Contact Dermatitis medical therapy

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Template:Contact Dermatitis Please help WikiDoc by adding more content here. It's easy! Click here to learn about editing.


Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Treatment

Self-care at Home

  • Immediately after exposure to a known allergen or irritant, wash with soap and cool water to remove or inactivate most of the offending substance.
  • If blistering develops, cold moist compresses applied for 30 minutes 3 times a day can offer relief.
  • Calamine lotion and cool colloidal oatmeal baths may relieve itching.
  • Oral antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl, Ben-Allergin) can also relieve itching.
  • For mild cases that cover a relatively small area, hydrocortisone cream in nonprescription strength may be sufficient.
  • Avoid scratching, as this can cause secondary infections.

Medical Care

If the rash does not improve or continues to spread after 2-3 of days of self-care, or if the itching and/or pain is severe, the patient should contact a dermatologist or other physician. Medical treatment usually consists of lotions, creams, or oral medications.

  • Corticosteroids. A corticosteroid medication similar to hydrocortisone may be prescribed to combat inflammation in a localized area. This medication may be applied to your skin as a cream or ointment. If the reaction covers a relatively large portion of the skin or is severe, a corticosteroid in pill or injection form may be prescribed.
  • Antihistamines. Prescription antihistamines may be given if nonprescription strengths are inadequate.

References

Template:WikiDoc Sources