DERMATITIS

What is dermatitis?

Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin that causes redness, swelling, itching and sometimes blisters or even sores. It is a general term covering a variety of skin problems related to inflammation, allergy or infection.

Dermatitis can occur at any age and in anyone, but certain types are more common in certain age groups or have different risk factors. Several types of dermatitis and how they typically occur:

1. Atopic dermatitis (eczema): Most common in childhood, especially in the first year of life, and may persist or recur in adulthood. A genetic predisposition may increase the risk of atopic dermatitis.
2. Contact dermatitis: Can affect anyone at any age, but is most often caused by direct contact with irritants or allergens, such as household chemicals, plants, cosmetics or metals (e.g. nickel). People who work in jobs with constant skin contact with irritating substances are more prone to contact dermatitis.
3. Seborrhoeic dermatitis: Usually occurs in adults, more commonly in men, and may be related to hormones, stress, genetics or a fungal infection. There is no clear reason why some people develop this type of dermatitis and others do not.

Dermatitis can occur on any part of the skin, but some types are more common in certain areas. Atopic dermatitis usually affects the face, hands, legs and knees. Contact dermatitis appears on the area of skin that has come into contact with an irritant or allergen. Seborrhoeic dermatitis usually occurs on the scalp, face, chest and back.

Causes

The causes of dermatitis vary depending on its type, but here are some factors that can cause or contribute to it:

1. Genetics: Some types of dermatitis, such as atopic dermatitis, may be linked to genetic factors. If there are cases of atopic dermatitis in the family, the risk of developing it increases.
2. Allergens: Contact dermatitis can be caused by an allergic reaction to certain allergens, such as plants, animals, cosmetics, metals or other substances.
3. Irritants: Contact dermatitis can also result from skin contact with irritants such as chemicals or soap.
4. Sebaceous gland activity: Seborrhoeic dermatitis can be caused by overactive sebaceous glands, leading to redness, itching and flaking of the skin.
5. Fungal infections: Some forms of dermatitis, such as seborrhoeic dermatitis, may be linked to a fungal infection.
6. Immune system: In atopic dermatitis, the immune system may react too strongly to allergens or irritants, causing an inflammatory reaction in the skin.
7. Hormones: Hormonal changes can influence the onset of seborrhoeic dermatitis.
8. Environment: Environmental factors such as humidity, heat, cold or sunlight can affect the onset of dermatitis or the severity of symptoms.

Since the causes of dermatitis can vary, it is important to consult a dermatologist if you suspect you have dermatitis. The doctor will be able to make an accurate diagnosis and provide an individual treatment plan, taking into account the causes and symptoms of your dermatitis.

Diagnosis and symptoms

Diagnosing dermatitis usually begins with a consultation with a dermatologist, who will listen to the patient's complaints, examine the skin in detail and ask about symptoms, lifestyle, environment and family history. Sometimes additional tests, such as a skin biopsy or allergy tests, may be needed to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other skin conditions.

The main symptoms of dermatitis depend on its type, but the most common are:

1. Red, swollen skin.
2. Itching, sometimes very severe.
3. Dry, rough, flaking skin.
4. Cracks in the skin and blisters (which sometimes burst and ooze fluid).
5. Wounds or sores caused by constant scratching or infection.

Course of the disease

The course of dermatitis can vary depending on its type, causes and treatment.

Atopic dermatitis (eczema)

The course is usually chronic and fluctuating. Symptoms can come and go, and recurring episodes are often called flare-ups. During a flare-up, symptoms can be very severe, while at other times the dermatitis may be almost unnoticeable. In most children, atopic dermatitis improves with age, but in some people it can last a lifetime. Early treatment and regular skin care can help manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups.

Contact dermatitis

The course is usually acute, appearing after contact with allergens or irritants. Symptoms can appear within hours to several days of exposure and usually resolve within 2–4 weeks if the trigger is removed. Successful treatment and avoiding irritants can help prevent symptoms from recurring.

Seborrhoeic dermatitis

The course can also be chronic and fluctuating, alternating between flare-ups and almost unnoticeable periods. Seborrhoeic dermatitis can flare up during the colder months, when humidity is lower, or during periods of stress. It is important to manage sebaceous gland activity properly and follow consistent treatment and skin care to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.

What helps with dermatitis?

Skin hydration

Regular moisturising is an important part of preventing and treating dermatitis. Use a fragrance-free, dye-free moisturising cream or lotion at least once a day, or more often if needed. Avoid hot baths and showers.

Medicines

Various medicines may be used for treatment, such as topical corticosteroids (anti-inflammatory ointments), calcineurin inhibitors, antihistamines (to reduce itching and allergic reactions) and, in rare cases, systemic corticosteroids. The exact medicines and dosage depend on the type and severity of dermatitis.

Avoiding allergens and irritants

Try to avoid the allergens and irritants you have identified as triggers of your dermatitis. This may mean changing cosmetics, household products or clothing.

Treating infection

If dermatitis leads to a bacterial or fungal infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or other medicines.

Phototherapy

Some cases of dermatitis may benefit from phototherapy, which reduces inflammation and improves the condition of the skin.

Immunosuppressants

In severe cases, immunosuppressants may be used to suppress the immune system and reduce the inflammatory response. These medicines are usually prescribed only when other treatments have not worked.

Our recommendation. For daily care of very dry, flaky and itchy skin, choose Eubos Urea 10% body lotion. It can be used as a complementary body care product alongside treatment prescribed by your doctor.

Prepared from online sources.