Contact Dermatitis
Adult & Pediatric Allergy and Immunology services offered in Houston, TX
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Contact Dermatitis services offered in Houston, TX
An inflamed, itchy skin rash can be a side effect of an allergy-triggered condition called contact dermatitis. At Complete Allergy and Asthma, allergy specialists Brian Tison, MD, and Niti Chokshi, MD, offer skin patch testing on-site to identify allergens contributing to your painful rash. They personalize care plans for kids and adults to ease the rash and prevent it from returning. Call the Houston, Texas, office today to schedule a contact dermatitis evaluation or book an appointment online.
Contact Dermatitis Q&A
What is contact dermatitis?
Contact dermatitis is a skin rash that develops after contact with an allergen. The rash results from an overreaction by your immune system in response to the allergen.
You can also experience a contact dermatitis rash if your skin comes in contact with a chemical or other irritant that damages its outer protective layer.
Common substances that can trigger contact dermatitis symptoms include:
- Airborne allergens
- Poison ivy and other plants
- Some medications
- Nickel and other metals
- Ingredients in makeup, soaps, and other skin care products
Complete Allergy and Asthma offers comprehensive care to children and adults experiencing contact dermatitis symptoms. The providers personalize a treatment plan to ease your symptoms and prevent new rashes from developing.
When should I seek medical care for contact dermatitis?
You should schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Complete Allergy and Asthma if you or your child has symptoms of contact dermatitis that you can’t treat at home. These symptoms include:
- Itchy skin rash
- Skin swelling and burning
- Scaly, cracked skin patches
- Blisters that ooze fluids
The allergy specialists offer patch testing in the office to identify the substances that trigger contact dermatitis symptoms. They can also test your reaction to cosmetics, fragrances, metals, and other topical allergens.
How is contact dermatitis treated?
The Complete Allergy and Asthma providers customize a care plan to relieve your skin discomfort and prevent the rash from getting worse. Treatments include:
Topical medication
Topical steroid creams and ointments can relieve itching and swelling. Other products moisturize dry, cracked skin.
Oral medication
You might need to take oral medication to relieve swelling and itching for a severe contact dermatitis rash. Antibiotics could also be necessary if damaged skin has increased your risk of a bacterial infection.
The physicians can recommend steps you can take at home, like taking cool baths and applying wet compresses to your skin to soothe it. They might also suggest ways to avoid known allergens that trigger a skin rash.
Call Complete Allergy and Asthma today to schedule a diagnostic evaluation of a contact dermatitis skin rash or book an appointment online.