What is Atopic Dermatitis and How Is it Treated?

Atopic dermatitis (AD)—a chronic, inflammatory skin disease that results in itchy patches and rashes on the skin, affects around 7.3% of adults in the US, and approximately 40% of these people have moderate or severe symptoms. Atopic dermatitis mostly occurs in parts of the body where the skin flexes, such as the front of the neck, inside the elbows, and behind the knees though it can also commonly appear in the eyes, face, neck, and chest. How is this condition diagnosed and differentiated from other skin conditions and what are the most effective treatments used to soothe its symptoms?

Atopic Dermatitis is a Type of Eczema

AD is actually one of seven different types of eczema. In general, eczema causes dry or scaly skin, itching, and redness. Atopic dermatitis differs from another type of dermatitis—contact dermatitis—in that the latter is caused by a reaction to a substance your skin has come into contact with. Another similar condition is neurodermatitis, which causes thick, scaly patches to form in various parts of the body, including the back of the neck, scalp, genitals, hands, and more.

What Triggers Eczema?

Although AD can arise spontaneously, there are common triggers for this disease, including shampoo and soap, house mites, cold/dry weather, hot weather, dampness, mold, food allergies, specific fabrics (including wool and some synthetics), hormonal changes, skin infections, and stress. Identifying your individual triggers is one of the most important steps involved in eczema prevention.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Your doctor will most likely make a diagnosis by simply examining your skin though they may decide to perform patch tests to identify additional conditions. There are two main treatments for atopic dermatitis—emollients (which hydrate skin) and topical corticosteroids (creams and ointments that can reduce itching, redness, and swelling). Some emollients for dermatitis contain anti-inflammatories and antibiotics. The latter target harmful bacteria that can cause the skin to become inflamed and painful. Topical treatments can also contain barrier strengthening ingredients that replenish the skin’s lipids and keep the skin well hydrated.

Keeping Stress at Bay

Because AD can be triggered by stress, it is also important to embrace stress-busting activities such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, and controlled breathing. These holistic techniques are used successfully in a host of settings in which keeping stress at bay is important. Spending just a few minutes a day in a park or another green setting is also a powerful way to keep stress levels down. Research published by the American Academy of Dermatology explains why stress can worsen skin conditions like AD or psoriasis. Many types of cells in the skin can be regulated by chemicals released by the skin’s nerve endings. Stress results in the release of a higher level of these chemicals, which can lead to skin inflammation.

Atopic dermatitis affects millions of people across the globe. Itching, redness, and scaling are just a few symptoms of this condition. To treat this condition, see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Prioritize stress reduction, since for many individuals, stress can be an important trigger for this disease.