A comprehensive guide on Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic Dermatitis (AD) is a topical condition also commonly known as Eczema. It refers to a collective of skin problems that are mostly triggered due to allergic reactions. AD is more chronic in nature, exhibiting persistent symptoms that affect infants, young children, and adults of all ages. Atopic Dermatitis is not a contagious disease. Read on to know more about AD.

Causes of Atopic Dermatitis
The exact cause of the condition is unknown. However, there are certain environmental triggers and hereditary risk factors that increase one’s chances of suffering from Atopic Dermatitis. Also, the condition is often linked with seasonal allergies that trigger this skin problem.

Visible symptoms of AD

• Dry, patchy, scaly, and itchy skin or a rash may develop on the cheeks or scalp with the possibility of blistering and weeping fluids. This is a common symptom observed among infants.
• Developing rashes in the creases of the knees or elbows is a sign of Atopic Dermatitis among young children. Rashes may also form on certain parts of the neck and face. Apart from dry, scaly patches, children may also experience a slight discoloration, resulting in light or dark skin spots in the affected area. The texture of the skin also changes to a more thick leathery appearance due to the formation of pus-filled blisters and rashes.
• Adults are also at equal risk of suffering from this recurring skin problem if they had atopic dermatitis in their childhood. Skin discoloration is one of the main symptoms that indicates a developing skin condition.

Commonly advised treatment options
Dermatologists often recommend a combination of oral medications and topical treatments for managing inflammation. These include a variety of corticosteroids, non-steroidal topical ointments, antibody injections to control severe dermatitis, and OTC creams that improve the skin’s repair function. Dermatologists may also use wet dressings to control and treat widespread lesions. Additionally, light therapy may be recommended for severe forms of Atopic Dermatitis.

Natural remedies for better prevention and management of symptoms

• Moisturizing
  Keeping the skin hydrated with a good quality daily moisturizer will reduce the risk of blisters developing on dry skin. Adults can apply a generous layer right before bedtime. For children, it is recommended to apply two coats of moisturizing creams and oils, once during the day and just before bedtime.
• Taking a warm bath
  Ground oatmeal and baking soda bath will act as a natural exfoliate to help cleanse and get rid of dead cells, lowering the risk of skin infections. You can apply moisturizer immediately after taking a warm bath.
• Use bandages
  Covering the skin with bandages helps protect the exposed layer from pollutants and automatically reduces the risk of developing an infection. Further, a bandage will prevent any efforts to scratch the itchy, scaly skin.
• Wear relaxed clothing
  Avoid wearing tights and sleeves that put pressure over the affected area, especially if you are applying any topical medications to manage the irritation. Wearing seasonal clothing suitable for sudden temperature changes will prevent excessive sweating during harsh summers.

Diet for Atopic Dermatitis
Anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish rich in Omega 3s, foods high in quercetin,including apples, broccoli, spinach, kale, and berries, and foods that contain probiotics should form part of the daily diet. Yogurt, sourdough bread, miso soup, tempeh, kefir, and soft cheeses fermented pickles are rich in natural probiotics. However, you must avoid fatty dairy products, nuts, soy, eggs, and foods and beverages rich in sugar, caffeine, or processed preservatives and additives. A balanced nutritious diet will allow the skin to repair and heal faster while simultaneously boosting immunity.