Atopic Dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease that affects both children and adults. This skin condition is characterized by itchy, scaly, and red rash patches that appear on the skin.

Though it is a non-contagious disease, it can be emotionally distressing for the patient and can last for a lifetime if not treated properly.

What Causes Atopic Dermatitis?

Atopic Dermatitis is caused by a combination of genetic, anatomical, and environmental factors. Studies suggest that gene mutations that control the skin’s protective barrier may be a major cause of AD.

Meanwhile, anatomical factors such as thin skin and blood vessels in the skin can also make the skin more prone to irritation and inflammation.

Environmental factors such as allergens, irritants, pollutants, and microbes can trigger or aggravate the symptoms of AD. Children exposed to high levels of air pollution, for example, are more likely to develop AD.

Additionally, certain foods like eggs, milk, soy, and wheat can trigger AD symptoms in some people.

How to Prevent Atopic Dermatitis?

Though there is no known cure for Atopic Dermatitis, there are various ways that you can prevent the symptoms from occurring or worsening. Here are eight proven ways to keep your Atopic Dermatitis under control:.

1. Identify and avoid triggers

Identifying and avoiding the triggers of Atopic Dermatitis is one of the most effective ways to prevent the disease’s symptoms from flaring up.

Be observant of things that can trigger your skin reaction, such as certain foods, soaps, or perfumes, then try to avoid them as much as possible.

2. Moisturize frequently

Keeping your skin well-hydrated can help reduce the symptoms of AD. Apply a moisturizing lotion or cream to your skin immediately after bathing or showering to trap moisture in your skin. Moisturize your hands after washing them.

3. Use gentle, fragrance-free products

Choose skincare, laundry detergents, and household cleaning products that are gentle and fragrance-free, as they can aggravate skin irritation and cause an AD flare-up.

4. Keep your skin cool

Heat and sweat can trigger AD, so keep your skin cool and dry by wearing breathable clothing and using air conditioning during hot weather, exercise, or any other activities that make you sweat.

5. Take lukewarm baths or showers

Hot water can dry out the skin and cause itching, so take lukewarm baths or showers, and limit the duration to 10-15 minutes. Add oatmeal, baking soda, or vinegar to your bath to help soothe the skin.

6. Treat infections promptly

AD can make the skin more prone to bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. If you develop an infection, seek medical treatment right away to prevent it from further complicating your AD.

7. Manage stress effectively

Stress can exacerbate AD, so try to manage stress levels by practicing relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

8. Follow your treatment plan

Work with your dermatologist to create a personalized treatment plan that suits your specific skin condition. Follow the plan diligently and keep track of your progress to see if any changes need to be made.

What Are the Treatment Options for Atopic Dermatitis?

There is no known cure for Atopic Dermatitis, but various treatments can help reduce the severity and frequency of AD flare-ups. Here are some popular treatment options:.

1. Topical corticosteroids

Topical corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory drugs that can help reduce itching, swelling, and redness of the skin. They come in various strengths, and your dermatologist will prescribe one that best suits your skin condition and severity.

2. Topical calcineurin inhibitors

Topical calcineurin inhibitors are non-steroid drugs that can help reduce inflammation of the skin. They are mainly used to treat moderate to severe AD in adults and children above the age of two.

3. Phototherapy

Phototherapy or light therapy is a treatment option that uses ultraviolet light to reduce skin inflammation. It is mainly used to treat moderate to severe AD and is best used under medical supervision.

4. Biologic drugs

Biologic drugs are injectable medications that target specific immune cells responsible for causing AD. They are mainly used to treat moderate to severe AD in adults who have not responded to other treatments.

5. Antihistamines

Antihistamines are over-the-counter medications that can help relieve itching and other allergic reactions that cause AD flare-ups.

Conclusion

Atopic Dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that is caused by a combination of genetic, anatomical, and environmental factors.

Though there is no known cure for AD, various preventive measures and treatments can help reduce the severity and frequency of AD flare-ups.

Identifying and avoiding triggers, keeping the skin well-moisturized, using gentle and fragrance-free products, keeping the skin cool, managing stress levels, and following the treatment plan can all help reduce AD’s symptoms and impact on your daily life.