Presents as an inflammatory, relapsing, non-contagious, and itchy skin disorder. People with AD often have dry and scaly skin that spans the entire body, and intensely itchy, red, splotchy, raised lesions to form in the bends of the arms or legs, face, and neck. Itchy rash is particularly noticeable on the head, neck, inside of elbows, behind knees, and buttocks. If one of the parents is atopic, the risk of the child being atopic is most likely. The term “atopy” refers to a number of diseases, such as eczema, asthma, and seasonal rhino-conjunctivitis.
Some useful tips for atopic patients by Dr. Sidharth Oswal –
- Clothing should be soft next to the skin. Cotton is comfortable and can be layered in the winter. Wool products should be avoided on direct skin.
- Clothes should be washed in a mild detergent with no bleach or fabric softener.
- Certain foods can trigger flare-ups in sensitive children. The main foods are cow’s milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat flour, fish, shrimp, Kiwi, nuts, and sesame.
- Depending on the climate, patients usually benefit from lukewarm baths followed by the application of a moisturizer such as white petrolatum. The oil keeps the water on the skin and prevents evaporation to the outside environment and seals in moisture.
- Flares may be associated with seasonal changes, stress, activity, throat infection, or contact allergy.
- A child who suffers from atopic eczema can swim, but chlorine and salt may irritate his or her skin. After swimming, the child should rinse off, dry (without rubbing), and apply a moisturizing cream to the entire body.
- Can play sports, however, sweat causes scratching.
- The house must be vacuumed at least three times per week.
