Irritant contact eczema is a usual cause of job-related health problems along with injuries and muscle or joint pain. Most occupations where the skin is constantly soiled are often linked with the condition.
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Extended contact with water causes the surface cells of the skin to swell and exposes the vulnerable deeper layers. If an individual has another form of eczema, it increases the risk for another. Understandably, those who have a history of atopic eczema are susceptible to develop the irritant type.
Remember that various household products such as detergents, cleaning agents and bleach are also harmful. In addition, hobbies that involves the use of paint, adhesives, cement and oils can increase the risk as well.
How is it diagnosed
Irritant contact eczema is similar to the other forms of the skin condition. The link with the work atmosphere might not be obvious if there is regular contact with an irritant or the occupation is considered as a “wet” type. Otherwise, it might take some time to determine that the skin is reacting to an irritant.
Management of irritant contact eczema
Avoidance or removal of the offending substance is recommended but it might be unreasonable. In such instances, however, the objective of treatment is to minimize the symptoms. Unfortunately, certain irritants can trigger a skin reaction even with minimal exposure.
In case contact could not be avoided, protective gloves must be used. Since rubber or latex in gloves can trigger or aggravate the skin condition, some can benefit by using gloves lined with cotton or separate cotton-based interior gloves to minimize direct contact with the skin.
There are also soap substitutes that can be used to clean hands. They minimize the irritant effect of washing using normal soap. Remember that regular moisturizing is vital especially with wet-work occupations.
The steroid or anti-inflammatory creams have been the mainstay in managing irritant contact eczema as well.