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SELFCARE TIPS FOR ATOPIC DERMATITIS

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SELFCARE TIPS FOR ATOPIC DERMATITIS

ATOPIC DERMATITIS

Also known as Eczema.  Atopic Dermatitis makes the skin itchy and red.  It lasts for long and flares with time. Can occur at any age but most common in children. It may be caused because of asthma or hay fever.

CAUSES 

  • Healthy skin naturally maintains moisture. It gives us protection against germs and bacteria. Atopic Dermatitis is related to a variation in a gene that affects the skin’s protection ability. Because of this, the skin gets exposed to environmental challenges such as bacteria and various irritants.
  • Food allergies can also cause Eczema in children.
  • Asthma can also result in Eczema.
  • Weak immune system
  • Family history of Atopic Dermatitis
  • Environmental factors; pollution, tobacco smoke, stress, etc.
  • Food allergies

SYMPTOMS

AD’s symptoms can vary from person to person but commonly they include:

  1. Swelling of the skin due to scratching
  2. Cracked skin
  3. Dry skin
  4. Red/ brownish-grey patches
  5. The irritation which might increase at night
  6. Eye problems
  7. Patchy skin
  8. Anxiety, stress which leads to isolation

TREATMENTS

Ad is a chronic condition that cannot be cured completely but certain treatments can be done to help minimize the harm:

Medication recommended by doctors are:

  • Skin creams or ointments that aids in skin repair
  • Medicines for infections and inflammation
  • Dupixent (dupilumb) – according to MayoClinic this is an injectable biologic approved by FDA, which is used in severe cases
Some self-care tips for AD’s are:
  1. Using Aloe vera gel or honey ointment – can be useful against inflammatory conditions due to their antibacterial nature
  2. Coconut oil – helps the redness and itching
  3. Vitamin E oil – for skin healing
  4. Use OTC creams – such as calamine or hydrocortisone lotion for relieving symptoms.
  5. Colloidal Oatmeal bath or apple cider vinegar– helps with irritation
  6. Yoga and massaging
  7. Light therapy – for adults with AD
  8. Counseling
  9. Vitamins and supplements – vitamin D, fish or primrose oil, turmeric, melatonin, zinc, etc.
  10. Wet dressing – use of topical corticosteroids and wet bandages on affected areas
  11. Acupressure – releases stress by pressurizing the pressure points
  12. Maintain a skin-care routine – using moisturizes, cream, or lotions free of dyes fragrances, alcohol, or chemical one is prone to
  13. Using a laundry detergent appropriate for sensitive skin
  14. Use of moisturizers from two to three times a day
  15. Avoid irritant or scratchy bedding and clothing
  16. Use of humidifier at home
  17. For avoiding sweating too much wear light and soft clothes in summer

    Eat foods that could boost your immune system such as:

  • Sourdough bread
  • Fruits like cherries and apples
  • Miso soup
  • Soft cheese
  • Salmon or herring
  1. Foods that you might be allergic to should be avoided
  2. Consulting a nutritionist can be best.
Precautions 
  • Avoid stretching the skin
  • Limit your bath time
  • Non-soap gentle cleanser
  • Change your diet
  • Dehydration should be prevented (drink a lot of water)