Dermatitis symptoms & treatment
Find a dermatologistDermatitis is a common skin condition that causes skin inflammation and irritation. There are different types of dermatitis that can affect anyone, causing rashes, dry patches and itchy bumps on your skin. Some types cause mild skin reactions and can be treated at home. Other reactions may need treatment by a dermatologist.
Types of dermatitis
With contact dermatitis, allergens or other substances you touch can cause a rash and irritation.
Each type of dermatitis has varying symptoms and causes. Some types, such as contact dermatitis, can be short-lived as skin reactions are caused by an irritant or allergen. Other types, like atopic dermatitis – also commonly known as eczema – are usually chronic and require lifelong management.
Common types of dermatitis skin conditions include:
- Atopic dermatitis (eczema): Often appears in young children as a dry, scaly and itchy rash.
- Contact dermatitis: Caused by physical contact with skin irritants such as perfumes, poison ivy or soaps.
- Eyelid dermatitis: The skin around the eye becomes inflamed, dry or itchy due to an allergic reaction or irritant.
- Dermatitis herpetiformis: A reoccurring skin rash that’s often caused by a gluten allergy.
- Generalized exfoliative dermatitis: The severe inflammation of your entire skin, often caused by a drug reaction, combination of other skin conditions or lymphoma.
- Nummular dermatitis: Coin-shaped rashes or sores appear on the skin, usually on the arms and legs.
- Perioral dermatitis: Causes small, pus-filled bumps and mild peeling around the mouth.
- Seborrheic dermatitis: Causes red, itchy and scaly skin on the upper back, nose or scalp. It’s also known as cradle cap in young children and can cause stubborn dandruff.
- Stasis dermatitis: Often caused by fluid buildup due to varicose veins, this condition leads to skin discoloration and skin thickening on the lower legs.
Symptoms of dermatitis
Common symptoms of dermatitis include a skin rash and itchy skin. However, there are a range of symptoms depending on your type of dermatitis.
These symptoms are not contagious and can appear anywhere on your skin, including your scalp, face and feet.
Common symptoms of dermatitis include:
- Red, inflamed or bumpy skin
- Itching
- Dry patches
- Swelling
- Blisters or oozing
- Crusting or flaking skin
It’s important to seek treatment if you’re suffering from extreme dermatitis symptoms, such as intense itching or blisters. If left untreated, it could lead to viral or bacterial skin infections, which can potentially spread or leave permanent scars.
What are the triggers of dermatitis?
Understanding what causes your dermatitis flare-ups or worsens your condition can make a big difference. By avoiding these triggers, you can better manage your dermatitis.
Common causes of dermatitis include:
- Allergic reactions: Such as cosmetics, foods and pollen
- Irritation: From harsh chemicals or prolonged moisture
- Genetic factors: Especially if there's a family history of eczema
- Stress: Can trigger or worsen symptoms
- Environmental factors: Such as extreme weather or allergens
- Autoimmune conditions: Crohn's disease and other autoimmune conditions may trigger dermatitis
Diagnosing dermatitis
To diagnose dermatitis, your doctor will first take a close look at your skin. They’ll ask you several questions about your family history and your symptoms. You’ll also want to note any possible triggers and any treatment methods you’ve tried.
You may be referred to a dermatologist who specializes in skin conditions for further testing and treatment. Allergy and patch tests, blood tests and a skin biopsy may be used to help diagnose your type of dermatitis.
How do you get rid of dermatitis?
It may not be possible to cure all types of dermatitis, as it’s often a chronic condition. However, you can learn to manage your symptoms. The most important step to managing your dermatitis is avoiding any triggers. If your symptoms worsen, you can try home remedies in addition to following your doctor’s treatment plan.
Treatment options for dermatitis
Your dermatitis treatment may include lotions, topical medications or oral medications. It depends on the type and location of your dermatitis. Contact dermatitis treatment usually involves avoiding irritants and applying anti-itch creams for several weeks. On the other hand, perioral dermatitis treatment can take months or years to resolve and involves a combination of prescription medications and careful management.
Home remedies for dermatitis
Ask your doctor if any of these home remedies for dermatitis are right for you:
- Applying cool, wet compresses to reduce itching and inflammation
- Applying moisturizers regularly to keep your skin hydrated
- Using mild soaps and avoiding harsh chemicals
- Taking lukewarm baths and adding colloidal oatmeal or diluted bleach
- Applying moisturizers regularly to keep your skin hydrated
- Using a humidifier to reduce skin dryness
- UV light therapy, specifically ultraviolet A or B
- Wearing loose, breathable clothing to avoid irritation
Medications for dermatitis
Prescription or over-the-counter medications may sometimes be needed to manage your dermatitis. Common medications include:
- Topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and itching
- Antihistamines to relieve itching
- Antibiotic creams if your dermatitis is infected
If other treatments fail, or if you have a or chronic cases of dermatitis, the below medications may be prescribed:
- Immunosuppressants to control or reduce immune responses
- Oral corticosteroids for short-term use to reduce inflammation
- Calcineurin inhibitors to reduce inflammation
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