Eczema / Atopic Dermatitis

There are many causes of atopic dermatitis. One of the strongest risk factors of developing atopic dermatitis is if there is a family history of atopic dermatitis. This is actually a more common skin disease among higher social status groups, and often most prevalent in children. Usually during colder winter months is when people with this condition notice the most problems. This condition impacts the protein in between the cells that make up the top layer of epidermis that is meant to act like a bonding agent. Basically, the skin can become weaker and allow irritants to cause a reaction and inflammation. If left untreated, eczema may become more chronic and result in thicker, tougher patches of skin where the skin is also elevated and discolored.

At this time, there is no cure for eczema but it is treatable. Most patients may notice periods where the eczema is lessened but it cannot be fully cured. Issues on the hands are the most common problem areas and this is often enhanced in any profession or situations where the skin is repeatedly exposed to wet or damp conditions. Those who wash their hands often or work in a field such as food preparation and must get their hands wet repeatedly are bound to notice more recurrences. Also, those who live in climates with more severe periods of cold weather or longer periods of winter may also notice worse conditions.

While there is no cure at this time for eczema it is treatable. There are several different alternatives for treatment which you can discuss with one of our dermatologists. Topical treatments and oral medications are the most common, although many patients also find relief from phototherapy or self-administered injections. These are often helpful in patients that have normal looking skin.

Altering things in your life and daily routine that can help minimize the problem is also very helpful, avoiding dust mites and pollen for example. Also reducing smoking, exposure to damp conditions repeatedly or other exposure to foreign proteins and bacteria are liable to help reduce the appearance of eczema inflamed skin. While treating your Atopic Dermatitis you should also try to use gentle cleansers and moisturizers.

The most important first step is to let one our dermatologists evaluate your skin condition to determine if you have eczema/Atopic Dermatitis; from there, the treatment can begin.

Contact us now to set up your consultation with one of our award-winning, top-ranking dermatologists.