What Is Atopic Dermatitis?
Atopic Dermatitis is a skin condition that is more commonly referred to as eczema. This condition causes itchy, dry patches on the skin that can become inflamed. It is a long-term chronic condition that most commonly begins during childhood but can happen at any age. Symptoms of atopic dermatitis can include dry skin, cracked skin, itchy skin, rash, raised bumps, thickened skin, or scaling. This condition can occur in flares, and many will experience clear skin for some time before flaring up again.
What Causes Atopic Dermatitis?
Someone is more likely to have atopic dermatitis if one or both of their parents have the condition. Flare-ups of atopic dermatitis usually occur as a result of environmental factors, irritants, allergens, hormonal changes, or medical conditions. Having naturally dry skin also makes you more susceptible to an eczema breakout. Some things that may trigger your eczema include:
- Environmental Factors: cold or dry weather, dampness, mold, pollen, or dust mites
- Allergens: food allergies, seasonal allergies, or allergies to animals
- Irritants: soaps, detergents, shampoos, fragrances, or textiles like wool
- Hormonal Changes: pregnancy, menstruation, or puberty.
- Medications: Statins, Chemotherapy, Immunosuppressives
Symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, typically presents with symptoms such as dry, itchy, and inflamed skin, often accompanied by redness, swelling, and small bumps that may ooze or crust over when scratched. In more severe cases, eczema can cause skin thickening, scaling, and even painful cracks. Additionally, eczema can lead to skin discoloration and may cause prolonged discomfort or distress, which can significantly affect an individual’s quality of life.
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Have questions or want to schedule an appointment? Contact us today to speak with a member of the Snyder Dermatology team. We’re here to address your concerns with compassionate and effective care.
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Snyder Dermatology is the premier practice for medical and cosmetic dermatology in Austin, TX. Centrally located, our dynamic team of board certified dermatologists focus on providing patients with the most advanced medical care and treatment options. Our practice is distinguished by our compassion, our desire to fully understand our patients’ needs, and our commitment to being good stewards in the communities where we live and work.
How To Treat Atopic Dermatitis?
There is no cure for atopic dermatitis or eczema, but treatment is available to help ease symptoms. Those who have been diagnosed as children may find that their eczema naturally improves as they age. The main treatments for atopic dermatitis include the use of daily moisturizers and topical corticosteroid creams and ointments. The moisturizer combats and prevents dryness, while the steroids reduce redness and swelling. Other treatments include topical calcineurin inhibitors, antihistamines, wet wraps, and phototherapy. In severe cases of eczema that do not respond to other treatments, systemic medications such as oral corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or biologic agents may be prescribed, at our office.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are seeking relief from eczema symptoms like itching, dryness, or cracking skin, Snyder Dermatology offers treatments that can help restore your quality of life. Schedule a consultation today for a skin examination. To get in touch with a member of our team, please call us at (512) 533-9900. Snyder Dermatology services the areas of Austin, Downtown Austin, and West Lake Hills, TX.