When your skin comes into contact with a substance that causes irritation or an allergic reaction, you develop contact dermatitis. Generally speaking, contact dermatitis affects the hands, face, neck, or arms but can be caused by a chemical, a plant, a metal, or a cosmetic product. It is not contagious, but it can be very uncomfortable and adversely affect your quality of life.
What are the symptoms of contact dermatitis?
In response to contact dermatitis, the symptoms vary depending on its type and severity. The most common symptom is a red, itchy rash on the skin. In addition to bumps, blisters, scales, and crusts, the rash usually develops within minutes to hours of exposure and lasts for days to weeks. Other symptoms may include:
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Inflammation, burning, or pain in the affected area
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Skin that is dry, cracked, or peeling
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Heat or light sensitivity
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Skin infection or scarring
What causes contact dermatitis?
There are two types of contact dermatitis: irritant and allergic. Irritative contact dermatitis occurs when a substance damages the outer layer of your skin. Strong irritants such as acids, alkalis, solvents, or detergents can cause this. In addition to mild irritants such as soap, water, and friction, it can also develop irritant contact dermatitis if you are exposed to it frequently or for a long time.
Your immune system reacts to a substance that is harmless to the majority of people when you develop allergic contact dermatitis. This can happen with substances such as nickel, latex, perfume, or poison ivy. The only person who is susceptible to allergic contact dermatitis is someone who has been exposed to the substance previously and developed an allergy to it. It takes a few days to weeks for allergic contact dermatitis to appear after exposure, and it may last longer than irritant contact dermatitis.
How is contact dermatitis diagnosed?
A doctor will ask you about your medical history, symptoms, and possible exposure to substances that could cause contact dermatitis in order to diagnose it. Your doctor will also examine your skin and look for signs of irritation or allergy. As part of the diagnosis and identification of the cause of your reaction, your doctor may perform some tests.
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An allergy patch test involves applying small patches of different substances to your skin for 48 hours. If you are allergic to any of the substances, you will develop a red, itchy spot on your skin.
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A skin biopsy involves taking a small sample of your skin and examining it under a microscope to determine if you have inflammation or damage in your skin as a result of contact dermatitis.
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A blood test can help determine if you have an allergic reaction to a substance that is difficult to test using a patch test. This test measures antibodies in your blood that are specific to certain allergens.
How is contact dermatitis treated?
The treatment of contact dermatitis depends on the cause and severity of your condition. For contact dermatitis, some treatment options include relieving your symptoms, healing your skin, and preventing further exposure to the substance that caused your reaction.
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Treatment of contact dermatitis begins with avoiding the substance that caused it. The source of your exposure should be identified and eliminated as soon as possible. To remove any traces of the substance from your skin, you should also wash it thoroughly with water and mild soap.
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Contact dermatitis can be treated with medications that reduce inflammation, itching, pain, and infection. These medications include:
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Drugs known as corticosteroids help suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation in the skin. They can be applied topically as creams, ointments, lotions, or gels, or taken as pills or injections.
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The antihistamines are drugs that block the action of histamine, a chemical that causes itchiness and swelling in the skin when you have an allergic reaction. They are available in pills, syrups, creams, and sprays.
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It is possible to take pills or apply creams or ointments to treat skin infections caused by scratching or open sores.
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For chronic or severe cases of contact dermatitis, immunomodulators can be applied as creams or ointments to the affected area.
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You can also try some home remedies for contact dermatitis that may help soothe and heal your skin. Some of the home remedies for contact dermatitis include:
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Apply a cold, wet cloth or ice pack to your skin to reduce swelling, pain, and itching.
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Skin can be moisturized and calmed by soaking in a bathtub filled with colloidal oatmeal (finely ground oatmeal).
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Applying aloe vera gel to your skin can help cool and heal it.
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Blisters and rashes can be relieved by applying calamine lotion to your skin.
How can contact dermatitis be prevented?
To prevent contact dermatitis, avoid contact with substances that can irritate or aggravate your skin. You can also take steps to protect your skin by taking the following measures:
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It is important to read the labels and ingredients of products that you use on your skin or come in contact with, such as cosmetics, detergents, jewelry, or clothing. Avoid products that contain ingredients you are allergic to or sensitive to.
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Handling or working with substances that may irritate or harm your skin, such as chemicals, plants, or metals, requires gloves, long sleeves, pants, and shoes. Wash your hands and clothes after exposure.
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Moisturizing and barrier creams keep your skin hydrated and prevent dryness and cracking. Choose fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products.
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Try out new products on a small area of your skin before using them on larger areas. If you experience any reactions, stop using the product and consult your doctor.
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You should seek medical attention if you develop any signs or symptoms of contact dermatitis. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications.
Conclusion
A contact dermatitis occurs when an object or substance causes irritation or an allergic reaction to your skin. The substance can be anything from a chemical, a plant, a metal, or a cosmetic product. In addition to redness, itching, swelling, pain, blisters, and blisters, contact dermatitis can be diagnosed by your doctor based on your history, examination, and tests. It is possible to treat contact dermatitis by avoiding the substance that caused it, using medications, and applying home remedies. Taking precautions to protect your skin can prevent contact dermatitis by avoiding substances that may cause irritation or allergies.
