Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)-Topic Overview

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) - Topic Overview

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) Guide

• Topic Overview
• Health Tools
• Cause
• Symptoms
• What Happens
• What Increases Your Risk
• When To Call a Doctor
• Exams and Tests
• Treatment Overview
• Prevention
• Home Treatment
• Medications
• Other Treatment
• Other Places To Get Help
• Related Information
• References
• Credits

Mild atopic dermatitis can be treated at home.

• Moisturize often to treat and prevent dry skin. Thicker creams and ointments, like petroleum jelly, work better than thinner lotions.
• Avoid things that trigger rashes, such as harsh soaps and detergents, dander, and any other things you are allergic to.
• Control scratching. You may want to cover the rash with a bandage to keep from rubbing it.
  • Putting mittens or cotton socks on your baby's hands may prevent him or her from scratching.
  • Wearing cotton gloves at night may help older children and adults. (Moisturize hands first before putting on the gloves.)
• Use medicine prescribed by your doctor.
• Bathe with lukewarm or warm (not hot) water. Soak for about 10 minutes. Use soap or shampoo at the end so that you aren't sitting in soapy water.

But if your symptoms are bothering you and aren't getting better, see your doctor. Getting medical treatment early may keep your symptoms from getting worse.

In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe pills or give you a shot to stop the itching. Or you may get ultraviolet (UV) light treatment at a clinic or doctor's office.

Learning about atopic dermatitis:	What is atopic dermatitis? What causes it? Can I prevent it? What are the symptoms? What happens in atopic dermatitis? What increases my risk for getting it? Who is affected by atopic dermatitis?
Being diagnosed:	Who can diagnose atopic dermatitis? How is it diagnosed?
Getting treatment:	How is atopic dermatitis treated? What medicines will I need to take?
Living with atopic dermatitis:	What can I do to treat atopic dermatitis at home? When should I call my doctor? How often will I need to see my doctor? How can I take care of my skin?