Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a disease of the skin that is characterized by red, irritated, inflamed, and itchy skin. It often occurs during childhood but can begin at any age. Atopic dermatitis can be hereditary, may be caused by certain food allergies, and could also be triggered by the environment a person spends the most time in.
This skin disease commonly gets worse and has flare-ups at different times. These flare-ups cause the skin to become severely dry, flakey, irritated and painful, and it may even swell and release a clear fluid. These are some tips for preventing the flare-ups of atopic dermatitis from occurring.
Moisturizing
One of the key factors in keeping atopic dermatitis under control is keeping the affected skin moisturized regularly. This can be done by applying lotions, ointments, natural oils (such as coconut oil), or petroleum jelly to the areas of the body affected by this condition regularly. Moisturize those areas at least twice a day and it can help keep the skin from becoming dry, flaky, and irritated.
Bathing
When bathing, it is best to limit baths or showers to only 10 or 15 minutes. Be sure to use warm water instead of hot water to prevent the affected skin from becoming red and inflamed. Use only mild soaps or body washes because deodorant soaps and antibacterial soaps tend to remove more of the natural oils from the skin which can lead to dryness and irritation.
Dermatologists also recommend that those with atopic dermatitis take a bleach bath up to twice a week. Add a ½ cup of household bleach to a bathtub full of warm water and soak the affected skin for 10 minutes. This helps kill bacteria on the skin and reduce infection that may also cause flare-ups to occur.
Identifying the Triggers
It is also important to find out what most often triggers flare-ups to occur. If the skin becomes more irritated after eating certain food, that food may be causing flare-ups. If flare-ups occur after being in stressful situations, perspiring heavily during physical activity, or using certain soaps or detergents, try avoiding these things to see if the flare-ups become less frequent. Once the cause is evident, it will be much easier to keep this condition under better control.
Having atopic dermatitis does not mean life cannot be enjoyed. While there is no cure for this condition yet, it can be managed with proper care and by avoiding specific things that make the symptoms worse.
For more atopic dermatitis resources, reach out to a medical professional near you.
