Allergic reaction to tape

[happychic80 58]

Two days ago I started with a little rash on my belly shaped like a square like the dressing they used on me post op. Yesterday it started spreading (I had 6 of those dressings on my belly) and today itching like crazy. I was told I could take liquid benadryl and use anti-itch cream this morning, but it doesn't seem to be helping much. Anyone else deal with this? If so how long before it went away??

[BLERDgirl 6,417]

Me! I am allergic to latex and even if the hospital uses latex free bandages there is a small amount of latex in the glue. I used hydrocortisone cream. It took a while ( maybe a week or so) but it eventually went away.

[Babbs 14,681]

I did. I had NASTY rashes where and even underneath the tape was. I even thought I was going to scar in a couple places, but it does look like they've faded. Just keep taking your Benadryl and wait it out. I think it took a good couple weeks for mine to heal up.

[happychic80 58]

Thanks for the quick replies! Did it spread to your incisions/staples? I guess that's reallly what I'm worried about. Thank goodness I get staples out Wednesday morning!!

[BLERDgirl 6,417]

I didn't have staples and the steri strips fell off before I got a rash. I only had them on my arm where they tried to get an IV started and on my neck and face because I ended up getting a PICC line instead. If it's a reaction to the tape it shouldn't spread. It will just be where the tape was.

[happychic80 58]

Its spread to where the inside of the bandages were too, not just where the tape was on the outside

[DgotSleeved 103]

I was sleeved on 12/17 and also had reactions to the tape. I actually just dealt with it even though my whole belly is red and itchy. I switched the dressings to hypoallergenic tape and it's made a world of a difference!!!! good luck.

[Dajones 46]

I had stitches, staples and tape. When I would change the dressing and remove the old tape, it felt like I was taking a layer of skin off too! It got very red and irritated. I only covered it because I was afraid the staples would catch on my clothing or sheets in bed. I begged my doctor to remove the staples after 10 days and the tape irritation areas went away after a few days.