Currently, the AAFA reports that about 7.3% of adults in the United States are afflicted with atopic dermatitis—that’s over 24,000,000 people. Atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema, is an inflammatory disease that results in the irritation of the epidermal layer. Though eczema is a result of immune deficiency, its exact causes are unknown and likely vary from patient to patient. The immune system lacks proper balance in the human body and thereby attacks cells beneath the skin, viewing them as foreign to the bodily system. This attack of the immune system results in patchy skin and rashes manifesting on the patient’s body. Other symptoms include rough patches of red skin that bleed when scratched or release clear fluid and the hardening of parts of the skin. People with atopic dermatitis are also likely to develop other associated conditions including asthma, allergies, other skin diseases, depression, anxiety, and sleep loss.
Scientists and doctors believe that mutations in the genome may also cause eczema, and that it is in fact hereditary. Recently, scientists have found a protein linked to the retention of water in the skin, and when downregulated, can be detrimental to the body. Atopic dermatitis may also result from exposure to especially dry or hot environments. All of these factors result in the depletion of moisture from the skin and the characteristic symptoms of rashy red skin.
Though people of all ages can get atopic dermatitis, it is most common in young children and teenagers and is known to phase out as patients get older. Infants are likely to get atopic dermatitis on their face, scalp, and joints; children are likely to get dermatitis on their elbows, knees, neck, and ankles; teenagers are likely to get dermatitis on their hands, neck, elbows, knees, feet, ankles, feet.
Though atopic dermatitis has no cure, its symptoms can still be managed. If you have atopic dermatitis, the first step is to see a dermatologist. Depending on the severity of your rash, they can prescribe you with oral or topical steroids that will help to combat the irritation of the immune system. Additionally, general steps to take care of the skin are also important, including constant moisture. In some extreme cases, light therapy, the use of ultraviolet rays to penetrate the skin, can also be prescribed by a doctor. These can help patients lead healthier and better lives.
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