Skin conditions are irritating, uncomfortable, and sometimes embarrassing. Most of them fall under the category of dermatitis, but what is dermatitis, really? Inflammation of the skin, including dry patches, bumps, redness, itching, blisters, and thickening can all be classified as dermatitis.
This is a general term, which covers several symptoms, caused by varying environmental and biological agents. Sometimes it is also referred to as eczema. However, although eczema is a form of the skin disorder, it doesn't cover all the different types of dermatitis in the world.
Causes of the Disorder:
Dermatitis can be caused by many factors, including frequent hand washing, an allergic reaction, or a genetic skin condition. In the case of contact dermatitis, it is usually a physical response to some form of irritant, such as a scented product, chemical, or a harsh herb or spice. Atopic dermatitis, on the other hand could be part of a genetic disorder, passed down through generations. If a parent has eczema, for example, one or more children may also experience its symptoms.
Dermatitis can also be caused by infection, sebaceous glands, topical steroids, celiac disease, or varicose veins bursting close to the surface.
Signs of Dermatitis:
You can't ask, "what is dermatitis?" without first asking, "what are the symptoms of dermatitis?" The signs will depend on the type and severity of the skin disorder, but include itching, flaking skin, dry patches, blisters, oozing sores, sensitivity to sunlight, discoloration and red patches, swelling, and cracking due to dryness.
Some of these symptoms are also signs of other diseases and disorders, so it's important to document them as you notice them, and report them to a physician. Many forms of dermatitis are not serious and will only appear when an allergen or other harsh solution is introduced to the skin. Some types are constant, and can be treated, but will never be resolved completely.
Treatment for Skin Conditions:
Depending on the type of dermatitis you are diagnosed with, the treatment may be as simple as avoiding an irritant or allergen. Most are treated with a topical solution in the form of an ointment which includes medicinal properties, such as hydrocortisone cream. This will reduce symptoms, such as redness, itchiness, dryness, and patches of cracking or thickening skin.
If the symptoms of your dermatitis are caused by an infection, antibiotics or corticosteroid injections might be necessary. This is usually only required in cases of severe dermatitis, which cannot be resolved by other means.
Finally, for particular types of dermatitis, such as psoriasis of the scalp, seborrheic dermatitis, a special shampoo treatment may be prescribed. Many of these shampoos are available over the counter at a pharmacy or grocery store, and include some form of zinc or salicylic acid as an ingredient to treat the skin condition.
If you are still asking, "what is dermatitis?” or you are experiencing some of the above-mentioned symptoms, speak to your family doctor. Most forms of this condition are not contagious and can be treated effectively with topical solutions, or allergy medication.