Symptoms of skin allergy

The symptoms of skin allergy depend on the type of reaction. Itching is the most common symptom, and scratching can worsen the rash and lead to infection.

Contact dermatitis

• Red, itchy, sometimes burning rash at the site of contact, often with sharp borders matching the shape of the item, such as a watch strap.
• Small blisters that may ooze and crust in acute reactions.
• Dry, cracked, thickened skin when it is long-standing.
• Appears hours to a few days after exposure.

Hives (urticaria)

• Raised, itchy welts of different sizes that appear suddenly, move around and fade within 24 hours.
• May come with swelling of the lips, eyelids or hands (angioedema).

Eczema (atopic dermatitis)

• Dry, very itchy skin with red or brownish patches, often in skin folds such as inside the elbows and behind the knees. In babies the cheeks and scalp are common.
• Skin may become thick and leathery with long-term scratching.
• Flares and quiet periods.

Signs of infection Pus, honey-coloured crusts, increasing pain, warmth or fever suggest the skin has become infected and needs medical care.

Emergency signs (anaphylaxis) Seek help at once (112) if a rash comes with swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, wheeze, dizziness, vomiting or fainting.

When to see a doctor A rash that lasts more than two weeks, covers a large area, affects the eyes or genitals, or interferes with sleep.

Ayurvedic view (interpretive) Itching, redness and wheals are described under kandu and sheetapitta. These match the medical picture but do not replace diagnosis.

Remember Note when the rash started and what you touched, ate or used before it. This helps your doctor find the cause.