When skin rashes the development of a serious disease - atopic dermatitis - should be excluded. The process of forming skin atopy is somewhat more complicated than a common allergic reaction, therefore the treatment of the disease should be taken more seriously in order to avoid unpleasant cosmetic defects and serious complications.
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Atopic dermatitis - what is this disease?
What it is? Atopic dermatitis is a long-term disease that belongs to the group of allergic dermatitis. This pathology characterized by:
- Hereditary predisposition - the risk of developing atopy reaches 80% in children whose parents suffer from atopic dermatitis or other allergic pathologies;
- The appearance of the first signs in early childhood (in 75% of cases);
- Recurrent course with exacerbations in winter;
- Specific clinical picture at different age periods;
- Changes in immunological blood parameters.
Atopic dermatitis is more pronounced in children and is almost always associated with repeated sensitization (contact with an allergen). There are frequent cases of clinical recovery.
With age, the symptoms of the disease change somewhat, but can cause serious psychological discomfort to a person.
Causes and stages of development of atopic dermatitis
atopic dermatitis - photo
one of the manifestations of the disease in children
Although atopic dermatitis is initially associated with sensitization of the body to food and chemical allergens and microorganisms (fungus, dust mites), subsequent exacerbations may not be associated with allergenic contact. In addition, incompetence of the digestive tract plays an important role in the development of atopy: the disease often occurs against the background of intestinal dysbiosis, biliary dyskinesia and other gastrointestinal pathologies.
Causes of atopic dermatitis (its exacerbations) in adults:
- Stress and depression,
- Bad habits (smoking, alcohol),
- Poisoning by various toxins from environment,
- Hormonal imbalances (including pregnancy in women),
- Poor nutrition
- Severe infections and immune disorders.
Atopic dermatitis is usually divided into several age stages. The reason for this is the completely different symptomatic picture of atopy in patients of different ages.
- Stage 1 (infantile atopy) - at the age of 2 months - 2 years, exudation (wetting) and a pronounced inflammatory reaction come to the fore.
- Stage 2 (atopic dermatitis in children 2-10 years old) - before the child begins puberty, atopy is expressed in increasing dry skin and the periodic appearance of a papular rash.
- Stage 3 (atopy in adults) - exacerbations depend less and less on contact with allergens; they occur in the skin morphological changes(lichenification).
Important! — Many experts identify atopic dermatitis with diffuse neurodermatitis. Although the clinical manifestations of neurodermatitis and atopic dermatitis in adolescence and older are almost identical, the process of disease formation itself is somewhat different.
Therapeutic tactics always take into account the nature of skin manifestations and laboratory data on the composition of the blood.
Symptoms and signs of atopic dermatitis
The symptoms of atopic dermatitis differ radically depending on the patient’s age and determine the main treatment measures.
Infantile neurodermatitis
A sick baby looks like this: redness of the cheeks and forehead (diathesis), diaper rash in the folds of the skin. against the background of swelling and severe hyperemia, foci of maceration (wetting) form. Also characteristic is the presence of milky scabs on the scalp of the baby.
Severe itching provokes anxiety in the child, scratching and suppuration of cracks, and intensifies after water procedures. The baby is capricious and does not sleep well. Candidiasis (thrush) is often diagnosed oral cavity, which makes the child even more nervous, to the point of refusing to eat.
Childhood atopy
Wet elements stop appearing with age. The skin gradually becomes more and more dry and flaky. Itchy papules (small blisters) and cracks appear behind the ears, on the neck, behind the knee, in the ankle area and on the delicate skin of the forearm.
Atopic dermatitis on the face gives a characteristic picture: a gray face, a thickened fold on the lower eyelid and dark circles under the eyes, depigmented (lightened) lesions on the cheeks, neck, and chest.
Often, against the background of atopy, a child develops other severe allergic conditions (inclusive).
Adult atopic dermatitis
In adult patients, relapses occur less frequently and the clinical picture is less pronounced. Often the patient notes the constant presence of pathological lesions on the skin. At the same time, the signs of lichenification are maximally manifested: focal thickening of the skin, a clearly defined skin pattern, massive peeling.
Pathological foci are localized on the arms, face and neck (thickened folds form on its anterior surface). Pronounced folding (hyperlinearity) is clearly visible on the palms (less often, soles).
Itching in chronic atopic dermatitis occurs even with the slightest changes in the skin, and intensifies with sweating. Decreased skin immunity leads to frequent fungal, staphylococcal and herpetic infections skin.
A patient's blood test at any stage of the disease reveals eosinophilia, a decrease in the number of T-lymphocytes, and a reactive increase in B-lymphocytes and IgE antibodies. Moreover, changes in immunogram parameters are in no way related to the severity of clinical manifestations of atopic dermatitis.
Treatment of atopic dermatitis - drugs and diet
Atopic dermatitis is treated by a dermatoallergist, but patients often need consultation with a gastroenterologist and endocrinologist.
The treatment regimen includes identifying and, if possible, eliminating the allergen that provoked the pathological reaction (especially important when diagnosing atopy in children) and a complex effect on the symptoms of the disease and pathological changes in the body.
The medication course includes:
- Antihistamines - Tavegil, Allertek, Claritin, Zodak perfectly relieve itching. More suitable for the treatment of atopic dermatitis in adults antihistamines latest generation (Erius, Lordes, Aleron) - do not cause drowsiness.
- Immunocorrectors - thymus preparations (Timalin, Taktivin), B-correctors (Methyluracil, Histaglobulin), membrane stabilizers (Intal, Ketotifen, Erespal).
- Calming - infusions of valerian and motherwort, antipsychotics (Azaleptin), antidepressants (Amitriptyline) and tranquilizers (Nozepam) in small doses and only for adults.
- Restoring the function of the gastrointestinal tract - probiotics (the best is Bifiform), choleretic (Allohol), fermentative agents (Mezim forte, Pancreatin).
- Vitamin-mineral complexes - it is necessary to compensate for the lack of zinc in the body, vit. C and group B should be taken with caution (may aggravate allergic reaction).
Local treatment:
- Antiseptics (furacilin, boric acid) - when the elements become wet, alcohol-containing solutions are prohibited (they dry out the skin);
- Anti-inflammatory and antifungal ointments (Akriderm, Methyluracil, Lorinden S) - in case of emerging foci of suppuration or the addition of a fungal infection;
- Emollients (A-Derma, Emolium, Lipikar) are mandatory for atopic dermatitis (emollients that effectively moisturize the skin should be used even during remission);
- Corticosteroid ointments (Triderm, Hydrocortisone, Prednisolone) - with severe symptoms and no effect from other drugs (long-term use of hormonal creams for atopic dermatitis is not recommended);
- Physiotherapy - PUVA therapy - the use of the drug Psolaren and subsequent irradiation with ultraviolet rays gives an excellent therapeutic effect even with severe atopic dermatitis.
Dietary nutrition for atopic dermatitis
Dietary nutrition is mandatory to achieve a speedy recovery. The diet for atopic dermatitis excludes from the menu all conditionally allergenic foods (eggs, fatty fish, nuts, smoked meats and pickles, chocolate, citrus fruits), semi-finished products and finished products containing chemical dyes and preservatives.
Should be avoided oatmeal and legumes. These products contain nickel, which aggravates atopic dermatitis.
Green apples, lean meat, cereals (especially buckwheat and pearl barley), and cabbage have a beneficial effect on the body in case of skin atopy. Following a diet, especially in childhood, will prevent the development of exacerbations of atopic dermatitis.
Treatment prognosis
Having first appeared in childhood, atopic dermatitis can gradually disappear. Clinical recovery is stated in the absence of relapses for 3 years with a mild course of the disease, 7 years - with severe forms atopy.
However, in 40% of patients, the disease periodically manifests itself even at an older age. At the same time, complications are recorded in 17% of patients: cracked lips, pyoderma, recurrent herpes.
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The concept of “atopy” as a predisposition of newborns to allergic diseases, transmitted hereditarily, was proposed in 1923 by American scientists A. Coca and R. Cooke.
This common skin lesion of an allergic nature, characterized by an inflammatory process, is atopic dermatitis . Over 12% of the population suffers from this non-contagious disease.
ICD-10
In the international classification, atopic dermatitis is defined as a skin disease of a chronic nature. He was assigned a code according to ICD-10 - L 20. The development of pathology is due to the special sensitivity of the body in response to certain irritating factors.
Atopic dermatitis (neurodermatitis) in adults (photo)
Causes
The disease is mainly caused by heredity.
Problems that activate the process of exacerbation of the disease
The course of the disease is recurrent, alternating with stages of remission. Particularly aggravate it the following factors:
- environmental and climatic anomalies;
- unbalanced diet;
- expansion of the range of allergic reagents;
- nervous overload;
- immune disorders;
- early feeding of infants.
Dermatitis worsens as a result of a reaction to allergens and irritants.
Symptoms
The main signs appear on the surface of the skin.
- irritation;
- severe itching;
- dryness.
When scratching, a secondary infection (viral or bacterial) develops.
The most common symptoms:
Secondary symptoms are physical, psychological, domestic, cosmetic, emotional discomfort and complexes.
Periods of the disease
Dermatitis occurs especially often in older infants (from 2-4 months to 1 year). Before the age of 5 years, dermatitis occurs, but less frequently.
Atopic dermatitis in children
The early development of the disease is explained by the predisposition of infants to allergic diseases.
Atopic dermatitis in children: photo
Prerequisites for early dermatitis:
- poor nutrition and lifestyle of the mother during pregnancy;
- the child’s immature immune system.
The disease often resolves by age 4, but occurs in adolescents and adults. Before the age of 5 years, 90% of the manifestations of the disease are recorded.
Atopic dermatitis in adults
Symptoms tend to subside with age. However, the disease may manifest itself and even occur for the first time in adolescents and adults. By the age of 15-17, the disease recedes on its own in 70% of cases. In adult form only 30% flows over.
Clinical indicators in different phases:
| Characteristics | Phase | |
|---|---|---|
| Infant and children | Adult | |
| The main manifestation is itching | + | + |
| Formation color | Hot pink | Pale pink |
| Places of formations | Face, buttocks, arms, legs | Area of the popliteal, elbow bends, face, neck |
| Forms of formations | Bubbles, wetting, crusts, scales | Papules, skin pattern, dry skin, peeling, cracks. |
The disease progresses differently, depending on the phase, cause, and other diseases.
Seasonal exacerbations occur in spring and autumn. Stages according to the nature of the course: acute, chronic.
Acute stage
Spots, papules, skin peeling, crusts and erosions. As the infection develops, pustular formations are observed.
Chronic stage
Thickening of the skin with a bright pattern, scratching, cracks, changes in pigmentation of the eyelids.
Diffuse neurodermatitis- one of the forms of dermatitis. also manifests itself as itching and rashes allergic nature. A secondary factor is disruptions in the functioning of the nervous system, aggravated by stressful situations.
Diagnostics
Activities to recognize the disease are carried out by specialists: dermatologist, allergist:
- monitoring the clinical picture;
- allergy tests;
- urine and stool tests.
Diagnostic studies use family history analysis. If necessary, the knowledge of other specialists is used: neuropsychiatrist, endocrinologist, otolaryngologist.
Treatment
Since symptoms differ between children and adults, treatment also differs. The process is quite complicated. The basis is diet, drug therapy, specific hyposensitization (reduction of general sensitivity to the allergen).
Main objectives of treatment
- elimination of the allergic factor;
- relieving inflammation and itching;
- cleansing the body of toxic substances;
- prevention of complications and relapses.
Treatment takes into account age, presence accompanying pathologies, clinical severity.
Treatment methods
Treatment methods are selected by the attending physician in combination. Most common:
- drug therapy;
- use of laser;
- photochemotherapy (PUVA);
- blood purification (plasmapheresis);
- measures to reduce susceptibility to the allergen (hyposensitization);
- exposure to needles (acupuncture);
- diet.
Diet therapy
It is designed to regulate nutrition, which helps improve the condition and helps prevent exacerbation. Firstly, food allergens are completely excluded. Milk and eggs are not recommended, even if tolerated.
At hypoallergenic diet completely excluded:
- fried meat and fish;
- vegetables, mushrooms;
- honey, chocolate;
- melon, citrus fruits;
- strawberries, black currants;
- canned food, spices, smoked meats.
Particularly important diet for atopic dermatitis in children . The following dishes should prevail on the menu:
Drug therapy
Includes different groups of drugs:
| Group | Action | Recommendations | Name |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antihistamines | Relieves itching, swelling | Change weekly to avoid addiction | Loratadine, Clemastine, Hifenadine |
| Corticosteroids | Relieves attacks and unbearable itching | Appointed at the initial stage for a short period of time | Triamcinolone, Methyprednisolone |
| Antibiotics | Anti-inflammatory | For purulent complications | Metacycline, Doxycycline, Erythromycin |
| Antiviral | Fighting viruses | For viral complications | Acyclovir |
| Immunomodulators | Strengthening the immune system | If necessary | Echinacea, Ginseng |
| Sedatives | Relieving itching and general condition when affecting the nervous system | Prescribed when the disease is associated with stressful situations to relieve fear, depression, insomnia | Motherwort, Nozepam, Bellataminal |
Local treatment
It takes into account the nature and prevalence of the pathology, age characteristics, complications, other factors.
Effect of drugs : anti-inflammatory, decongestant, drying, antipruritic, disinfectant.
Forms : lotion, ointment, paste, cream.
Representatives : Losterine, Prednisolone, Flumethasone.
The use of emollients for atopic dermatitis in children
These are substances that soften and moisturize the skin, protecting it from irritants. Particularly effective in early childhood after bathing.
They are produced on the basis of hypoallergenic ingredients without the presence of harmful chemical compounds.
List of funds:
- A-Derma;
- Bioderma Atoderm;
- Topicrem;
- Oillan;
- Physiogel intensive;
- Dardia.
The use of emollients helps fight dryness, inflammation, and skin damage during manifestations of atopic dermatitis.
Atopic dermatitis on the face of a child (photo)
Conducted extensive research on the question of how to treat atopic dermatitis in children. Dr. Komarovsky . Among important reasons it highlights the child's overeating, his intake of food in greater quantities than he is able to digest.
For pathologies in children, Komarovsky suggests treating in three directions:
- Minimizing the entry of harmful substances from the intestines into the blood. Fighting constipation, dysbacteriosis, increasing meal times, reducing the concentration of infant formula, using activated charcoal, dosing sweets. The main thing is not to overeat.
- Avoid skin contact with irritating factors. Boiling water before bathing, using children's washing powders, natural fabrics, bathing with soap no more than 2 times a week, taking care of the quality of toys.
- Creating conditions to reduce children's sweating. Compliance temperature regime and humidity, do not wrap yourself up excessively, and drink enough fluids.
Treatment with folk remedies
People practice decoctions for oral administration, means for local treatment, baths with special agents, and compresses.
Some folk recipes:
| Ingredients | Cooking method | Application |
| Bay leaves – 4 pieces, boiling water – 200 ml | Combine, leave covered until cool, then strain | Take 40 ml orally before bedtime for children, and 100 ml for adults; course – 10 days |
| Viburnum berries – 5 spoons, boiling water – 1000 mg | Combine, leave covered for up to 10 hours, strain | Drink 200 ml throughout the day for children, 400 for adults; course – up to 2-3 weeks |
| Oatmeal – 3 spoons, hot cow’s milk – 1 liter | Mix until smooth | Apply the substance to the skin for 20 minutes, then rinse and lubricate with nourishing cream |
| Veronica (medicinal herb) – 1 spoon, boiling water – 1 glass | Infuse, covered and wrapped, for 2 hours, then strain | Wash the affected areas with lotion up to 6 times a day; the course is not limited |
Also popular among people baths: coniferous, with chamomile and string, calendula, mint and other medicinal plants. It is practiced to add soda or starch to combat dryness.It is recommended to wash the skin on the face and other parts of the body daily in the morning with a 1:10 solution of vinegar and water.
Many folk remedies reduce symptoms and treatment becomes more effective.
Complications
They arise due to injury to the skin by scratching. Because of this, its protective properties are reduced, resulting in infections.
Types of complications
| By frequency of occurrence | Type of skin infection | Pathogen | Manifestation | Where does it occur? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bacterial(pyoderma) | Different types of bacteria (cocci) | Pustules, crusts on the skin, malaise, fever | Head, any parts of the body, limbs |
| 2 | Viral | Herpes virus | Clear bubbles with liquid | Mucous membranes and skin of the face, surface of the throat, genitals |
| 3 | Fungal | Yeast-like fungi | Round rash lesions, thrush in children | Folds on the skin, nails, head, feet, hands |
Helps avoid complications preventive measures.
Prevention
Starts before the baby is born.
Primary – prevention of dermatitis
Natural feeding, limiting medications, and following a diet are necessary.
Secondary – prevention of relapses, exacerbations
- exclusion of causes and provoking factors;
- compliance with the prescribed diet;
- taking preventive medications;
- skin hygiene.
Hygiene features
- do not wash with a washcloth every day;
- use hypoallergenic soap;
- prefer a warm shower to a hot one;
- blot with a towel rather than rub;
- moisturize the skin with special products;
- use clothes made from natural materials.
Complete recovery is considered to be the absence of symptoms for 3 to 7 years. The interval between the stages of exacerbations lasts from a month to several years.
If left untreated, there is a risk of bronchial asthma. It is necessary to carry out treatment under the supervision of a specialist.
Competent prevention and lifestyle protect against relapses. It is important to be attentive to your own body, follow a diet, and take care of the condition of your skin.
Video
Atopic dermatitis, also known as Atopic eczema (or atopic eczema) is a skin disease that affects a large number of people.
In most cases, this dermatitis is of allergic origin and mostly affects children. By the age of three, most children recover; if this does not happen, then dermatitis develops into chronic form, difficult to treat.
Very often, dermatitis accompanies asthma, hay fever and other allergic manifestations and worsens significantly during periods of emotional stress. A person suffering from dermatitis is usually very sensitive, and their body releases stress and negative emotions through the skin.
The skin is the largest organ of the body and is susceptible not only to external factors such as allergens or pollution, but also to everything that happens in the mind and body.
What causes atopic dermatitis?
As in cases of asthma and allergic rhinitis, traditional medicine The causes of this skin lesion are not known, and she attributes this disease to chronic disease.
Atopic dermatitis occurs due to excessive skin sensitivity, and, as a rule, in people predisposed to allergic reactions or in those whose families have a history of allergies.
Dermatitis occurs in many newborns, affecting the face and the surface of the skin in contact with diapers. As a rule, such phenomena occur in childhood or adolescence. However, there are children whose dermatitis remains at a later age. Adults susceptible to allergies may suffer from the disease. Allergy tests in most cases confirm the allergic nature of this disease, although there is dermatitis of nervous origin, which has the symptoms of eczema, but is not associated with an allergy.
There is also contact dermatitis, which is a limited allergic reaction that occurs when you come into contact with an allergen. The most common allergens in this case are metals, latex, clothing made from synthetic fabrics, chemical substances such as formaldehyde from wood materials, chlorinated water or detergents.
Dry skin or the presence of any form of allergy in a family member suffering from allergies can be prerequisites for the development of dermatitis or eczema. But even if there is a predisposition to allergies, the skin will remain in good condition, if you stay away from the allergen. However, this is not always possible, as in the case of mites or pollen. In addition, the substance causing the reaction is not always known.
Is atopic dermatitis an allergy?
A few years ago, traditional medicine argued that atopic dermatitis is not an allergic disease, but a manifestation of hypersensitivity, since its connection with IgE antibodies was not detected (mastocytes, that is, cells that interact with IgE, were not found on the skin).
However, scientists have noted the fact that allergens that cause asthma, rhinitis or digestive disorders also have the ability to cause eczema.
This was the case until 1986, when Dutch specialist Carla Bruinsel-Koomen discovered the causes of atopic dermatitis. They turned out to be Langerhans cells, which absorb foreign substances that enter the skin.
The scientist has proven that the skin of patients with atopic dermatitis has great amount Langerhans cells, which carry IgE antibodies. These cells capture allergen proteins and deliver them to immune system cells that cause dermatitis.
For this discovery, Carla Bruinsel-Koomen received the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology Prize in 1987.
How does atopic dermatitis manifest?
In atopic or allergic dermatitis, skin lesions are usually widespread. Because of inflammatory process skin appears dry and flaky. Typical symptoms are redness, burning, and the formation of blisters containing exudate. The affected area is inflamed and causes severe burning and itching. When scratching, inflammation intensifies and the skin becomes rough.
Scratching the inflamed area leads to infection, which worsens the symptoms. The face, ankles, knees and elbows are usually affected, but other areas of the body may also be affected.
Although atopic eczema is not considered dangerous disease, those who suffer from it usually have trouble sleeping due to the intense burning sensation. As a result, the body becomes exhausted, which leads to nervous tension, irritability and fatigue.
Treatment of atopic dermatitis
Since young children suffer most from atopic dermatitis, first of all, I would like to say a few words about breastfeeding. Of course better nutrition For infant is mother's milk - a fact that does not require proof. Among other things, for newborns this is an excellent preventive measure against this type of allergy. It has been proven that those children who were fed breast milk in infancy usually do not suffer from atopic dermatitis. Moreover, the percentage of such children increases even more if the mother did not suffer from allergies and did not drink cow's milk.
Breastfeeding is extremely important for strengthening the immune system of children and is recommended to be continued for as long as possible. There's a secret in the mother's body good health and the strength of her child, therefore breastfeeding is the duty of every mother, of course, if there are no medical contraindications to this.
As for the treatment of atopic contact eczema, it is very important, as with all diseases of allergic origin, to avoid any contact with the allergen and maintain a positive mental and emotional attitude, since stress and negative emotions in terms of impact can be equated to the most powerful allergen.
In addition, certain rules should be followed to eliminate any causes of skin irritation. This must be constantly remembered, especially with contact eczema on those areas of the skin that are covered by clothing or shoes.
It is not recommended to wear woolen and synthetic items, as they cause irritation in case of dermatitis. It is better to wear clothes made of silk or cotton. It happens that things made of pure cotton cause allergies, as they are sewn with synthetic threads. These threads can be distinguished by their lighter color. Before you put it on new thing, it must be washed and rinsed well to remove factory dirt. Moreover, it is very important to do this at home, since the chemicals used in dry cleaning usually cause irritation. Wash with neutral liquid soap or bar soap, as regular laundry detergents and even bio-based ones can cause a reaction. If cotton clothing does cause allergies, it may be due to the dyes used in the textile industry.
Some people's skin reacts to shoes. This happens because natural leathers are subject to various chemical treatment processes, while artificial leather is synthetic. In addition, shoe glue contains formaldehyde, which causes contact eczema in sensitive people. To insulate the burden from leather or synthetic shoes, you need to wear thick cotton socks.
It is equally important that the bed linen be cotton, and that the blankets and bedspreads are not wool. It’s good if the mattress is made of material plant origin type paper, and the blanket is cotton.
As for personal hygiene, plain water from the tap may cause skin irritation as it contains chlorine and other additives. Since in urban conditions it is not possible to wash with spring water, you should take a shower as quickly as possible and not every day, but every other day. Avoid any cosmetics other than those that do not contain fragrances or chemical additives. Talk to your pharmacist about the best products to use if you have allergies.
Latex is often the culprit behind contact dermatitis. If you have children, handle this material with great care as a regular pacifier or bottle nipple may cause your child to develop extensive facial eczema. The same thing can happen with baby's teething items and toys.
Another dangerous enemy for people suffering from atopic dermatitis are the chemicals used in furniture making, such as formaldehyde and adhesives. If you have eliminated all possible allergens from your daily routine, but still feel unwell, it is possible that the reason lies in these substances. In the article on allergens, you will learn how you can deal with them.
Traditional medicine
Since traditional medicine does not know the cause of this disease, it focuses its efforts on mitigating the symptoms. For such manifestations, doctors usually prescribe hydrocortisone ointment to reduce skin inflammation, antihistamines to relieve the burning sensation, and antibiotics if the eczema is complicated by infection as a result of scratching the blisters.
Apart from the hassle of the side effects of these medications, treatment with corticoids and antibiotics should be limited to a few days, so the relief they provide will only be temporary.
If the burning sensation causes insomnia, some sleeping pills are prescribed.
Natural Treatments
As a rule, medications are reserved for severe cases, and doctors themselves advise the patient to resort to home remedies to alleviate the burning sensation. It is usually recommended to use medicated or natural oat-based soap, or soap substitutes. You can wash without soap in warm water, adding 2 full tablespoons of oatmeal to it. To prevent the skin from softening, bathing should not be long. You should wipe off carefully, without rubbing the skin. After bathing, apply a hypoallergenic moisturizer made from natural ingredients such as calendula or vitamin E cream to your skin.
Two home remedies for severe burning include applying ice or onion juice to the affected area. You can see for yourself how much this alleviates the condition.
Natural nutrition
Although atopic eczema is sometimes caused by allergens such as mites or pollen, statistics show that most cases of dermatitis are associated with food allergies. And if this is so, then it is best to completely exclude it from the diet. dangerous product and follow the principle of healthy and balanced nutrition, as we have repeatedly repeated throughout the story.
However, in many cases the cause of atopic dermatitis is not clear, although, according to experts, it lies in food intolerance. Then nutritionists advise resorting to an elimination diet.
During this diet, no other treatment aimed at improving the condition of the skin, even natural ones, is allowed. The goal is to identify, by monitoring the condition of the skin, which product excluded from the diet causes dermatitis. If we are talking about food intolerance, improvement will not be long in coming, and very soon the skin will recover and the burning sensation will disappear. Particularly good results from using this method are observed in children.
The first phase of the elimination diet lasts five days, during which fasting or eating non-suspicious foods is recommended. The basis is usually three or four products (such as rice), which very rarely cause intolerance. This treatment should not be taken lightly - be sure to follow the advice of a specialist in the field of this diet.
At the end of the first stage of fasting or limited nutrition, a significant improvement in the condition is observed. Then other products are gradually introduced. If any of them cause intolerance, eczema will reappear. The reaction to this product occurs instantly within the first minutes or appears after a day or two. So, step by step, the nutritionist will determine a diet, following which you will get rid of skin inflammation and burning. One of the signs indicating that the skin is healing is a change in its color; It will change from bright red to reddish purple. Its structure also changes: it begins to peel off greatly, which indicates that the diseased layer of skin is separated, giving way to a healthy one.
The test helps a lot food intolerance. A study of the effects of one hundred foods and twenty food additives identifies “forbidden foods”, and with the help dietary nutrition the problem is solved.
The next circumstance that you need to keep in mind when choosing foods is their high content of vitamins B, C and calcium, and therefore we advise you to eat more fruits and herbs, brewer’s yeast and cereals. Vitamin B is also found in eggs and milk, but we do not recommend them due to the fact that they often cause allergies.
Marine and freshwater algae are a storehouse of vitamins, minerals and microelements of natural origin. These aquatic plants provide a huge amount of important minerals, and their concentration in algae is much higher than in other natural products. It is important to include seaweed in your daily diet, but to get used to its distinctive taste, eat it in small quantities at first. Their outstanding benefits in the treatment of allergies include the fact that they help eliminate metals, toxic substances and toxins from the body and help maintain skin in good condition.
Heliotherapy
Sunlight is a source of energy. It helps synthesize vitamins, activates the hypothalamus and strengthens the skin, but exposure to solar radiation should only be within reasonable limits. If you live in a sunny climate zone, take advantage of this by taking daily walks. In the summer, try to do them before ten o'clock in the morning and avoid going outside an hour before noon and in the early afternoon hours, when the sun is too hot. In winter, on the contrary, there is nothing better than a walk in the afternoon. The time of exposure to sunlight should be increased gradually, starting from ten minutes and increasing to one hour over two weeks.
If your rhythm of life or the climate of your region does not allow you to receive these life-giving sun baths, you can resort to artificial irradiation in special centers, where modern artificial light lamps will have almost the same beneficial effect as the real sun. However, in any case, try not to miss the opportunity of natural insolation.
If you are thinking of sunbathing, it is better to choose the beach for this. Solar treatments in the highlands are very useful for various health conditions, including respiratory diseases. They also stimulate metabolism, improve appetite and immune system activity. However, the sea coast has a particularly beneficial effect on skin problems due to a certain level of humidity, constant temperature and the combined action of ultraviolet rays and iodine.
Of course, if you are allergic to the sun, you should not resort to such procedures, unless in very small doses and under the supervision of a specialist.
Dermatologists and therapists have proven that exposure to sunlight improves the condition of atopic eczema. Skin dryness, roughness, pigmentation and itching are reduced. This is due to the fact that the sun activates peripheral blood circulation, due to which the skin is better supplied with oxygen and nutrients. In addition, the sun stimulates the production of melanin pigment, which also strengthens the skin.
Besides, sunlight, entering the hypothalamus through the eyes, promotes the production of important hormones. As you know, this gland is the center that controls the mind, so the sun improves inner self-awareness.
Homeopathy
Atopic eczema can be successfully treated using constitutional homeopathic method. To do this, you need to contact a good homeopath who can choose correct treatment. Moreover, it is important not only to choose a remedy that suits the constitution, but also to prevent a “homeopathic complication” that will worsen the condition of the skin during the initial period of treatment.
Herbal medicine and lotions
Can provide significant assistance in the treatment of dermatitis medicinal plants. Their healing properties are used not only by consuming infusions, but also by direct impact on the affected areas of the skin to alleviate the condition and relieve inflammation. Lotions made from medicinal herbs have anti-inflammatory, softening, bactericidal and soothing effects. Take advantage of their beneficial properties.
Contact a herbalist who will advise, taking into account the characteristics of your disease, which herbs are best to choose and how to prepare an infusion from them.
| Stinging nettle | Reduces burning sensation |
| bear ear | Prevents infection of skin lesions. The affected areas should be washed with a decoction of the leaves. |
| borage | Tones the skin. Can be taken internally as an infusion or externally while bathing. |
| Laurel | Prevents infection and restores skin. The leaves insist on olive oil or added to bathing water. |
| Mallow | An excellent emollient. Use as a cold compress made from a decoction of leaves and flowers. |
| Elder | Has anti-inflammatory properties. Use young leaves for lotions. |
| Arnica | It has an analgesic, anti-inflammatory and bactericidal effect. You can take it orally in the form of an infusion, as well as during bathing and in the form of lotions. |
| Bearberry | Has an astringent and bactericidal effect. For eczema it is used externally. |
| Hop | Thanks to its calming effect, it helps to fall asleep and normalizes sleep. Due to its high zinc content, it is very effective for the external treatment of eczema. |
| Clover | It has an astringent and healing effect, helping to restore the skin to its original appearance. Used for lotions. |
Fireweed oil is produced from primrose flowers, which is wide application V natural medicine and, including, in the treatment of atopic and contact eczema. Use this oil for three to four months (at least). Itching, dryness and flaking of the skin will disappear. Medicinal properties Primrose is comparable to the anti-inflammatory effect of ointments based on corticoids or immunomodulators. That's why we highly recommend this effective natural remedy for removing painful symptoms dermatitis.
Thank you
The site provides background information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!
How to treat atopic dermatitis?
Treatment atopic dermatitis Regardless of the severity of the disease, it must be comprehensive. This means that it is not the disease itself that should be treated, but also the cause that led to it. For example, if atopic dermatitis is accompanied by dysfunction gastrointestinal tract, then it is necessary to treat both of these diseases simultaneously. The basic principles of treatment of atopic dermatitis are as follows:
- during the acute period of the disease, intensive therapy is carried out, including hormonal and other drugs;
- during the period of subsidence of the disease, supportive treatment is recommended, which includes vitamins, physiotherapy, sorbents;
- during the period of remission, immunotherapy is prescribed;
- During all periods of the disease, a hypoallergenic diet is recommended.
List of drugs prescribed during various periods of illness
The main principle of treating atopic dermatitis is diet. Correct mode nutrition during all periods of illness is the key Get well soon. Refusal of allergenic foods is the most important and at the same time difficult rule of diet therapy. It is especially difficult to comply with this recommendation for those patients who have not taken samples to determine a specific food causative agent of allergic reactions. Such people should follow a non-specific diet, which means giving up all traditional products-allergens. If allergy tests have been carried out, the patient is shown a specific diet, which involves avoiding a specific product.
Creams and emollients for atopic dermatitis
The use of creams, lotions and emollients in the treatment of atopic dermatitis is an integral part of therapy. External therapy (that is, the use of external medications) is often the only procedure during the period of subsidence of the disease. There are the following forms of external agents - creams, lotions, aerosols, emollients (oily ointment base). The choice of one form or another depends on the stage of the atopic process. So, in acute stage atopic process, lotions and creams are prescribed, in subacute and chronic stage(when dryness predominates) - emollients. Also, if it is predominantly affected hairy part scalp - lotions are used, if the skin is smooth - then creams. During the day it is better to use lotions and aerosols, in the evening hours - creams and emollients.The tactics for using creams and other external agents depends on the extent of the skin process. The choice of one remedy or another depends on the form of atopic dermatitis. As a rule, creams containing corticosteroids are used, which are also called local (or external) glucocorticosteroids. Today, most doctors prefer two external glucocorticosteroids - methylprednisolone and mometasone. The first drug is known as advantan, the second - under the name elocom. These two products are highly effective, and most importantly, safe and have minimal side effects. Both products are available in the form of creams and lotions.
If to existing skin changes When an infection occurs (as often happens especially in children), combination drugs containing antibiotics are prescribed. Such drugs include triderm, hyoxysone, sofradex.
In addition to the “traditional” hormonal agents used in the treatment of atopic dermatitis, other non-hormonal agents are also used. These are antihistamines and immunosuppressive external agents. The first includes fenistil, the second - elidel.
List of external agents used in the treatment of atopic dermatitis
Name | Release form | How is it used? |
Elokom |
| Apply a thin layer to the affected skin once a day. The duration of use depends on the extent of the skin process, but, as a rule, does not exceed 10 days. |
Advantan |
| Apply a thin layer and rub into the affected skin with light movements. The duration of treatment for adults is from 10 to 12 weeks, for children - up to 4 weeks. |
Triderm |
| Rub gently into the affected skin and surrounding tissue twice a day. The duration of treatment should not exceed 4 weeks. |
Fenistil |
| The gel or emulsion is applied to the affected areas 2 - 3 times a day. If intense itching is present, then drops are prescribed in parallel. |
Elidel |
| Apply a thin layer of cream to the affected areas of the skin twice a day. After application, rub the cream into the skin with light movements. |
Lipikar for atopic dermatitis
Lipikar creams and lotions are long-term topical products. This cosmetical tools from La Roche-Posay, which are adapted for use in patients with atopic dermatitis. The products in this cosmetic line intensively moisturize the skin. As you know, the skin of people suffering from atopic dermatitis is characterized by increased dryness and flaking. Shea butter, which is included in most products from this line, slows down the process of dehydration (moisture loss) of the skin. Lipikar creams and lotions also contain allantoin, thermal water and squalene. This composition restores the damaged lipid membrane of the skin, relieves swelling and irritation of the skin.In addition to Lipikar, Bepanthen, Atoderm, and Atopalm creams are used. Bepanthen cream can be used during pregnancy and even in infants. It is effective in healing scratches and shallow wounds, and also stimulates skin regeneration. Available in the form of cream, ointment and lotion.
Vaccinations for atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is not a contraindication for routine vaccination. Therefore, DTP, BCG, polio, hepatitis B, and rubella vaccines are routinely administered. At the same time, it is known that the vaccine can stimulate an exacerbation of the process. Therefore, it is recommended to administer the vaccine during the period of remission of atopic dermatitis. Vaccination should be carried out according to the vaccination calendar and only in immunization rooms. Before it is carried out, it is recommended to prescribe antihistamines for prophylactic purposes. Drug therapy carried out 4 - 5 days before vaccination and within 5 days after it. Drugs of choice in in this case is ketotifen and loratadine.Diet for atopic dermatitis
Diet therapy for atopic dermatitis is one of the main methods of treatment, which allows you to prolong the period of remission and improve the patient’s condition. The main rule of the diet is to avoid foods that can act as allergy triggers. In addition, nutrition should provide the body with the necessary resources to fight this disease. The main provisions of the diet for atopic dermatitis are as follows:
- exclusion of food allergens;
- avoidance of foods that promote the release of histamine;
- reducing the amount of gluten-containing foods;
- inclusion of products for fast healing skin;
- improving the functionality of the digestive tract.
Elimination of food allergens
Products that can trigger the development of an allergic reaction are present in all groups of food products. It is necessary to exclude allergenic foods from the diet in pure form, as well as the dishes for which they were used. To avoid a deficiency of nutrients, food allergens must be replaced with other products that are full of nutrients.Food allergens and products that should replace them
Name | Allergens | Alternative |
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Meat |
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Fish |
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Seafood |
| You can eat cod caviar and liver in limited quantities. |
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Bee products |
| Natural honey can be replaced with an analogue of artificial origin. |
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Tincture | Low blood pressure, reduced heart rate. |
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Drugs to strengthen the immune system | Increased excitability of the nervous system, heart rhythm disturbances. |
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Tincture | High blood pressure, tendency to depression, anxiety. |
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Rose hip | Ulcer, gastritis, tendency to thrombosis. |
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Antihistamines | Varicose veins, impaired blood clotting. |
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Compress | There are no contraindications for herbal medicines for external use other than individual intolerance to the main component. |
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Compress |
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Antiseptic external agents |
Prevention of atopic dermatitis
Prevention of atopic dermatitis is the most important element in the complex of therapeutic measures for this disease. The chronic, recurrent (wavy) course of atopic dermatitis and knowledge of pathogenesis made it possible to formulate the basic principles of prevention. Depending on the time of implementation and the goals pursued, the prevention of atopic dermatitis can be primary or secondary. Primary prevention
The goal of primary prevention is to prevent disease in individuals who are part of the group increased risk. Considering that atopic dermatitis is one of the most common childhood diseases, the issue of prevention among children is especially relevant. Among the factors predisposing to the development of atopic dermatitis, one of the main ones is heredity. That's why primary prevention It has great importance for children whose parents (one or both) have a history of this disease. Preventive measures it is necessary to begin taking measures in the antenatal (intrauterine) period and continue after the birth of the child.Prevention in the antenatal period
Measures for antenatal prevention of atopic dermatitis are as follows:
- Hypoallergenic diet. A pregnant woman should exclude from her diet all traditional food allergens, which include eggs, milk, bee products, and nuts.
- Balanced diet. Despite the restrictions on the menu, the diet of a woman carrying a child should be varied and contain sufficient amounts of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. As experts note, a diet in which carbohydrate foods predominate especially increases the likelihood of developing atopic dermatitis in a child.
- Adequate treatment of gestosis(complications of pregnancy, which are manifested by edema and other problems). The deterioration of a pregnant woman's condition increases the permeability of the placenta, resulting in the fetus being exposed to allergens. This increases the chance that the child will have atopic dermatitis.
- Many medications contribute to allergization of the fetus and, as a result, the development of atopic dermatitis. Most often, allergy triggers are antibiotics of the penicillin group (nafcillin, oxacillin, ampicillin).
- Control of household chemicals used. Laundry powders and other household products contain aggressive allergens that enter the female body through the respiratory system and can cause fetal sensitization. Therefore, during pregnancy it is recommended to use hypoallergenic household chemicals.
After the birth of a child, his diet should be hypoallergenic for a year, since the immature immune system and intestinal microflora cannot give a “worthy response” to food allergens. If breast milk is available, breastfeeding is recommended to continue for at least six months, and during this period the nursing woman should follow a diet that excludes allergenic foods. If breast milk is absent, the child should be fed with special infant formula.
The first foods for complementary feeding should be hypoallergenic vegetables and fruits (apples, zucchini), meat (turkey, rabbit).
Gradually, allergenic foods should be introduced into the children's diet, recording the child's body's reaction to such food in a special diary. You should start with cow's milk, chicken meat. They should be administered after the child reaches one year of age, during the period of remission of atopic dermatitis. By the second year of life you can include in children's menu eggs, to the third - honey, fish.
Secondary prevention of atopic dermatitis
Secondary prevention measures are relevant for those patients who have already encountered atopic dermatitis. The goal of such prevention is to prolong the period of remission of the disease, and in case of exacerbation of the disease, to reduce symptoms.Secondary prevention measures for this disease are:
- organization of hypoallergenic living conditions;
- adequate skin care;
- control of consumption of food allergens;
- preventive (preliminary) drug therapy.
The exacerbation of atopic dermatitis is facilitated by such a common factor in everyday life as dust. Household dust includes mites (saprophytes), particles of skin from people and pets. Each of these components negatively affects the well-being of a patient with this disease. Therefore, prevention of this disorder involves organizing measures aimed at combating dust.
The main sources of dust in everyday life are bed dress, textiles, upholstered furniture, bookcases and carpeting. For preventive purposes, you should choose hypoallergenic items,, if possible, refuse to use some items and provide appropriate care for all household items.
Measures for organizing hypoallergenic living conditions are as follows:
- Sleeping area. People with atopic dermatitis are recommended to use pillows and blankets with synthetic filling. You should also avoid woolen rugs and blankets, as they provide a favorable environment for ticks. Bed linen should be changed for new ones twice a week, and boiled when washing. It is recommended to take blankets, mattresses and pillows to special disinfection chambers or treat them with anti-mite drugs. An effective measure for atopic dermatitis is special plastic cases for mattresses and pillows.
- Carpeting. It is recommended not to use carpets in the room where the patient lives. If it is not possible to refuse carpeting, preference should be given to products made from synthetic fibers with short pile. The best option are carpets made of nylon, acrylic, polyester. Carpets should be replaced with new ones every 5-6 years. They should be cleaned every 2 weeks using anti-tick products (Doctor Al, easy air, ADS spray).
- Cushioned furniture. The upholstery of upholstered furniture and the materials used as fillers are places where large amounts of dust accumulate. For atopic dermatitis, it is recommended to replace sofas with beds, and soft chairs with ordinary chairs or benches.
- Bookcases and shelves. Books not only accumulate a large amount of dust, but also develop mold, which contributes to the exacerbation of atopic dermatitis. Therefore, you should avoid the presence of bookcases and shelves in the room where a person with this disease lives. If this is not possible, books should be kept in furniture with closing doors.
- Textile products. Instead of curtains and other textiles for windows, it is recommended to use blinds made of polymer materials. In spring, summer and autumn, protective nets should be installed on windows to prevent dust, pollen, and poplar fluff from entering the room. Tablecloths, decorative napkins and other textiles should be used in minimal quantities.
Mold is one of the common factors that can worsen the condition of a person with atopic dermatitis. Therefore, in areas with high humidity (bathroom, kitchen), hoods should be installed and cleaning should be carried out monthly using products that prevent the growth of mold microorganisms.
Adequate skin care
The skin with atopic dermatitis is characterized by increased vulnerability, which contributes to irritation and inflammation even during remission. Therefore, people with this disease need to provide proper skin care. Proper care increases the barrier functions of the skin, which helps reduce the symptoms of the disease during periods of exacerbation.
Skin care measures for atopic dermatitis are as follows:
- Cleansing. To implement personal hygiene procedures for this disease, it is recommended to use special products that do not contain aggressive components (alcohol, fragrances, alkali, preservatives). The best option is hypoallergenic preparations specially designed for skin care with atopic dermatitis. The most common brands of specialized products are bioderma, ducray, avene.
- Hydration. During the day, it is recommended to moisturize the skin with special aerosols based on thermal water. Such products are present in the line of many manufacturers of pharmaceutical cosmetics (products intended for the care of problem skin). The most famous brands include uriage, vichy, noreva. Before going to bed, the skin should be treated with a moisturizer or compresses made from natural aloe and potato juices.
- Nutrition. Skin nourishing products are used after water procedures before bedtime. In the cold season, the systematic use of such products should be increased to 2–3 times a day. Creams with a fatty texture containing natural oils can be used to nourish the skin. You can increase the effectiveness of such a cream if you add fat-soluble vitamins A and E (sold in pharmacies). You can also nourish the skin with natural oils (coconut, olive, almond).
Controlling food allergen intake
Patients who have undergone allergy tests, during which a specific allergy trigger has been identified, should follow a specific diet. This diet involves avoiding food allergens and dishes that contain them. For people whose allergen has not been determined, a nonspecific hypoallergenic diet is indicated, which implies the exclusion of all obligate (traditional) foods that provoke allergies.
One of the effective measures to control the body’s reaction to food is a food diary. Before you start keeping a diary, you should follow strict guidelines for several days. hypoallergenic diet. Then you gradually need to introduce allergenic foods into the diet, recording the body’s reaction.
Preventive (preliminary) drug therapy
Taking special medications before a predicted exacerbation of the disease inhibits the development of allergic reactions. Used for prevention pharmacological preparations with antihistamine action, the type and pattern of consumption of which is determined by the doctor. Also, in order to increase the body's resistance to allergens, folk remedies can be used.A prerequisite for the prevention of atopic dermatitis is strengthening the immune system. For this, various vitamin-mineral complexes and herbal immunomodulators can be used.
Before use, you should consult a specialist.Atopic dermatitis– chronic inflammatory disease of an allergic nature, the main signs of which are a rash on the skin of the exudative and/or lichenoid type, severe itching and seasonality. In winter and summer, exacerbations often occur, and symptoms intensify, but remissions, sometimes even complete, are common.
Atopic dermatitis is one of the types. Previously it had a different name - diffuse neurodermatitis.
To make the picture of the disease clearer, let’s look at the question: “ what is atopy?».
Atopy, or atopic diseases– the tendency of newborn children to allergic diseases, which is transmitted to infants through hereditary means. That is why the development of atopic dermatitis occurs at a fairly early age - 2-4 months, and one of the root causes is the incorrect lifestyle and nutrition of a pregnant woman. The expectant mother, especially in the last trimester of pregnancy, should try to refrain from consuming foods from the highly allergenic category - chocolate, citrus fruits, strawberries, etc.
Another factor without which the development of atopic dermatitis in a child is impossible is the infant’s incompletely formed immune and other systems, which at this age are not yet able to adequately fight allergens.
Due to the above features, atopic dermatitis often goes away by the age of 4, but there are cases when it accompanies a person throughout his life.
Secondary triggers for the development or exacerbation of atopic dermatitis can also be contact or respiratory allergens - dust, pollen, clothing, animals.
Atopic dermatitis. ICD
ICD-10: L20
ICD-9: 691.8
Development of atopic dermatitis
So, let’s summarize the beginning of the article and continue the topic with the question - “ How does atopic dermatitis develop?».
1 situation: An infant 2-3 months or 2 years old receives highly allergenic foods through mother's milk or other means. His gastrointestinal tract organs, immune system, etc. have not yet fully formed. An allergen (any product that causes an allergic reaction in a particular person) entering the body cannot be processed in the intestines, and the liver, in turn, also cannot neutralize its adverse effects on the body. The kidneys also cannot remove it in any way. Thus, due to various biochemical processes in the body, this allergen is transformed into substances with the properties of antigens (substances foreign to the body). The body produces antibodies to suppress them. The rash that we can observe in a child with atopic dermatitis is the body’s reaction to foreign substances produced by the allergen.
Situation 2: A pregnant woman consumes large quantities of highly allergenic foods, or has been in contact with various substances that cause. The fetal body can also receive part of these products or substances that will be in the child’s body after birth. Further, when the baby eats or comes into contact with allergens that he was in contact with in the prenatal period, his body will react to this with a rash and other symptoms of atopic dermatitis.
Thus, we can come to the conclusion that atopic dermatitis is not a skin disease, but an internal reaction of the body to an allergen, transmitted hereditarily.
Causes of atopic dermatitis
The following factors can cause atopic dermatitis:
- consumption of highly allergenic foods by a pregnant woman - citrus fruits, chocolate, red berries, alcoholic drinks;
- consumption of highly allergenic foods by the child himself;
- hereditary predisposition;
- fungal, viral and bacterial infections;
- weakened immune system;
- physical contact with the allergen: clothing, chemicals, building materials, medications;
— respiratory contact: dust, pollen, gases;
- non-compliance;
— ;
- sudden change of diet;
— uncomfortable temperature in the living room;
- emotional instability, psychological disorders, .
The main symptoms of atopic dermatitis are:
- severe itching;
- redness, red spots on the skin with unclear boundaries;
- rash on the body, sometimes dry, sometimes filled with liquid;
- weeping areas of skin, erosions, ulcers;
- dry skin, with further peeling;
- scales on the scalp, glued together with the secretion of the sebaceous glands.
Accompanying symptoms may include:
- coating on the tongue;
- respiratory diseases: false croup;
— ;
— ;
— , .
Atopic dermatitis most often appears on the following areas of the body: elbows, knees, neck, folds, dorsums of the feet and hands, forehead, temples.
Experts note that atopic dermatitis has a seasonal pattern – symptoms worsen in winter and summer. Partial or complete remissions may also occur.
If the treatment of atopic dermatitis is not given due attention, this disease can develop into, allergic rhinitis and other diseases of an allergic nature.
Complications of atopic dermatitis
- Viral infection;
- Fungal infection
- Pyoderma
Treatment of atopic dermatitis includes:
— preventing patient contact with the allergen;
- taking antiallergic drugs;
— relief of inflammatory processes on the skin;
— strengthening the immune system;
— diet correction;
— normalization of the work/rest regime;
- treatment of concomitant diseases.
Medicines against atopic dermatitis
Antiallergic drugs
Antihistamines are used to relieve the main symptoms - severe itching and rash. There are 3 generations of them. Each subsequent generation has improved characteristics - reduced addiction, a decrease in the number of side effects and an increase in the duration of the therapeutic effect.
First generation: “Dimetindene”, “Clemastine”, “Meclizine”;
Second generation: “Azelastine”, “Loratadine”, “Cetrizine”;
Third generation: Desloratadine, Levocetrizine, Sehifenadine.
It is better to take antihistamines before bedtime, because... many of them are sleepy.
Anti-inflammatory and antipruritic drugs
To stop inflammatory processes on the surface of the skin and relieve itching, anti-inflammatory and antipruritic agents are used.
The group of these drugs includes: glucocorticosteroid drugs, Burov's liquid, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (with sodium thiosulfate solution), silver nitrate, lead lotion, decoctions with infusions of string and other medicinal plants.
Remedies for infiltration and thickening of the skin
For these purposes, various creams, ointments and patches with a resolving effect are used, the bases of which are: tar, sulfur, naftalan oil, ichthyol. Such drugs begin to be used in small doses, gradually increasing the concentration of the active substances, or changing them to a stronger drug.
Means for softening and removing rough scales and crusts
Keratolytic ointments and creams, which also contain acids (salicylic, lactic, fruit), urea and resorcinol, are used as a means to soften and remove hardened scales and crusts.
Hormonal drugs
Hormonal drugs are widely used, but strictly under the supervision of the attending physician, for all forms of dermatitis, especially the acute course of the disease. For weeping dermatitis, lotions and pastes are preferred; for dry dermatitis, creams, ointments and lotions with the addition of keratolytics are used.
The advantage of using hormonal agents is the rapid and powerful relief of inflammatory processes on the skin, relieving itching, as well as further restoration of the skin. The disadvantage is addiction and withdrawal symptoms.
Weak hormonal agents - hydrocortisone. They are used mainly to treat children or when the disease manifests itself on the face.
Medium-acting hormonal agents - glucocorticosteroids (Prednisolone, Fluocortolone). Used to treat all areas of the body.
Strong hormonal agents - Betamethasone, Halomethasone, Mometasone, Flumethasone. They are used for long-term dermatitis, as well as for lichenification of the skin.
For severe skin lesions, glucocorticosteroids are prescribed for 2-4 days, after which they switch to weaker hormonal drugs - medium intensity.
Remedies for chronic atopic dermatitis
During remission, as well as at the stage of chronic atopic dermatitis, it is recommended to externally use various lotions or baths that will help relieve itching, redness, reduce inflammation, and also speed up the healing and restoration of the skin.
Such remedies include: birch buds, speedwell, oak bark, borage, fireweed and chamomile flowers, basil, pear leaves.
Antibacterial and antifungal agents
When ( , etc.), i.e. When the skin is damaged, there is always a risk of various infections getting into the papules and vesicles - viruses, fungi, bacteria, which in many people complicate the already complex picture of the course of dermatitis. To prevent this, or at least minimize this possibility, antibacterial, antiviral or antifungal agents are used externally. These can be ointments, creams, and aerosols. Main feature of these products is the content in them of substances such as furacilin, boric acid, iodine solution, silver nitrate, ethacridine lactate, gentamicin, oxytetracycline and glucocorticoid.
Means for normalizing and improving the functioning of the digestive system
As we already know, dear readers, from the beginning of the article, atopic dermatitis is a complex disease, the basis of which lies inside the body, and externally it manifests itself in a video of the inflammatory process of the skin.
Doctors have established a connection between normalization or improvement of work digestive system and accelerating recovery from dermatitis.
Thus, for this result, two types of drugs are used - enterosorbents and drugs for normalizing intestinal microflora.
Enterosorbents. Designed to stop the activity of unfavorable microflora in the body and its rapid removal from the body. Also, these drugs help reduce the level of toxicoderma in the body. The most popular enterosorbents: “ Activated carbon", "Diosmectite", "Povidone".
Preparations for normalizing intestinal microflora. This can include the following agents: probiotics (Baktisubtil, Linex), prebiotics (Inulin, Lysozyme), synbiotics (Maltodofilus, Normoflorin), hepatoprotectors (ademetionine, beatine, glycyrrhizic acid), bacteriophages (coliproteus, pseudomonas), enzymes (pancreatin).
Preparations to strengthen the immune system and accelerate skin recovery
Lack of vitamins () and microelements in the body, metabolic disorders, disturbances in the functioning of the immune and digestive systems play some of the important roles in the development of not only atopic, but also other types of dermatitis.
We already know how to improve the functioning of the digestive system from the previous paragraph. An additional point that will have a beneficial effect on the entire body as a whole is an additional intake of minerals. The greatest emphasis should be placed on vitamins - or echinacea.
To speed up the process of skin restoration, anabolic drugs are used, which contain substances such as methandienone, methionine, nandrolone.
Normalization of the mental and nervous system
Violations of the work/rest/sleep regime, mental stress, weaken immune system, making the entire body more susceptible to various diseases. If all these areas are not put in order, there is a risk of developing secondary diseases.
If you work at a job where you are constantly exposed to stress, think about it, perhaps there is an opportunity to change this work? Here it is fair to say that “Health is more valuable than money.”
To normalize the functioning of the nervous system, it is very important to get enough sleep. Scientists have found that a person needs from 6 to 8 hours of sleep to fully rest and recuperate. The best result is achieved if you go to bed at 21:00-22:00, and sleep will be uninterrupted.
Additionally, but after consultation with a doctor, the following drugs can be used to normalize the nervous system, especially during stress, and other disorders:
- sedative herbal medicines or agents;
- remedies for insomnia;
- antidepressants.
The correct menu or diet for atopic dermatitis is a necessary measure, without which treatment of dermatitis is virtually impossible.
The menu for dermatitis is aimed at:
- exclusion of highly allergenic foods from the diet;
— enriching the body with essential vitamins and minerals;
- normalization of the digestive system.
What not to eat if you have atopic dermatitis:
- red and orange fruits, berries, vegetables: strawberries, raspberries, etc.;
- citrus fruits: oranges, tangerines, pomelo, grapefruits, etc.;
- sweets: chocolate, cocoa, candies, lemonades;
- nuts, greens;
- fish;
- milk, dairy products;
- chicken eggs;
- smoked, spicy and fried foods;
- mayonnaise, ketchup, spices;
- alcoholic drinks.
