Atopic dermatitis, also known as dermatitis nervosa, is a chronic skin condition that affects the nervous system. It is estimated that about one in five people will be affected by it at some point in their lives and experience significant suffering as a result of the disease.

Atopic dermatitis most commonly occurs on one side of the body, but can also appear on both sides simultaneously. Symptoms typically flare up during times of emotional stress or physical activity such as menstruation or exercise. Furthermore, atopic dermatitis is a skin condition that affects people of all ages. This article provides valuable information on how to successfully treat atopic dermatitis.

What is atopic dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis, also known as psoriasis or scaly skin disease, is a skin condition that primarily affects the head and neck. It is usually a chronic condition. It is a type of eczema caused by the immune system's reaction to an irritant on the skin.

There are many different types of atopic dermatitis, and everyone experiences the condition differently. Some people experience pain, redness, and swelling. Others may experience itching, skin sensitivity, and rashes. In some cases, atopic dermatitis is intensely itchy, leading people to constantly scratch.

Atopic dermatitis symptoms

In some people, atopic dermatitis only affects one part of their body, while in others the condition manifests on both hands and feet. The skin becomes inflamed and red. Instead of itching, it may also burn.

Atopic dermatitis often leads to long-term skin damage and can be frustrating and disfiguring. Secondary skin infections such as cellulitis are also common. Other symptoms can include fever, sleep disturbances, and pain.

Causes of atopic dermatitis

The causes of atopic dermatitis vary from person to person. It often arises from allergies to substances or chemicals, but viruses and psychological factors can also play a role.

Formed by substances and chemicals

Atopic dermatitis can have various causes, including allergic contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, vasculitis, dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and lichen planus. Contact with irritants, sun exposure, and reactions to various medications and other treatments also play a role in the development of atopic dermatitis.

Possible triggers can also include chemicals in cleaning products, cosmetics, and hair products, as well as environmental conditions such as humidity and pollution. Some people develop atopic dermatitis because they are allergic to a particular skin type or a specific item of clothing. Others develop the skin condition because they are occupationally exposed to something harmful, such as latex.

Other causes

Some people suffer from atopic dermatitis because they have a virus or another type of infection. Stress, certain illnesses, and emotional instability can also lead to atopic dermatitis. Stress and illness can trigger atopic dermatitis by activating the body's immune system. This can lead to damage to skin cells, lymph nodes, and the skin itself.

The main sources of stress for someone with atopic dermatitis are therefore significant life changes, such as personal loss, unemployment, or a change in family circumstances. In addition, chronic health problems such as asthma, diabetes, or depression often lead to atopic dermatitis.

Eczema Diagnosis – How the Disease is Diagnosed

Keeping a close eye on your symptoms and seeking professional help if the condition worsens is the best way to manage atopic dermatitis. To diagnose atopic dermatitis, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and medical history.

This often proves difficult in practice. Tests that can be performed include skin biopsies and blood tests. If an underlying skin condition is suspected, a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also be performed. In most cases, there are no immediate clear answers – the doctor must conduct further investigations to arrive at a diagnosis.

Disease progression of atopic dermatitis

In atopic dermatitis, the skin and the underlying nerve tissue become inflamed. This inflammation is often caused by various factors, including itching and dryness. When the nerves in the skin are activated, this often leads to redness, swelling, and itching.

The inflammation often spreads to nearby blood vessels, which can lead to a brown or purple discoloration of the skin. It is important to constantly monitor the symptoms, as changes in sensation or appearance can be a sign that the condition is worsening.

Treating atopic dermatitis – How to do it right

General information about treatment options

There are currently no known cures for atopic dermatitis, which means that treatment typically focuses on symptom relief. Various treatments can be used, including antibiotics, corticosteroids, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

In addition, topical treatments such as ointments, creams, and lotions can be used. In some cases, surgery is necessary, for example, to remove the allergen causing the problem. Bed rest, hydrocortisone cream, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and medications such as antibiotics or cortisone are also recommended.

Special features of the treatment

It's important to treat weeping and scratched areas, as these often worsen. This usually leads to excessive moisture buildup and the development of dry, cracked skin. You can treat atopic dermatitis naturally, for example, by changing your diet.

Furthermore, it is possible to treat atopic dermatitis internally without cortisone. The latter is recommended because cortisone treatment is associated with risks. Side effects such as adrenal insufficiency cannot be ruled out.

Important considerations after the treatment of atopic dermatitis

After successful treatment of atopic dermatitis with clarifying and topical steroid medications, you need to remain vigilant to prevent relapses. The following tips can help you stay proactive:

dosage

Inform your doctor about the amount of medication you are taking, as this can greatly affect the severity and duration of symptoms. If a flare-up occurs, stop taking the medication and contact your doctor for further instructions.

Should new lesions develop, the medication may need to be discontinued and a new treatment plan initiated. Skin cleansing with the appropriate topical steroid should begin as soon as the patient becomes symptomatic and continue until the lesions have completely cleared.

Environmental exposure

Any exposure to an environmental factor can cause atopic dermatitis. In some cases, the exposure may not be directly observable, but can occur through a process such as skin contact with contaminated water or contaminated air.

If a patient is very sensitive to sun or wind, sun protection measures should be taken, including the use of sunscreen, staying indoors during peak sun hours, and limiting wind exposure. In addition, it is recommended to avoid recreational activities that could lead to increased sun exposure.

To avoid flare-ups, exposure to irritants could lead to problems.

Preventing flare-ups & maintaining skin health

To prevent flare-ups, you should monitor your symptoms, avoid contact with all irritants, and take your pain medication promptly as prescribed by your doctor. This will help reduce the severity of the pain and the potential for a flare-up.

Moisturize your skin as needed. This is important to ensure adequate hydration. It is also important to cleanse your skin daily with mild soap and water. If sun exposure is unavoidable, apply sunscreen every day to reduce the risk of skin cancer.

Special case: Atopic dermatitis in children

Start and distribution:

Atopic dermatitis often begins in early childhood and is therefore widespread among children. It is estimated that about 5% of children in the United States are affected.

The exact number is unknown, however, as atopic dermatitis often goes undiagnosed or untreated. The condition affects boys and girls equally, but most cases first appear during school age.

Various causes and degrees of severity:

The condition is believed to be a reaction to various factors, including stress, environmental stimuli, and certain illnesses. Atopic dermatitis can be extremely itchy and uncomfortable, making everyday life difficult for children.

Some people experience milder forms of atopic dermatitis, while others develop more severe symptoms that can lead to permanent skin damage. Treatment for atopic dermatitis in children usually involves applying a cream to the skin or treating the rash with a cream or ointment.

Prevention before treatment of severe cases:

In some cases, an injection may be necessary to stop the inflammation. Severe cases of atopic dermatitis, or those that do not respond to treatment, may require treatment with a steroid.

Due to the varying severity of symptoms and effects of the disease, parents are advised to take preventative measures against atopic dermatitis. Prevention involves protecting children from the various factors that can lead to the condition.

Atopic dermatitis – a disease requiring special attention

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, relapsing condition that causes inflammation of the skin. The most common symptom is a rash. Other symptoms can include fever, sleep disturbances, and pain. In children, atopic dermatitis most commonly appears in early childhood, but it can first manifest at any age.

Atopic dermatitis most commonly affects the face, hands, and feet, but can also affect any other part of the body. To diagnose atopic dermatitis, a doctor examines the symptoms and checks for skin lesions.

The following point should not be overlooked in any case of atopic dermatitis:

Atopic dermatitis is a common skin condition that can be triggered by stress and illness. Treatment typically includes medication, accommodation, and psychotherapy. Prevention involves avoiding harmful environments and health problems.