Atopic Dermatitis: Causes, Symptoms, Factor And Treatment

Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic skin disease. The individual that has this condition will experience irritable, itchy and dry skin. There is swelling, inflammation and redness that come from the scratching of the inflicted areas; scales, cracks and crusts may appear in the skin over time. This is generally referred to as dermatitis. This condition is most common in young children but it can appear in adults. It can also appear during adulthood and some individuals never rid of the condition.

This condition is experienced by one in every ten adults but nearly three quarters of children have it during their first year of life. Almost ninety percent of people develop it by the time they reach the age of going to school. It is more commonly seen in locations that are dry but those with family history of the disease are the most likely to develop it.

The Cause, Symptoms, and Treatment

The precise cause of this skin condition remains unclear but research shows that individuals that are predisposed to other allergies are more likely to have this condition as well.

It may also be caused by deficiencies in the immune system. Individuals that have a low level of the protein cytokine seem to be at an increased risk as the protein is necessary for the immune system to work properly. When the immune system is compromised, it can cause inflammation without there being an infection.

There are various symptoms that a person may experience if they have atopic dermatitis. Such symptoms include:

• Dry, itchy skin;
• Rashes on the inside of the elbows, hands, feet, knees, wrists and face;
• Red and scaly skin that is a result from rubbing the area;
• Hives after the exposure to hot water;
• Inflammation around the lips;
• Added creases in the skin of the palms;
• Darker skin under the eyes caused by hay fever;
• Moisture lost from skin;
• Inflamed skin;
• Small bumps on face, thighs and upper arms.

The treatment is two-fold for this condition. There needs to be moisturizers added to the skin to reduce the symptoms. The individual also must avoid various things that can cause allergic reactions such as dust, pollen, and certain types of food.

There are medications that can be used to help as well to reduce the inflammation and to prevent further outbreaks. These medicines should only be used under supervision because they can permanently damage the skin.

Prevention

There are other things that a person may want to consider avoiding to prevent further outbreaks.

• Swimming and taking baths in hot water;
• Various soaps and perfumes that have scents or other chemicals;
• Cigarette smoke;
• High levels of humidity;
• Stress from anger, frustration and even embarrassment.