Skin

Contact dermatitis: virtual care options

Dermatitis means inflamed skin. Contact dermatitis happens when skin reacts to something it touches, either an irritant like a harsh cleaner or an allergen like nickel, fragrance, or latex.

See virtual care for Dermatitis

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Common symptoms

What people often notice. Only a provider can tell you what’s causing yours.

A red or discolored rash where skin touched something
Itching that can be intense
Burning, stinging, or tenderness
Dry, cracked, or scaly skin
Blisters that may ooze and crust

What a virtual visit may involve

Care is decided by the provider, based on your situation.

A video or online visit where a licensed provider asks about new products, jobs, or hobbies that could be involved
Sharing photos so the provider can see the shape and location of the rash, which can hint at the cause
A provider may recommend how to avoid the trigger and prescribe treatment if appropriate
Guidance on when patch testing or a specialist may help

When in-person care may be better

Urgent care, your doctor, or a clinic can examine and test you.

The rash covers a large area or keeps coming back without a clear cause
It is on your face, around your eyes, or on your genitals
Your provider suggests patch testing to find the trigger
Signs of infection, like increasing pain, pus, or crusting, are developing

When to go to the ER

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you have:

Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Trouble breathing or swallowing after contact with a substance
A rash that spreads rapidly with fever
A chemical has gotten into your eyes or caused a burn

Ready to explore a virtual visit for Dermatitis?

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Common questions

Dermatitis, answered.

General information, not medical advice. A provider can answer questions about your situation.

How long does contact dermatitis last?

Once the trigger is avoided, many cases improve over a few weeks. If it is not getting better or keeps returning, a provider can help look for the cause.

Can contact dermatitis be diagnosed online?

Often a provider can evaluate it in a virtual visit using photos and your history of what touched your skin. Finding the exact allergen sometimes requires patch testing in person.

Is dermatitis the same as eczema?

The words overlap, since eczema is a type of dermatitis. Contact dermatitis is caused by something touching the skin, while atopic eczema is a longer-term condition with flares.

This is not for emergencies.

For life-threatening symptoms, severe chest pain, trouble breathing, or immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.