| ENCYCLOPEDIA INDEX |
|
Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test |
| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
Contact dermatitis |
| Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention |
| Alternative Names: |
| Dermatitis - contact; Allergic dermatitis; Dermatitis - allergic; Poison ivy; Poison oak; Poison sumac |
| Treatment: |
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Initial treatment includes thorough washing with lots of water to remove any trace of the irritant that may remain on the skin. Further exposure to known irritants or allergens should be avoided. In some cases, the best treatment is to do nothing to the area. |
| Expectations (prognosis): |
| Contact dermatitis usually clears up without complications within 2 or 3 weeks but may recur if the causal agent cannot be identified or avoided. Change of occupation or occupational habits may be necessary if the disorder is caused by occupational exposure. |
| Complications: |
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Secondary bacterial skin infections my occur. |
| Calling your health care provider: |
| Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate contact dermatitis and it is severe or there is no improvement after treatment. |
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