What You Should Know About
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
Atopic dermatitis (also known as atopic eczema) is a chronic allergic skin disease that affects about 10% of people at some time in their lives, usually during childhood. People with atopic dermatitis typically have dry, itchy, easily irritated skin. In fact, dermatitis and eczema both mean inflammation of the skin. This condition can last for years and may damage the skin over time.
No one knows what causes atopic dermatitis, but we do know that it's more likely to occur in someone whose parents or family members had it or another allergic disorder, such as hay fever, asthma, or food allergies.
The cycle of atopic dermatitis
Part of what makes atopic dermatitis so irritating is that it can be aggravated by a wide variety of things, such as those described below. The good news is that, by working closely with your doctor, you can help to avoid these influences that make atopic dermatitis worse.
- Scratching. Scratching or rubbing the skin causes further irritation, injures the skin, and increases itchiness. This is called the itch-scratch cycle.
- Skin irritants. An irritant causes burning, itching, or redness. Almost anything can irritate the skin when atopic dermatitis is severe. Common irritants include chemicals, solvents, soaps, detergents, fragrances, some skin care products, some fabrics, and smoke. Certain skin tests may help you determine which substances are irritating to your skin.
- Allergies. Exposure to allergens can cause your symptoms or make them worse. Your doctor may order skin or blood tests to help determine whether your itching and rash could be caused by something to which you're allergic. Common allergens for people with atopic dermatitis include foods, dust mites, furry animals, allergens in the air, and certain chemicals.
- Extremes of temperature and humidity. Cold weather, hot weather, humidity, and sweating may make atopic dermatitis worse. Low humidity can also worsen skin dryness and irritation by drawing water out of the skin.
- Stress. Anger, frustration, embarrassment, and other emotions caused by stress can worsen atopic dermatitis by aggravating the itch-scratch cycle.
Treatment and tips
In addition to avoiding the things that make atopic dermatitis worse, you can use several treatment strategies to help minimize your symptoms. In fact, if you're like most people, you'll find that effective treatment combined with a little extra effort can prevent this disease from disrupting your lifestyle, activities, and sleep.
Topical corticosteroids
The medications most often prescribed for people with atopic dermatitis are inflammation fighters known as topical corticosteroids. You spread them over the affected skin area, and they help to quiet the itching and rash. Topical corticosteroids are powerful drugs, but if you use them carefully and correctly, they're safe and effective.
Tar products
Skin and scalp products that contain coal tar extracts can reduce itching, redness, and inflammation for a rather long time. Plus, they have fewer side effects than some other medicines. However, they can be irritating. Usually, tar shampoos can be helpful if you have a red, itchy scalp.
Soak and seal
The most important treatment for dry skin is to put water back in it. To do that, soak in a bath or shower, gently pat the skin dry, and then apply a thick layer of moisturizer right away. This process?called soak and seal? seals the water into your skin. You can use it either to prevent dry skin or treat it.
Infection fighters
If you have atopic dermatitis, you have an increased of skin infection by bacteria (impetigo, for example), fungus (athlete's foot, for example), and viruses (herpes, for example). To help treat these infections, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic, antifungal, or antiviral medication either to apply to your skin or to take by mouth.
Antihistamines
Finally, to help reduce itching, your doctor may suggest an antihistamine. These medications are also used to control allergy symptoms. Keep in mind that most antihistamines can make you drowsy, which can be beneficial if you're trying to get to sleep.
Where to Get More Information
For more information, try these online resources.
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