What is dermatitis?

Dermatitis is a term used to describe a variety of skin disorders which leads to inflammation. Atopic dermatitis (eczema), contact dermatitis, and seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff) all are examples of dermatitis. Red rashes, dry skin, and itching are some of the symptoms of these disorders. Dermatitis can be treated by either a primary care physician or a dermatologist. Let us understand what is dermatitis, its symptoms, causes as well as treatments?  

What is dermatitis?

The components "derm" and "itis" signify "skin" and "inflammation," respectively, thus together make "dermatitis" means "skin inflammation”. Dermatitis as such does not affect the infected person’s health in any way. The rashes can range from moderate to severe. Depending on the cause, they can create several issues. It's not contagious, and it's not an indication that your skin is dirty or sick. There are several treatments and drugs available to help you manage your symptoms.

Symptoms

Dermatitis is a term that refers to a variety of skin irritations and rashes caused by a variety of factors including, genetics, a hyperactive immune system, infections, allergies, irritating chemicals, and more. Different forms of dermatitis affects the different areas of the body. The following are possible signs and symptoms:

•    Itchy skin
•    Dry skin
•    Rash or swollen skin
•    Blisters
•    Skin flaking (dandruff)
•    Bumps in hair follicles

What are the causes of dermatitis?

Dermatitis has a variety of reasons, depending on the kind. A combination of immune system activity, genetics, and environmental factors cause dermatitis. The following are some of the most common causes for dermatitis flare-ups:

•    Immune system: The immune system is the body's defense mechanism. Your immune system can sometimes overreact. Your immune system reacts to irritants or allergens if you have atopic dermatitis.

•    Genetics: If someone in your family has dermatitis, you're more likely to have it as well.

•    Environment: Your immune system may alter your skin's protective barrier because of your surroundings. Exposure to tobacco smoking and air pollution are examples of possible environmental causes.

•    Chemical Exposure: Exposure to chemicals and other irritants can induce some kinds of dermatitis. Exposure to fluoride in water or toothpaste, for example, can create perioral dermatitis.

What is the treatment for dermatitis?

While dermatitis is hardly life-threatening, scratching too hard or too often can result in open sores and infections. Though infections can spread because of dermatitis, they never become life-threatening. Treatment can help you avoid or control bursts. It may take some time to find the correct treatment, but it is possible.

Note: The purpose of this article is to create general awareness among the readers. The information provided is not meant to be used for self-diagnosis or as a substitute to medical practitioner's recommendations. In case you find above stated symptoms in you or your known, Kindly consult a physician or a specialist regarding diagnosis and treatment.

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