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Warning-sign checks

Contact dermatitis: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Follow the product's emergency instructions and do not try to neutralise one chemical with another.

    Call emergency services if an exposure is followed by trouble breathing, wheezing, faintness, or swelling of the lips, tongue, mouth, or throat.

    These symptoms suggest a serious immediate allergic reaction rather than ordinary contact dermatitis.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Get prompt medical help if the skin rapidly becomes more painful, hot, or swollen, produces pus, or develops spreading redness or darkening, especially if you have a fever or feel unwell.

    These may be signs of infection.

    Seek urgent assessment after a significant chemical exposure, particularly if there is severe pain, skin damage, or eye contact.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine medical appointment if the rash is persistent, recurrent, painful, widespread, or interfering with sleep or daily activities.

    Seek advice if it affects your eyes, face, genitals, or hands, or if you cannot identify the trigger.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Contact dermatitis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.