“Eczema” refers to a class of skin conditions that can cause a person’s skin to become irritated, itchy, and red — even resulting in blistering, peeling, or weeping. Atopic dermatitis is one of the most common types of eczema, so common that the terms eczema and atopic dermatitis are often interchangeable. Atopic dermatitis can be incredibly frustrating to live with, as its symptoms are often irritating, painful, and emotionally damaging. Fortunately, an experienced Gainesville dermatologist can help individuals develop a personal care plan to make their symptoms more manageable.
Dermatology Associates is a full-service dermatology practice dedicated to providing the Gainesville community with high-quality cosmetic dermatology and medical dermatology services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist in Gainesville!
What Is Atopic Dermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis, also known as atopic eczema, is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, scaly, itchy rashes. While common in children, it can affect individuals at any age. The rashes caused by atopic dermatitis tend to flare periodically. People with this condition often scratch their affected skin during flare-ups. Unfortunately, scratching can increase skin inflammation, worsening the symptoms.
What Causes Atopic Dermatitis?
While the exact cause of atopic dermatitis/eczema is unclear, doctors suspect it’s related to a gene variation inhibiting the skin’s ability to retain moisture and provide protection from bacteria, irritants, and allergens. Individuals with atopic dermatitis lack specific proteins that help maintain the skin’s barrier to water, their skin is more susceptible to irritation, resulting in rashes. The following are some external factors that could worsen eczema symptoms.
- Cold, Dry Air
- Allergens Such As Pollen, Dust, Animal Dandruff, Etc.
- Contact With Rough Materials
- Perfumes
- Certain Dyes In Lotion And Soap
- Emotional Stress
- Sudden Changes In Temperature
Atopic Dermatitis Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis will vary from person to person. Some common symptoms individuals should be wary of include the following.
- Dry Skin
- Redness
- Inflammation
- Itchiness
- Blisters
- Thickened, Leather-Like Areas Of Skin
Atopic Dermatitis Treatments
While there is no cure for atopic dermatitis, our Gainesville, FL, dermatologists can help patients develop a treatment plan to manage discomforts caused by the condition’s symptoms. Specifically, treatment plans can help patients reduce flare-ups, ease pain, keep their skin moisturized, lower the risk of infection, and prevent the condition from worsening. When developing a skincare plan for atopic dermatitis, a dermatologist will typically outline how to bathe and moisturize to keep the skin healthy. Additionally, dermatologists can prescribe topical medications to help control atopic dermatitis. Newer treatments, such as pills and injectable medicines, are used in severe or refractory cases.
Contact Dermatology Associates today to schedule an appointment with a dermatology specialist!