Patient/caregiver was educated on pathophysiology of contact dermatitis as follows:
- Contact dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition in which individuals tend to show a strong immune response on coming into physical contact with any substances /allergens they are allergic to. These allergens/triggers that individuals respond to could differ from person to person.
- Common allergens in the environment include triggers such as, soaps, fragrances, deodorants, colognes, dressing materials like silk and latex, medical supplies containing latex like gloves and condoms, jewelry, cosmetics like face creams and lipsticks, and various plants & weeds.
- Contact dermatitis is a self-limited condition and involves only that portion of skin which contacted the allergen. Depending upon exposure to the trigger, contact dermatitis can get periodically activated & be relieved at other times.
- Individuals with genetic predisposition to contact dermatitis can develop the condition even upon very limited exposure to the triggers, in doses most individuals in general public do not even react to. Sometimes, multiple exposures to a trigger in small quantities can add up, to evoke a strong allergic response over time.
- Avoiding contact with the triggering agent is the best measure to prevent activation of an episode and ease symptoms during a flare-up.
