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Eczema (from the Greek ekzein - to boil) is an acute or chronic non-contagious inflammatory skin disease of an allergic nature, characterized by a variety of rashes, burning sensation, itching and a tendency to relapse.
Eczema or dermatitis is an umbrella term used to describe a group of different symptoms, it can be acute or chronic and occurs as a result of a variety of causes. The medical dictionary lists 21 types of eczema (dermatitis). Clinical signs are similar for all types of eczema and vary in the duration of the rash.
It occurs at any age and is characterized by an acute onset with a chronic course and periodic relapses; it is impossible to determine the cause.
It is caused by cracks and severe dryness of the skin. Dry eczema is characterized by a slow, chronic course. Exacerbations occur in winter due to low air humidity. Provoking factors include diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, stress and lack of vitamins.
Weeping eczema sometimes transforms from the dry form. It manifests itself as extensive inflammation of the skin of a polyetiological nature, occurring as an acute form with areas of weeping with a macerated and exfoliating stratum corneum. May be the result of idiopathic or true eczema.
Remission and relapse are possible years later, developing into a chronic condition.
Please do not confuse eczema with psoriasis, which has more defined features - silvery scabs.
Eczema usually appears in childhood, followed by a period of remission, followed by a relapse in adulthood. As a rule, people with reduced immune function, suffering from allergies, respiratory infections and allergic rhinitis get sick.
The cause of the disease can be anything, it is different for everyone, and usually, until the cause is found, the process of deletion continues. For some, the reason may be clothing, for others, temperature changes, dust and/or dandruff, detergents and even fruit juice.
Calendula, chickweed, echinacea, nettle, red clover, essential oil of orange, cypress, jasmine, lavender are some of the possible ones.
Black walnut, calendula, chaparrel, hydrastis canadensis, tea tree oil, cloves, lemon balm, thyme.
Flower and herbal extracts play an important role, especially during stress. Motherwort, valerian, bergamot, peony, radiola rosea, mint, lemon balm, St. John's wort, geranium, passionflower, hawthorn are very effective in combating stress. In addition, you can perform aromatherapy with essential oils.
Estheticians can do a lot for patients with eczema. I hope this information will be a kind of instruction for you on how to care for skin with this disease. Remember that, ultimately, this is a medical condition and sometimes advice to see a dermatologist is the best you can do for some people.
Many skin diseases present with similar symptoms, making diagnosis and choosing the right treatment difficult. In particular, such similar pathologies are dermatitis and eczema. Both of these diseases are characterized by moist rashes with itching, blisters and crusts, both develop due to the action of irritating factors. And yet these are two different nosologies. What is the difference between eczema and dermatitis? Why are these two conditions classified as two different diseases?
Eczema is an inflammatory skin disease that causes itchy, moist rashes. It occurs under the influence of various irritating factors against the background of a predisposition formed as a result of changes in the immune system. As a result, the body begins to react abnormally to the action of irritants, which is clinically manifested by skin rashes.
Classification and types of eczema:
At the onset of the disease, local redness and swelling are noted on the skin. Then bubbles with serous contents appear. They burst, the liquid flows out and forms a wet surface with cracks. After a while, the affected areas dry out and form crusts, after peeling off which healthy skin remains. But in parallel, new rashes may appear, prolonging the course of eczema. And if it is not treated, the disease will become chronic with frequent relapses in the form of new episodes of the disease. At the same time, the skin gradually thickens, peels off, and even during periods of remission does not look the same as before.
Dermatitis is also an inflammatory skin disease. Most often, this is an acute reaction to the influence of some irritating factor, external (exogenous) or internal (endogenous).
Exogenous stimuli include:
Endogenous factors:
Dermatitis is usually an acute pathology and resolves with treatment. It rarely becomes chronic, with the exception of atopic dermatitis.
Types of dermatitis:
Rashes with this disease can be of a different nature - wet or dry, with blisters or papules, with cracks or crusts, etc. They are almost always accompanied by itching.
As mentioned above, eczema is characterized by a chronic course, while dermatitis is predominantly acute. This is the main difference between eczema and dermatitis.
Another important difference is in the mechanism of disease development. Dermatitis is caused directly by irritating factors. For eczema to occur, changes in the immune system are necessary, which provoke perverse skin reactivity.
The rashes associated with these two diseases can be very similar. But eczema is distinguished by the presence of false polymorphism - the simultaneous presence of various elements of the rash in the lesions. With dermatitis, there is a gradual evolution of rashes and polymorphism phenomena are almost never observed.
Atopic dermatitis and eczema have many similarities in their manifestations and development mechanisms. The main differences lie in the age of the patients - adults are more susceptible to eczema, children are more susceptible to atopic dermatitis. The rashes also differ - in the first case the process is wet, in the second it is dry without bubbles. Often, atopic dermatitis in childhood leads to the development of true eczema in adults.
In most cases, allergic dermatitis and eczema are very different. Despite the fact that the same allergens can cause both of these diseases. In the case of dermatitis, there is a clear connection between its occurrence and contact with plant pollen, animal hair, consumption of certain foods, etc. The rash is accompanied by severe itching, usually dry, without a weeping process. In parallel, lacrimation, sneezing and rhinitis are observed.
With eczema, data on contact with allergens cannot always be identified. The rashes are moist, with blisters and cracks, and over time turn into a dry rash with crusts. There are no associated symptoms from the eyes and nose.
Contact dermatitis is difficult to confuse with eczema. With this disease, the rashes are localized strictly at the point of contact with the irritating factor and appear almost immediately after contact with it. The rash is swollen, hyperemic spots, without blisters or weeping, with clear boundaries.
With eczema, blisters and weeping are observed, turning into dry crusts. The rash zone can be localized anywhere, regardless of contact with irritating substances and allergens.
You can clearly see the difference in skin manifestations in these two pathologies in the photo.
When exposure to the allergen is eliminated in contact dermatitis, recovery occurs spontaneously. Eczema requires long-term treatment. This is another difference between these two diseases.
Neurodermatitis also develops with changes in the body's reactivity system. The reason for this is allergenic and neurogenic factors. This disease is often accompanied by disturbances in the balance of the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems, which is manifested by vegetative-vascular dystonia.
Rashes with neurodermatitis are similar to those with eczema and are also accompanied by severe itching, which intensifies at night (this is not the case with eczema). But the rash may contain elements that are unusual for eczema - nodules, papules, congestive erythema, etc. In parallel, irritability, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and weight loss are observed. Therefore, there are neurogenic causes of the disease.
The clinical manifestations, causes and treatment of seborrheic dermatitis and eczema are very similar. Most often, eczematous rashes with this type of disease appear after the manifestation of dermatitis as a complication. The course of the disease is significantly influenced by the nature of nutrition, the state of the hormonal and nervous systems.
The rash can be either dry or wet (oily). The color of the crusts and the severity of peeling depend on this.
The only difference between these two pathologies is that dermatitis is provoked by a violation of the secretion of the sebaceous glands. With the development of eczema, there is also an inflammatory reaction on the part of the skin due to its impaired reactivity. But clinically there are no differences, and the treatment of these two diseases is also similar.
Infectious dermatitis, as a rule, is one of the symptoms of various infectious diseases - measles, rubella, scarlet fever, chickenpox, etc. The nature of the rash depends on the type of infection that caused the pathology. The rash can manifest itself as papules, vesicles, spots, hemorrhages, etc. Itching is not always accompanied.
Deep skin lesions develop when infected with streptococcus and staphylococcus. In this case, painful pustules of various sizes are found on the skin (up to boils or carbuncles). The course is acute and does not become chronic.
Microbial eczema most often occurs as a complication of other types of eczema, but can also be a primary disease. In this case, eczematous rashes differ from the classic course by their purulent nature - the contents of the blisters are cloudy, the surface is weeping with purulent discharge, the crusts are yellow, dirty yellow, gray or with a yellow-green tint. Accompanied by itching and pain. The course of microbial eczema can be acute or chronic, which, first of all, depends on the timeliness of treatment.
The nature of the rash is the main difference between dermatitis and eczema during an infectious process.
Fungal eczema is rarely an independent disease; it often occurs as a complication of another eczematous process. Fungal dermatitis develops as a primary pathology on any area of the skin or mucous membranes if there is mechanical damage and the body’s defenses are weakened. The hands and feet are most susceptible to infection by fungi; nails can also be involved in the process. These are typical localization zones. But the disease can occur on any area of the skin.
With fungal dermatitis, the rashes are often dry, with crusts and peeling. Eczema of fungal etiology is characterized by a weeping process with cloudy discharge and dirty-colored crusts. The exact nature of the lesion can only be determined by scraping and identifying fungi and their spores.
Dermatitis and eczema are very similar diseases with a fine line between them. Only a specialist - a dermatovenerologist - can distinguish one from the other and prescribe the correct treatment. You shouldn’t tempt fate and try to decide for yourself what kind of pathology you had to face. Trust your doctor, with his help you will have a better chance of maintaining the health and beauty of your skin for many years.
Almost every person experiences skin diseases throughout their lives. There are many types of dermatological diseases, as well as the reasons due to which they arise. This is due to the wide distribution of household chemicals, endogenous influences, a variety of infections, and against the backdrop of all this – the reduced functioning of the human immune system.
Similarities and differences between diseases
With both dermatitis and eczema, inflammation of the skin occurs. The skin is affected by various types of rashes, inflamed, and itchy. There are many factors underlying the development of dermatitis; eczema often occurs as a consequence of dermatitis, this is their difference.
When the acute inflammatory manifestations of dermatitis subside, crusts, blisters or scales remain on the skin, this is eczema, a consequence of dermatitis.
Having found out the nature of the appearance of dermatitis, it can be cured, but if eczema has developed, then its relapses can be observed throughout the patient’s life. These frequent relapses distinguish eczema from dermatitis.
Endogenous species include:
With any type of dermatitis, various rashes appear on the skin, ranging in color from blue to red.
The patient experiences itching and sometimes burning. Swelling of the skin and pain may occur. After treatment, severe symptoms disappear, leaving behind dry skin and flaking for some time.
Pigmentation or scarring may remain permanently. If the skin is severely inflamed, the temperature may rise.
Complications may develop:
To make a diagnosis, it is necessary to identify the exact cause of the development of the inflammatory process. To do this, allergy tests, blood tests, and a general examination of the patient are performed. Depending on the irritant, individual treatment is prescribed.
If the dermatitis was caused by allergens, you need to eliminate the known allergen, and also take medications prescribed by the doctor. For dermatitis caused by nervous stress, sedatives and topical ointments are recommended. Inflammations and rashes after hypothermia or exposure to high temperatures are treated with special gels, ointments, and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Types of eczema:
The most common and complex is atopic eczema, the occurrence of which is still not fully understood by scientists. There are suggestions that the reasons for its development lie in the poor functioning of the immune system; it can be inherited.
Eczema develops as a complication of dermatitis, against the background of nervous stress, allergies, and various irritants. With a mild form of eczema, the rash is pale in color and looks like flaky spots.
In severe forms, the spots become saturated in color, the rash becomes weeping, and blisters appear. When scratching the rash, infection can occur, so the disease is often complicated by secondary infection. As the disease subsides, the rashes decrease, crusts and sometimes scars remain.
The causes of occurrence are determined either by internal factors or external ones.
External factors:
Internal factors:
Dermatitis that occurs due to harmful professional work often has complications in the form of eczema. Therefore, to heal the skin, it is necessary to stop such work altogether, otherwise diseases will arise constantly.
For eczema that occurs due to the presence of chronic diseases, microbial diseases, or pathology of the endocrine system, treatment is aimed primarily at eliminating the primary sources. It is clear that until the inflammation of the internal organs is cured, or the virus is eliminated, eczema cannot be cured.
They are individual. It can be:
Any type of dermatitis or eczema is treated by a specialist dermatologist.
The first, main step in diagnosis is to identify the exact symptoms of the disease, so for each patient the treatment is individual and different from others.
For effective treatment, it is necessary to identify the sources of irritation; only a doctor can do this. Depending on the type of disease, corticosteroids, phenylamides, antibacterial and antihistamines, ointments and gels, sedatives are prescribed, physiotherapy is carried out, and an individual diet is selected.
In severe forms of the disease, treatment in a hospital is necessary.
Editor of the project DoloyPsoriaz.ru
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Atopic eczema is manifested by damage to the skin by an inflammatory process caused by prolonged exposure to allergens. The disease has a chronic course with periods of remissions and exacerbations. Eczema usually occurs in people who have a hereditary predisposition to allergic reactions caused by a malfunction of the immune system.
Allergens can include household chemicals, synthetic fabrics, latex, and food. Allergic reactions can be provoked by chronic inflammatory processes, helminthic infestations, and stress. The manifestations of eczema are very similar to the symptoms of dermatitis and neurodermatitis, and therefore there is a need for differential diagnosis of these diseases.
There are several types of eczema. They differ in clinical picture and factors involved in the development of the disease.
Atopic eczema may have:
People who have a genetic predisposition to allergization of the body are characterized by an increased level of immunoglobulin E in the blood. In the normal state of the immune system, this protein takes part in neutralizing various types of infection. But if there is a failure in it, his behavior becomes aggressive.
Immunoglobulin E combines into a single complex with the allergen and affects healthy tissues of the body. With the development of eczema, this is manifested by the appearance of rashes on the skin and a number of accompanying symptoms.
Atopic dermatitis and eczema have different causes. The similarity of these diseases is the damage to the skin by the inflammatory process. But with dermatitis it is caused by external irritants, and with eczema it is caused by the action of allergens.
An allergic reaction can be caused by:
Atopic dermatitis often develops first, manifesting itself as acute inflammation of certain areas of the skin.
This disease usually affects children; when it appears in infants, it is called diathesis. Then they become covered with bubbles, peeling occurs with the formation of crusts. These symptoms indicate the development of chronic atopic eczema.
An additional difference between these diseases is that with dermatitis there are no blisters or weeping erosions. Recovery occurs immediately after contact with the allergen is eliminated. Dermatitis from eczema also differs in the nature of the rashes - they are located evenly over the entire affected area, the focus of inflammation has clear boundaries, standing out against the background of healthy skin.
Just like atopic eczema, dermatitis and neurodermatitis are inflammatory skin lesions. The difference between these pathologies is that not only an allergic, but also a neurogenic component is involved in their development. Neurodermatitis is accompanied by vegetative-vascular dystonia and occurs with periods of remissions and exacerbations. Characteristic of this disease is unbearable itching, which intensifies at night, causing insomnia, irritability and increased nervous excitability.
Let's take a closer look at how atopic eczema differs from neurodermatitis:
Characteristics of differences | Atopic eczema | Neurodermatitis |
Shade of rashes | Reddish | White |
Nervous system | Violations are mild | There are disorders, increased nervous excitability |
Form of rash | Bubbles, small nodules, punctate erosions | Nodules predominate, their fusion is possible |
Seasonality of exacerbations | Celebrated mainly in winter and spring | Occurs more often in late autumn and winter |
Prevalence of lesions | Distribution of foci of inflammation in different parts of the body | Selected areas of skin |
Effect on body weight | Does not affect | In severe cases of the disease, weight loss is possible |
In addition, neurodermatitis is characterized by the location of rashes on the face, neck, elbow and popliteal fossae, on the back of the thighs, and in the groin area. The elements of the rash are dry, peeling, pityriasis-like cells are noted, and cracking of the skin occurs in the area of folds. With this disease, the patient feels general weakness and gets tired quickly.
Since these diseases are allergic in nature, it is necessary to completely eliminate the possibility of contact with the types of allergens that cause them. A sick person should balance his emotional state and avoid stressful situations. People with a predisposition to allergies are advised to exclude from their wardrobe clothes made from synthetic fabrics and wool. To wash things, it is better to use soap rather than powder containing a large amount of chemically active substances.
The best way to prevent the occurrence of diathesis in children is breastfeeding. Mother's milk contains substances that protect the baby's body from infectious diseases, allergens and other unfavorable factors. Dermatitis in a child can occur due to contact with the latex from which nipples are made, as well as some materials used to make toys. Very often, eczema is caused by eating foods that cause food allergies. They can be identified by gradual introduction into the diet against the background of a hypoallergenic diet.
For eczema and dermatitis, treatment with medications is based on relieving inflammation and restoring the functions of the skin. To eliminate the increased sensitivity of the body, calcium chloride or sodium thiosulfate is prescribed. Antihistamines Zyrtec and Suprastin help prevent the release of histamine, which is involved in the occurrence of rashes and itching. The use of sedatives based on valerian, lemon balm, and motherwort (Novopassit, valerian extract) will help relieve nervous tension and improve sleep.
For atopic eczema, treatment of the skin in areas of inflammation is carried out with topical hormonal ointments (Advantan, Hydrocortisone). They should be prescribed by a doctor. If the surface becomes infected, an ointment with antimicrobial activity (Fusiderm, Oxycort) is applied to the skin. Drying of the affected areas is provided by lotions with Furacillin or a solution of Boric acid. Infants are recommended to treat lesions with Fucarcin.
Traditional medicine and herbal medicine recommend treating eczema and dermatitis with lotions made from infusions of leaves of stinging nettle, mallow, elderberry, arnica, hops, bearberry, and clover. They relieve inflammation, suppress pathogenic microflora, and have a wound-healing effect. To wash the surface of the lesions, a decoction of bear's ear leaves is used, and an infusion of cucumber and laurel leaves is added to the bathing water. You can reduce the burning sensation by moistening the wounds with onion juice or applying a piece of ice to them.
Fireweed oil, obtained from primrose flowers, effectively eliminates the symptoms of eczema. Lubricating the affected areas with this remedy restores the structure of the skin and relieves itching. The course of treatment is 3–4 months. You can also add a couple of spoons of oatmeal to your bath. Water procedures should not be taken for long to avoid softening of the skin. Then it is advisable to lubricate the areas of inflammation with a cream containing calendula extract or vitamin E.
For atopic eczema, homeopathy, acupuncture, oligotherapy, heliotherapy, reflexology, and yoga help improve the condition of the body. The selection of homeopathic remedies and their dosages should be carried out by a specialist. Acupuncture restores proper circulation of vital energy in the body affected by the disease, improves the condition of the immune system, and relieves allergic manifestations.
Heliotherapy uses solar treatments to treat various diseases. Scientists have noticed a beneficial effect of sun radiation on lesions, but it should be moderate; the best time for walking in the fresh air or visiting the beach is before 11.00 and after 15.00. The therapeutic effect of oligotherapy is based on saturating the body with microelements, the deficiency of which is usually found in atopic dermatitis and eczema. These substances are very important for maintaining healthy skin.
Reflexology uses massaging, pressure and rubbing of the reflex zones located on the hands and feet. The procedure has a positive effect on the nerve endings located in these parts of the body, triggering the body’s self-healing processes.
The surface of the palms and feet is interconnected with other organs and systems, so treatment sessions help normalize blood circulation, improve the immune system, improve mood and well-being. Yoga helps the body relax as much as possible and relieve the negative effects of stress. Controlling your breathing during exercise allows you to saturate all the cells of the body with oxygen and improve the functioning of vital organs.
Eczema (from the Greek ekzein - to boil) is an acute or chronic non-contagious inflammatory skin disease of an allergic nature, characterized by a variety of rashes, burning sensation, itching and a tendency to relapse.
This is a type of dermatitis with its own distinctive characteristics. Until recently, atopic eczema was classified as neurodermatitis.
Then they separated it into a separate pathology. Even children under three years old suffer from it.
It is formed mainly due to allergic reactions. Sometimes this disease accompanies asthma.
Often worsens after nervous overstrain.
Patients experience excessive production of prostaglandin, which forms biologically active substances. A sick person has too many of these substances. The presence of prostaglandin in the body can lead to skin inflammation because it triggers this process.
Eczema usually appears in childhood, followed by a period of remission, followed by a relapse in adulthood. As a rule, people with reduced immune function, suffering from allergies, respiratory infections and allergic rhinitis get sick.
Eczema is somewhat similar to psoriasis, but a closer look at the affected areas of the skin reveals that each condition is different. Both belong to a group united by a common name - “dermatitis” (this includes neurodermatitis, diathesis and other diseases).
These diseases are caused by irritants, which manifest themselves as lesions on the skin. Treatment and its effectiveness depend on a correct diagnosis.
Eczema is expressed by itching, similar to an allergic reaction.
The causes of psoriasis are not well understood. Basically, psoriasis is caused by genetic causes and predisposition. But there are also provocateurs that cause relapse, the first manifestation of the disease:
Eczema is a multifactorial disease; its appearance is caused by a combination of the following factors:
Both psoriasis and eczema are inherited.
If one parent has psoriasis, then the probability of transmitting the disease is 8-13%. If both - then 50-60%.
If one parent has eczema, the disease is transmitted in 30-40% of cases. If both - then in 50-60% of cases.
There are dermatitis of exogenous and endogenous nature. The difference lies in what irritant caused the skin inflammation and rash.
Endogenous species include:
Exogenous species include:
Carefully study the comparison table to distinguish diseases.
Atopic disease mainly appears on the skin of the face, neck, knee, and elbow joints. Initially, the skin turns red and swollen, then dries out and begins to peel. All this time, the affected areas are very itchy.
After a few days, the inflamed areas become covered with a rash in the form of small nodules, blisters filled with serous fluid, and erosions. The skin is very itchy, the patient scratches it, which provokes the release of serous exudate.
This leads to the formation of wet surfaces and erosion. If the patient does not scratch the rash, then the inflammatory process can pass without the stage of wetting the surface.
The rash will dry out and turn into a thick crust.
After the skin dries, scaly layers appear in the place where there were erosions; after a while they disappear. Often the inflammation does not go away for a long time, during which time the symptoms periodically disappear and reappear.
With such a protracted pathology, rough areas and compactions appear on the skin.
Treatment will be more successful if the dermatologist can first determine what kind of dermatitis (neurodermatitis) is present. Sometimes specialists can make mistakes in diagnosis, but only if the disease manifests itself in an atypical form.
The main difference is the presence of silvery scales in psoriasis; the plaques can be called dry. And with eczema, they necessarily contain liquid.
The difference between the ailments is as follows.
Psoriasis has differences:
This dermatitis has its own distinctive features:
The main manifestation of psoriasis is a rash. In the vulgar form, it is papular (nodular), accompanied by the fusion of elements and the formation of plaques; in the pustular form, it is sterile pustules. Skin lesions may look different (swelling and redness with psoriatic erythroderma, depigmentation with resolution of papules, etc.), but rashes are present in any variant of the disease. Patients are also concerned about:
With erythroderma, body temperature rises and a burning sensation of the skin appears.
The condition of patients most often improves in the summer months and worsens in the cold season, although seasonality cannot be called a mandatory feature - in some patients it is absent.
The study of the clinical signs of this disease revealed the presence of a triad of symptoms characteristic of the disease. They are called the “psoriatic triad” or “psoriatic phenomena”, are of great importance for diagnosis and are represented by:
To identify these symptoms, scraping the skin in the affected area is performed. First, peeling (soft silvery-white scales) appears on the surface of the rash element, then the film covering the papule peels off.
If the scraping continues, pinpoint drops of blood appear at the site of impact.
Eczema is accompanied by constant symptoms that periodically worsen. During an exacerbation, symptoms intensify and additional treatment is required.
Typical symptoms of atopic dermatitis include itchy, dry, and red skin that may break or crack. Changes in the skin can be focal or spread throughout the body. Favorite places for eczema:
Depending on the severity of the dermatitis, its symptoms may vary. In people with a mild form, only small areas of skin are usually affected, which become dry and sometimes itchy.
In more severe cases, eczema can cause dry skin over large areas of the body, persistent itching, and secretion of interstitial fluid.
Constant itching disrupts sleep and forces you to scratch the areas affected by atopic dermatitis, sometimes until blood appears. Attempts to scratch the itchy area only cause more itching, which especially affects children.
Itching prevents them from falling asleep, and during the day it distracts them from schoolwork and distracts their attention.
As dermatitis worsens, symptoms may become more severe. This period is characterized by:
To make a correct diagnosis, the doctor needs to thoroughly study the history of the pathology, become familiar with the symptoms and nature of the disease. To differentiate true eczema, atopic and purulent inflammation of the dermis, a biopsy is performed.
To distinguish atopic eczema from scabies and fungal pathologies, a microscopic examination is performed. Their results reveal the cause of the disease. Also, differential diagnosis is carried out with various dermatitis, psoriasis and other pathologies.
Treatment of eczema should be based on the golden rule of dermatology - “treat wet with wet, and treat dry with dry.” Weeping eczema should be treated with lotions - various solutions, decoctions, tinctures, and they must be cooled in order to overcome local inflammation and reduce the activity of inflammatory processes.
Dry eczema should be treated with ointments and creams.
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1. Over the years, many methods have been tried with varying degrees of success.
Until recently, resin wraps were used. The other main method was phototherapy - PUVA therapy, which used ultraviolet light and a medicine called Psoralin.
The same treatment was prescribed for psoriasis.
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2. Topical and systemic corticosteroids have been used for many years despite side effects.
3. Topical antihistamines for itching and to reduce redness.
4. Topical immunomodulators are a new class of drugs that have been used over the past five years with great success. They change the speed of the immune reaction, which in more than 80% of cases helped get rid of all the symptoms of the disease.
Diet for eczema
Eczema and psoriasis are treated differently, but for both diseases it is important to follow a diet that excludes spicy, fried foods and alcohol (and in the case of eczema, also all foods that cause allergies). It is also important to avoid stressful situations and maintain a positive attitude.
The main thing in the treatment of eczema is to eliminate contact with allergens. In addition, the patient is prescribed antihistamines and antiallergic ointments are used.
In the presence of secondary inflammation - a bacterial form - antibiotics can be prescribed, and if the infection is caused by a fungus, antimycotic drugs can be prescribed. In severe cases, the doctor will often prescribe topical corticosteroids.
For psoriasis, cytostatics and retinoids are prescribed, which help normalize normal cell growth.
Ointments based on salicylic acid and tar are also prescribed. Traditional methods are widely used in the treatment of this disease. The doctor may also prescribe antiallergic and steroid medications, and treat the acute stage using physiotherapy.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, and eczema is an inflammatory reaction to the body's exposure to allergens - this is the main difference between these two diseases.
Psoriasis can be recognized by severe flaking with dry gray-yellow scales and a moist, bloody surface underneath. Eczema typically has a bright red, weeping surface and pink blisters, and, like neurodermatitis, is accompanied by itching and noticeable swelling.
Thus, the manifestations of eczema and neurodermatitis will be clearly different from psoriasis, which will allow the disease to be recognized in time. Treatment of psoriasis and eczema should be carried out only under the supervision of a doctor, this will allow you to put the disease into remission and forget about it for a long time.
Treatment can significantly relieve the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. Although it is not yet possible to cure this disease forever. In children with eczema, symptoms gradually subside naturally as they age.
The most common medications to treat eczema are:
People suffering from weeping dermatosis are concerned with the question: “How effective is the use of iodine tincture in treating the disease?” Judge for yourself, an alcohol solution of iodine will not only dry out sores, but also protect them from infections and suppuration.
But for eczema, treating the skin with iodine is not entirely safe.
Despite the fact that it is an excellent antiseptic and has anti-inflammatory properties, iodine is aggressive to the epidermis.
In this regard, if you constantly treat eczema with iodine, you can burn the skin.
You can use traditional methods of treating eczema with iodine:
We wish you good health.
Treat psoriasis and eczema only after you have established an accurate diagnosis of the form of the disease. Differential diagnosis and a general examination by a dermatologist will help with this. For psoriasis, the following methods are effective for treatment:
If you have eczema, you must first eliminate or limit contact with allergens. Then you can use external preparations. Hormonal drugs are often used as prescribed by a doctor. Ultraviolet therapy at 311 nm is also effective.
The doctor selects ointment for eczema and psoriasis based on individual indicators. The treatment of dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema will also be determined by a dermatologist after an examination.
Complications from atopic dermatitis can impair both physical and mental health, especially in children.
Eczema causes the skin to become dry and cracked, increasing the risk of skin infection. Scratching itchy areas and using medications incorrectly increases your risk. The most common type of bacteria that affects eczema lesions is Staphylococcus aureus. Bacterial infections can have severe symptoms. Staph infection can cause the following symptoms:
Staph infections are treated with antibiotics.
Infection of the dermatitis focus with the herpes simplex virus, the causative agent of herpetic fever, may occur. This can develop into a serious condition called eczema herpeticum. Symptoms of herpetic eczema:
Call your doctor right away if you think you or your child may have eczema herpes. If the condition is serious, call an ambulance by calling 03 from a landline phone, 112 or 911 from a mobile phone.
In addition to the effects on your body, eczema also affects your psyche. Preschool children with eczema are more likely to develop behavioral problems compared to children without the condition. They are more dependent on their parents compared to children without this disease.
School-age children with eczema may be teased or bullied. For a child, any form of bullying can be traumatic and difficult to cope with.
Your child may become quiet and withdrawn. Explain the situation to your child's teacher and ask your child to tell you about his or her feelings.
Research suggests that children with dermatitis often have sleep disorders. Due to lack of sleep, a child’s mood and behavior changes and school performance declines.
It is important to inform the teacher of your child's illness so that he or she can take it into account. During a flare-up of dermatitis, your child may not go to school.
This may also affect his academic performance.
Eczema can have a negative impact on self-esteem in both children and adults. Children may find it especially difficult to cope with the disease and may develop complexes as a result.
Low self-esteem disrupts the child’s social adaptation and interferes with the development of communication skills in a team. Support and encouragement will help increase your child's self-esteem, and he will be less critical of his appearance.
Contact your doctor if you are concerned that the dermatitis is severely affecting your child's self-esteem.
To prevent the disease from recurring and to maintain health, the patient must adhere to prevention. Here you must follow these rules:
Which cures dermatitis or eczema faster? Eczema is an insidious pathology and can appear again and again. Treatment of this disease is a difficult and lengthy process. The sooner treatment begins, the faster the recovery period will come. Dermatitis is not so insidious and responds better to treatment.
Complete recovery from eczema can occur six months after the onset of development, if all allergens that provoke it are excluded. If this is not done, then atopic eczema will become chronic and will remain with the person for life.
Eczema (from the Greek ekzein - to boil) is an acute or chronic non-contagious inflammatory skin disease of an allergic nature, characterized by a variety of rashes, burning sensation, itching and a tendency to relapse.
This is a type of dermatitis with its own distinctive characteristics. Until recently, atopic eczema was classified as neurodermatitis.
Then they separated it into a separate pathology. Even children under three years old suffer from it.
It is formed mainly due to allergic reactions. Sometimes this disease accompanies asthma.
Often worsens after nervous overstrain.
Patients experience excessive production of prostaglandin, which forms biologically active substances. A sick person has too many of these substances. The presence of prostaglandin in the body can lead to skin inflammation because it triggers this process.
Eczema usually appears in childhood, followed by a period of remission, followed by a relapse in adulthood. As a rule, people with reduced immune function, suffering from allergies, respiratory infections and allergic rhinitis get sick.
Eczema is somewhat similar to psoriasis, but a closer look at the affected areas of the skin reveals that each condition is different. Both belong to a group united by a common name - “dermatitis” (this includes neurodermatitis, diathesis and other diseases).
These diseases are caused by irritants, which manifest themselves as lesions on the skin. Treatment and its effectiveness depend on a correct diagnosis.
Eczema is expressed by itching, similar to an allergic reaction.
The causes of psoriasis are not well understood. Basically, psoriasis is caused by genetic causes and predisposition. But there are also provocateurs that cause relapse, the first manifestation of the disease:
Eczema is a multifactorial disease; its appearance is caused by a combination of the following factors:
Both psoriasis and eczema are inherited.
If one parent has psoriasis, then the probability of transmitting the disease is 8-13%. If both - then 50-60%.
If one parent has eczema, the disease is transmitted in 30-40% of cases. If both - then in 50-60% of cases.
There are dermatitis of exogenous and endogenous nature. The difference lies in what irritant caused the skin inflammation and rash.
Endogenous species include:
Exogenous species include:
Carefully study the comparison table to distinguish diseases.
Psoriasis | Eczema |
---|---|
Red spots raised above the surface of the skin. | Red spots on a swollen background. |
Dryness, scales, peeling, crusts almost from the appearance of the first signs of psoriasis. | Crusts and dry scales in one of the later stages of the disease and in seborrheic eczema. |
Bubbles with white or yellowish liquid only in the pustular form of psoriasis. | Pink blisters with pus in any form of the disease. |
Swelling of the skin does not occur with psoriasis. | There is always swelling of the skin and dilation of blood vessels. |
Burning and itching sometimes. | Burning and severe itching are typical in most cases. |
Non-communicable disease. | Non-communicable disease. |
Atopic disease mainly appears on the skin of the face, neck, knee, and elbow joints. Initially, the skin turns red and swollen, then dries out and begins to peel. All this time, the affected areas are very itchy.
After a few days, the inflamed areas become covered with a rash in the form of small nodules, blisters filled with serous fluid, and erosions. The skin is very itchy, the patient scratches it, which provokes the release of serous exudate.
This leads to the formation of wet surfaces and erosion. If the patient does not scratch the rash, then the inflammatory process can pass without the stage of wetting the surface.
The rash will dry out and turn into a thick crust.
After the skin dries, scaly layers appear in the place where there were erosions; after a while they disappear. Often the inflammation does not go away for a long time, during which time the symptoms periodically disappear and reappear.
With such a protracted pathology, rough areas and compactions appear on the skin.
Treatment will be more successful if the dermatologist can first determine what kind of dermatitis (neurodermatitis) is present. Sometimes specialists can make mistakes in diagnosis, but only if the disease manifests itself in an atypical form.
The main difference is the presence of silvery scales in psoriasis; the plaques can be called dry. And with eczema, they necessarily contain liquid.
The difference between the ailments is as follows.
Psoriasis has differences:
This dermatitis has its own distinctive features:
The main manifestation of psoriasis is a rash. In the vulgar form, it is papular (nodular), accompanied by the fusion of elements and the formation of plaques; in the pustular form, it is sterile pustules. Skin lesions may look different (swelling and redness with psoriatic erythroderma, depigmentation with resolution of papules, etc.), but rashes are present in any variant of the disease. Patients are also concerned about:
With erythroderma, body temperature rises and a burning sensation of the skin appears.
The condition of patients most often improves in the summer months and worsens in the cold season, although seasonality cannot be called a mandatory feature - in some patients it is absent.
The study of the clinical signs of this disease revealed the presence of a triad of symptoms characteristic of the disease. They are called the “psoriatic triad” or “psoriatic phenomena”, are of great importance for diagnosis and are represented by:
To identify these symptoms, scraping the skin in the affected area is performed. First, peeling (soft silvery-white scales) appears on the surface of the rash element, then the film covering the papule peels off.
If the scraping continues, pinpoint drops of blood appear at the site of impact.
Eczema is accompanied by constant symptoms that periodically worsen. During an exacerbation, symptoms intensify and additional treatment is required.
Typical symptoms of atopic dermatitis include itchy, dry, and red skin that may break or crack. Changes in the skin can be focal or spread throughout the body. Favorite places for eczema:
Depending on the severity of the dermatitis, its symptoms may vary. In people with a mild form, only small areas of skin are usually affected, which become dry and sometimes itchy.
In more severe cases, eczema can cause dry skin over large areas of the body, persistent itching, and secretion of interstitial fluid.
Constant itching disrupts sleep and forces you to scratch the areas affected by atopic dermatitis, sometimes until blood appears. Attempts to scratch the itchy area only cause more itching, which especially affects children.
Itching prevents them from falling asleep, and during the day it distracts them from schoolwork and distracts their attention.
As dermatitis worsens, symptoms may become more severe. This period is characterized by:
To make a correct diagnosis, the doctor needs to thoroughly study the history of the pathology, become familiar with the symptoms and nature of the disease. To differentiate true eczema, atopic and purulent inflammation of the dermis, a biopsy is performed.
To distinguish atopic eczema from scabies and fungal pathologies, a microscopic examination is performed. Their results reveal the cause of the disease. Also, differential diagnosis is carried out with various dermatitis, psoriasis and other pathologies.
Treatment of eczema should be based on the golden rule of dermatology - “treat wet with wet, and treat dry with dry.” Weeping eczema should be treated with lotions - various solutions, decoctions, tinctures, and they must be cooled in order to overcome local inflammation and reduce the activity of inflammatory processes.
Dry eczema should be treated with ointments and creams.
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1. Over the years, many methods have been tried with varying degrees of success.
Until recently, resin wraps were used. The other main method was phototherapy - PUVA therapy, which used ultraviolet light and a medicine called Psoralin.
The same treatment was prescribed for psoriasis.
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2. Topical and systemic corticosteroids have been used for many years despite side effects.
3. Topical antihistamines for itching and to reduce redness.
4. Topical immunomodulators are a new class of drugs that have been used over the past five years with great success. They change the speed of the immune reaction, which in more than 80% of cases helped get rid of all the symptoms of the disease.
Diet for eczema
Eczema and psoriasis are treated differently, but for both diseases it is important to follow a diet that excludes spicy, fried foods and alcohol (and in the case of eczema, also all foods that cause allergies). It is also important to avoid stressful situations and maintain a positive attitude.
The main thing in the treatment of eczema is to eliminate contact with allergens. In addition, the patient is prescribed antihistamines and antiallergic ointments are used.
In the presence of secondary inflammation - a bacterial form - antibiotics can be prescribed, and if the infection is caused by a fungus, antimycotic drugs can be prescribed. In severe cases, the doctor will often prescribe topical corticosteroids.
For psoriasis, cytostatics and retinoids are prescribed, which help normalize normal cell growth.
Ointments based on salicylic acid and tar are also prescribed. Traditional methods are widely used in the treatment of this disease. The doctor may also prescribe antiallergic and steroid medications, and treat the acute stage using physiotherapy.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, and eczema is an inflammatory reaction to the body's exposure to allergens - this is the main difference between these two diseases.
Psoriasis can be recognized by severe flaking with dry gray-yellow scales and a moist, bloody surface underneath. Eczema typically has a bright red, weeping surface and pink blisters, and, like neurodermatitis, is accompanied by itching and noticeable swelling.
Thus, the manifestations of eczema and neurodermatitis will be clearly different from psoriasis, which will allow the disease to be recognized in time. Treatment of psoriasis and eczema should be carried out only under the supervision of a doctor, this will allow you to put the disease into remission and forget about it for a long time.
Treatment can significantly relieve the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. Although it is not yet possible to cure this disease forever. In children with eczema, symptoms gradually subside naturally as they age.
The most common medications to treat eczema are:
People suffering from weeping dermatosis are concerned with the question: “How effective is the use of iodine tincture in treating the disease?” Judge for yourself, an alcohol solution of iodine will not only dry out sores, but also protect them from infections and suppuration.
But for eczema, treating the skin with iodine is not entirely safe.
Despite the fact that it is an excellent antiseptic and has anti-inflammatory properties, iodine is aggressive to the epidermis.
In this regard, if you constantly treat eczema with iodine, you can burn the skin.
You can use traditional methods of treating eczema with iodine:
We wish you good health.
Treat psoriasis and eczema only after you have established an accurate diagnosis of the form of the disease. Differential diagnosis and a general examination by a dermatologist will help with this. For psoriasis, the following methods are effective for treatment:
If you have eczema, you must first eliminate or limit contact with allergens. Then you can use external preparations. Hormonal drugs are often used as prescribed by a doctor. Ultraviolet therapy at 311 nm is also effective.
The doctor selects ointment for eczema and psoriasis based on individual indicators. The treatment of dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema will also be determined by a dermatologist after an examination.
Complications from atopic dermatitis can impair both physical and mental health, especially in children.
Eczema causes the skin to become dry and cracked, increasing the risk of skin infection. Scratching itchy areas and using medications incorrectly increases your risk. The most common type of bacteria that affects eczema lesions is Staphylococcus aureus. Bacterial infections can have severe symptoms. Staph infection can cause the following symptoms:
Staph infections are treated with antibiotics.
Infection of the dermatitis focus with the herpes simplex virus, the causative agent of herpetic fever, may occur. This can develop into a serious condition called eczema herpeticum. Symptoms of herpetic eczema:
Call your doctor right away if you think you or your child may have eczema herpes. If the condition is serious, call an ambulance by calling 03 from a landline phone, 112 or 911 from a mobile phone.
In addition to the effects on your body, eczema also affects your psyche. Preschool children with eczema are more likely to develop behavioral problems compared to children without the condition. They are more dependent on their parents compared to children without this disease.
School-age children with eczema may be teased or bullied. For a child, any form of bullying can be traumatic and difficult to cope with.
Your child may become quiet and withdrawn. Explain the situation to your child's teacher and ask your child to tell you about his or her feelings.
Research suggests that children with dermatitis often have sleep disorders. Due to lack of sleep, a child’s mood and behavior changes and school performance declines.
It is important to inform the teacher of your child's illness so that he or she can take it into account. During a flare-up of dermatitis, your child may not go to school.
This may also affect his academic performance.
Eczema can have a negative impact on self-esteem in both children and adults. Children may find it especially difficult to cope with the disease and may develop complexes as a result.
Low self-esteem disrupts the child’s social adaptation and interferes with the development of communication skills in a team. Support and encouragement will help increase your child's self-esteem, and he will be less critical of his appearance.
Contact your doctor if you are concerned that the dermatitis is severely affecting your child's self-esteem.
To prevent the disease from recurring and to maintain health, the patient must adhere to prevention. Here you must follow these rules:
Which cures dermatitis or eczema faster? Eczema is an insidious pathology and can appear again and again. Treatment of this disease is a difficult and lengthy process. The sooner treatment begins, the faster the recovery period will come. Dermatitis is not so insidious and responds better to treatment.
Complete recovery from eczema can occur six months after the onset of development, if all allergens that provoke it are excluded. If this is not done, then atopic eczema will become chronic and will remain with the person for life.
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Dermatitis is a chronic condition in which the skin becomes red, itchy, dry and cracked. Atopic dermatitis (eczema, neurodermatitis) is the most common form of dermatitis. It most often affects children, but it can also occur in adults.
Atopic dermatitis usually occurs in folds of skin, such as behind the knees, at the crease of the elbows, on the sides of the neck, around the eyes and ears. The severity of the disease varies. In most cases, dermatitis is mild. The most severe symptoms: cracks and erosions of the skin, bleeding.
Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is characterized by periods of remission, when symptoms are less pronounced, followed by periods of exacerbation, during which additional treatment is required.
There are different types of dermatitis:
The exact cause of atopic dermatitis is unknown. However, it often affects people with allergies (“atopic” means “allergic”). Eczema can run in families and often occurs in conjunction with other conditions such as asthma and hay fever.
With age, in many children, atopic dermatitis goes away completely or becomes much easier. In approximately 53% of all cases, the disease resolves by age 11, and in 65% of cases by age 16. However, severe eczema can significantly interfere with daily life and can be difficult to cope with, both physically and emotionally. Atopic dermatitis also has an increased risk of infectious diseases.
There are various methods to control and treat the disease, including the use of medications and lifestyle changes.
Worldwide, the prevalence of atopic dermatitis is about 10-37%. In our country, about 5.9% of children and adolescents suffer from dermatitis. In 8 out of 10 cases, the disease appears before the age of 5 years. Many children develop atopic dermatitis before they are one year old. Atopic dermatitis affects people of both sexes equally.
In recent years, the number of people affected by eczema has increased. This may be due to changes in lifestyle or environmental factors. In addition, the number of reported cases has increased due to improved diagnosis of this disease.
Eczema is accompanied by constant symptoms that periodically worsen. During an exacerbation, symptoms intensify and additional treatment is required.
Typical symptoms of atopic dermatitis include itchy, dry, and red skin that may break or crack. Changes in the skin can be focal or spread throughout the body. Favorite places for eczema:
Depending on the severity of the dermatitis, its symptoms may vary. In people with a mild form, only small areas of skin are usually affected, which become dry and sometimes itchy. In more severe cases, eczema can cause dry skin over large areas of the body, persistent itching, and secretion of interstitial fluid.
Constant itching disrupts sleep and forces you to scratch the areas affected by atopic dermatitis, sometimes until blood appears. Attempts to scratch the itchy area only cause more itching, which especially affects children. Itching prevents them from falling asleep, and during the day it distracts them from schoolwork and distracts their attention.
As dermatitis worsens, symptoms may become more severe. This period is characterized by:
There is no single cause of atopic dermatitis (eczema). It is likely associated with various genetic and environmental factors that interact at different times. So, you can inherit a tendency to develop dermatitis from your parents. In some people, the manifestation of dermatitis is provoked by certain environmental factors, dust or pollen. There are several reasons that can cause an exacerbation.
Research results indicate that eczema in many cases is inherited. This means that it is caused by the genes you inherited from your parents.
If a child's parents have eczema, there is a high chance that the child will also develop the disease. Research shows that 60% of children who have a parent with atopic dermatitis will also develop it. If both parents have eczema, the child has an 80% chance of developing the disease. It is still not known exactly which genes are responsible for atopic dermatitis. It is believed that breastfeeding may reduce a baby's risk of eczema.
If you are predisposed to atopic dermatitis due to your genes, it will appear after exposure to certain environmental factors, such as allergens. An allergen is a substance that causes an excessive protective reaction of the body - an allergy. The most common allergens that cause eczema are:
Eczema is sometimes caused by food allergens. Especially often in children under one year of age. Foods that usually cause an allergic reaction:
Some studies of children and young people with eczema suggest that one to two thirds have food allergies. Food allergies increase the likelihood of severe eczema. Allergies do not always play a role in the onset of the disease. Many other factors also increase your chance of developing dermatitis, including:
Triggers (factors that cause the disease to worsen) can make atopic dermatitis worse, although they are not necessarily the cause of the disease.
Hormonal changes in women. Hormones are biologically active chemicals that are produced by the body and affect it in different ways. For some women, changes in the levels of certain hormones can affect the symptoms of eczema. So, in some women, dermatitis worsens during the menstrual cycle, and in others - the day before the start of menstruation.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also affect atopic dermatitis. More than half of pregnant women note a worsening of the condition; in a quarter of pregnant women, on the contrary, the condition of the skin improves.
Stress is associated with eczema, but how it affects it is not fully understood. For some people, dermatitis symptoms worsen during times of stress. For others, the symptoms of dermatitis, on the contrary, cause stress.Physical exercise. Sweating after intense exercise can worsen the symptoms of dermatitis. Try not to overheat during exercise by drinking plenty of fluids and resting regularly.
Irritants may worsen symptoms. The irritants vary from person to person, but it could be:
Other possible triggers:
To diagnose, the doctor will first need to examine the damaged skin and ask you in detail about your symptoms. It is important to tell your doctor:
Tell your doctor if your illness interferes with your normal activities, such as if itching makes it difficult for you to sleep at night or prevents you from doing normal activities.
A significant amount of information for diagnosing eczema can be provided by your own complaints that you have noted over the past months. Therefore, to take into account all the symptoms, a special questionnaire was compiled. The presence of prolonged skin itching, as well as 3 or more of the following signs, may indicate the presence of the disease:
Your doctor should determine what triggers are causing your atopic dermatitis to flare up. You may be asked about your diet and lifestyle to determine if anything obvious is causing your symptoms. For example, you may have noticed that your dermatitis gets worse after using a certain soap or shampoo.
It can be helpful to keep a diary of new foods and your reactions to them to help identify possible allergens that are causing your symptoms to worsen. Your doctor will then review the records to determine if there is a relationship between your symptoms and what you eat.
Treatment can significantly relieve the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. Although it is not yet possible to cure this disease forever. In children with eczema, symptoms gradually subside naturally as they age.
The most common medications to treat eczema are:
Your doctor may prescribe a dry skin soother and mild topical corticosteroids. Products of varying strengths (moderate, active and highly active) are used on different parts of the body. If there are no signs of infection, your healthcare professional may apply a special dressing to you, which may be called a dry wrap, a wet wrap, or an occlusive dressing. These products relieve itching, prevent scratching and help prevent dry skin.
Other remedies are used to relieve the symptoms of eczema, including:
The doctor will prescribe additional treatment if necessary.
Some people use dietary supplements, such as dietary supplements and herbal remedies, to treat eczema. They help some, but there is no conclusive evidence that they effectively treat eczema.
If you plan to take dietary supplements, check with your doctor first to make sure it is safe. For example, some herbal remedies have severe side effects on the liver, and blood tests need to be done to monitor the health. In addition, you should not refuse traditional treatment prescribed by your doctor.
In addition to taking medications, you can also do certain things at home to help relieve symptoms.
Dermatitis often causes itching. Scratching can damage the skin: it thickens and loses its elasticity. Scratching also increases the risk of infection entering the skin. Sometimes the itching is so severe that it is impossible to control it. It is especially difficult for children. A possible solution is to cut your nails short, this will reduce skin trauma. If your child has eczema, you can stop scratching using special mittens. It also helps to tap or pinch the skin until the itching goes away.
Together with your doctor, try to find out the reasons that cause the condition to worsen, although this is not always possible. To reduce the likelihood of exposure to triggers, use the following tips:
Although many people with dermatitis are allergic to dust mites, controlling them is not essential for treating eczema. The process is complex, time-consuming, and there is no conclusive evidence of its effectiveness. Likewise, installing a water softener is unlikely to change the course of neurodermatitis, although hard water is thought to slightly increase the incidence of dermatitis in young children.
Don't make any major changes to your diet without talking to your doctor first. Certain foods, such as milk, eggs, and nuts, are known to trigger symptoms of dermatitis. However, avoiding these foods without a doctor's advice can be harmful to health, especially for young children who need a lot of calcium, calories and protein. If your doctor thinks you have a food allergy, you may be referred to a dietitian (nutrition specialist). If you are breastfeeding a baby with eczema, talk to your doctor before changing your usual diet.
These products soften the skin and keep it hydrated. They reduce moisture loss from the skin by covering it with a protective film. This is the most important type of care for dry skin with atopic dermatitis. It is important to constantly moisturize your skin so that it does not dry out or crack.
There are various skin emollients available. The doctor will advise which one is best to purchase. However, you may have to try different products before you find the right one for you. A doctor may prescribe several medications for different purposes, for example:
The difference between lotion, cream and ointment is the ratio of oils to water. Ointments have the highest oil content, so they are the greasy ones, but they moisturize the skin the best. Lotions have minimal oil content, so they have a light structure, but are less effective than ointments. Creams are an intermediate option.
If you've been using a certain product for a while, it may become less effective or cause skin irritation. In this case, consult your doctor to prescribe another remedy. For skin inflammation, emollients should be used in conjunction with anti-inflammatory agents, such as topical corticosteroids.
Use emollients constantly, including during remission - when there are no symptoms. It may be worth keeping a separate supply at work or school.
For best effect:
It is important to continue using emollients during flare-ups as this is when the skin needs the most moisture. During an exacerbation, regularly apply a large amount of the product to the skin.
Topical corticosteroids are usually prescribed for skin inflammation. The expression “topical action” means that the product is applied directly to the skin. Corticosteroids quickly relieve inflammation.
You may be concerned that you are taking products that contain steroids. However, corticosteroids are not the same as anabolic steroids, which are sometimes used by bodybuilders and athletes. When used correctly, corticosteroids are a safe and effective treatment for dermatitis.
Your doctor may prescribe corticosteroids in varying strengths, depending on the severity of your dermatitis. These can be drugs of moderate activity, such as hydrocortisone, active (clobetasone) and highly active. For severe atopic dermatitis, stronger corticosteroids are used. You may be assigned:
If you need to take corticosteroids frequently, see your doctor regularly to make sure your treatment is working and that you are using it correctly.
Apply a small amount of product to the affected area of skin. Always follow the instructions for use of the corticosteroid printed on the package insert. If your eczema flares, do not use corticosteroids more than twice a day. In most cases, it is enough to apply them once a day. To apply a topical corticosteroid:
Consult your doctor.
The standard unit of topical corticosteroids is the FTU, or fingertip unit:
When topical corticosteroids are used, they may cause a slight burning or tingling sensation. With long-term use of strong corticosteroids, they can cause:
These side effects are rare.
Antihistamines are a type of medicine that blocks the action of a substance in the blood called histamine. Often, your body produces histamine when it comes into contact with an allergen. Antihistamines help relieve the itching that occurs with atopic dermatitis. They can be sedative, meaning they cause drowsiness, or non-sedating.
For severe itching or associated hay fever, you may be prescribed a non-sedating antihistamine. If it helps, you may be advised to continue taking a non-sedating antihistamine long-term. Treatment needs to be adjusted with a doctor every 3 months.
If itching is keeping you from sleeping, sedating antihistamines may help. They are prescribed for short-term use, usually the course lasts a maximum of 2 weeks, as they quickly lose effectiveness. This type of antihistamine may cause drowsiness the next day, so it is worth warning teachers at school that your child may respond more slowly than usual.
If you are taking antihistamines, do not drive the next day if you still feel drowsy. The sedative effect is likely to increase with alcohol consumption.
In rare cases, during severe flare-ups, your doctor may prescribe corticosteroids in pill form. They are also used for exacerbation of bronchial asthma.
You may be prescribed prednisone once a day, usually in the morning, for 1 to 2 weeks.
If oral corticosteroids are taken frequently or for a long time, it may cause side effects, including:
Therefore, it is unlikely that your doctor will prescribe corticosteroid tablets more than once a year without first referring you to a specialist.
When dermatitis lesions become infected, antibiotics are usually prescribed. Large areas of infection are treated with antibiotics in the form of tablets or capsules. The type of antibiotic should be recommended by a doctor; self-administration of these drugs is not recommended.
Small areas of skin are usually treated with antibiotics in the form of creams or ointments that are applied directly to the affected areas. Topical antibiotics should not be taken for longer than two weeks, as bacteria may become resistant to their action. If symptoms worsen, contact your doctor.
After the infection has cleared, your doctor will prescribe you a new course of creams and ointments that you used against the infection. You need to get rid of old remedies. During and after an infection, it is important to keep inflammation under control. If you have flare-ups of dermatitis, antiseptic creams and lotions can help kill the bacteria. The most commonly prescribed topical antiseptics are chlorhexidine and triclosan.
In our country, atopic dermatitis (eczema) is usually treated under the supervision of a dermatologist - a specialist in the treatment of skin diseases. You can contact him independently or with a referral from a therapist or pediatrician (for a child). It is especially important to consult a dermatologist if:
A dermatologist may suggest the following treatment options:
Alitretinoin (sold under the brand name Toctino) is a medication used for severe, long-lasting hand dermatitis that does not respond to other treatments. Alitretinoin treatment is carried out under the supervision of a dermatologist and is prescribed to people over 18 years of age.
Alitretinoin is a type of medicine called a retinoid. Retinoids relieve irritation and itching that occurs with dermatitis (eczema). It should not be taken during pregnancy as it may cause severe birth defects. Breastfeeding women should also not take alitretinoin, as it can pass into breast milk and harm the baby. Due to the risk of birth defects, this medication is not indicated for women of childbearing age.
Typical side effects when taking alitretinoin:
Currently, alitretinoin is not registered in our country, but foreign doctors have accumulated positive experience in using this drug for the treatment of eczema. Perhaps in the near future this drug will be available in Russia. Discuss this with your healthcare provider.
Complications from atopic dermatitis can impair both physical and mental health, especially in children.
Eczema causes the skin to become dry and cracked, increasing the risk of skin infection. Scratching itchy areas and using medications incorrectly increases your risk. The most common type of bacteria that affects eczema lesions is Staphylococcus aureus. Bacterial infections can have severe symptoms. Staph infection can cause the following symptoms:
Staph infections are treated with antibiotics.
Infection of the dermatitis focus with the herpes simplex virus, the causative agent of herpetic fever, may occur. This can develop into a serious condition called eczema herpeticum. Symptoms of herpetic eczema:
Call your doctor right away if you think you or your child may have eczema herpes. If the condition is serious, call an ambulance by calling 03 from a landline phone, 112 or 911 from a mobile phone.
In addition to the effects on your body, eczema also affects your psyche. Preschool children with eczema are more likely to develop behavioral problems compared to children without the condition. They are more dependent on their parents compared to children without this disease.
School-age children with eczema may be teased or bullied. For a child, any form of bullying can be traumatic and difficult to cope with. Your child may become quiet and withdrawn. Explain the situation to your child's teacher and ask your child to tell you about his or her feelings.
Research suggests that children with dermatitis often have sleep disorders. Due to lack of sleep, a child’s mood and behavior changes and school performance declines. It is important to inform the teacher of your child's illness so that he or she can take it into account. During a flare-up of dermatitis, your child may not go to school. This may also affect his academic performance.
Eczema can have a negative impact on self-esteem in both children and adults. Children may find it especially difficult to cope with the disease and may develop complexes as a result. Low self-esteem disrupts the child’s social adaptation and interferes with the development of communication skills in a team. Support and encouragement will help increase your child's self-esteem, and he will be less critical of his appearance. Contact your doctor if you are concerned that the dermatitis is severely affecting your child's self-esteem.
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Dermatitis (from Greek δέρμα derma "skin" and -ῖτις -itis "inflammation"), or eczema (Greek: ἔκζεμα eczema "rash"), is an inflammation of the skin. It is characterized by pruritic, erythematous, vesicular, weeping, and scabby lesions. The term eczema is also widely used to describe atopic dermatitis, or atopic eczema. In some languages, dermatitis and eczema are synonymous, while in others, dermatitis means an acute condition and eczema means a chronic condition. The cause of dermatitis is not clear. One suggestion is that the condition results from a dysfunctional interaction between the immune system and the skin. The term eczema is broadly applied to a range of persistent skin conditions. They include dryness and recurrent skin rashes, which are characterized by one or more of these symptoms: redness, swelling of the skin, itching and dryness, crusting, flaking, blistering, cracking, discharge or bleeding. Areas of temporary discoloration of the skin may appear, in some cases associated with healed lesions. Scratching healing lesions can cause the rash to scar and spread. Treatment is usually through moisturizers and steroid creams. If these are ineffective, creams based on calcineurin inhibitors can be used. In 2010, the disease was estimated to affect 230 million people worldwide (3.5% of the population). While dermatitis is life-threatening, other illnesses may be associated with the condition, including osteoporosis, depression and heart failure.
The concept of “eczema” refers to a complex of clinical characteristics. The classification of underlying diseases was random and haphazard, with many synonyms used to describe a single disease. The type of eczema can be described by location (for example, hand eczema), a specific appearance (craquelure or coin-shaped eczema), or a possible cause (varicose eczema). Adding more confusion, many sources use the term eczema for the most common type of eczema (atopic dermatitis) interchangeably. The European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) published a memorandum in 2001 that simplifies the nomenclature of allergy-related diseases, including atopic and allergic contact dermatitis.
There are several different types of dermatitis. Different types usually have an allergic reaction to specific allergens. The term may describe dermatitis, which is also called contact dermatitis and eczematous dermatitis. The diagnosis of dermatitis often includes atopic dermatitis (which is common among children and adolescents) but, in the wrong context, can refer to any type of dermatitis. In some languages, dermatitis and eczema are synonymous, while in others, dermatitis means a condition and eczema means a chronic condition. The two diseases are often classified as one.
Some substances act as both allergens and irritants (for example, liquid cement mortar). Other substances cause a problem after exposure to sunlight, giving phototoxic dermatitis. Almost three quarters of contact type cases are irritative, which is the most common occupational skin disease. Contact dermatitis is treatable if the problematic substance can be avoided and residues removed from the patient's environment. (ICD-10 L23; L24; L56.1; L56.0)
Xerotic eczema (also known as asteatosis, craquelure or craquelatum, winter itch, seasonal itch) is dry skin that becomes so severe that it develops into eczema. It worsens in dry winter weather, with the limbs and trunk often affected. Itchy, tender skin becomes like a dry, cracked river bottom. This disorder is widespread among the elderly population. Ichthyosis is a related disease. (ICD-10 L30.8A; L85.0)
Seborrheic dermatitis, or seborrheic eczema ("scalp" in babies), is a condition, in some cases classified as a form of eczema, that is closely similar to dandruff. It causes dryness or greasy flaking of the scalp, eyebrows and face, and sometimes the torso. The disease is harmless, except for severe cases of crusts on the head. In newborns, it causes a thin, yellow, crust-like rash on the scalp, called a scab, which is associated with a lack of biotin and is treatable in most cases. (ICD-10 L21; L21.0)
Dyshidrosis (also known as dyshidrotic dermatitis, dropsy, vesicular palmoplantar dermatitis, housewives' eczema) appears exclusively on the palms, soles, and sides of the fingers and toes. Small, opaque bumps called blisters, thinning and cracking are accompanied by itching that gets worse at night. A common type of hand eczema, it gets worse in warm weather. (ICD-10 L30.1)
Monoliform eczema (also known as nummular eczema, exudative, bacterial dermatitis) is characterized by round patches of oozing or dry rash, with well-defined borders, often on the lower legs. Usually worsens in winter. The cause is unknown, and the disease tends to come and go. (ICD-10 L30.0)
Venous dermatitis (also known as gravitational dermatitis, stasis dermatitis, varicose dermatitis) occurs in people with poor circulation, varicose veins and swelling and is especially common in the ankle area in people over 50 years of age. There is redness, peeling, darkening of the skin, as well as itching. The disorder predisposes to leg ulcers. (ICD-10 I83.1)
Dermatitis herpetiformis (also known as Duhring's disease) causes intense itching and a typically symmetrical rash on the arms, thighs, knees, and back. It is directly related to celiac disease, can often go into remission with appropriate diet, and tends to get worse at night. (ICD-10 L13.0)
Neurodermatitis (also known as lichen simplex chronicus, localized heterogeneous dermatitis) is an itchy, thinning, pigmented eczematous lesion that results from habitual scratching and scratching. Usually only one lesion. Most cases are treatable with behavior changes and anti-inflammatory medications. Prurigo nodularis is a related disease showing multiple swellings. (ICD-10 L28.0; L28.1)
There are also dermatitis, which are based on viral infections (dermatitis herpetiformis or vaccinal), as well as dermatitis, which is based on a disease (for example, lymphoma). Dermatitis resulting from the intake of drugs, foods and chemicals has not yet been accurately systematized. In addition to those listed here, there are other eczematous diseases.
Symptoms of dermatitis vary depending on the different forms of the disease. They vary from skin rashes to lumpy rashes or bullous lesions. Although each type of dermatitis has different symptoms, there are certain signs that are common to all types, including skin redness, swelling, itching, and skin lesions in some cases, diffuse bleeding and scarring. Additionally, regions of the skin where symptoms tend to differ among different types of dermatitis include the neck, wrist, forearm, thigh, or ankle. Although the location may vary, the initial symptom of this disease is itchy skin. More rarely, it may appear in the genital area, such as the vulva or scrotum. Symptoms of this type of dermatitis can be very severe and may come and go. Irritative contact dermatitis is usually more painful than pruritic contact dermatitis. Although the symptoms of atopic dermatitis vary from person to person, the most common symptoms include dry, itchy, red skin. Commonly affected areas include the crooks of the arms, the backs of the knees, wrists, face and hands. Symptoms of dermatitis herpetiformis include itching, burning and warmth. Nodules and blisters are common. The small red bumps seen in this type of dermatitis are usually about 1 cm in size, red in color and may be symmetrically grouped and distributed on the upper back or lower back, buttocks, elbows, knees, neck, shoulders and scalp. Less often, the rash may occur inside the mouth or near the hairline. Symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis, on the other hand, appear gradually, ranging from a dry or oily scalp (dandruff) to hair loss. In severe cases, pustules may appear along the hairline, behind the ears, on the eyebrows, on the top of the bridge of the nose, near the nose, on the chest and upper back. In newborns, the disease causes a thin, yellowish rash on the scalp, often accompanied by diaper rash. Perioral dermatitis refers to a red, bumpy rash around the mouth.
The cause of dermatitis is not known, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
The hygiene hypothesis suggests that asthma, dermatitis and other allergic diseases are caused by an overly clean environment. It is supported by epidemiological studies regarding asthma. The hypothesis states that exposure to bacteria and other immune system stimulants is important during development, and loss of this exposure increases the risk of asthma and allergies. While the hypothesis suggests that dermatitis may in some cases be an allergic reaction to dust mite excrement, with up to 5% of people demonstrating antibodies, the overall role it plays awaits further evidence.
Several genes have been linked to dermatitis, one of which is filaggrin. Genome-wide studies have discovered three new genetic variants associated with dermatitis: OVOL1, ACTL9 and IL4-KIF3A. Dermatitis occurs three times more frequently in celiac disease and approximately twice as often in those with celiac disease, potentially suggesting a genetic link between the two diseases.
Diagnosis of dermatitis is based primarily on history and physical examination. However, in uncertain cases, a skin biopsy may be useful. Dermatitis sufferers are especially susceptible to misdiagnosis of food allergies. Scarification tests are used in the diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis.
There is no reliable evidence that the mother's diet during pregnancy, the formula milk used, or breastfeeding changes the risk. There is conditional evidence that probiotics in infancy reduce rates, but this is not sufficient to recommend their use. People with dermatitis should not receive smallpox vaccine due to the risk of developing eczema vaccinatum, a potentially severe and in some cases fatal complication.
There is no known cure for dermatitis, but treatment is aimed at managing symptoms by reducing inflammation and relieving itching.
Bathing one or more times per day is recommended. There is a misconception that bathing dries out the skin in people with dermatitis. It is not clear whether reducing the number of dust mites makes dermatitis easier. There has been no adequate evaluation of how dietary changes improve dermatitis. There is some evidence that infants with established egg allergies may show relief of symptoms if eggs are eliminated from their diet. Benefits have not been observed with other elimination diets, although studies have been small and poorly conducted. Determining whether you have a food allergy before making dietary changes can help you avoid unnecessary lifestyle changes. People can also wear clothing designed to control itching, scratching, and flaking. Soaps and detergents should not be used on affected skin as they can remove the skin's natural oils and cause excess dryness.
Humectants (also known as emollients) are recommended at least once or twice daily. Fat-based formulations are better, but water-based formulations are not recommended. It is not clear whether moisturizers containing ceramides are more or less effective than other moisturizers. Products containing dyes, fragrances or peanuts should not be used. Sealing dressings at night may be helpful.
There is little evidence for the antihistamine and thus it is not generally recommended. Sedating antihistamines such as diphenhydramine may be tried by those who are unable to sleep due to dermatitis.
When symptoms are well controlled with moisturizing agents, steroids are required only if flares occur. Corticosteroids are effective in managing and suppressing symptoms in most cases. Use once a day is usually sufficient. For mild to moderate dermatitis, a weak steroid (eg hydrocortisone) may be used, while for severe cases a more potent steroid (eg clobetasol propionate) may be used. In severe cases, oral or injected corticosteroids may be used. While they provide quick improvements, they also have major side effects. Long-term use of topical steroids can lead to skin atrophy, furrows, and telangiectasia. Their use on sensitive skin (face or groin area) is therefore usually accompanied by caution. However, they are generally well tolerated. Topical steroid addiction (TSA) has been reported in long-term topical steroid users (users who have applied topical steroids to the skin for weeks, months, or years). TSA is characterized by uncontrolled, spreading dermatitis, and worsening skin inflammation that requires the use of a stronger topical steroid to achieve the same result as the first prescription. When use of a topical steroid is stopped, skin redness, burning, itching, warmth, swelling and/or diffuse bleeding may occur over time. This is also called red skin syndrome or topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). After the withdrawal period, atopic dermatitis may stop or become less severe than before.
Topically applied immunosuppressants such as pimecrolimus and tacrolimus may be more effective in the short term and equivalent to steroids after a year of use. Their use is appropriate for those who do not respond to or cannot tolerate steroids. Treatment is usually recommended for a short or set period of time rather than indefinitely. Tacrolimus 0.1% is generally more effective than picrolimus and equal in potency to moderate-strength topical steroids. The US Food and Drug Administration issued an advisory regarding the possible risk of lymph node or skin cancer from these products, but subsequent studies have not supported these concerns. The main dispute in the UK has been regarding the cost of these drugs and, taking into account only certain NHS sources, when they are most appropriate for use. When dermatitis is severe and does not respond to other forms of treatment, systemic immunosuppressants are used. Immunosuppressants can cause significant side effects, and some require regular blood tests. The most commonly used drugs are cyclosporine, azathioprine and methotrexate.
Phototherapy using ultraviolet light has conditional evidence, but the quality of the evidence is poor. Various types of light can be used, including UVA and UVB. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet light carries its own risks, particularly with regard to skin cancer.
There is now scientific evidence to support the claim that sulfur treatment improves dermatitis. It is not clear whether Chinese herbs help or harm. Nutritional supplements are widely used by people suffering from dermatitis. Neither evening primrose oil nor borage seed oil taken orally were effective. Both have been associated with gastrointestinal distress. Probiotics are not effective. There is unreliable evidence to support the use of sea buckthorn oil, hemp oil, sunflower oil or as dietary supplements. Other treatments for which there is no reliable evidence include spinal manipulation and acupuncture. There is little evidence to support the use of psychological treatments. While diluted bleach baths have been used against infectious dermatitis, there is little evidence regarding their practical use.
Most cases are well controlled with topical agents and ultraviolet light. About 2% of cases, however, are not controlled. More than 60% of cases of the disease resolve in adolescence.
Worldwide, dermatitis affects approximately 230 million people as of 2010 (3.5% of the population). The life span in which the incidence of dermatitis is recorded peaks in early childhood, while in women the prevalence of dermatitis is observed during the reproductive period from 15 to 49 years. In the UK, around 20% of children are affected by the condition, while in the US it is around 10%. Although there is little data regarding the incidence of dermatitis over time before World War II (1939–45), the incidence of dermatitis increased significantly in the second half of the 20th century, with the incidence of dermatitis in school-age children increasing in the late 1940s and 2000. In developed countries, there has been an increase in the incidence of dermatitis over time. The incidence and lifespan of predominant dermatitis in the UK is currently increasing. Dermatitis affected approximately 10% of US workers in 2010, representing over 15 million workers. The incidence is higher among women than among men, and the prevalence among those with a college degree or advanced degree is comparable to or less than among those with a high school diploma. Workers employed in health care or social care, medical examination and social science fields have an increased incidence of dermatitis. About 6% of dermatitis cases among US workers are attributed to healthcare professionals, indicating a prevalence of occupational dermatitis among workers of at least 0.6%.
The concept of atopic dermatitis was coined in 1933 by Wise and Schulzberger. Sulfur as a topical treatment for dermatitis was fashionable during the Victorian and Edwardian eras.
“Visifying expert offers new hope for eczema sufferers” (PDF). Dermcoll.edu.au. May 2014. Retrieved January 27, 2015.
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