Posted: May 1st, 2024
Dermatitis Management
Dermatitis Management
Dermatitis is a common skin condition that causes inflammation, itching, and dryness. It can be classified by its cause, appearance, or location. Dermatitis can be acute, chronic, or subacute, depending on the duration and severity of the symptoms.
The management of dermatitis depends on the type and cause of the condition. Some general principles are:
– Emollients: These are moisturizers that help to hydrate and protect the skin barrier. They should be applied regularly, especially after bathing or washing. They can also help to reduce itching and scratching.
– Antipruritic cooling lotions: These are lotions that contain menthol or camphor, which have a cooling and soothing effect on the skin. They can be applied to the affected areas as needed.
– Topical steroids: These are creams or ointments that contain corticosteroids, which are anti-inflammatory agents that reduce swelling, redness, and itching. They should be used for short courses or intermittently for flare-ups, as directed by a doctor. They should not be used for long periods or on large areas of skin, as they can cause side effects such as thinning of the skin, infections, or hormonal imbalances.
– Coal tar, ichthammol or zinc paste: These are topical preparations that have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and keratolytic properties. They can help to treat dermatitis that is infected, inflamed, or scaly. They should be applied sparingly and washed off after a few hours, as they can stain clothing and skin.
– Topical calcineurin inhibitors: These are creams or ointments that contain tacrolimus or pimecrolimus, which are immunomodulators that suppress the immune system’s response to allergens or irritants. They can help to treat dermatitis that is resistant to topical steroids or that affects sensitive areas such as the face or genitals. They should be used with caution, as they can cause burning, stinging, or increased sensitivity to sunlight.
– Oral antibiotics: These are pills that contain antibiotics, which are drugs that kill bacteria. They can help to treat dermatitis that is complicated by bacterial infection. They should be taken as prescribed by a doctor, and completed even if the symptoms improve.
The treatment of dermatitis also involves identifying and avoiding the triggers that cause or worsen the condition. These may include allergens (such as nickel, hair dye, rubber, or perfumes), irritants (such as soap, detergent, or chemicals), environmental factors (such as heat, cold, or humidity), or psychological factors (such as stress or anxiety).
Dermatitis is not contagious, but it can affect the quality of life of the affected person. Therefore, it is important to seek medical advice and follow the recommended treatment plan.
References:
– Dermatitis – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Retrieved January 9, 2024 from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dermatitis-eczema/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352386
– Dermatitis: Types and treatments — DermNet NZ. (n.d.). Retrieved January 9, 2024 from https://dermnetnz.org/topics/dermatitis
– Dermatitis. Overview | DermNet NZ. (n.d.). Retrieved January 9, 2024 from https://dermnetnz.org/cme/dermatitis/dermatitis-overview
– Dermatitis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Retrieved January 9, 2024 from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dermatitis-eczema/symptoms-causes/syc-20352380
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