Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory skin reaction caused by exposure to an allergen or irritant. This condition, which is also known as contact eczema, can produce a number of skin related symptoms in people with this condition. Anyone who develops contact dermatitis symptoms that persist or recur frequently should seek additional care from a medical professional.
Skin Rash
A skin rash is the primary symptom associated with contact dermatitis. Red, irritated patches of skin can arise across skin regions exposed to the skin allergen or irritant. Skin rash symptoms can be mild to severe, depending upon the extent of exposure to the allergen. Severe skin rash symptoms can involve the development of small, fluid-filled blisters at the site of allergen or irritant exposure, warns the Merck Manual, an online medical encyclopedia for patients and caregivers. Additionally, patients with contact dermatitis may develop dry, scaly patches of skin in conjunction with skin rash symptoms. Typically, these skin rash contact dermatitis symptoms resolve within 2 to 3 weeks following exposure to a skin irritant or allergen, explains MedlinePlus, a health information website supported by the National Institutes of Health. Skin rash symptoms can recur any time a patient comes in contact with an allergen or irritant.
Itching or Burning
Patients with contact dermatitis skin lesions can experience sensations of itching or burning at the site of inflammation, report medical professionals with the Cleveland Clinic. Sensations of itching or burning can be severe and may cause a patient to frequently scratch at the affected site. Recurrent scratching can further irritate the affected skin and may increase a patient's risk of developing a skin infection. Severe skin itching or burning can be controlled through the use of certain types of topical medications that may be recommended or prescribed by a doctor.
Swelling or Pain
Allergens or irritants that come in contact with the skin can cause severe inflammation. As a result, patients with contact dermatitis can experience symptoms of swelling following exposure to an irritant or allergen. The affected skin may appear enlarged or puffy and can be tender to the touch, explains MedlinePlus. Certain patients may also notice that the skin appears red or feels warm. These contact dermatitis symptoms are temporary and will subside within a few days or weeks following skin exposure to an allergen. If these contact dermatitis symptoms persist or become worse, affected patients should speak with a physician for further evaluation and care.
