The hallmark symptom of dermatitis, which essentially means the inflammation of the skin, is red, scaly, and itchy patches of skin. Dermatitis comes in a number of forms, and the symptoms of dermatitis differ based on the type of dermatitis one is affected with.
Atopic Dermatitis
Also known as eczema, atopic dermatitis primarily results in severe and stubborn redness and itching on parts of the skin. Though, in many cases, addressing the dryness of the skin can also relieve the itching associated with atopic dermatitis.
Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis can either be a result of direct physical contact with an allergen or irritant, causing inflamed, itchy rashes only on the parts of the skin that have gotten in contact with a trigger substance. Contact dermatitis has two subtypes: irritant contact dermatitis (direct exposure to an environmental irritant) and allergic contact dermatitis (caused by an allergic reaction).
Seborrheic Dermatitis
This type of dermatitis leads to the formation of oily, off-white flakes on the scalp and face–essentially the oil-releasing parts of the body. Seborrheic dermatitis is known as cradle cap when it affects an infant.
Nummular Dermatitis
Nummular dermatitis appears as inflamed, flaky, and itchy plaques of skin that can also ooze fluid and crust over. This type of dermatitis most commonly affects individuals with naturally dry skin or those who reside in dry climates.
Stasis Dermatitis
Stasis dermatitis causes inflammation and flaking below the knees, which can sometimes result in fissures or open sores in the legs or ankles.
When to See a Doctor About Dermatitis
If the affected areas of your skin become pus-filled, swollen, and extremely sore with a yellowish crust, this can point to an infection, which requires the use of antibiotics.
If self-care home remedies and over-the-counter medicines prove ineffective in improving your symptoms, you must seek medical advice and a more potent treatment method.
Getting in contact with an individual carrying herpes simplex virus during an atopic dermatitis outbreak can put you at a higher risk of catching the viral infection yourself. So it is important to consult a doctor to get your symptoms under control.
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