An inflammatory skin disorder like atopic dermatitis affects approximately 18 million people nationwide. And from this number, women and children are more commonly diagnosed. There is no concrete cure for atopic dermatitis yet, but it is possible to diagnose early, plan treatments, and improve one’s quality of life. Here are some common causes, risk factors, and symptoms to take note of and give a proper overview to a skin specialist.
Causes and risk factors
Eczema triggers can be external or could be a side effect of changes in the body. Certain lifestyle choices can also impact the progression of the condition.
Family history
Family members with a history of developing atopic dermatitis or other allergies that trigger these symptoms pass on to the further generations.
Low immunity
Certain autoimmune responses triggered due to low immunity and changes in body functions can also increase the risk of such topical problems on the epidermis.
Exposure to elements
Common allergens like pollen, dander, and dust may irritate the skin, increasing the risk of this inflammatory skin disorder. Any physical irritants, including soaps, detergents, fabric softeners, and cleaning agents, might affect the epidermal layer of the skin, causing irritation and inflammation.
Daily hygiene
Dermatologists advise against taking long, hot showers as the heat can hurt the epidermal layer and expose skin tissue. Similarly, not dealing with sweat promptly increases the risk of infections.
Symptoms
Infants may develop a bubbly rash that oozes fluids or a rash on the cheek or scalp and develop dry, itchy, scaly skin that could cause blisters and physical pain.
Young children develop rashes on the crevices of the elbows or knees or around the eyes and neck region. One’s skin could also become tough and leathery, showing dry, scaly patches that could blister. Skin spots could also develop in several areas, and discoloration is visible.
Adults develop drier and more painful atopic dermatitis on the face, back of the knees, and the crevices or extremities of the elbow. Adults may suffer from severe discoloration of the skin and persistent irritation triggered by inflammation in the affected areas.
Diagnosis and treatment
Dermatologists perform a physical exam to check the progression of the symptoms and may order a biopsy. In a biopsy, a small portion of skin tissue is extracted and observed using a microscope to determine the severity of dermatitis. Most common treatments include a combination of topical ointments, creams, gels, and lotions to soothe the skin and provide relief in the long run.
Foods to eat and avoid
Foods like salmon, tuna, and mackerel containing omega-3 fatty acids are the best ones to include to manage flare-ups linked to atopic dermatitis. Fresh fruits and vegetables like kale, spinach, broccoli, apples, cherries, and blueberries are loaded with quercetin, antioxidants, and antihistamines that help counter any inflammation. Fermented pickles, miso, tempeh, kefir, certain soft cheeses, and sauerkraut are immunity-boosting foods that prevent the recurrence of certain allergies.
Certain dairy products, citrus-rich fruits, foods containing gluten, soy products, spicy condiments, and even eggs are all foods that could irritate the allergies.
Natural remedies
Natural aloe vera gel contains antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that soothe the skin and prevent inflammation. Colloidal oatmeal extracts are said to have skin healing properties. A coconut oil massage boosts omega-3 content to repair the skin barrier and combats inflammation. Also, honey has been used for centuries as a healing agent, so skin doctors even suggest the use of honey to prevent infections and speed up healing. Apart from these remedies, a simple change in lifestyle to protect the skin will also help speed up recovery.