Dermatitis-The not so serious skin disaster

Dermatitis is characterized by inflammation of skin in manifested by rash, swelling and itching of the affected part. The rash may worsen into blisters which are filled with fluid. If they are scratched, fluid is leaked, leading to formation of skin crusts. Although his condition makes oneself self conscious, it is neither contagious or life threatening.

Types:-

1.Atopic dermatitis (eczema):- this type of skin disorder usually begins in infancy and characterized by red itchy rash on the skin flexes such as skin fold behind the knee, inside the elbow and neck front. The rash is fluid filled and when scratched. The fluid is leaked causing crusts.

2.Contact dermatitis: - In this condition, the rash occurs when the skin comes into contact with irritants of substances that are allergic to the skin. Itchy rash is developed on the parts which come into contact with poisonous substances like poison ivy. The rash may progress into blisters which may cause stinging sensation.

3.Seborrheic dermatitis: - This type of dermatitis usually occurs on the scalp and face, especially near ears and nose. This condition is characterized by development of red rash with oily and yellowish scale. This is a very common cause of dandruff. When observed in infants, it is called as cradle cap.

Risk factors:-

1.Age: - Dermatitis can affect people of any age. However, its specific type known as atopic dermatitis is found only in infants.

2.Allergies and asthma: - Individuals who are allergic to certain irritants or environmental pollutants are more susceptible to this disorder. Having Asthma increases the risk further. Personal or Family history of hay fever may also trigger the infection.

3.Occupation: - This disorder, in some cases, is occupation specific. People who work with heavy metals, irritants or solvents are at the higher risk of developing this condition.

Diagnosis: - Diagnosis of Dermatitis is done by analysis of symptoms and physical examination of the rash. Patch testing can be done to check patient’s sensitivity to various substances. In this process, small amounts of various irritants are applied to the skin in smaller quantity. After stipulated time limit, skin where the patches were made is observed to see the signs of irritation. It is useful if allergy is caused by specific substances.

Treatment: - Treatment of Dermatitis depends on the causal factor. Treatment may vary from person to person. Some common courses of treatment are using corticosteroid lotions and wet compresses. Patients are advised to avoid irritants of the factors they are allergic to. In some cases, light therapy is also used where affected skin is exposed to natural or artificial light in controlled way. This disorder is rarely life threatening.

Natural remedies: - A variety of natural remedy options are recommended as possible treatments for this condition.

1.Probiotics: - It has been observed that certain strains of lactobacillus are associated with improvement in symptoms of this skin disorder. It is generally effective in children below age of 13 who have been diagnosed with atopic dermatitis. It is not clear whether probiotics can be effective for further age range.

2.Rice bran applications: - Application of Topical rice bran broth seems to reduce the symptoms of atopic dermatitis.

3.Bovine cartilage: - If this skin disorder is caused by poison ivy, applying a cream which contains 5% of bovine cartilage helps to improve the condition.

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