Atopic dermatitis: symptoms, causes and treatment
Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic skin disorder that results in pruritic (ie, itchy) and scaly eruptions. In this article we will provide everything you need to know from its causes, to its symptoms and possible treatments.
This condition occurs mainly between babies and can begin between 2 and 6 months of life, and in many cases disappears when entering adulthood. Asthma, seasonal allergies and skin allergies are also common for those suffering from atopic dermatitis.
It basically consists of a skin disease that is characterized mainly by dry, irritable and desquamated skin that tends to evolve in the form of outbreaks, moments in which the symptoms are much more annoying. There is no treatment that helps in its healing, although periodic and maintained care helps protect the skin and reduce its most annoying signs.
Causes of atopic dermatitis
The causes of eczema are still being investigated, but urine is known to result from a skin reaction that causes swelling and redness. In general, patients with atopic dermatitis have greater sensitivity because their skin lacks certain proteins. Many times there is a family history of certain disorders related to allergies such as asthma, allergic rhinitis and also eczema.
It is also known that there are certain factors that worsen the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. Some of them are:
- Certain allergies (to pollen, dust mites, mold or animals).
- Colds and flu.
- Contact with irritating or rough materials (eg wool) and with chemicals.
- Dry skin.
- Stress.
- Sudden changes in temperature.
- Perfumes and tinctures in lotions or soaps.
Symptoms of atopic dermatitis or eczema
The symptoms are clearly visible since they occur on the skin. Some alterations of the skin that can occur in patients with dermatitis are:
- Blisters that form scabs.
- Redness or swelling near the blisters.
- Dryness throughout the body.
- Lumps (mainly behind the arms or in front of the thighs).
- Live areas by scratching.
- Changes in skin color.
- Thickening of the skin (it looks like leather).
These symptoms may also be accompanied by secretions or bleeding in the ear.
Treatments for atopic dermatitis
For the treatment of atopic dermatitis is very important to start a series of daily care, which will reduce symptoms and therefore the need to resort to medication.
Before the itching that causes the rash we must try to avoid the scratching. For this, the use of moisturizer or other ointments such as Vaseline, a topical steroid cream or any other cream recommended by our doctor is recommended.
It also helps the intake of antihistamines orally, our doctor will tell us what and what doses are appropriate. To sleep it is advisable to use soft gloves and keep the nails well trimmed so that the scratching is not so strong. The bath should be short and with fresh water using cleansers and mild bath gel.
Do not use products on the skin that have alcohol, fragrances, dyes or other chemicals. Avoid factors that increase symptoms, among them we can mention the egg, wool clothes, soaps or strong detergents, chemicals, solvents, sudden changes in temperature.
The medications used to treat atopic dermatitis are oral antihistamines, topical drugs (creams or ointments that are applied to the skin) with cortisone, although depending on the particular case of each patient can be combined with other medications according to the professional's criteria. Health. There are also treatments such as phototherapy that uses ultraviolet (UV) light. This article is published for informational purposes only. It can not and should not replace the consultation with a Physician. We advise you to consult your Trusted Doctor. ThemesSkin diseases Skin
