Dermatitis is a kind of skin inflammation that involves itchy skin, swollen and reddened skin and often exudes water, scaling and scabbing. In contrast to common belief, dermatitis is not contagious nor it is life threatening, but it is certainly uncomfortable self conscious and embarrassing.
Dermatitis can be broadly categorized into two types, irritant dermatitis and allergic dermatitis. The first type is caused by certain substances that irritate the skin, such as chemicals, certain soaps, detergents, solvents, alkalis, certain types of fruits, pollen grains, flowers and vegetables and so on, and the other type is, when the person is affected whenever he or she comes into contact with certain allergens like glue, adhesive tape, varnish, polish, cosmetic creams, soaps, rubber materials and so on. This occurs irrespective of the quantity or time of contact.
The former type is more often likely to occur than the latter type. Both men and women are affected by dermatitis and those above the age of 40 or 45 are more prone to dermatitis. Although the actual causes of dermatitis are still unclear, there are many theories prevailing, of which, hereditary, mental and physical stress are cited.
Dermatitis can affect almost all parts of the body but mainly the skin, face, chest, and creases of the arms, groins and legs. Generally, the hands and feet are more vulnerable to dermatitis as the hands come into direct contact with allergens and the feet are moist, created by socks and shoes. Dermatitis can be either chronic or acute.
Irritant dermatitis is normally confined to the area of contact and does not spread to a wider area, but in allergic contact dermatitis, the allergen causes the condition and may spread to other areas since the internal reaction triggers it. The symptoms of dermatitis may vary from one person to another, although commonly, people suffer from itching, swelling, blistering scaling and redness of the skin.
A biopsy or patch test confirms the ailment and if it is found to be present, it has to be treated in time so that it does not spread to other parts of the body. Dermatitis can be treated by frequent bathing and if water is the reason for the disease, the frequency of bathing has to be reduced. A mild cleanser that is free from soap can be used instead of the standard soap. Soft, smooth, cool, pure cotton or linen clothes can be worn. Anti inflammatory creams can be applied for atopic dermatitis. Anti histamine tablets help to reduce the irritation and itching at night.
Dermatitis can be prevented to some extent by moisturizing the skin and taking proper care of the skin. Irritants that cause the disease have to be avoided. But it is very crucial to avoid alcohol and tobacco as both are found to aggravate the condition of those suffering from the disease.
By changing the lifestyle to a healthier and cleaner one, it is possible to prevent dermatitis. But the treatment has to be decided only by the doctor and it is advisable to contact a specialist before deciding on the course of treatment.
