Itchy, Bumpy, Rashy
Your Summer Skin Guide
7/14/2025
Dr. Elizabeth Ender, Aspirus Allergist
When the summer sun
finally shows up in the Midwest, shedding layers and heading outside is only
natural. But more time outdoors, and more exposed skin, can also raise the risk
of hives, rashes, and other mysterious bumps. These uncomfortable issues can quickly
take the fun out of a family hike or a day at the beach.
“Being aware is the
best thing you can do,” said Dr.
Elizabeth Ender, an allergist at Aspirus St. Luke’s. “Recognizing allergic
reactions and understanding what’s triggering them is key to proper treatment
and prevention.”
One surprising
allergic culprit? Pollinating grass. “Grass allergy is one of the most common
issues I see,” Dr. Ender says. “People come in with hives on their legs or feet
and don't realize they are related to their seasonal allergies.”
Other causes are
sneakier. Some react to sunlight itself, especially when combined with makeup
or sunscreen. “Those are rare, but they happen,” Dr. Ender adds. “I often see
it early in the summer, when people are just starting to spend more time
outside.”
Insect bites are
another problem. Skeeter syndrome, for example, causes intense swelling or
irritation from mosquito bites, especially in kids. Fortunately, it usually
improves with age and repeated exposure.
Other potential
triggers include pet saliva, poison ivy, sweat, certain skin products, or
infections, such as folliculitis or swimmer's itch. Some reactions are delayed,
like eczema flaring up after sun exposure or contact with specific plants.
“Poison ivy causes a delayed hypersensitivity reaction,” explains Dr. Ender.
“Instead of showing up right away, it takes time because it’s driven by a
different part of the immune system.”
Heat can also cause
confusion. “People may think they have an allergy, but it’s just heat rash,”
says Dr. Ender. These prickly, bumpy rashes tend to show up where sweat
collects, like armpits or skin folds. Hives, on the other hand, which can also
sometimes be triggered by sweat or heat, are extremely itchy, appear quickly,
and fade within a day.
Some symptoms should
never be ignored. “If a reaction is immediate and severe, especially if it
affects breathing or causes throat swelling, get care right away,” Dr. Ender
warns. “Even mild reactions that worsen over time, like open sores or spreading
rashes, should be checked out.”
When you’re not sure
what’s going on with your skin, talk to your doctor. “It can be hard to tell
the difference between an allergic reaction and another skin issue,” Dr. Ender
adds. “Your primary care provider can help figure out whether you need to see
an allergist or a dermatologist.”
And don’t
underestimate the power of recording your symptoms. “The most important tool we
have is a good history,” says Dr. Ender. “If you ever experience any skin
issues, write down what you were doing, where you were, and any products or
animals you came into contact with. It makes a huge difference. Also, if you
can, take a few pictures. You'd be surprised at how often a rash resolves right
before you are seen by your doctor.”
So, this summer, as
you head outside, keep an eye on your skin. A little observation, and the right
care, can help you make the most of the sunshine.
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