Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Allergic contact dermatitis is a condition that occurs when the skin comes into contact with a substance that produces a reaction. Some people are born with or develop a hypersensitivity to allergens, which are substances harmless to most people.

Causes of Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Common causes are exposure to poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac and exposure to dyes in shoes. Even all white shoes are made with dye and rubber containing potential rash forming allergens. Beware when new skin symptoms appear after purchasing a new pair of gym shoes. Dye and other allergens present in high concentrations in new shoes are most likely to cause a reaction. Heat and perspiration while exercising cause dyes in shoes to leak into the skin worsening the condition. The dye may be invisible on the skin but an itch may develop within 1 or 2 days. The same reaction can occur with leather shoes.

Treatment of Allergic Contact Dermatitis

A topical cortical steroid cream with oral antihistamine along with hypoallergenic shoes recommended by a podiatrist is the standard of care. In severe cases, systemic oral and injectible cortical steroids, antibiotics, and other immunological suppressants may be employed. Anyone who experiences symptoms of allergic contact dermatitis should contact a podiatrist. He or she will take a skin sample and examine it under a microscope. The presence of dermatophytes and other fungi that live on dead tissues, hair, toenails, and skin can be visualized. Red, itchy, skin in athletes and those who exercise may suggest athletes foot.

This material is only provided as helpful information and you should always go to your medical doctor or podiatrist for a professional diagnosis.