Learning to Live with Atopic Dermatitis

We often take healthy skin for granted – until there’s a problem with it.

Few understand that better than those who suffer from eczema, a broad term used to describe a group of conditions that cause the skin to itch, become inflamed or present with a rash-like appearance.

The most common of these conditions is ‘atopic dermatitis,’ which affects one in 10 Americans and often starts in childhood. This form of eczema results in itchy and scaly patches of skin with symptoms ranging from dry, red or discolored skin to skin that itches intensely and flares up unpredictably.

These symptoms are often so severe that they interfere with daily life.

“While atopic dermatitis is often characterized as a ‘skin condition’’, this type of dermatitis is actually an inflammatory disease of the immune system,” says Richard Price, M.D. of Price Skincare Clinic in Ridgeland, Mississippi. “Unfortunately, this type of eczema is chronic, meaning there’s no cure for the disease. But it can be treated with a specific skin care regimen, medication, and lifestyle modifications.”

First Step: Diagnosis
Symptoms of atopic dermatitis can present similar to other skin conditions and diseases so it’s imperative to get a proper diagnose by a medical doctor before treatment.

In addition to a physical examination, your doctor will run diagnostic tests including a skin biopsy and possible an allergy test. The goal is to rule out other skin conditions that can cause itchy or dry skin.

A Personalized Treatment Plan
Once your doctor has diagnosed you with atopic dermatitis, he or she will prescribe
a personal skin care regimen that you’ll need to follow daily.

That regimen may include:
• A gentle, alcohol and fragrance-free moisturizer to relieve dryness and itching. (Petroleum jelly can also work.)
• Medications including antihistamines and steroid creams.
• And a mandate to avoid scratching, which can make eczema worse.

Following this regimen may reduce your need for further medical treatment. However, if your symptoms are severe, antibiotics, topical immunomodulators and stronger antihistamines may be prescribed.

Avoid These Things
In addition to your personal skin care regimen and prescription medications, those with atopic dermatitis should avoid certain things that may aggravate the disease.

Those include:
• Clothes made from irritating fabrics such as lanolin or wool
• Strong detergents and soaps, usually those with artificial dyes or fragrance.
• Certain solvents and household chemicals
• Sudden changes in temperature as well as dry cold air.
• And stress

In Conclusion
It’s important not to ‘self-diagnose’ a serious skin problem like atopic dermatitis. If you suspect you have this type of eczema, consult a skin care doctor and follow his or her recommendations.

With a personal skin care regimen, prescribed medication and lifestyle modifications, you can manage your atopic dermatitis and keep your eczema at bay.

Have you had your annual skin exam this year? If not, give us a call at 601.992.3996 and we’ll book your appointment.