Checking it Yourself
If you develop a skin rash, there’s a good chance you will be able to identify its cause with a little bit of home detective work. But, you won’t need to break out the magnifying glass and Sherlock Holmes pipe: thankfully rashes from irritants and allergens usually only appear at the site of contact.
If you notice your hands suddenly become red, tender of have any other symptoms of contact dermatitis, think about what you held or used with your hands that could have prompted it. Asking yourself a few simple questions might find the solution:
- New skin cleanser or lotions?
- Washing dishes by hand?
- Recently working on the lawn?
- Been cleaning the house lately?
If the back of your neck behind your ears and your wrists are involved, consider perfume or cologne. Similarly, if a rash encircles your neck, you may want to have your jewelry checked.
Going to Your Doctor
If your rash starts blistering or turning into lesions, you might want to see your doctor to prevent infection or other serious side effects.
Your doctor will take a complete survey of what you have come in contact with plus a history of your previous experience with drug, food, other allergies, and any plants, products, or metals you’ve used on the affected area.
If the irritant or allergen is still a mystery, your doctor will probably order a patch test.
