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Warning-sign checks

Perioral dermatitis: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services for trouble breathing or sudden swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, or face.

    These symptoms suggest a severe allergic reaction rather than ordinary perioral dermatitis.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact a healthcare professional sooner if:

    • The rash is close to your eyes or affecting your eyelids
    • The skin becomes increasingly painful, warm, swollen, or crusted
    • You develop fever or feel generally unwell
    • A prescribed treatment is causing significant irritation
    • You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or seeking treatment for a child

    Seek urgent same-day care for eye pain, marked light sensitivity, or changes in vision.

    These are not usual symptoms of uncomplicated perioral dermatitis.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if the rash lasts more than a few weeks, keeps returning, spreads, or is difficult to distinguish from acne or eczema.

    You should also seek advice if it developed while using a corticosteroid cream or if it is affecting your sleep, confidence, or daily activities.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Perioral dermatitis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.