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Dermatitis FAQ

Dermatitis FAQ

I'm not sure what kind of dermatitis it is, but I have rashes. Should I see a doctor?

Rashes can be a result of many things. Dermatitis is simply a very general term that is used to describe a non-contagious skin problem that results in redness, swelling, itching, and lesions on the skin. If you are not sure what your skin problem is, we always suggest that you take the time to visit a family doctor, and get a diagnosis.

My 7 year old daughter suffers from atopic dermatitis. I've heard that kids outgrow this condition. When will it go away?

It is true that the majority of children with atopic dermatitis will see a major improvement in their symptoms at a certain age. How the skin problem progresses is unpredictable, however. At this time, consider it to be a chronic skin problem, and focus on proper management and maintenance.

  • Use moisturizers on a regular basis
  • Do not use bathe too frequently or use very hot water as it drains the moisture from the skin
  • Control flare-ups quickly with prescribed medication
  • Try to refrain from scratching as much as possible as it worsens the condition, making the area itchier, creating a self-enforcing cycle. This is also why it is important to use medications to control any flares at an early stage.

I seem to be allergic to nickel, as I seem to get these red rashes a day or two after wearing certain clothes or jewellery. Is there any way to get rid of this allergy?

Allergic contact dermatitis can be difficult to diagnose as it also coincides with symptoms of irritant contact dermatitis, and the source of the rash can be difficult to pinpoint. The first step is to visit a dermatologist and identify the problem. As you suspect that you may have a nickel-based allergy, let the doctor know this. An allergist may also help pinpoint what, if any allergy that you may have. If you are, in fact, allergic to nickel, unfortunately the best solution is to avoid contact with it as much as possible, as there are no cures to allergies at this time.

I've been having problems with seborrheic dermatitis that keeps recurring in the winter. What can I do?

Seborrheic dermatitis can be a semi-chronic condition that is sensitive to small changes like stress or climate change. If it recurs in the winter, it may be that the dry or cool climate has an effect on your scalp. There may not be a lot that can be done to prevent flares however. It does help, however, to control the flares as soon as possible. Generally, if you treat it early, the flare will subside faster than waiting.

How can I tell the difference between perioral dermatitis and acne?

As a general rule, acne can affect anywhere on the face while perioral dermatitis is confined to the lip and chin area. However, if this is the first time you have had rashes around the mouth, don't bother guessing, and visit your family doctor or a dermatologist. It could be a lot of conditions, although acne would be statistically be the most likely if you only have rashes. Sometimes these conditions can have similar symptoms and it can be difficult even for doctors to diagnose by sight alone.

 
     
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