Medical knowledge, Patient Education
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a skin disorder that causes inflammation of the skin. It is marked by a red rash and itchy, dry, scaly skin. It is the most common type of eczema. Eczema is a group of skin conditions that cause the skin to become rough and swollen. This condition is generally worse during the cooler winter months and often improves during the warm summer months.
Atopic dermatitis usually starts showing signs in infancy and can last through adulthood. This condition cannot be passed from one person to another (is not contagious). Atopic dermatitis may not always be present, but when it is, it is called a flare-up.
What are the causes?
-
Coming in contact with something that you are sensitive or allergic to (allergen).
-
Stress.
-
Certain foods.
-
Extremely hot or cold weather.
-
Harsh chemicals and soaps.
-
Dry air.
-
Chlorine.
What increases the risk?
-
Eczema.
-
Allergies.
-
Asthma.
-
Hay fever.
What are the signs or symptoms?
-
Dry, scaly skin.
-
Red, itchy rash.
-
Itchiness, which can be severe. This may occur before the skin rash. This can make sleeping difficult.
-
Skin thickening and cracking that can occur over time.
How is this diagnosed?
-
Your symptoms.
-
Your medical history.
-
A physical examination.
How is this treated?
-
Controlling the itchiness and scratching. You may be given medicines, such as antihistamines or steroid creams.
-
Limiting exposure to allergens.
-
Recognising situations that cause stress and developing a plan to manage stress.
If your atopic dermatitis does not get better with medicines, or if it is all over your body (widespread), a treatment using a specific type of light (phototherapy) may be used.
Follow these instructions at home:
Skin care
-
Keep your skin well moisturised. Doing this seals in moisture and helps to prevent dryness.
-
Use unscented moisturising creams that have petroleum in them.
-
Avoid moisturising creams that contain alcohol or water. They can dry the skin.
-
-
Keep baths or showers short (less than 5 minutes) in warm water. Do not use hot water.
-
Use mild, unscented cleansers for bathing. Avoid soap and bubble bath.
-
Apply a moisturiser to your skin right after a bath or shower.
-
-
Do not apply anything to your skin without checking with your healthcare provider.
General instructions
-
Take or apply over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as instructed by your healthcare provider.
-
Dress in clothes made of cotton or cotton blends. Dress lightly because heat increases itchiness.
-
When washing your clothes, rinse them twice so all the soap is removed.
-
Avoid any triggers that can cause a flare-up.
-
Keep your fingernails cut short.
-
Avoid scratching. Scratching makes the rash and itchiness worse. A break in the skin from scratching could result in a skin infection (impetigo).
-
Do not be around people who have cold sores or fever blisters. If you get the infection, it may cause your atopic dermatitis to worsen.
-
Keep all follow-up appointments. This is important.
Contact a healthcare provider if:
-
Your itchiness interferes with sleep.
-
Your rash gets worse or is not better within one week of starting treatment.
-
You have a fever.
-
You have a rash flare-up after having contact with someone who has cold sores or fever blisters.
Get help right away if:
-
You develop pus or soft yellow scabs in the rash area.
Summary
-
Atopic dermatitis causes a red rash and itchy, dry, scaly skin.
-
Treatment focuses on controlling the itchiness and scratching, limiting exposure to things that you are sensitive or allergic to (allergens), recognising situations that cause stress, and developing a plan to manage stress.
-
Keep your skin well moisturised.
-
Keep baths or showers shorter than 5 minutes and use warm water. Do not use hot water.
This information is not intended to replace advice given to you by your health care provider. Make sure you discuss any questions you have with your health care provider.
