ATOPIC DERMATITIS - WatsonsHealth

ATOPIC DERMATITIS

Overview & Facts

Atopic dermatitis is a skin condition that brings about redness and itchiness in your skin. It’s common in children, however it can happen at any age. Atopic dermatitis is long-term and tends to flare up occasionally. It might be joined by asthma or a runny nose.

No real cure has been found for atopic dermatitis. Medicines and preventive measures can calm itching and avert new flare-ups. For instance, people with atopic dermatitis should keep away from harsh cleansers, moisturize the skin routinely, and apply treatments creams or ointments.

Types & Symptoms

A wide range of dermatitis may cause itchiness and redness, yet atopic dermatitis is the most serious and long-term type of skin inflammation.

Different types of dermatitis include:

  • Hand eczema
  • Contact dermatitis
  • Dyshidrotic eczema

Atopic dermatitis may have the following signs and symptoms:

  • Dry skin
  • Itching
  • Red, brown, or grey spots on extremities, chest, face
  • Small, raised bumps with or without fluid or crusts
  • Thick and scaly skin
  • Swollen skin

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

There is no lab test that can diagnose atopic dermatitis. The doctor will examine your skin and obtain a medical history. He or she may likewise use patch testing or different tests to exclude other skin conditions or recognize conditions that go with your dermatitis. The doctor may also review your food allergies.

 

TREATMENT

Atopic dermatitis can exist long-term. You may need to take different medicines over months or years to control it. Also, regardless of whether treatment is effective, signs and side effects may return as a flare-up.

These tips may also help:

  • Moisturizing your skin at least twice a day with creams, ointments and lotions
  • Identifying and avoiding triggers such as eating certain foods like eggs, milk, soy and wheat
  • Taking shorter baths or showers
  • Taking a bleach bath, consisting of 1/2 cup of household bleach to a 40-gallon (151 liters) bathtub filled with warm water. Soak for about 10 minutes. Do not submerge the head. Repeat for two times a week.
  • Use only gentle or mild soaps

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