Dermatitis - Symptoms & Treatment

Dermatitis is defined as an inflammation of the skin. It is usually used to refer to eczema, which is also known as Dermatitis eczema. There are several different types. Usually all of them have in common an allergic reaction to specific allergens. The terms dermatitis include a wide variety of skin disorders, including atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, latex dermatitis and allergy, and dyshidrotic dermatitis. Contact dermatitis can occur on any part of the body, but it usually affects the hands, feet, and groin. Contact dermatitis usually does not spread from one person to another, nor does it spread beyond the area exposed to the irritant unless affected skin comes into contact with another part of the body. Irritant contact dermatitis often affects the hands, which have been exposed by resting in or dipping into a container containing the irritant. Dermatitis is a common condition that isn't life-threatening or contagious. But, it can make you feel uncomfortable and self-conscious. The cause of eczema is unknown, but hereditary factors appear to play a strong role.

A combination of self-care steps and medications can help you treat dermatitis. The itchiness may be more noticeable at nighttime. The skin is often dry, increasing the risk of skin injury with scratching. The skin lesions are therefore at risk for developing infection. Factors that strongly suggest eczema include long-standing and recurrent itching, a personal or family history of allergic conditions, and an early age at onset. Other factors include a worsening of symptoms after exposure to certain triggers, and any of the skin findings noted above. Part of the reaction depends on the substance's ability to penetrate the skin. Topical steroids are often used to treat dermatitis. Topical steroids come in different strengths and can have significant side effects. All topical steroids except Hydrocortisone cream must be prescribed by a health care provider. It is also a good idea to wash skin with mild soap before and after wearing gloves and to keep the work place as clean as possible. Avoid handling any chemical if cuts or scrapes are present on hands or forearms.

Causes of Dermatitis

Common causes and risk factor's of Dermatitis:

• Hereditary factors.
• Fungi  or molds.
• Skin soaps or detergents, and cleaning products.
• Food allergies.
• Plant allergens that cause dermatitis include poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac.
• Exposure to allergens.

Symptoms of Dermatitis

Some sign and symptoms related to Dermatitis are as follows:

• Darkening of the skin around the eyes.
• Itching and skin lesions.
• Sores from scratching.
• Inflammation around the lips.
• Blisters.
• Painful ulcers.

Treatment of Dermatitis

Common treatment of Dermatitis:

• Prescription or over-the-counter corticosteroid creams can lessen inflammation and relieve irritation.
• Antihistamines may be given if nonprescription strengths are not adequate.
• Oral antihistamines are sometimes recommended to alleviate itching, and antibiotics are prescribed if the rash becomes infected.
• Lukewarm baths can hydrate and cool the skin, temporarily relieving the itching of eczema.
• Antibiotics, either topical or in pill form, are prescribed if there is an infection.
• Pimecrolimus is a new anti-inflammatory cream shown to be very effective for atopic dermatitis, with fewer side effects than topical steroids.