WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

What is contact dermatitis? Contact dermatitis is a skin rash. It develops when you touch something that irritates your skin or causes an allergic reaction.

What causes contact dermatitis? The following items are common irritants or allergens that can cause contact dermatitis:

• Soaps, lotions, or makeup
  
  
• Chemicals, such as those in cleaning products
  
  
• Urine or bowel movement
  
  
• Coarse paper, glass, or wool
  
  
• Plants, such as poison ivy or poison oak
  
  
• Certain metals, such as chromium or nickel
  
  
• Rubber or latex
  
  
• Certain topical medicines, such as antibiotic or steroid cream

What are the signs and symptoms of contact dermatitis?

• Red, swollen, painful rash
  
  
• Skin that itches, stings, or burns
  
  
• Dry, scaly, or crusty skin patches
  
  
• Bumps or blisters
  
  
• Fluid draining from blisters

How is contact dermatitis diagnosed? Your healthcare provider can diagnose your rash by looking at it. He will ask when your signs and symptoms started. Tell him how long they last and what triggers them. He may ask if you have been exposed to any new chemicals, products, or topical medicines.

How is contact dermatitis treated? The best treatment is to remove whatever irritant or allergen causes your rash. You may also need medicines to decrease itching and swelling. They will be given as a topical medicine to apply to your rash or as a pill.

How can I manage my symptoms?

• Take short baths or showers in cool water. Use mild soap or soap-free cleansers. Add oatmeal, baking soda, or cornstarch to the bath water to help decrease skin irritation.
  
  
• Avoid skin irritants, such as makeup, hair products, soaps, and cleansers. Use products that do not contain perfume or dye.
  
  
• Apply a cool compress to your rash. This will help soothe your skin.
  
  
• Keep your skin moist. Rub unscented cream or lotion on your skin to prevent dryness and itching. Do this right after a bath or shower when your skin is still damp.

Call 911 for any of the following:

• You have sudden trouble breathing.
  
  
• Your throat swells and you have trouble eating.
  
  
• Your face is swollen.

When should I contact my healthcare provider?

• You have a fever.
  
  
• Your blisters are draining pus.
  
  
• Your rash spreads or does not get better, even after treatment.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.