decoction of bay leaves with a string are effective.

Prevention

Allergies to synthetics are easier to manage than immune responses due to eating. To do this, it is necessary to exclude contact with the allergen, that is, to refuse to wear synthetics - to give preference to clothing made from plant materials - linen, cotton.

To reduce the likelihood of allergies, choose bedding, carefully reading the composition of textiles.

Allergy to synthetics: symptoms and treatment

New clothes are first washed using the extra rinse cycle, only then can the product be used.

Pay special attention to babies: buy cotton vests, sliders, diapers for newborns and infants - those things that come into contact with the skin.

If it is revealed that the baby is allergic, regular consultations with a specialist are necessary to monitor the condition. To increase immunity, do not neglect breastfeeding, because mother's milk is the key to a healthy immune system.

Stories from our readers

I got my 3 year old daughter free of allergies. It's been half a year since I forgot about the terrible symptoms of allergies. Oh, how much I tried everything - it helped, but only temporarily.

How many times I went with my daughter to the clinic, but we were prescribed useless medicines again and again, and when we returned, the doctors simply shrugged.

Finally, my daughter does not have a single sign of allergy, and all thanks to this drug. A must read for anyone with allergies! You will forget about this problem forever, just as I forgot about it!

The article was written based on materials from sites: allergiyas.ru, fb.ru, proallergen.ru, allergycentr.ru, yaallergik.com.

Allergy to synthetics is typical for people suffering from hypersensitivity of the skin, and such a reaction of the body can deliver a lot of discomfort. The reason for the development of an allergic reaction is an inadequate response of the immune system to an external stimulus.

The most common symptoms of an allergic disease are observed among women. This is due to the abundance of synthetics in things and the increased sensitivity of the skin. Cotton and clothes made from it are considered to be the most low-allergenic. However, even cotton can cause the development of an allergic reaction, which is associated with its treatment with chemicals in the manufacture of the finished product.

Most often, rashes are localized in the décolleté, neck, lower leg, abdomen, wrist and bikini area. These places are most closely in contact with synthetic fabrics. With acute symptoms, rashes can occur anywhere on the body. With untimely treatment, allergies can become chronic.

Causes of allergies

Allergies to synthetic clothing appear for many reasons. The most common factors include:

1. Mechanical

Symptoms of the disease are caused directly by the tissue, which has a low hygroscopicity and prevents the removal of excess moisture. When sweat is released, synthetics accumulate liquid in their fibers, preventing normal air exchange.

Excess salt excreted with sweat increases irritation and provokes the development of inflammatory diseases. The same reaction can occur when interacting with pile, wool, coarse threads. Active contact leads to hyperemia of the skin areas and severe itching. As a rule, after cessation of contact with synthetic things and in the absence of complications, allergic symptoms are quickly neutralized.

The body of a child is especially susceptible to various allergens. Therefore, it is recommended to use cotton fabrics. Unlike synthetics, cotton has good breathability, which provides it with a number of additional advantages.

2. Chemical

In the case when the hygroscopicity of the material is quite good, but the symptoms of allergy are increasing, the chemical composition of the material should be studied. Many manufacturers, in order to improve the quality and give the material a marketable appearance, process it with dyes, which include various chemicals. Often in such products there is a pungent smell and very bright, unnatural colors. The combination of all allergic manifestations can lead to serious consequences, including poisoning and anaphylaxis.

Therefore, people with hypersensitivity are advised to wear clothing made from natural fabrics, and if this condition cannot be met, synthetic items should be washed before the first use.

In the event that all methods of protection have been ineffective and the symptoms of allergies do not weaken, such things must be disposed of.

3. Psychological factor

Sometimes there are cases when an allergy to the synthetic fabric from which the clothes are made occurs due to the high psychological susceptibility of a person. This can be provoked by excessive information about the dangers of artificial materials, which subconsciously exacerbates the fear of negative manifestations.

The slightest redness, a small blister or slight swelling causes the patient to have a strong phobia. However, it should be borne in mind that the psychological attitude is of great importance and quite often even pure cotton can cause allergic symptoms in such patients. In this case, you need to consult an experienced psychologist.

Symptoms of the disease

The most common allergic manifestations to synthetic fabrics are expressed by the following symptoms:

the appearance of allergic rhinitis;
shortness of breath, up to suffocation;
increased lacrimation;
hyperemic rashes on the skin;
the child may develop contact dermatitis.

With complicated symptoms, anaphylactic shock may develop, accompanied by spasms, fainting and a drop in blood pressure.

Treatment tactics

As a rule, it is impossible to completely get rid of allergies, however, there are a number of medical measures that help alleviate this condition:

First of all, it is necessary to stop contact with synthetic fabric, choosing cotton or linen.
Allergic symptoms are well neutralized with antihistamines (Claritin, Suprastin, Zodak, Zirtek, etc.). For children, it is better to use the liquid form in the form of syrup and drops.

In the case when an allergy to tissue is complicated by a severe course, a course of hormonal preparations for external use is recommended. It is important to consider that for the treatment of an allergy to synthetics in a child, hormone therapy is allowed only under the supervision of the attending physician.
In addition, enterosorbents (Polysorb, Enterosgel) may be prescribed. These drugs effectively cleanse the body of toxins, removing all toxic substances from it.

To obtain good results, it is necessary to strictly follow all medical recommendations and not self-medicate. This approach prevents the development of complications.

Allergy to synthetics symptoms