Herbal Medicines for Dermatitis

27 August 2010 - Filed under itchy skin atopic dermatitis

The Skin is often the first area of the body to show an allergic reaction to a food or substance that the individual cannot tolerate. Some allergic reactions are local and temporary – heat rash, or contact dermatitis for example – and will disperse when the allergen is avoided. Others are recurring or chronic and are the result of a constitutional imbalance. Dermatitis is the general term used to describe any kind of irritating, itchy rash on the skin. Eczema usually refers to a chronic problem that appears to be linked with food intolerance of some kind, or is associated with an allergic reaction in another body system. Eczema is most commonly associated with asthma. Emollients and steroids are very effective in treating eczema, but there are other ways to reduce the severity of atopic dermatitis. Reduce the itch of eczema by wearing cotton clothing and using cotton bedding to keep the skin cool and allow it to breathe. Reduce the effect of the house dust mite by vacuuming regularly and change bedding frequently. Minimizing environmental allergens in the home is also very helpful. Remember: what works for one person, will not always work for another. Eczema is a highly individual condition, which is why it is so difficult to find a “cure-all”.

Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis usually attacks the skin where it is thinnest (the back of the hands, the eyelids), or only on that part exposed to the irritant. Jewelry or cosmetics can leave a very precise rash pattern showing exactly where they were in contact with the skin.

Symptoms include redness and itchiness, blistering, dry scaliness, and swelling, which can affect the parts of the body around the area with the rash.

Treatment

Try to find out the cause of the reaction so that you can avoid it. Culprits include metal (especially nickel), cosmetics, perfumes, rubber and medicated ointment. Have an allergy test if you cannot identify the cause yourself.

Consult a practitioner/therapist for:

Acupuncture and Acupressure

These can be used constitutionally. Acupressure can be used to relieve itchiness temporarily.

Herbal Medicine A herbalist will prescribe according to individual need, but remedies may include the following, applied externally as ointment or lotion: purple loosestrife, chickweed, elder leaves, and aloe vera.

Homeopathy Homeopaths will need to take individual case but acute episodes will respond well to Graphites, Petroleum, Rhus tox., and Sulfur.

Supplements:

Borage oil, Evening Primrose oil, Flax oil, B-complex, DMG (B15), B12, Calcium, Magnesium and Potassium (pH adjustment), Quercetin, Curcumin, Bromelain, Grape Seed Extract, Vit. C, E and A, certain, generated Frequencies and Light Therapy (Colors applied: Blue and Turquoise), Witch Hazel, Nettle tea, Burdock root, MSM, Enzymes, DHEA, Licorice root and Pregnenolone.

 ::  Share or discuss  ::  2010-08-27  ::  admin

Pityriasis Rosea Facts and Pityriasis Rosea Treatment

17 August 2010 - Filed under itchy skin pityriasis rosea

Pityriasis rosea is a skin disease marked by patches of pink, oval rash. Although its exact cause is unknown and its onset is not linked to food, medicines or stress, it is thought that this essentially non-contagious condition is set off by a virus. Pityriasis rosea can affect members of either sex of any age. Pityriasis rosea is uncommon in those over 60 years old. It may last months longer when it occurs in this age group. A single scaling patch often appears one to twenty days before the general rash. It is an oval plaque 2-5 cm in diameter, with a scale trailing just inside the edge of the lesion. The herald patch is often mistaken as ringworm. It can also be confused with psoriasis. Often, the patches are confined to the upper body and may follow the ribs in lines. The rash lasts around one or two months then clears up completely.

What causes it?

Pityriasis rosea may be set off by a viral infection but it does not appear to be contagious. Herpes viruses 6 and 7 have sometimes been associated with pityriasis rosea. It is not related to foods, medicines, or stress.

Pityriasis rosea clears up by itself in about six to twelve weeks. When clear, the skin returns to its normal appearance. It leaves no scars, although pale marks or brown discolouration may persist for a few months in dark skinned people.

What are the symptoms?

Pityriasis rosea causes a rash.

* The rash often begins with a single, round-to-oval, pink patch that is scaly with a raised border (herald patch). Its size ranges from 2 cm to 10 cm. The larger size is more common. See an illustration of a herald patch.

* Days to weeks later, salmon-colored, 1 cm to 2 cm oval patches appear in batches on the abdomen, chest, back, arms, and legs. Patches sometimes spread to the neck but rarely to the face.

*Itching of the lesions (mild to severe)

* Fever & fatigue (but rare)

Pityriasis Rosea Treatment

Treatment may include external and internal medications for itching. Aveeno oatmeal baths, anti-itch medicated lotions and steroid creams may be prescribed to combat the rash. Lukewarm, rather than hot, baths may be suggested. Strenuous activity, which could aggravate the rash, should be discouraged. Ultraviolet light treatments given under the supervision of a dermatologist may be helpful. Recently, both the antiviral drug Famvir and the antibiotic erythromycin have been claimed to produce healing in one to two weeks. For severe cases a few days of oral anti-inflammatory medications such as prednisone may be necessary to promote healing

 ::  Share or discuss  ::  2010-08-17  ::  admin

Skin Rash – Part 1

7 August 2010 - Filed under itchy skin atopic dermatitis

You know when you have a rash. Its an outbreak of red bumps on the skin. The most common types of rash are as follows. Scaly patches of skin not caused by infection. Scaly patches of skin caused by a fungus or bacterial infection. Red itchy bumps scattered randomly on the skin.

Rashes are seldom dangerous self diagnosis is not a good idea. The proper evaluation of a rash should be done by a doctor. A doctor can determine what type of rash you have and prescribe proper treatment. Scaly patches of skin that are not caused by an infection are usually referred to as eczema. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. This type is hereditary and often appears in childhood as chapped cheeks and scaly patches on the hands, legs torso and arms. This type of eczema appears on adults on the hands, genitals, eyelids and can appear almost anywhere on the body.

This type of eczema is inherited from your parents. Atopic dermatitis can apear and disappear for no apparant reason but things like the weather can have an effect on it.

The word “dermatitis” means inflammation of the skin, “atopic means hereditary. Hereditary means that it runs in your family.

Diseases that are hereditary often occur together, that is they can tend to make their appearance simultaneously. In atopic dermatitis the skin can become inflamed and itchy with swelling and cracking and can include weeping, crusting and scaling. People afflicted with this type of rash may also have allergies but most cases of this type of rash are not the result of an allergic reaction. This type of rash is not contagious even though spread patterns may make it apear as though it is.

Another type of rash is “contact dermatitis”. This type of rash is brought on by contact with a substance that is irritating to the skin. This can be any one of a number of things including allergic reactions to substances or contact with chemical irritants.

This type of rash can be causes by poison ivy or poison oak as well as prolonged contact with something like gasoline or strong cleaning products. Frequently it is caused by exposure to nickel in costume jewelry. Almost everyone has experienced this type of rash at some point in their life.

Topical treatments such as ointments along with avoidance of what caused the rash in the first place are the usual prescription for this type of rash.

Another type of rash is red or scaly patches of skin caused by fungus or bacterial infection. Fungus infections are the most common. They have nothing to do with hygiene clean people get them as well as those who might not be so clean. In contrary to the myth they are not highly contagious.

They are not easily transmitted in gym shower or locker rooms or on toilet seats. Antifungal creams are the usual course of treatment. Many of these types of creams can be purchased over the counter at your local drug store.

Another type of rash is a bacterial infection. This type of rash is caused by a bacteria rather than a fungus. Again hygene plays little or no part in this infection. Treatment for this type of rash might include oral antibiotics and a perscription strength topical ointment. The over the counter treatment that are effective on fubgus caused rashes are just not very effective on bacterial rashes.

Viral rashes are caused by a viral infection. They can come as a symptom to a disease like chicken pocks or herpes or a number of other diseases. But this is not always the case the viral infection can also be just the rash itself. Many diseases do have a rash as one of their symptoms though

Allergic drug rashes are caused by an allergic reaction to a drug. Many people are allergic to a specific drug and a rash can apear days or weeks after taking the drug they are allergic to. A common drug that people are allergic to is penicillin.

Treatment for this type of rash is to discontinue the use of the drug and wait for it to go away. Topical treatments to sooth the itching are available over the counter. In extreme cases you may require a perscription strength topical treatment.

 ::  Share or discuss  ::  2010-08-07  ::  admin

Dyshidrotic Dermatitis – Prevention Tips and Treatment Methods

3 August 2010 - Filed under itchy skin atopic dermatitis

Dyshidrotic dermatitis, also known as pompholyx. It is a skin condition and characterized by small blisters on the hands or feet. About 8 to 25 percent of people worldwide have atopic dermatitis (eczema). It often occurs in people who have other allergic disorders. Dyshidrotic dermatitis often appears during times of stress. Hereditary factors appear to play a strong role. In children, eczema is often linked to food allergies. Common food allergens include milk, egg whites, wheat, corn, soybeans, and peanuts. Symptoms of dyshidrotic dermatitis include blisters may itch, cause pain, or produce no symptoms at all. Scratching blisters breaks them, releasing the fluid inside, causing the skin to crust and eventually crack.

Fluid from the blisters is serum that accumulates between the irritated skin cells. Nails on affected fingers, or toes, may take on a pitted appearance. Blisters are opaque and deep-seated; they are either flush with the skin or slightly elevated and do not break easily. Females tend to develop dyshidrotic dermatitis more frequently than males. Smoking as well as taking aspirin or an oral contraceptive increases the risk. Most attacks resolve spontaneously within 1-3 weeks, but since the rash can be intensely itchy. Medications may be used to speed healing or control the itching. Nutritional deficiencies may be related, so addressing diet and vitamin intake is helpful. Oral steroids occasionally are used to treat a flare of chronic eczema.

Plantain (Plantago major) infused in olive or other oil can be soothing. Wear waterproof gloves while peeling and squeezing lemons, oranges, or grapefruit, peeling potatoes, and handling tomatoes. High strength topical steroids are often used to control itching. Ultraviolet light therapy (phototherapy) can effectively control atopic dermatitis. Avoid Purell and other hand sanitizing products which contain alcohol. Wash affected hands and feet with cool water and apply a moisturizer as soon as possible. Protect the skin from further injury. Using gloves to protect the hands from irritants and allergens. The topical antifungal cream ketoconazole appears to be as effective as topical steroids for the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis.

Dyshidrotic Dermatitis – Prevention and Treatment Tips

1. Topical medication, such as pramoxine, can help relieve pain and itch.

2. Avoid Purell and other hand sanitizing products which contain alcohol.

3. Aluminum chloride 20% (Drysol) may help in cases made worse by sweating.

4. Ciclosporin a strong immunosuppressant drug used to combat dyshidrosis caused by ulcerative colitis.

5. Avoid metal computer keyboards and track pads which contain nickel.

6. Apply the dampened fabric to the affected skin.

7. Efalizumab (Raptiva) a medication used to treat psoriasis.

 ::  Share or discuss  ::  2010-08-03  ::  admin

Symptoms of skin allergies – Part 2

29 July 2010 - Filed under itchy skin atopic dermatitis

Two of my children both suffered from skin allergies from babyhood and over a period of time I stopped blaming myself for the condition of their skin and started to look for the cause of why they were suffering. I was surprised to find out that there are many allergens that can cause these conditions and that with the correct advice, and the right type of management, the effects or symptoms can be totally eradicated.

Not all skin problems are associated with allergy and many itchy skin or rashes can be attributed to external influence, so a visit to your doctor will help determine whether you suffer from a skin allergy and help point you in the right direction to get the right kind of treatment and advice to help you gain some relief from the condition.

*Eczema, otherwise known as Atopic Dermatitis is usually a childhood affliction and is made worse by constant scratching and rubbing of the skin. Symptoms of the condition are characterized by a red rash that often becomes flaky and oozes with small blisters or bumps. The skin can become broken and infected and must be protected from scratching.

You will probably first notice the symptoms in your baby, who will have the rash on the chest, cheeks and scalp anywhere that the infant can get to himself. As your child becomes older you will find the condition occurs in the crease of the arms and behind the knees, and in worse cases, on the face, neck, hands, feet and back.

The triggers for this type of allergy include: contact with animal dander and dust mites, airborne pollens and mold spores. Food allergies can exacerbate the problem notably egg and milk allergies being the worst offender.

*Hives or Urticaria is a condition that occur at any age. It is characterized by an itchy, red, raised set of bumps that can last anything from a few minutes to a number of hours. This can sometimes be accompanied by a condition known as Angioedema or a swelling that can affect the lips, eyes, feet or hands. People who experience these symptoms will complain of a tingling or burning sensation.

*Contact Dermatitis is something that many of us can say that we have experienced at sometime in our lives. It is caused by an allergic reaction to something that comes into direct contact with the skin. People may develop a rash if they come into contact with substances such as certain types of cosmetic, hair dye, different types of metal, certain medications and dental products.

A typical rash resulting from

 ::  Share or discuss  ::  2010-07-29  ::  admin

Common Skin Allergies

25 July 2010 - Filed under itchy skin atopic dermatitis

When your skin comes in contact with an allergen that your skin is sensitive or allergic to you will develop what is called a skin allergy.

Skin allergies also occur:

When you eat food or even proteins you breathe in may cause symptoms to appear on your skin. These reactions are commonly called hives or rashes, and usually appears within 48 hours after the initial exposure to the allergen.

Symptoms commonly seen in skin allergies are:

Redness

Swelling

Blistering

Itching

Hives and rashes.

You can even develop a skin allergy to a substance in a product that you have used for many years. The product does not have to be a new one. The most common types of allergic contact dermatitis are allergies to:

Poison ivy

Oak

Sumac

Another fairly common type of skin allergy is:

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

Atopic Dermatitis is especially common in infants and children. Atopic dermatitis is the most difficult to treat. Atopic dermatitis usually goes away during childhood, or by the age of 25. However, for some people it is a lifelong skin disease. Adults can also develop atopic dermatitis.

Researchers have found that atopic dermatitis can be triggered by:

Allergy

Emotional stress

Involves high levels of immunoglobulin E (lgE), which is the major allergy antibody.

It is also related to the development of other allergies, such as allergic rhinitis and asthma, in most children.

Symptoms of atopic dermatitis are:

Itchy rash that appears first as small white pimples with red centers over the infants cheeks, neck and scalp. When the infant begins to scratch the rash, the area can become infected, produce fluid and spread over a wider area.

The rash can also appear on the outside surfaces of the arms and legs. It often does not appear in the diapered area.

In older children the rash appears on the:

Inner forearm;

Behind the knees and

Opposite the elbows.

Over time if the skin is chronically affected by the rash, it will become dry, thick and browner in color. Some children develop the rash on the eyelids, palms of the hand and soles of the feet.

Teenagers and young adults get the rash most often in:

The bend of the elbow;

Back of the knees, ankles and wrists;

On the face

Neck

Chest

And palms of the hands and soles of the feet.

Atopic dermatitis is not contagious. However, if the scratching leads to a bacterial infection such as Staphylococcus aureus of an area covered by eczema, this can cause impetigo. Impetigo is a skin infection that is contagious.

A doctor will take a careful medical history, looking for allergy in other family members. Skin testing helps confirm food allergies. A food challenge can also confirm that atopic dermatitis is triggered by food.

A food challenge is when suspected foods are removed from the diet, and then they are added back in, first in small amounts then in increasing quantities. The patient is watched to see if symptoms recur.

Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis begins with efforts to reduce the itching and inflammation. A person affected with Atopic Dermatitis can:

Bathe in warm water not hot water for no more than 3-5 minutes.

Use super fatted, unscented soap or soap substitute.

Pat the skin dry.

Promptly apply moisturizer to help keep the skin hydrated.

For thickened skin area, moisturizing ointments are used.

Trim the patients fingernails to reduce problems from scratching.

At night, patients can wear cotton socks on their feet or gloves on their hands to prevent scratching while asleep.

If the rash is oozing, doctors may prescribe a lotion to dry the rash and an antibiotic to treat infection. Do not use corticosteroid products on the face if a rash is present.

Other ways you can help control and treat Atopic Dermatitis are:

Stay indoors in air conditioning when the weather is hot to avoid sweating and itchiness.

Use a humidifier in the winter to keep skin from drying out.

Avoid wool, polyester, wrinkle-resistant, flame-retardant or scratchy fabrics in clothes and bedding.

Reduce indoor allergens by washing bedding in hot water, removing rugs, stuffed furniture, stuffed toys and curtains where possible.

If symptoms resist normal treatment remember that the disease can be controlled. It may take awhile to find out the cause and what the best treatment for it is. The condition also nearly always improves over time.

A new drug called tacgolimus has shown good results in both adults and children with atopic dermatitis.

 ::  Share or discuss  ::  2010-07-25  ::  admin

Eczema Or Atopic Dermatitis, Anyone?

14 July 2010 - Filed under itchy skin atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a skin disease which in some countries is also known as eczema. The ailment is one of the many forms of dermatitis or skin disease.

Atopic dermatitis most of the time occurs with some other atopic diseases, or ailments whose exact infected locations are not really traceable. Some of these diseases include asthma, hay fever and conjunctivitis.

This skin disease is most of the time chronic and symptoms and manifestations can further develop, continue to exist or disappear over some time. When you say chronic, it means the disease is treatable but not really curable.

Treatments like ointments and other forms are generally used to ease or relieve the itchiness or discomfort brought about by atopic dermatitis. These treatments are also used to reduce or diminish the affected area in the skin.

In the past, and even presently, atopic dermatitis is mistaken for psoriasis, another skin disease.

Atopic dermatitis usually shows up or affects infants whose ages may range from one month to six months. In the US, about 60% of atopic dermatitis patients experience their first onset of this skin disease when they were just one year old.

Approximately 90% of atopic dermatitis patients in the country got the skin disease when they were about 5 years old and below. There are cases of an atiopic dermatitis onset during adolescent years but they are very uncommon and rare.

Symptoms of atopic dermatitis

Be aware that manifestation or symptoms of this itchy and uncomfortable skin disease vary with age.

Generally, atopic dermatitis is characterized by the presence of lesions which occur or can be found in different areas of the body, depending on age.

For example, an infant has eczema if he has lesions in the extensor surfaces, the face or in the trunk. For young children, they are found in ankles and wrists. In adults, these lesions may be found in the upper chest, in the neck, in the face and in the genitals or sex organs.

For infants and children with atopic dermatitis, rashes also occur during warmer weather. These rashes will surely worsen with the climate change from warm to winter or colder climate.

Skin areas infected with atopic dermatitis also is characterized by unusual and unaesthetic skin drying.

Treating atopic dermatitis

Modern medicine believes that atopic dermatitis may be worsened or complicated by stress or emotional and psychological anxieties.

The dryness in the infected area in the skin can be practically reduced by avoiding and preventing further contact with the allergen that may have caused or triggered the onset of atopic dermatitis.

Moisturizers are available and easily accessible in local drug stores and retail chains but it is important to seek a doctors or a dermatologists prescription and consultation first. Self-treatment or self-prescription should be avoided for it may only worsen the skin disease.

Use of strong and harsh soaps must also be reduced to help prevent further drying of the skin. Most soaps today have chemicals that wash away and put out the natural oil produced by the skin. These natural oils contain substances that will help prevent skin drying.

Prevention

Of course, jut like other skin diseases, the most basic and general prevention for atopic dermatitis is through proper and practical hygiene.

Avoid skin contact with allergens like skin irritating chemicals, solvents and clothes. As much as possible, also avoid too much exposure to extreme climates like very high or very low temperatures.

It can be hard to explain but emotional stress can also be a factor causing atopic dermatitis so as much as possible avoid it, as well as exposure to excessive or little tobacco smoke.

 ::  Share or discuss  ::  2010-07-14  ::  admin

Dermatitis: causes and cures

13 July 2010 - Filed under itchy skin atopic dermatitis

A bane of parents and children alike, Dermatitis (also known as Eczema) is a general term used to describe different skin conditions. Dermatitis falls under two categories: Atopic Dermatitis and Contact Dermatitis.

* Atopic Dermatitis.

Atopic Dermatitis effects those who have allergies, or a family history of allergy or eczema. Occurring in three stages; (usually beginning at infancy-two months of age-and continuing into adulthood) Atopic dermatitis has no cure. Causing extreme itchiness and drying of the skin, atopic dermatitis causes the effected persons skin to become scaly in appearance.

Although there is no cure, Atopic dermatitis can be controlled, and has been known to go away after several months or years. To prevent the skin’s becoming dry and itchy dermatologist suggest to (as outlined from “Caring For Your Baby And Young Child”):

1.) Avoid taking long, hot baths or showers. This tends to dry the skin.

2.) Regularly/frequently use skin moisturizers (i.e. creams, or ointments) to decrease the chance of the skin becoming dry and itchy.

3.) Avoid harsh and irritating clothing (i.e. wool or any other coarse material).

4.) When washing clothes, opt for washing powders that cater to sensitive skin.

5.) At times antibiotics may be administered if skin is infected, and antihistamine by mouth to control the itching.

* Contact Dermatitis.

Contact Dermatitis; unlike Atopic Dermatitis; is not caused by heredity. Contact Dermatitis, occurs when a person’s skin comes in contact with an irritating substance.

It can be caused by repeated contact with:

1.) saliva (mainly in children)

2.) certain foods and medicines

3.) strong soaps or bubble baths

4.) citrus juices

Contact Dermatitis also develops after the skin comes into contact with something the person is allergic to. Such as (but not limited to):

1.) Certain additives or flavorings to tooth pastes and mouthwashes (which will appear in the form of a rash around the mouth).

2.) Dyes and glues used in the manufacturing of shoes (which will appear in the form of a reaction, on the tops of the toes and feet).

3.) Dyes used in clothing (which will appear in he form of a rash in areas where the clothing tends to rub, or where there is increased perspiration).

4.) Nickel snaps on jeans or pants.

5.) Nickel jewelry.

6.) Plants such as; poison oak, poison ivy, poison sumac.

7.) Medications (neomycin ointment).

The type of rash associated with contact dermatitis, usually appears within several hours after contact. Treatment for contact dermatitis is very similar to the treatment of Atopic dermatitis.

Fortunately, contact dermatitis can be controlled much better, once a series of test are performed to determine what causes the rash. Thereby enabling one to avoid the causes all together.

Although a cause of much aggravation and discomfort, with a lot of patience, and a little know how, dermatitis can be comfortably managed.

 ::  Share or discuss  ::  2010-07-13  ::  admin

What Really Causes Dermatitis in Men and Women?

12 July 2010 - Filed under itchy skin atopic dermatitis

When people talk about dermatitis they are referring a lot of times to eczema, but eczema is only one type of dermatitis: atopic dermatitis. The term itself means inflammation of the skin and it encompasses different variations or types (like contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, neurodermatitis, etc.)

The factors that cause dermatitis are still being studied by doctors and medical researchers. However, as we begin to understand the problem, we can see that there are certain factors that contribute to its appearance. These are factors that can either trigger the inflammation or can worsen the condition resulting in an itchy rash.

Among the common factors that could cause dermatitis we find: allergies, humidity changes, stress, emotional ups and downs, certain type of food (such as spicy food) and the consumption of alcohol and tobacco. Dermatitis can also be caused by certain irritants like those found on pesticides, paint strippers, perfumes, astringents, and detergents just to name a few.

It is also believed that the cause of dermatitis can be related to genetic factors. Small children tend to show the condition more often, and so it is believed that it has been passed through the family.

Can Dermatitis Be Prevented?

You can prevent dermatitis to some extent by moisturizing the skin and taking good care of it. You should avoid changes in humidity and learn how to cope better with stress – this will improve your whole life by the way! You can also find helpful staying away from the irritants found in chemical products like the ones we mentioned above.

Finally stay away from alcohol and tobacco. When I had to deal with dermatitis, this was the step that actually made a difference. Believe it or not, your lifestyle plays a mjor role on how you cope with ailments and conditions.

 ::  Share or discuss  ::  2010-07-12  ::  admin

How to Get Rid of Dermatitis

10 July 2010 - Filed under itchy skin atopic dermatitis

Dermatitis simply means skin inflammation. It caused by direct contact with an irritating substance. It is more common in men than women and the peak age of onset is at 55-65 years of age. Perioral dermatitis may be a form of the skin disorder rosacea, adult acne or seborrheic dermatitis, involving the skin around the mouth or nose. Common chemical irritants include detergents, soaps, chlorine, some synthetic fibers, nail polish remover, antiperspirants, and formaldehyde (found in permanent-press fabrics, polishes, artificial-fingernail adhesive, particle board, and foam insulation). Wearing rubber gloves, unwashed new clothes, or plated jewelry can also cause contact dermatitis. Many types of dermatitis. Contact dermatitis typically causes the skin to develop a pink or red rash. Pinpointing the exact cause of contact dermatitis can be difficult. Among plants, the leading culprits are poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac, although contact with certain flowers, herbs, fruits, and vegetables irritate some people. Nummular dermatitis consists of distinctive coin-shaped red patches that are most commonly seen on the legs, hands, arms and torso.

The exact cause is unknown, but makeup, moisturizers, topical corticosteroids or some dental products containing fluoride may play a role. Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, causes the skin to itch, scale, swell and sometimes blister. Eczema usually runs in families and is often associated with allergies, asthma, and stress. Seborrheic dermatitis consists of greasy, yellowish, or reddish scaling on the scalp and other hairy areas, as well as on the face or genitals, and in skin creases along the nose, under the breasts. is caused by an overproduction and blockage of oil glands. This condition is called cradle cap in infants and is likely related to hormonal changes affecting the glands. It may be aggravated by stress. Stasis dermatitis is caused by poor circulation and can happen in people with varicose veins, congestive heart failure, or other conditions. Veins in the lower legs fail to return blood efficiently, causing pooling of blood and fluid buildup and edema. This leads to unhealthy skin growth and irritation, especially around the ankles.

Treatment of Dermatitis

1.Bathing Reduce how often you bath or shower, using lukewarm water.

2.Replace standard soap with a substitute such as a mild detergent soap-free cleanser.

3.Clothing Wear soft smooth cool clothes; wool is best avoided.

4.Apply an emollient liberally and often, particularly after bathing, and when itchy.

5.Apply a topical steroid cream or ointment to the itchy patches for a 5 to 15 day course. Steroids should usually be applied once or twice daily to the red and itchy areas

6.Pimecrolimus cream is a new anti-inflammatory cream shown to be very effective for atopic dermatitis.

7.Antihistamine tablets may help reduce the irritation, and are particularly useful at night.

8.Sometimes, creams containing hydrocortisone or wet dressings that provide moisture to your skin may help relieve redness and itching.

Home Remedies of Dermatitis

1.Apply a mixture of 1 teaspoon camphor and 1 teaspoon sandalwood paste on the rashes. Apply nutmeg paste to the affected areas. Put natural vitamin E on the affected skin, it will relieve you of itching. Zinc taken orally and applied directly on the affected skin is effective.

2.Oatmeal baths made from powders such as Aveeno provide effective but temporary relief from the itching of eczema and dermatitis

3.,Apply cod liver oil, vitamin E oil, or aloe vera gel to affected areas.

4.Take chickweed, dandelion, red clover, Redmond clay, and yellow dock in capsule form.

5.Shark cartilage reduces inflammation.

6.Use a lotion made out of blueberry leaves this is proven to be fantastic relieving inflammation of dermatitis.

 ::  Share or discuss  ::  2010-07-10  ::  admin