WORKING in certain places can damage your health, warns a Runcorn woman.

As national eczema awareness week begins, Lorraine Cunningham, from Runcorn, explains how her job made her ill and affected her life.

The 44-year-old had never suffered from any skin conditions when she started working as a carer at a home for dementia sufferers.

Within weeks she developed a rash on her right hand which rapidly deteriorated, leaving her with blisters and unable to perform basic tasks.

When Lorraine took time off work the rash improved.

Her GP diagnosed with eczema, caused by the washing up liquid used at work.

Lorraine said: “When it flared up I couldn’t even dress myself.

“Even going to the loo was difficult. It affected every part of my life.”

Now, working as a dental nurse she remains eczema free.

Lorraine advises anyone suffering to claim compensation if they believe their occupation caused their skin condition.

Annabel Chadwick, head of hazardous substances at law firm Roberts Jackson, said: “Work-related eczema is classed as an industrial disease and employers have a duty of care to protect their workforce.

“Eczema is common.

“It can have a massive impact on their day to day life. These people deserve compensation.”