Atopic dermatitis is a common skin condition. It causes red, itchy skin and tends to flare up periodically. Some people who have this condition also have hay fever or asthma.

What exactly is atopic dermatitis? Is there a cure or treatment? Here some information for those suffering from irritating skin issues.

What Is Atopic Dermatitis?

Dermatitis, like atopic dermatitis and eczema, is considered a disease group. These conditions cause skin inflammation and other symptoms such as:

• Itchiness
• Rashes
• Skin redness
• Small blisters
• Thickened skin

The itching and scratching can also lead to a secondary infection.

What Causes Atopic Dermatitis?

Dry skin is the most common trigger for atopic dermatitis. However, they are other triggers depending on the person, including:

• Irritants
• Stress
• Heat
• Sweat
• Allergies

Sufferers need to keep a note of triggers and symptoms. And keep in mind, while triggers make symptoms worse, they are not necessarily the underlying cause of the condition. Studies show that mutations in skin barrier genes cause the condition, and it is hereditary.

Is There A Cure For Atopic Dermatitis?

There is no cure for this disease. However, in some cases, children with atopic dermatitis can outgrow it. Those who don't tend to have flare-ups throughout their life.

While there is no cure, treatment options are depending on the severity of the condition. Those with mild cases find relief using moisturizers and topical steroids when flare-ups occur.

Other treatment options include:

• Antihistamines
• Bandages that allow the skin to heal
• Dietary changes

If these treatments don't work, your doctor may refer you to a dermatologist for treatment. Some prescription treatment options include the use of corticosteroids. The dermatologist can decide if a patient requires mild, moderate, strong, or very strong topical treatment based on symptoms.

Determining the cause and best course of treatment for this condition can be tricky because it is complex. This underlying cause can range from immune response and skin barrier dysfunction to environmental factors.

Because of this complexity, it is best for those suffering long-term or numerous flares to seek medical attention for assistance. Taking time to discover the underlying cause can go a long way in helping a patient make the necessary lifestyle or dietary changes necessary to relieve symptom severity.

Medications are also used to help control symptoms and ease suffering. Without proper treatment, secondary skin infections are possible. Overall, it's in the patient's best interest to seek professional help for recurring flares. Contact a doctor for atopic dermatitis information.