Eczematous (allergic contact) dermatitis is a response of the human immune system to allergens, and the causative agent can be various components (chemical and biological) that regularly affect the skin. Initially occurs on open segments of the skin, which are most often exposed to external factors.
With a long course of the disease and continued contact with the causative factor, it can spread to other areas of the skin. A feature of the disease is that the body remembers the allergen, and during subsequent contacts with it, minimal doses of the allergen will be sufficient to develop an exacerbation of the disease.
Causes of Eczematous (Allergic Contact) Dermatitis
The main reason for the development of allergic dermatitis is considered to be prolonged exposure to the skin of substances that cause allergies – they can be jewelry, household chemicals, cosmetics, and medicines for external use.
The first signs of dermatitis do not appear immediately, but after a certain period of time after constant contact with the allergen, mainly after a couple of weeks. If the irritant is in the composition of an external agent, the reaction occurs a week later, after contact with potent chemicals, a couple of days later.
In addition to sources of allergies, other causes contributing to the development of eczematous dermatitis are possible:
- genetic factor;
- Weakened level of immunity;
- Diseases of the liver or gastrointestinal tract (gastrointestinal tract);
- Disrupted metabolism;
- Mental disorders, prolonged stress;
- Infectious chronic diseases, sluggish or latent course (caries, chronic tonsillitis / sinusitis);
- Working or living in adverse environmental conditions;
It is possible to develop dermatitis from contact with:
- Jewelry made of nickel, chromium, zinc, or alloys with these metals;
- Tools containing cobalt;
- Dentures, braces;
- Rubber or latex products (gloves, drainage);
- building materials; glue; plastic.
Symptoms of Eczematous (Allergic Contact) Dermatitis
Often, the development of eczematous (allergic contact) dermatitis can be detected at the sites of skin contact with an irritant.
Depending on the duration of the disease, allergic contact dermatitis is divided into stages, which are characterized by characteristic symptoms:
- Acute – there is redness and swelling of the skin, in areas in contact with the irritant. Small rashes may occur, represented by papules or vesicles (vesicles). Accompanied by itching.
- Subacute – rashes open, crusts form in their places, the skin peels off. Accompanied by itching.
- Chronic – the skin within the rash thickens, peeling is more pronounced. Perhaps the presence of subjective sensations in the form of itching.
Regardless of the stage of the disease, a number of characteristic symptoms have been identified:
- The skin in the places of development of dermatitis is inflamed – it acquires a scarlet hue, swollen or thickened;
- In the areas of localization of lesions, unpleasant sensations are noted – itching and burning;
- The presence of a rash – papules or vesicles (vesicles) with transparent contents;
- Weeping eroded segments of the skin, subsequently thickening of the tissues;
- When the disease subsides, dryness and peeling of the skin is noted;
Symptoms and manifestations of eczematous (allergic contact) dermatitis in the photo section.
Eczematous (allergic contact) dermatitis on the hands
The development of eczematous (allergic contact) dermatitis on the hands is the most common form of manifestation of the disease. In relation to other parts of the body, the hands are more vulnerable to external stimuli. The development of the disease begins with the phalanges of the fingers, painful cracks form, and weeping areas of dermatitis most often appear on the hands, which heal for a long time.
In the photo section, you can see how this dermatitis manifests itself on the hands.
Eczematous (allergic contact) dermatitis in children
The causes of allergic contact dermatitis in children do not differ from those in adults. By external manifestations, the disease may resemble atopic dermatitis (exudative diathesis, neurodermatitis).
How this dermatitis manifests itself in children, you can see in the photo section.
Treatment of eczematous dermatitis
Before starting treatment for eczematous (allergic contact) dermatitis, you need to undergo an examination to establish an accurate diagnosis, because. eczematous dermatitis has similar symptoms to eczema, atopic dermatitis and other skin pathologies.
For diagnosis use:
- Scraping detachable skin flakes – for microscopic examination and exclusion of a fungal infection.
- In rare cases, a histological examination may be performed to determine the type of dermatitis and exclude other skin diseases.
- General analysis of urine and blood – to identify concomitant diseases, for the same purpose, consultations of narrow specialists ( ENT , gastroenterologist) are shown.
- Analysis to identify the source of the allergy.
Having received the results of tests and studies, the doctor will make the correct diagnosis and prescribe a treatment regimen, taking into account the characteristics of the body.
Treatment of eczematous dermatitis involves an integrated approach:
- Exclusion and removal of allergens from the body;
- Identification and treatment of diseases that can provoke the development of dermatitis or an allergic reaction;
- Antihistamines and anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed to eliminate symptoms, relieve swelling and itching, drugs for local treatment, a daily regimen is shown, with a full 8-hour sleep.
Self-medication or ignoring the disease is unacceptable, the disease can cause complications and occupy a large area of the skin. Eczematous (allergic contact) dermatitis disappears in a short time, without serious health consequences, if the doctor’s recommendations are followed and the treatment is properly selected.
Treatment of eczematous (allergic contact) dermatitis with folk remedies
To alleviate the course of the disease, folk remedies can be used, alternative medicine has many recipes based on natural ingredients.
The possibility of their use should be discussed with the attending physician, only a specialist based on analyzes can advise any folk remedies in addition to the main treatment.
Treatment only with folk methods is ineffective, and can lead to negative consequences.
Treatment of eczematous (allergic contact) dermatitis with Losterin
Losterin line of products has proven itself well in the fight against various dermatitis . The preparations are aimed at daily skin care and prevention of skin diseases. Due to the balanced composition based on natural ingredients, they have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and regenerating properties, soften the skin and prevent peeling. They have no contraindications and are not addictive.
Designed for daily skin care for chronic skin diseases – psoriasis, eczema, atopic dermatitis .
Dermatological products of the Losterin line contain a balanced combination of active ingredients, specially selected for the most effective effect on the skin in complex care for various skin diseases.
Prevention of eczematous (allergic contact) dermatitis
To prevent the development of the disease will help the observance of preventive measures:
- Exclusion of jewelry made of metals that can provoke allergic reactions.
- Use of household chemicals or strong substances only with gloves.
- Selection of cosmetics taking into account the peculiarities of the skin, with the most natural ingredients;
- Avoid contact with known allergens in case of allergic reactions.
- Observe the rules of personal hygiene.
To alleviate the course of the disease, you should:
- After taking a shower or bath, wipe the skin dry.
- Apply dressings to areas of skin affected by dermatitis.
- Do not interrupt the prescribed treatment regimen.
By following the practical advice and prescriptions of the doctor, the treatment will be faster, and the possibility of relapse will decrease.
Diet for eczematous dermatitis
Patients with eczematous dermatitis are not recommended to eat:
- Citrus;
- Honey;
- Nuts;
- Alcohol
- Seafood;
- Seasonings and smoked meats;
- Spicy and fried food.
- Greens, fruits and vegetables of white and green varieties, cereals, dietary meat, dairy products are allowed.
By adhering to the rules of a healthy diet and adjusting the diet, the treatment becomes more effective, and its course is easy.