Atopic Dermatitis Treatment
Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, as it is more widely known, is a skin disorder. Eczema generally children, but adults are not immune to it. Atopic dermatitis usually occurs in people who are genetically predisposed to have what is called an ‘atopic tendency’ — which means they are susceptible to atopic dermatitis, asthma and allergic rhinitis (hay fever).
Although people who have this disorder sometimes may seem like they have some kind of dangerous skin infection, the truth is that this is not at all contagious. You cannot contract it from somebody — it is genetic. It occurs due to a combination of complex genetic factors and one’s environment, allergens, weather, temperature.
No known cure is available that can completely remove all symptoms of atopic dermatitis. The best one can do is take preventive steps to prevent it from flaring up frequently. Atopic dermatitis is essentially an inflammation of the skin. It is usually accompanied by dry skin and this makes it very itchy. Scratching is of course never an option as it will only make the inflammation worse and could also cause it to spread. The best way is to work with a doctor who can prescribe emollients (these are substances that soothe and soften our skin). Most people prefer this as some of these also have cosmetic purposes as they help to cover up the inflamed skin. The idea is to keep the skin as lubricated as possible. Adequate moisturizing and conditioning of the skin, with very basic moisturizing products (petroleum jelly) or home remedies (such as honey and cream) is very important. Patients are advised to have a bath with warm water and are asked to use mild or soap free cleansers.
As this is related to your genetic disposition inter-playing with your environment, in most cases once the cause is found it should be avoided as far as possible. It that means getting rid of your favorite pet or giving up your favorite food, so be it. Watch out for seemingly harmless factors such as sudden temperature changes, and the chemicals in pool water or in new clothes. In some cases when simple preventive measures fail, atopic dermatitis can be cured by the use of phototherapy. This is used only in very severe cases as it involves treating the skin with ultraviolet light. This might not always be the best option as some people are sensitive to ultraviolet light. Some severe cases can also be treated by oral medication. This is however, not always regarded as the first option by doctors as there can be undesirable side effects. However, in extreme cases, this may be the only way to control the disorder.
