Irritasjon

Irritasjon, commonly translated as irritation, is a subjective sensation of discomfort in tissues or organs caused by exposure to irritants. It is not a disease in itself, but a response that can affect the skin, eyes, airways, or mucous membranes. Irritation can be acute, resolving after removal of the irritant, or chronic with ongoing exposure. In clinical contexts, irritation is distinguished from pain, infection, or allergic reactions, though symptoms may overlap.

Causes and mechanisms: Irritation results from chemical, physical, or biological factors that damage epithelial barriers or stimulate sensory nerves. Chemical irritants include cleaning agents, solvents, acids or bases. Physical irritants include friction, heat, cold, or radiation. Biological irritants include smoke, pollen, and pollutants. The body responds via local inflammation, including redness, itching, burning, and swelling, mediated by histamines and other inflammatory mediators.

Common sites include the skin (contact dermatitis), eyes (conjunctival irritation), and airways (coughing or throat irritation). Diagnosis relies on history of exposure and physical examination; sometimes patch testing or exposure tests are used to differentiate irritants from allergic reactions.

Management focuses on removing the irritant and protecting affected areas. Rinsing with water, avoiding rubbing, and using moisturizers for skin may help. Inflammation may require topical medications under medical guidance. Persistent or severe irritation warrants medical evaluation to rule out infection or chronic dermatologic conditions and to identify safe alternatives. Prevention includes using protective equipment, proper ventilation, and avoiding known irritants.