Skin irritation
| Skin Irritation | |
|---|---|
| [[File:|250px|]] | |
| Synonyms | Dermatitis, Rash |
| Pronounce | N/A |
| Specialty | Dermatology |
| Symptoms | Redness, itching, swelling, warmth |
| Complications | Infection |
| Onset | Rapid |
| Duration | Variable |
| Types | Chemical, physical, biological |
| Causes | Allergens, irritants, genetic factors |
| Risks | N/A |
| Diagnosis | Based on symptoms, patch testing |
| Differential diagnosis | N/A |
| Prevention | Avoidance of known irritants, protective clothing |
| Treatment | Moisturizers, corticosteroids, antihistamines |
| Medication | |
| Prognosis | Generally good with treatment |
| Frequency | Common |
| Deaths | N/A |
Skin irritation is a common condition characterized by an inflammatory response of the skin to various stimuli. It can manifest as redness, itching, swelling, and warmth in the affected area. Skin irritation can result from a variety of causes, including exposure to allergens, chemicals, physical agents, and biological irritants.
Causes[edit | edit source]
Skin irritation can be caused by numerous factors:
- Chemical irritants: Substances such as acids, alkalis, detergents, and solvents can cause irritation upon contact with the skin.
- Physical irritants: Friction, pressure, and extreme temperatures can also lead to skin irritation.
- Biological irritants: Plant saps, insect bites, and animal dander are common biological causes.
- Allergic reactions: Some individuals may develop irritation due to an allergic reaction to substances like nickel, rubber, or certain cosmetics.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
The symptoms of skin irritation include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Swelling
- Warmth
- Sometimes, blistering or peeling of the skin
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of skin irritation is primarily based on the appearance of the skin and a detailed patient history. Patch testing may be used to identify specific allergens in cases of suspected allergic dermatitis.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for skin irritation includes:
- Avoiding the irritant or allergen
- Applying moisturizers to hydrate the skin
- Using over-the-counter or prescription corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
- Taking antihistamines to alleviate itching
Prevention[edit | edit source]
Preventive measures include:
- Using protective clothing and gloves
- Applying barrier creams
- Avoiding known allergens and irritants
See also[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
