Health Corner

What is Atopic Dermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. Many people think of it as a minor skin condition and may ignore it. However, if left untreated for a long time, it can cause widespread skin inflammation. The inflammatory substances involved can also affect other body systems, leading to allergies, asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and even depression. The exact cause of atopic dermatitis is unknown, but it is likely related to genetics, immune system dysfunction, skin barrier impairment, or heredity. This results in damage to the skin's outer layer responsible for retaining moisture, causing dry skin and reduced protection, along with immune system abnormalities.

Beyond itching, what are the symptoms?

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) provides the following diagnostic guidelines for atopic dermatitis:

• Itching

• Recurrent eczema lasting more than six months without interruption

• Personal or family history of allergies and elevated Immunoglobulin E (IgE) response

• Dry skin

Does atopic dermatitis only occur in infancy?

Symptoms typically begin in infancy and often disappear before adolescence. However, some patients continue to experience symptoms into adulthood, and some may develop atopic dermatitis for the first time in adulthood. At all stages, the skin is itchy, dry, and extremely sensitive. Itching often causes scratching, which can lead to bacterial infection and worsening inflammation.

• Infancy (birth to 2 years): As babies start crawling, eczema commonly appears on the outer joints due to friction.

• Childhood (2 to 5 years): Eczema mostly appears on the inner joints, especially behind the elbows and knees, but can also affect the neck, eyelids, around the mouth, hands, feet, wrists, and ankles. Lesions start as small bumps but become thickened and scaly from scratching and friction.

• Adolescence and Adulthood: Eczema may continue from earlier stages or recur intermittently. The affected areas are usually the creases of the body, face, neck, and eyelids.

Why do I have atopic dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis is not contagious, but family history and environmental factors increase the risk:

• Irritants (soap, detergents, personal care products, wool)

• Allergens

• High temperatures

• Sweat

• Cigarette smoke

• Food allergens

• Airborne allergens

• Stress

• Chemicals

• Cleaning agents

• Family history of allergic diseases such as eczema or asthma

What treatments are available for atopic dermatitis?

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends the following approaches:

• Mild cases:

  • Use moisturizing lotions

  • Medicinal moisturizers

• Moderate to severe cases:

  • Suppress immune response with oral and topical corticosteroids

  • Topical antibiotics

  • Immunomodulators

  • Phototherapy

  • Wet wrap therapy

How can I relieve skin itching?

Besides medication, self-care can help soothe eczema and reduce itching:

• Choose bathing and moisturizing products: Use gentle, fragrance-free, and detergent-free body washes. Apply moisturizing creams or lotions at least twice daily to hydrate and soften the skin.

• Bathing habits: Use warm (not hot) water and avoid long showers or baths to prevent drying and irritation.

• Choose clothes carefully: Wear breathable cotton clothes and avoid rough fabrics like wool. Use appropriate amounts of detergent and rinse clothes thoroughly.

• Avoid allergens: Stay away from known food and environmental triggers. Maintain home cleanliness to minimize dust, avoid carpets, plush sofas, stuffed toys, and pollen-producing plants.

• Manage stress: Learn stress reduction techniques and maintain optimism. Regular exercise, relaxation activities, socializing, listening to music, and meditation can reduce eczema flare-ups. Support from family and friends is important emotionally.