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By Melissa Tennen, HealthAtoZ writer
Your skin is the largest of your body's organs. It's also the one that is most vulnerable to your environment.
Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, is a common skin condition caused by allergies. There are several types of eczema, but typically the condition causes the skin to become extremely itchy, red and dry.
Although the cause is unknown, eczema may be related to an abnormal response of the body's immune system. The skin overreacts to substances that may irritate it. It generally appears in people who have family histories of allergies.
Eczema usually begins in infancy, appearing on the forehead, cheeks, forearms, legs, scalp and neck. Sometimes the child outgrows the condition.
Atopic dermatitis comes and goes, depending on what's going on in your environment. It appears as irritated, red, dry, crusted patches on your skin.
Triggers for outbreaks vary from person to person, but they can include:
- Exposure to rough or coarse materials
- Feeling hot and sweating
- Use of certain soaps, detergents and disinfectants
- Contact with juices from fresh fruits and meats
- Dust mites
- Animal saliva and dander
The seasons can play a role in triggering outbreaks. In the summer, you sweat and overheat. In the winter, your skin has less moisture, making you vulnerable for rashes unless you lubricate your skin.
Eczema is not contagious and cannot be cured. However, you can manage the condition by avoiding your triggers and taking care of yourself.
See an allergist if you think you have eczema. Your doctor can help you determine your triggers. Antihistamines or corticosteroids taken by mouth can help relieve your itching. If your itching has caused an infection, you may need antibiotics. Cortisone creams, ointments and lotions can help with the rash.
Follow these home-care tips:
- Use moisturizing lotion for the dryness and itchiness.
- Avoid humidity and sudden changes in temperature.
- Try not to scratch. Your flare-up could become infected with bacteria. If you feel itchy, dip a washcloth in cool water and apply it to your skin. Try covering the area with a dressing.
- Keep your fingernails short so you are less likely to break the skin. Wear gloves at night.
- Take short showers with warm water. Hot water can dry out your skin.
- Drink water, which adds moisture to your skin.
- Wear loose clothing. Wear cotton or other soft fibers. Don't wear wool or synthetic clothes.
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External Sources
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The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology
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Nemours Foundation
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The American Academy of Dermatology
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This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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