Dealing With Atopic Dermatitis


Atopic dermatitis is a long-lasting skin condition that produces a strong itching and then a raised, red rash. It commonly develops in small children and continues into the teen years. Adults also can have it or have milder symptoms than they did as children, along with sensitive-skin signs.
If you have atopic dermatitis, your skin is very sensitive to irritants and is likely to becoming itchy and developing a rash. The itch may seem to be relieved by scratching, but it often results in a rash and produces a self-perpetuating cycle of itching, scratching, and rash.
Skin affected by dermatitis must be maintained well moisturized. Although researchers have yet to completely understand the causes of atopic dermatitis, they already known that dry skin plays a big part in exacerbating symptoms.
Good skin care is an essential part of controlling the rash and itch of dermatitis. To help prevent a cycle of scratching, itching, and rash, maintain your skin moisturized and recognize and avoid skin irritants.
Follow these tips to care for your skin: - Soak in clean, warm (not hot) water for 3 to 5 minutes. Your skin will absorb water and still retain its natural oils. Losing the natural oils will result in dry skin. You may shower when an outbreak is mild or when atopic dermatitis is under control.
- Don't use soap every time you take a bath. If you need some soap, use a gentle, non-drying product. Use soap regularly only on the groin, underarms, and feet, rinsing immediately afterward. Children affected by atopic dermatitis should not stay sit in soapy water.
- Avoid adding bath oils and bubble bath to the bathwater, because they may alter your skin's capability to absorb water.
- Avoid using scrub brushes or washcloths.
- After a bath or shower, pat your skin dry. While your skin is still moist or even wet, apply a moisturizer immediately, within 3 minutes of leaving the shower or bath. Your skin will dry out if you wait longer. For severe dryness, try petroleum jelly, mineral oil, or an all-vegetable shortening. The moisturizer must be applied several times a day.
- Talk to your health professional about applying a wet bandage over the affected patch. It can help alleviate symptoms but may not be a good idea if some skin treatment is being applied on the skin.
And, of course, avoid skin irritants at all costs, like some cleansing products, scratchy clothing or bedding, places with low humidity, sunburn, damp hands or feet, excessive sweating, sudden changes of temperature, and emotional stress.

By: Angelique Jodein

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