Article: Symptoms of work-related skin disorder can be varied, as varied as the causes themselves. In general, the hands, fingers, wrists, forearms, forehead, face, and V of the neck (or any place on the body in which skin may have come in direct contact or the dust or fumes of an allergen) are the most at risk of developing contact dermatitis, so look for symptoms on these areas first. Most often the symptoms will be isolated to a specific area of the skin. Symptoms may be immediate, or they may linger for a few days. Look for symptoms such as the following: Rash. Itching. Swelling. Bumps or blisters, sometimes filled with clear fluid. Hot or tender skin. Lesions. Burns. Skin discoloration. There are several predisposing factors that may make one more susceptible to work-related skin disease. Age. In general, younger workers are more inexperienced and more likely to take risks on the job site, which leaves them more prone to come into contact with harmful pathogens on the job site. Skin type. In general, lighter skin color is more susceptible to pathogens on the job site than a darker skin color. Pre-existing conditions. Pre-existing conditions may weaken your bodies immune system against unwanted pathogens. In addition, employees with chronic skin conditions (such as acne or rosacea) are more likely to develop skin reactions. Extreme temperatures and humidity. Very low or high humidity and extreme heat or cold can cause chapping and dryness of the skin, thus weakening your skin's natural barriers against pathogens. Working conditions. A clean workplace is less likely to be contaminated with toxic or allergenic chemicals. In some industries, working conditions may expose you to chemicals, such as agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. Because work-related skin diseases are varied, each occupation carries its own risk. For example, medical professionals are more likely to develop immediate skin reactions from harmful agents such as radiation or solvents, and less likely to develop skin reactions that can take a long time to develop, such as exposure to sunlight or heat. Know the particular causes and risks associated with your profession, and the accompanying symptoms. For example, wearing rings is not advised for employees in so-called "wet work" (work that involves extensive exposure to moisture) because water and soap can collect under the rings and become a breeding ground for bacterial and fungal infections.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Recognize the symptoms. Understand predisposing factors. Know the risks associated with your particular profession.