Dermatitis, or skin inflammation, can be caused by various factors including allergies to chemicals, materials, or even genetics. Contact dermatitis is the most common type, while other types can be a symptom of other medical conditions. Treatment depends on the severity and cause of the condition.
There are many different causes of dermatitis, which is broadly defined as inflammation of the skin. Most of the time, rashes and itching are caused by an allergic reaction to something, but the specific cause of the allergic response can vary greatly from person to person. Some of the more common allergens that can cause a bad reaction include chemicals in laundry soap or cleaning products, makeup, perfume, moisturizer, and materials like rubber or metal. Dermatitis can also be a symptom of another medical condition or a result of the environment in which the person suffering from dermatitis lives.
Contact dermatitis is one of the most common types of the condition, accounting for approximately 80% of all occurrences. It happens when a substance irritates the skin upon contact with it. It can be caused by allergies, because the substance includes an extremely caustic chemical such as acetone or kerosene, or because the substance is just hard on soft skin. Even a rough woolen sweater can cause dermatitis.
Dermatitis is sometimes caused by other diseases as well. Gastrointestinal problems can cause dermatitis: A type called dermatitis herpetiformis is a direct result of celiac disease, for example. Similarly, seborrheic dermatitis, characterized by scaly skin on the head and torso, is a symptom of Parkinson’s disease. It also affects a large percentage of people with AIDS.
Although many causes of dermatitis are external sources, skin inflammation can also be the result of things beyond the sufferer’s control. A person’s genetics can determine whether or not they are prone to dermatitis; a damaged immune system can also increase the likelihood. While stress hasn’t been proven to be a cause of dermatitis, studies have shown that it can make an existing condition worse.
How dermatitis should be treated usually depends on the cause and severity of the problem. Natural remedies for dry itchy skin include moisturizing with a fragrance-free lotion, avoiding foods or materials that might cause a bad reaction, or participating in a relaxing activity like yoga or meditation. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams may also be effective in soothing and treating mild to moderate dermatitis. Severe cases involving blisters, pustules, open sores, or cracks in the skin will likely require a trip to the doctor to get a prescription for an antihistamine, steroid cream, oral antibiotic, or even exposure to ultraviolet light as part of phototherapy.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
