A variety of different types of skin problems can be defined as dermatitis, but they are all similar in one way. Inflammation is the most prominent feature of dermatitis. Skin becomes swollen, red and itchy. Sometimes lesions will develop. None of the different types of dermatitis are life-threatening, but all can be uncomfortable and possibly worrisome in social situations.
In this article, we’ll try to answer the most likely questions you have about dermatitis.
What does dermatitis look like? Some people say it causes the skin to look like it has been doused with hot water. Besides the typical red color, blisters may sometimes form, and there could also be fluid secretions. Since dermatitis also makes the skin itchy, some people make the inflammation look worse by scratching (which admittedly, can be a hard urge to resist).
What causes dermatitis? There are many possible causes for dermatitis. In some people the cause is genetic. Others have allergies that trigger skin problems. Other prominent causes of dermatitis are irritants and pollutants. Some types of dermatitis may also be triggered by stress - both physical and emotional. Causes may certainly be different, naturally, depending on the type of dermatitis you have.
Is dermatitis contagious? No, dermatitis is not a contagious disease and cannot be transmitted from one human being to another.
What are some of the most prevalent types of dermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis This is more commonly known to the general public as eczema. It is usually a chronic but intermittent condition characterized by an itchy rash. It can be extremely severe in children, but become less of a problem with age. Stress is not considered to be a cause of eczema, but it’s generally believed that stress can make it worse. The exact cause is not known. A genetic predisposition to having dry irritable skin combined with a malfunction in the immune system may be contributing factors.
Doctors usually treat this kind of dermatitis with one of several lotions that contain hydrocortisone.
Contact or allergic dermatitis This type of dermatitis gets it’s name from the fact that it’s caused by an irritant that comes in contact with your skin and causes a reaction in the form of a rash.
Seborrheic dermatitis This type of dermatitis is characterized by a red rash that’s accompanied by oily yellow scales that usually appear on the scalp. When seborrheic dermatitis strikes infants, it’s called cradle cap. Seborrheic dermatitis may be triggered by neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or by oily hair and skin or physical stress.
Usually, the treatment doctors recommend for seborrheic dermatitis is a shampoo which contains tar, pyrithione zinc, salicylic acid or ketoconazole as the active ingredient. You may also get relief from hydrocortisone creams and lotions.
Perioral dermatitis This type is believed to be a form of rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis or adult acne. You should consult a doctor if this rash appears. Don’t try self-treating with common skin care products because certain types of makeup, moisturizers and topical corticosteroids only make it worse.
Perioral dermatitis sometimes takes a long while to heal, but it generally goes away when you take the oral antibiotic tetracycline. Recurrences are common with perioral dermatitis, so your doctor may suggest staying on the antibiotic for several months to make sure the rash doesn’t return.
Neurodermatitis This kind of dermatitis is often associated with dry skin. It is also associated with psoriasis or eczema. It usually occurs when (for whatever reason) a person develops an itchy sensation in a specific part of their body such as their neck, arms, wrists, ankles and so forth. When you have neurodermatitis, you can usually sooth your skin by applying wet compresses. Hydrocortisone lotions and creams can also be helpful. In some cases, anti-anxiety medications and antidepressants may be appropriate. The most important thing is to avoid scratching, which just aggravates your skin even further.
Stasis dermatitis This is a form of dermatitis that happens when fluid builds up under the skin. This accumulation of fluid keeps the skin from getting the nourishment it needs. Normally, this condition occurs in the legs. Treatment of stasis dermatitis begins with diagnosing and correcting the cause of the fluid build up. Elastic support hose may be one answer, but sometimes surgery is necessary. Wet dressings help because they soften fragile skin and also prevent the risk of infection.
Need additional information on various forms of dermatitis? Click on different types of dermatitis. Neal Kennedy is a retired radio and TV journalist with a special interest in skin problems. You can read more of his articles by visiting symptoms of skin problems.
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