21/07/2022
We have different types of dermatitis but today, I will be looking at the most common one which is ATOPIC DERMATITIS popularly known as ECZEMA.
I will be using Atopic Dermatitis and Eczema interchangeably, don't lose focus please.
Eczema (also called atopic dermatitis) is a condition that causes your skin to become dry, red, itchy and bumpy. Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema which damages the skin barrier function (the "glue" of your skin). This loss of barrier function makes your skin more sensitive and more prone to infection and dryness.
Anyone can be affected by Eczema. This doesn’t mean that your skin is dirty or infected, and it’s not contagious.
Eczema affects both male and female equally and is more common in people who have a personal or family history of asthma, environmental allergies and/or food allergies.
How does eczema start? Atopic dermatitis happens when your skin’s natural barrier against the elements is weakened. This means your skin is less able to protect you from irritants and allergens.
The first signs of eczema are itchiness and redness.
Where does eczema most commonly occur?
Eczema can show up anywhere on your skin. In teens and adults, it’s typically found on your hands, neck, inner elbows, ankles, knees, feet and around your eyes.
Who is at risk of getting eczema?
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) usually begins in childhood, but anyone at any age can get it.
Can eczema hurt the rest of my body, or kill me?
Eczema and other types of dermatitis are not harmful to the rest of your body. The condition is not deadly.
SYMPTOMS AND CAUSES
What causes eczema?
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is caused by a combination of immune system activation, genetics, environmental triggers and stress.
Your immune system. If you have eczema, your immune system overreacts to small irritants or allergens. This overreaction can inflame your skin.
Your genetics. You’re more likely to have eczema if there is a history of dermatitis in your family. You’re also at a higher risk if there’s a history of asthma, hay fever and/or allergens. Allergens are substances like pollen, pet hair or foods that trigger an allergic reaction. Also, there might be a change in your genes that control a protein that helps your body maintain healthy skin. Without normal levels of that protein, your skin will not be completely healthy.
Your environment. There is a lot in your environment that can irritate your skin. Some examples include exposure to to***co smoke, air pollutants, harsh soaps, fabrics such as wool and some skin products. Low humidity (dry air) can cause your skin to become dry and itchy. Heat and high humidity can cause sweating and that can make the itchiness even worse.
Your stress. Your stress levels can cause or worsen your eczema.
What are the signs and symptoms of eczema?
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) symptoms include:
Dry skin.
Itchy skin.
Red rashes.
Bumps on the skin.
Scaly, leathery patches of skin.
Does the weather make eczema worse?
Low humidity (dry air) can dry out your skin, and sweating caused by high heat can make the itchiness worse.
Treating eczema (atopic dermatitis) can be difficult if the cause is something you can’t control, like genetics. Fortunately, you may have some influence over your environment and stress levels. Do your best to figure out what triggers or worsens your eczema, and then avoid it. The goal is to reduce itching and discomfort and prevent infection and additional flare-ups.
PREVENTION
How can I reduce my risk of eczema (atopic dermatitis)? There are steps you can take that may prevent eczema outbreaks:
Establish a skin care routine, and follow your recommendations.
Use mild soaps and other products that are free of perfumes, dyes and alcohol. Look for products labeled “fragrance free,” “hypoallergenic” and “for sensitive skin.”
Avoid long, hot baths, which can dry the skin. Use lukewarm water instead.
Apply lotion immediately after bathing while the skin is still moist. This will help trap moisture in the skin.
Keep the room temperature as regular as possible. Changes in room temperature and humidity can dry the skin.
Use mild laundry soap and make sure that clothes are well rinsed.
Use moisturizers several times daily to keep your skin hydrated.
I hope you got value?
