Contact dermatitis: what you should know.

How do I know if I have it? The reaction varies depending on the part of the body that is affected. It may be worse on the eyelids, genitals, and neck. It is usually not as bad on the bottoms of the hands and feet and on the scalp. Your doctor will ask you about anything that you have touched recently that may be causing the reaction. You might need a patch test to see if your skin reacts to certain substances. How is it treated? Aavoid whatever causes the reaction. If you know that you are allergic to something, like poison ivy, wash your skin with soap and water quickly after you touch it. If you are allergic to nickel, you can cover the metal button of your jeans with an iron-on patch or clear nail polish. Don’t wear costume jewelry because it usually contains nickel. Cool compresses may soothe your skin. Your doctor may also suggest medicine that you can put on your skin or in your bath water. You may need oral medicine for a bad reaction.