What is atopic dermatitis?

Inflammatory skin disease, atopic dermatitis has a genetic influence and causes an intense itching of the skin

Atopic Dermatitis

Image: Dr. Letícia Dexheimer

Atopic dermatitis, also known as atopic eczema, is one of the most common types of dermatitis, characterized as an inflammatory skin disease that affects about 50 million people worldwide. It has genetic influence and is associated with immunological changes with allergic reactions. Atopic dermatitis causes changes in the skin's protective barrier, with itchy, crusty eruptions most commonly appearing in the creases of the arms and the back of the knees.

Very common among children, the first symptoms usually appear after three months of age and usually start to disappear around the age of five. However, crises may occur frequently, with the possibility of lasting until adulthood. In adults, atopic dermatitis is usually a prolonged or recurrent disease and may be accompanied by respiratory allergies, such as allergic rhinitis and asthma.

Symptoms

Atopic dermatitis is characterized by dryness of the skin, with white patches, roughness, redness, inflammation and intense itching of the injured areas. People with atopic dermatitis tend to have dry skin and are more likely to have flare-ups in winter, due to very hot baths and contact with woolen clothing. However, if discovered early on, it is possible to reduce the frequency and intensity of crises. Check out some of the symptoms:

  • Ear secretion or bleeding;
  • Raised areas of the skin caused by itching;
  • Changes in skin color;
  • Skin lighter or darker than your normal shade;
  • Redness or inflammation of the skin around the blisters;
  • Thick or leathery areas that can occur after prolonged irritation and itching.

The symptoms of atopic dermatitis improve and worsen depending on how long a person is living or during the changing seasons.

Prevention

Normally, atopic dermatitis is genetic, so it's difficult to avoid its first appearance and it has no cure. However, it is possible to prevent crises by keeping the skin well hydrated, and bath care is essential.

Dermatitis can cause intense itching, and scratching the sore can make it even more irritated and bruised, which facilitates the invasion and contamination of wounds by bacteria. Despite this, atopic dermatitis is not a contagious disease and there is no risk of transmission.

Treatments

The treatment of atopic dermatitis is usually based on medication, with the aim of controlling the itching, reducing skin inflammation and preventing recurrences. Consult your doctor or physician to check the options. In principle, it is likely that a mild cortisone (or steroid) cream or ointment will be prescribed. If these don't work, you may need oral medications.

However, taking care of your skin at home can reduce the need for medication. Take some steps to improve recovery - see examples:
  • Keep your skin hydrated (with oils, ointments or moisturizing creams - moisturizers should be free of alcohol, perfumes, fragrances, dyes or other chemicals);
  • Avoid very hot and long baths, do not use soaps directly on the damaged skin and prefer cleansing lotions;
  • Relieve the itching using cold compresses and taking antihistamine medications;
  • Keep children's nails short - consider wearing light gloves if itching at night is a problem;
  • Avoid woolen fabrics;
  • Avoid sudden changes in body temperature and stress, which can cause sweating and make the situation even worse;
  • Do not rub or dry your skin too hard or for a long time. Never use vegetable sponges or scrubs.


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