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    • Atopic Dermatitis
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Atopic Dermatitis

What is Atopic Dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis is a condition in which the skin becomes inflamed and itchy. It is the most common, and sometimes most severe, form of eczema. It's also a chronic condition that comes and goes. There is no known cure for atopic dermatitis, but there are lots of things you can do to help prevent flare-ups and reduce their severity. And if you've got atopic dermatitis, you're not alone: 10-20% of the population has experienced atopic dermatitis at some point in their lives.

What Does Atopic Dermatitis Look and Feel Like?

Although it may appear differently in different people, atopic dermatitis usually appears as a red, scaling, itchy rash. It's sometimes confused with psoriasis, another immune system-related condition that affects the skin (and occasionally the joints), but where it occurs on the body is different.

There's a very good reason atopic dermatitis is known as "the itch that rashes." If you can avoid the urge to scratch and your flare-up isn't too severe, your skin may only look dry and patchy. It's the scratching that can make the rash worse.

Unfortunately, ignoring the urge to scratch may prove to be a challenge. Atopic dermatitis can be extremely itchy. It can also be painful if blisters develop. Even though atopic dermatitis may look unpleasant, it isn't contagious and it's not life-threatening.

What Causes Atopic Dermatitis?

We don't really know what causes atopic dermatitis, but it may have something to do with the body's immune system. It usually flares up for the first time during the early childhood years and seems to be more common in children with parents and siblings who have asthma, allergies (hay fever and food allergies), overly dry skin, and/or conjunctivitis (eye inflammation).

How Can I Help Reduce Atopic Dermatitis Flare-ups?

Here are some common tips to help reduce flare-ups:

• Use mild, fragrance-free detergents when washing your clothes.
• Keep your skin from getting flushed and sweaty by wearing breathable fabrics, especially when exercising.
• Avoid dry winter air- keep the thermostat down in winter and invest in a humidifier.
• Don't wear scratchy fabrics like wool.
• Try to avoid harsh chemical fumes.
• Vacuum your house frequently to reduce the dust mite population.
• Don't let your skin get too dry. Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer directly after bathing.
• If you have pets or are often around pets, try to keep the dander level to a minimum by frequent vacuuming and/or investing in an air purifier.
• Try to avoid stressful situations that may cause a flare-up.