Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic Dermatitis is a common skin problem that makes your skin red and itchy. This skin issue is common in children but can occur at any age and can be found in both men and women. Eczema often begins in infancy and may persist into childhood, and less commonly into adolescence and adulthood.

It generally occurs on the skin area that flexes; behind the knees or inside the elbows. The rash can become watery on scratching. It is a chronic disorder and tends to flare periodically. It may be accompanied by asthma or allergic rhinitis.

Symptoms

Some common symptoms include:

• Dry skin
• Itching
• Red to brownish-gray patches, more common on the hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, inside the bend of the elbows and knees, and in infants, the face and scalp.
• Small bumps which may leak fluid and crust over when scratched.
• Thick and cracked skin on hand and feet
• Raw and swollen skin

Secondary infection with bacteria and viruses can worsen the rash.

Causes

A healthy skin prevents an attack from bacteria, irritants, and allergens. Atopic dermatitis is a skin disorder linked to the skin's inability to provide this protection, making your skin prone to external elements. Eczemas are the result of complex interplay of following factors-

• Environmental factors
• Genetic predisposition
• Abnormality in the immune system
• Defective skin barrier
• Sensitive skin

Prevention

Following tips can help prevent flares of eczema:

• Moisturizers- Creams, ointments, and lotions seal moisture in the skin making it healthy. Moisturize your skin repeatedly to prevent drying.
• Identify your skin triggers-Analyze the response of your skin to certain triggering agents and avoid them to prevent your skin condition from getting worse. Some triggering factors may be sweat, stress, obesity, soaps, detergents, dust and pollen.
• Food allergies- Children may develop flares from eating certain foods, which may include eggs, milk, soy, and wheat. Identify your potential food allergies.
• Nor less neither too much time in the water- Take 10 to 15 minutes baths. Use Luke warm water in winter and cold water in summer. No hot water baths.
• Bleach bath- Taking a bleach bath twice a week may help prevent flares. It also fights bacterium on the skin and decreases infections. You may soak the affected areas of skin for about 10 minutes.
• Use gentle soaps- mild soaps and body wash only for your skin type.
• Dry your body after bath- Use a soft towel to pat dry your skin and apply moisturizer on a little damp skin.

Preventions may help to stop the Eczema but what to do if you still have eczema problem!!

Consult with Skin specialist- Dr. Savita Yadav in Gurgaon to get treatment for your Atopic dermatitis.