Dermatitis – Prevention and Cure

Dermatitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the skin and causes irritation. Like many skin ailments, it is visible and symptoms include skin reddening, puffiness, itching, and scars. More often than not, the condition stems from an allergic reaction to an allergen present in the environment, although several cases may be genetically linked. A good number of cases affect the limbs, but symptoms are also known to be present in the neck and upper shoulder region. There are different ways to manage dermatitis, but these depend on the nature of dermatitis and its location on the body. Several types of conditions that occur frequently include

• Atopic dermatitis – Also called eczema, it is the most common type found.

• Seborrhoeic dermatitis – Most commonly affects the scalp and may give rise to the white, flaky residue.

• Nummular dermatitis – Can be caused by burns, infections, insect bites, etc. Forms scaly lesions.

For proper diagnosis, a biopsy of the affected part is microscopically examined. Alternatively, the physician may opt for a Patch test, which involves exposing the skin to suspect allergens.

Once the causative agent of dermatitis is known, an appropriate method of treatment is considered. Several creams and moisturizers can be helpful in the treatment and to some extent, even in prevention. OTC drugs containing antihistamines and Corticosteroids are useful in healing mild skin infections. Lifestyle aspects such as an increased frequency of baths can drastically reduce the chances of dermatitis.

 

Mild cases of eczema can be treated with hydrocortisone cream whereas a stronger steroid cream can be of help when the eczema is more severe. Several methods used in perioral dermatitis treatment are:

• Moisturizers – Oil-based moisturizers are preferred over water based ones. They can treat symptoms well but may not always eradicate the cause. Nummular dermatitis can be treated with moisturizing lotion and a mild corticosteroid cream.

• Home remedies and ayurvedic methods – There are several home remedies and ayurvedic treatments possible, which can be tried with approval from a doctor. Many herbal soaps and creams are available and can be used. Seborrhoeic dermatitis is responsive to dandruff shampoos.

• Corticosteroids – Hydrocortisone cream is a topical cream that can be used. Many oral and parenteral drugs can be administered as well.

• Medications – antihistamines and corticosteroids are used in treating contact dermatitis. Drug dosage is highly important as the condition is an allergic reaction. A Physicians advice is necessary.

• Using immunosuppressant – These should be used with caution as dermatitis is a disease that involves the immune system. A few side effects have been noted as well 

Diet – Abstinence from certain foods can help cases of eczema as these foods may act as allergens. For instance, dermatitis caused due to egg allergy can be healed by abolishing egg sources from the diet.