Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition that causes skin discolouration and itchy rashes. It usually starts in childhood, and flare-ups can continue through adulthood.
When an atopic dermatitis rash develops, it can be uncomfortable and itchy.
Your immediate reaction may be to scratch it.
This can cause swelling, cracking, crusting and scaling.
The rash might “weep” a clear fluid.
Types of atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis refers to a group of skin conditions related to underlying allergies.
Its appearance can vary and change over time like the following types:
Nummular (discoid) dermatitis, which has round, discolored and scaly patches (about the size of a coin).
Prurigo nodularis, which consists of firm, dry, raised bumps.
Erythroderma (exfoliative dermatitis), which presents as widespread skin discoloration and scaling on most of your body.
Lichenoid dermatitis, with flat, dark, itchy and scaly patches of skin.
Follicular dermatitis, which causes tiny, itchy bumps around hair follicles (tubes where your hair grows).
Dyshidrosis (pompholyx), which shows up as small, itchy blisters on your hands and feet.
Atopic dermatitis symptoms
Common atopic dermatitis symptoms may include:
A skin rash
Dry or cracked skin
Itchy skin (can be severe)
Red, purple, brown or gray skin discoloration
Small, fluid-filled bumps or crusting
Swelling
What triggers atopic dermatitis?
Triggers of atopic dermatitis may include:
Allergens or irritants
Hormonal changes (like during pregnancy)
Skin infections
Stress
Temperature changes (heat or cold)
Foods (like peanuts, eggs, soy, wheat, shellfish, etc.)
Skincare products (like those with fragrances)
Plants
Cleaning products
Soaps and detergents
Atopic dermatitis treatment
Your healthcare provider may recommend different options to treat your atopic dermatitis symptoms. This may include:
Identifying and avoiding triggers and allergens
Applying an over-the-counter, fragrance-free moisturizer (cream or ointment) to your skin at least twice daily
Using topical prescription medication as directed by your provider
Participating in allergen immunotherapy to reduce how many allergic reactions you have
Undergoing light therapy (phototherapy)
Atopic dermatitis medications
Two medications that your provider may prescribe to treat atopic dermatitis include:
Topical corticosteroids
Topical calcineurin inhibitors
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