Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Definition

Allergic contact dermatitis is a hypersensitivity reaction that occurs when the skin comes into contact with a foreign substance that produces a reaction. These substance generally called as allergens and some of these are harmless to most people and some people born or develop a hypersensitivity to these substances. When skin come in contacted with any of allergen they changes the properties of the outer skin which acts as a protective layer and so causing reactions. As a result skin may get itchy, red, swollen, or form blistery rashes as a result of the reaction. The rash usually doesn't start until a day or two later, but can start as soon as hours or as late as a week.

There may be period when a person continually in contact with the allergens but not affected by any skin reaction. This condition can lasts for a lifetime span or may be for a few weeks. The development of reaction usually different for different person. It mostly affects the hands but may spread to other parts that you touch.

Causes of Allergic Contact Dermatitis

There are many substances that can cause allergic contact dermatitis. These includes:

• Metals:- Nickel:This is the most common cause.It is present in many types of metal.Such as jewellery, studs in jeans and other clothes, bra straps, etc .Developing itchy red patches is common s on the skin next to such things.
• Mercury:which is generally present in contact lens solutions, can cause problems for some sensitive individuals.
• Plants: Poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac.

Medications and Cosmetics :

• Topical anesthetics.
• Antibiotics, especially those applied to the surface of the skin
• Perfumes.
• Preservatives in creams.
• Fragrances.

Others : Rubber. Additives to leather and rubber. Fabrics and clothing. Detergents and solvents. Adhesives.

Symptoms of Allergic Contact Dermatitis

The important symptoms that helps in causing the disease may include:-

• Skin lesion at the site of exposure may involve oozing, draining, or crusting.
• There may be blistering of the skin.
• The primary symptom may be a severe itching in the affected areas.
• Skin redness and swelling in the exposed area.
• Tenderness in the exposed areas.
• scaling and temporary thickening of skin.

Treatments of Allergic Contact Dermatitis

The effective treatments for allergic contact dermatitis may includes:

• The topical corticosteroid medications may reduce inflammation.
• A podiatrist can recommend manufacturers of hypoallergenic shoes that do not cause allergic reactions.
• Antihistamines such as Claratyne, Telfast, Zyrtec, Phenergan or Polaramine are very effective in controlling itch or irritation.
• First of all wash the skin with soap and water as soon as possible after the exposure.
• Wash clothes and all the other objects which may touch the allergens to prevent re-exposure.
• Use wet, cold compresses to soothe and relieve inflammation, if blisters are broken.