WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
Contact dermatitis (DER-muh-TIE-tus) is a skin reaction
to an irritating substance. People with allergies often have
this condition. It frequently affects the hands, feet, and skin
folds such as those found in the groin. The problem may come
and go, but can usually be treated
effectively.
Causes
In people predisposed to this
problem, a wide variety of substances may cause irritation.
Typical culprits include sprays, jewelry, soaps, some
medicines, and makeup. The condition tends to run in
families.
Signs/Symptoms
The exposed area becomes dry,
red, cracked, and itchy, and develops what looks like a rash.
The skin may blister and become sore.
Care
Try to find out what is causing
the problem and stay away from it. Medication may relieve the
itching and irritation.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
-
Keep the area of skin that is affected away from hot
water, soap, sunlight, chemicals, acidic substances, or
anything else that you think would irritate it. Do not rub
the skin.
-
You may use over-the-counter medications such as
topical steroids (which reduce inflammation) and lubricants
(which keep moisture in your skin). Burow's solution will
reduce inflammation. Mix one packet or tablet in 2 cups of
cool water. Dip a clean washcloth in the mixture, wring it
out a bit, put it on the affected area, and leave it in
place for 30 minutes. Then resoak the wash cloth and apply
again. Do this as often as possible throughout the day. If
the area is too large to cover with a wash cloth, take
several cornstarch, baking soda, or colloidal oatmeal baths
daily.
-
Do not use any other creams, lotions, or ointments.
Many of these products may make your dermatitis
worse.
-
If your doctor prescribes medicine to use on the
irritated area, apply it exactly as directed. Certain
strong medicines can cause side effects even when applied
only to the skin.
-
You may want to rest the affected area until it is
less sore.
Call Your Doctor If...
-
You develop a high temperature
-
You see signs of infection, such as swelling,
tenderness, redness, or warmth, at the affected
area.
-
Treatment does not relieve your symptoms within a few
days.
-
You have any problems that may be related to the
medicine you are using.
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