Atopic Dermatitis Treatment in Bayside, NY
Atopic Dermatitis, commonly known as eczema, is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide, leading to inflamed, itchy, and often painful skin.
Proper management, including atopic dermatitis treatment, is key to reducing flare-ups and maintaining healthier skin. In addition to exploring the causes, symptoms, and treatment options, it's also important to learn about lifestyle changes and skincare routines that can help manage the condition more effectively.
Dive into the sections below for comprehensive information and practical tips on living with atopic dermatitis.
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic (long-lasting) disease that affects the skin. It is not contagious; it cannot be passed from one person to another. The word “dermatitis” means inflammation of the skin. “Atopic” refers to a group of diseases in which there is often an inherited tendency to develop other allergic conditions, such as asthma and hay fever.
In atopic dermatitis, the skin becomes extremely itchy. Scratching leads to redness, swelling, cracking, “weeping” clear fluid, and finally, crusting and scaling. In most cases, there are periods of time when the disease is worse (called exacerbations or flares) followed by periods when the skin improves or clears up entirely (called remissions). As some children with atopic dermatitis grow older, their skin disease improves or disappears altogether, although their skin often remains dry and easily irritated. In others, atopic dermatitis continues to be a significant problem in adulthood.
Atopic dermatitis is often referred to as “eczema,” which is a general term for the several types of inflammation of the skin. Atopic dermatitis is the most common of the many types of eczema. Several have very similar symptoms.
Atopic dermatitis is very common. It occurs equally in males and females and affects an estimated 30 percent of people in the United States. Although atopic dermatitis may occur at any age, it most often begins in infancy and childhood. Onset after age 30 is less common and is often caused by exposure of the skin to harsh or wet conditions. People who live in cities and in dry climates appear more likely to develop this condition.
The exact cause of atopic dermatitis is not fully understood, but it appears to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Key contributors include:
Genetic Factors:
Atopic dermatitis often runs in families. Children are more likely to develop the condition if a parent has it or another atopic disease, such as asthma or hay fever. The likelihood increases if both parents have an atopic condition. While some individuals outgrow their skin symptoms, many children with atopic dermatitis may go on to develop hay fever or asthma later in life.
Environmental Factors:
Environmental triggers can cause flare-ups of atopic dermatitis at any time in those who are affected. These triggers can vary widely, including allergens, irritants, or changes in climate.
Immune System Dysfunction:
Atopic dermatitis is associated with a malfunction of the immune system, which normally helps fight off bacteria and viruses. In those with atopic dermatitis, the immune system becomes misguided, causing inflammation in the skin even without a major infection. This immune response is similar to a form of autoimmunity, where the body reacts against its own tissues.
Emotional Factors:
Although it was once believed that atopic dermatitis was caused by emotional disorders, we now understand that emotional factors, such as stress, do not cause the condition. However, stress and other emotional triggers can worsen the symptoms.
- Atopic pleat (Dennie-Morgan fold) – an extra fold of skin that develops under the eye
- Cheilitis – inflammation of the skin on and around the lips
- Hyperlinear palms – increased number of skin creases on the palms
- Hyperpigmented eyelids – eyelids that have become darker in color from inflammation or hay fever
- Ichthyosis – dry, rectangular scales on the skin
- Keratosis pilaris – small, rough bumps, generally on the face, upper arms, and thighs
- Lichenification – thick, leathery skin resulting from constant scratching and rubbing
- Papules – small, raised bumps that may open when scratched and become crusty and infected
- Urticaria – hives (red, raised bumps) that may occur after exposure to an allergen, at the beginning of flares, or after exercise or a hot bath.
Symptoms of atopic dermatitis can vary significantly from person to person. The most common signs include:
- Dry, Itchy Skin: Itching is the most prominent symptom of atopic dermatitis, often leading to a cycle of scratching and rubbing that worsens skin irritation, increases inflammation, and further intensifies the itchiness. This itching is especially problematic during sleep when conscious control over scratching is lost.
- Rashes and Affected Areas: Rashes typically appear on the face, inside the elbows, behind the knees, and on the hands and feet. The appearance of the skin varies based on the extent of scratching and the presence of secondary infections. Affected skin can be:
- Red and scaly
- Thickened and leathery
- Covered with small, raised bumps
- Oozing fluid and becoming crusty if infected
- Eye Area Involvement: Atopic dermatitis can also affect the skin around the eyes, eyelids, eyebrows, and lashes. Scratching or rubbing this area may lead to redness, swelling, an extra fold of skin under the eyes, or patchy loss of eyebrows and eyelashes.
- Skin Barrier Dysfunction: Researchers have identified differences in the skin of individuals with atopic dermatitis that may contribute to symptoms. The outer skin layer, or stratum corneum, normally serves as a protective barrier. In atopic dermatitis, this barrier is compromised, leading to moisture loss, increased dryness, and a heightened risk of infection due to irritants acting more intensely on the skin.
Stages of Atopic Dermatitis:
Atopic dermatitis can manifest differently across various life stages, from infancy to adulthood:
Infancy:
- Typically begins around 6 to 12 weeks of age, often starting as a patchy facial rash on the cheeks and chin.
- Progresses to red, scaling, oozing skin, which may become infected.
- As infants become mobile, rashes can spread to exposed areas like the inner and outer parts of the arms and legs.
- Infants may be restless and irritable due to the itching and discomfort.
Childhood:
- Rashes are commonly found behind the knees, inside the elbows, on the sides of the neck, around the mouth, and on the wrists, ankles, and hands.
- The rash often begins with papules that harden and scale with scratching.
- The skin around the lips may become inflamed, and frequent licking can cause small, painful cracks.
Remission and Flare-ups:
In some children, the disease may go into remission for extended periods but can return around puberty, triggered by hormones, stress, or irritating skincare products and cosmetics.
Adulthood:
- While many individuals who had atopic dermatitis as children continue to experience symptoms as adults, the disease can also first appear in adulthood.
- The pattern is similar to childhood, with the disease either being widespread or localized to specific areas.
This organized layout provides a clear understanding of the symptoms and progression of atopic dermatitis throughout different stages of life.
Each person with atopic dermatitis experiences a unique combination of symptoms, which may vary in severity over time. Diagnosing this condition typically involves multiple steps and may require several visits to accurately identify and rule out other skin conditions.
Initial Evaluation:
- A doctor will diagnose atopic dermatitis based on the patient’s symptoms, which may include a review of when symptoms occur and their potential triggers.
- In some cases, the primary care physician or pediatrician may refer the patient to a dermatologist (skin specialist) or allergist (allergy specialist) for further evaluation.
Medical History:
- A detailed medical history is crucial in understanding the patient’s symptoms. This may include questions about a family history of allergic conditions, the presence of related conditions such as hay fever or asthma, and potential exposure to irritants.
- The doctor may also inquire about sleep disturbances, foods that may be linked to skin flare-ups, previous atopic dermatitis treatments, and the use of steroids or other medications.
Diagnostic Tests:
- Currently, there is no single test to diagnose atopic dermatitis. However, tests that measure allergic sensitivity can be helpful.
- A common method is a skin prick test, where the skin is pricked with a needle containing a small amount of a suspected allergen.
- Negative results can help rule out specific allergens as causes of skin inflammation. However, positive results can be challenging to interpret in those with atopic dermatitis due to the skin’s high sensitivity to various substances.
- Positive skin prick tests indicate the presence of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, which control the immune system’s allergic response and are often elevated in individuals with atopic dermatitis.
Understanding the complexities of diagnosing atopic dermatitis, alongside appropriate atopic dermatitis treatment, is essential for managing the condition effectively. Identifying triggers and evaluating the skin’s response are key steps in forming a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to the individual’s needs.
- Wool or synthetic fibers
- Soaps and detergents
- Some perfumes and cosmetics
- Substances such as chlorine, mineral oil, or solvents
- Dust or sand
- Cigarette smoke.
The primary goals in treating atopic dermatitis are to heal the skin and prevent flare-ups. It’s important for patients and their families to observe changes in the skin’s condition in response to various treatments and to be persistent in finding the most effective approach.
1. Medications:
- Corticosteroids:
- Topical Corticosteroids: These creams and ointments have been used for many years to treat atopic dermatitis and other skin-related autoimmune disorders.
- Systemic Corticosteroids: When topical treatments are not effective, systemic corticosteroids may be prescribed. These are taken orally or through injection and are usually reserved for resistant cases, used only for short durations due to potential side effects.
- Antihistamines: Certain antihistamines, particularly those that cause drowsiness, can reduce nighttime scratching and promote restful sleep, which is beneficial for patients whose symptoms worsen due to nighttime itching.
- Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors: These medications help decrease inflammation in the skin and prevent flares, offering an alternative to corticosteroids.
- Barrier Repair Moisturizers: These moisturizers are designed to reduce water loss and aid in rebuilding the skin’s natural barrier, helping to maintain hydration and protect against irritants.
2. Phototherapy:
Phototherapy involves the use of ultraviolet A or B light waves, either alone or in combination, to treat mild to moderate cases of atopic dermatitis. If considered appropriate, the doctor will use the minimum effective exposure and closely monitor the skin’s response to minimize potential risks.
Successful management of atopic dermatitis often involves a combination of these treatments, tailored to the individual’s needs and the severity of their condition.
- Give lukewarm baths
- Apply moisturizer immediately following the bath
- Keep child’s fingernails filed short
- Select soft cotton fabrics when choosing clothing.Consider using sedating antihistamines to promote sleep and reduce scratching at night
- Keep the child cool; avoid situations where overheating occurs
- Learn to recognize skin infections and seek treatment promptly
- Attempt to distract the child with activities to keep him or her from scratching
- Identify and remove irritants and allergens
Skin Care for Atopic Dermatitis
Proper skin care is essential for healing the skin, preventing further damage, and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with atopic dermatitis. Establishing and maintaining a daily skincare routine is critical for managing the condition and preventing flares.
Bathing
Lukewarm baths help cleanse and moisturize the skin without causing excessive dryness. Since soaps can be drying, a doctor may recommend using a mild bar soap or a non-soap cleanser. Bath oils are generally not recommended as they do not provide significant benefits. After bathing, it’s best to air-dry the skin or pat it dry gently, avoiding rubbing or brisk drying. Immediately apply a moisturizer to lock in moisture absorbed during the bath.
Moisturizers
Using a moisturizer after bathing helps speed up healing and creates a barrier against further drying and irritation. Creams and ointments are generally more effective than lotions, as lotions with high water or alcohol content evaporate quickly and may cause stinging.
Protection from Allergen Exposure
The doctor may suggest steps to limit exposure to suspected allergens. For example, limiting house dust mites by encasing mattresses and pillows in dust-proof covers, washing bedding frequently in hot water, and removing carpeting can help. However, it is impossible to completely eliminate airborne allergens from the environment.
Diet and Food Allergies
Changing the diet may not always alleviate symptoms of atopic dermatitis. However, it may be helpful if there is strong evidence of a food allergy, based on medical history, lab studies, and specific symptoms. Any dietary restrictions should be carefully evaluated and monitored by a physician or dietitian, especially in children, as overly restrictive diets can lead to serious nutritional deficiencies.
Stress management and relaxation techniques may help decrease the likelihood of flares. Developing a network of support that includes family, friends, health professionals, and support groups or organizations can be beneficial.
Although scientists are working to develop safer vaccines, individuals diagnosed with atopic dermatitis (or eczema) should not receive the current smallpox vaccine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a U.S. Government organization, individuals who have ever been diagnosed with atopic dermatitis, even if the condition is mild or not presently active, are more likely to develop a serious complication if they are exposed to the virus from the smallpox vaccine.
During a smallpox outbreak, these vaccination recommendations may change. People with atopic dermatitis who have been exposed to smallpox should consult their doctor about vaccination. They should also find out what precautions to take if they have close contact with someone who has recently received the vaccine.
Controlling Atopic Dermatitis:
- Prevent scratching or rubbing whenever possible
- Protect skin from excessive moisture, irritants, and rough clothing
- Maintain a cool, stable temperature and consistent humidity levels
- Limit exposure to dust, cigarette smoke, pollens, and animal dander
- Recognize and limit emotional stress
At Skin First Dermatology, we understand how challenging living with this skin condition can be. That’s why our team offers personalized Atopic Dermatitis treatments in Bayside, NY designed to soothe your skin and reduce flare-ups. Using the latest techniques, we focus on relieving your symptoms and improving your skin’s health, so you can feel comfortable and confident again.
Whether you’re in Manhattan, Brooklyn, or anywhere in the New York City area, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Ready to get your skin under control? Schedule a consultation with us today—you deserve to feel at your best. Book your appointment now!