In this video, Dr. Priyanka Kuri, Consultant - Dermatology, provides an overview of atopic dermatitis, a common skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It discusses the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for this condition.
What is Atopic Dermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic skin condition that affects people of all ages. It is characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. The video explains that atopic dermatitis is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including a deficiency of filaggrin, a protein that helps maintain the skin's barrier function.
Symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis
- Dry, itchy skin
- Red, inflamed patches
- Small, raised bumps
- Thickened, cracked, or scaly skin
Atopic dermatitis often occurs in people with allergies, such as allergic rhinitis and asthma.
Treatment for Atopic Dermatitis
The mainstays of treatment for atopic dermatitis are moisturizers and topical corticosteroids. Moisturizers help restore the skin's barrier function and prevent further dryness and irritation. Topical corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medications that help reduce inflammation and itching.
Dr. Priyanka also provides several home care tips for managing atopic dermatitis, including:
- Clothing: Wear soft, breathable fabrics like cotton. Avoid wool and synthetic fibers.
- Bathing: Use lukewarm water and gentle, fragrance-free cleansers. Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing.
- Humidifiers: Using a humidifier can help add moisture to the air and prevent skin dryness.
- Avoid irritants: Identify and avoid substances that trigger eczema flare-ups.
- Oatmeal baths: Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe itchy skin.
Consult the Department of Dermatology at Aster Whitefield Hospital for proper diagnosis and treatment of atopic dermatitis.
To book an appointment, contact us at 080-4510 8888.
