Just touched rat and hand is irritated. need help fast.

Question

I just touched a rat about 10 minutes ago and my hand started to get really irritated (almost like something was burning me) in just a few minutes. I ran to the sink and washed my hands with hot water and soap. The irritation stopped but it left little red dots on the back of my hand. Going to the doctor is not an option for me because i cant afford it. Can someone tell me whats wrong? if there is anything to worry about?

Answer 1

Hi! Sounds like an allergic reaction to me. I get allergic reactions to things very easy myself. You actually probably wouldn't need to see a Doctor for it unless it started affecting your breathing. All you need to take is OTC Benadryl (it's available in generic formula and is very inexpensive). Many people keep it in their cupboards for allergic reactions, so if you don't have it, you could probably borrow a couple tablets from your neighbors. I find the capsules work best.

Good luck and I hope that takes care of it! =)

Answer 2

i think you are talking about hives, the only thing you should worry about is your throut closing up but that is not likely to happen, but if it gets really hard to breath call 911. i get hives if i run or walk too long all the time i think you will bw ok, just try to avoid touching a rat in the future ok!

Answer 3

The rat may have come in contact with a chemical from something (like insulation or a pesticide) that caused you the irritation when you touched it.  Since washing it has helped, you will probably be ok. As long as your hand keeps getting better, I think you can let it go.  

Answer 4

You probably had an allergic reaction. My wife gets really itchy when she touches cats.

Take a benadryl or some type of allergy medicine and it should clear up.

Answer 5

you broke out in hives. so you mush be allergic. take some benadryl. it should help but it will put you to sleep fast.