What is Atopic Dermatitis?
Atopic Dermatitis also known
as Eczema is a common recurrent itchy skin condition that is usually seen in
children but may also affect adults. It is sometimes mistakenly called “skin
asthmas” by many people. Individuals having atopic dermatitis usually get it
before age of 5. The condition generally improves as the person gets older. For
some children, it may completely disappear by age 2.
Atopic Dermatitis is not
contagious. The skin rashes look different in infants, children and adults. In
infants, the common symptoms are itchy and dry scaly skin, which may ooze or
become moist. They can be seen on the face, especially on the cheeks and scalp
but can affect other areas of the body.
Atopic Dermatitis in children
and adults has symptoms of itchy red rashes, bumps, skin flaking or thick and
dry skin. Common sites are neck, creases or folds of elbows, back of the knees,
wrists and ankles. If atopic dermatitis is infected skin erosions and pus may
develop, and needs treatment to prevent further complication.
What Causes Atopic Dermatitis?
Causes of Atopic dermatitis
are not known, but medical researchers have found out that a big contributory
on its occurrence is hereditary. Some individuals who have it are relatives
with bronchial asthma, hay fever (allergic rhinitis) or atopic dermatitis
itself. Atopic dermatitis is not caused by infection.
Foods do not cause atopic
dermatitis, but food allergies can make it worse. People with eczema or atopic
dermatitis are often allergic to milk and dairy products, nuts and shellfish.
Some foods can be mistakenly referred to as “malansa” (e.g. chicken, egg,
shrimp, shrimp paste or bagoong), which do not cause atopic dermatitis.
Attacks of atopic dermatitis
may be associated with the triggering factors such as:
·
Dry and low humidity
·
Heat and perspiration
·
Dust and smoke
·
Chemicals like detergents, soap and perfumes.
·
Infection
What treatment or management
can be done?
At present time, there is no
known cure for atopic dermatitis, treatment are recommended to control and
manage it. Treatment and management can be the following:
1. Application of Topical drug
products such as moisturizer to relieve dryness and corticosteroids for
management of inflammation and itchiness.
2. Oral medications such as
antihistamines, steroids – for severe cases, and antibiotics – for infected
cases.
3. Phototherapy – is a
management through the use of controlled exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light
done in a medical facility for patients with moderate to severe cases.
Preventions and Important
Considerations
1. Avoid
possible triggering factors.
2. Use
only mild, fragrance – free skin cleansers.
3. Bathe
in warm but not hot water.
4. Avoid
long bath time or prolonged exposure to water.
5. Apply
moisturizers regularly, at least twice a day.
6. Keep
fingernails short.
7. For
washing the clothes, use detergents made for sensitive skin and avoid scented
fabric softeners.
8. Wash
new clothes before wearing.
For effective and safe
management of atopic dermatitis, always consult your doctor or dermatologist.
Dermatologist should be a member of Philippine Dermatological Society.
- Adapted from PDS.
