Contact Dermatitis - Calls for Rash Measures

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Have you ever experienced a breakout on your feet with inflammation and itching, and not understood what was happening? It was probably contact dermatitis. It’s not serious or life threatening, but it is annoying and may drive you crazy.

Symptoms of this condition may include:

• Red rash or bumps
• Itching
• Dry cracked red patches
• Blisters
• Pain and tenderness

Causes of contact dermatitis are varied and may include soaps, chemicals and poisonous plants as well as other substances your skin may be exposed to. Two types of dermatitis are recognized - irritant contact and allergic contact. Irritant contact occurs when a substance damages the outermost layer of skin. In some instances a single exposure can result in an aggravating outbreak. Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the skin is exposed to a substance that sensitizes it. Exposure to an allergen may cause an outbreak of red rash, bumps and sometimes blisters. Common offenders are natural rubber, metals such as those found in costume jewelry, cosmetics, perfumes and poison ivy. You may not develop an immediate allergic reaction to the offending substance, but it may build up until you suffer an immune reaction. It may take years, but once you have an allergic reaction, you will always have that allergy.

Although the two categories of dermatitis provide a guideline, there are substances that may cross the line and become both. Some of the known offenders include:  

• Antibiotics or other medicinal compounds found in ointments that you may apply to your skin
• Fragrances found in lotions
• Nickel
• Shoes and socks
• Natural rubber
• Adhesive tapes

Bacterial and fungal skin infections may appear as a complication because of constant scratching. Moist and draining blisters provide a haven for bacteria and fungus. People with diabetes need to be especially aware of the potential risks of contact dermatitis. If you have diabetes and experience an outbreak should contact Dr. Boucher immediately.

If you are able to identify the substance which has caused your reaction, and remove contact, symptoms may resolve within a couple of weeks. Cold compresses and over-the-counter anti-itch medication may help, as well as, foot soaks in mild solutions of salt water, vinegar or betadine. However if you have attempted home treatment and your condition has not improved, contact Dr. Boucher at (203) 238-3668 and let the healing begin.

References:

http://www.centralctfootcare.com/library/1754/Allergies.html
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/contact-dermatitis/DS00985/DSECTION=symptoms

Related articles

• Understanding Dyshidrotic Eczema
• Skin Rash
• Scalp Dermatitis Treatment

Porokeratosis of Mibelli

Porokeratosis of Mibelli manifests as skin lesions, often affecting the hands and feet. Porokeratosis skin lesions generally have a round, rigid border, with a thin, scaly center. The problem is caused by a large number of surface skin cells. Porokeratosis of Mibelli may run in families.
Often, these lesions will grow very slowly or not at all. However, porokeratosis of Mibelli can develop into skin cancer. Squamous cell or basal cell cancers are most often related to these skin lesions.
Because of the possibility of cancer, these lesions should be watched carefully for changes. If the lesion becomes a sore or a lump appears, a biopsy or surgical removal may be necessary.
Regular examination of the feet and ankles by a podiatrist can help catch cancers at their earliest stages. Many skin cancers that develop on the feet and ankles are missed because this part of the body is not always inspected regularly. We can help you identify suspicious areas early, when the cancers are more likely to be cured.

Dr. Tina A. Boucher, DPM
Central Connecticut Foot Care, LLC
Podiatrist in Meriden CT
http://www.centralctfootcare.com/
Order your free copy of our books "Why Do My Feet Hurt?" and "Heal My Heel!" today!