What are the circular patches on skin that cause itching and discomfort. How to identify discoid eczema and distinguish it from other skin conditions. What treatments are available for managing discoid eczema effectively.

Understanding Discoid Eczema: A Comprehensive Overview

Discoid eczema, also known as nummular or discoid dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by distinctive circular or oval patches on the skin. These patches can be itchy, reddened, swollen, and cracked, causing significant discomfort to those affected. While the exact cause remains unknown, various factors contribute to its development and exacerbation.

Key Characteristics of Discoid Eczema

• Circular or oval patches
• Itchy and sometimes painful
• Can affect any part of the body, except face and scalp
• May start as small red spots or bumps
• Patches can range from a few millimeters to several centimeters

Understanding the unique features of discoid eczema is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Can discoid eczema be mistaken for other skin conditions? Yes, it can sometimes be confused with ringworm due to its circular appearance, especially when the center of the patch clears, leaving a ring of discolored skin.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Discoid Eczema

Identifying the symptoms of discoid eczema is the first step towards seeking appropriate treatment. The condition manifests in several stages, each with distinct characteristics.

Initial Stage: Formation of Patches

In the early stages, discoid eczema presents as:

• Groups of small red spots or bumps
• Spots merge to form larger patches
• Patches can be pink, red, or brown
• Often swollen and blistered
• May ooze fluid

Progression: Dryness and Flaking

As the condition progresses, the affected areas may become:

• Dry and crusty
• Cracked and flaky
• Extremely itchy, particularly at night

Is it possible to have only one patch of discoid eczema? While some individuals may experience a single patch, most people develop several patches. The skin between these patches often becomes dry as well.

Potential Complications: When Discoid Eczema Becomes Infected

In some cases, patches of discoid eczema can become infected, leading to additional symptoms and complications. Recognizing the signs of infection is crucial for timely intervention.

Signs of Infected Discoid Eczema

• Excessive fluid oozing from patches
• Development of a yellow crust
• Redness, heat, swelling, and tenderness around patches
• Systemic symptoms like fever, chills, and general malaise

When should you seek medical advice for discoid eczema? It’s important to consult a healthcare professional if you suspect you have discoid eczema or if you notice signs of infection. Early intervention can prevent complications and provide relief from symptoms.

Unraveling the Causes of Discoid Eczema

While the exact cause of discoid eczema remains elusive, several factors are believed to contribute to its development and exacerbation.

Primary Factors

• Dry skin: Compromises the skin’s barrier function
• Contact dermatitis: May play a role in some cases
• History of atopic eczema: Some individuals with discoid eczema have a history of atopic conditions

Potential Triggers

• Minor skin injuries (e.g., insect bites, burns)
• Certain medications (interferon, ribavirin, TNF-alpha blockers, statins)
• Environmental factors (dry environments, cold climates)

Does discoid eczema run in families? Unlike atopic eczema, discoid eczema does not appear to have a strong genetic component. However, individuals with a history of atopic conditions may be more susceptible.

Diagnosing Discoid Eczema: The Path to Proper Treatment

Accurate diagnosis of discoid eczema is crucial for effective management. Healthcare professionals employ various methods to confirm the condition and rule out other possibilities.

Diagnostic Approach

1. Physical examination: Visual inspection of affected areas
2. Medical history: Discussion of symptoms and potential triggers
3. Differential diagnosis: Ruling out other skin conditions
4. Patch testing: May be recommended in some cases

In some instances, a dermatologist referral may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis or specialized testing. How long does it take to diagnose discoid eczema? In many cases, a healthcare provider can diagnose discoid eczema through a physical examination alone. However, additional tests may be required if the diagnosis is uncertain.

Effective Treatment Strategies for Discoid Eczema

While discoid eczema is often a chronic condition, various treatment options can help manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups. A comprehensive approach typically involves a combination of medications and self-care practices.

Medication Options

• Emollients: Moisturizers to prevent skin dryness
• Topical corticosteroids: Ointments and creams to reduce inflammation
• Antihistamines: Oral medications to relieve itching and improve sleep
• Antibiotics: Prescribed in cases of infection

Self-Care Measures

• Avoiding irritants in soaps, detergents, and cosmetics
• Maintaining proper skin hygiene
• Using gentle, fragrance-free products
• Keeping skin moisturized

Can discoid eczema be cured completely? While there is no definitive cure for discoid eczema, proper management can significantly reduce symptoms and prevent recurrence. Consistent treatment and avoiding triggers are key to long-term control.

Living with Discoid Eczema: Long-Term Management and Outlook

Discoid eczema is often a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Understanding the long-term implications and adopting strategies for daily living can greatly improve quality of life for those affected.

Long-Term Considerations

• Potential for recurrence, often in previously affected areas
• Possibility of permanent skin discoloration after healing
• Need for consistent skincare routine
• Importance of identifying and avoiding triggers

Coping Strategies

1. Educate yourself about the condition
2. Develop a personalized skincare routine
3. Manage stress through relaxation techniques
4. Seek support from healthcare providers and support groups
5. Monitor symptoms and adjust treatment as needed

How does discoid eczema impact daily life? The condition can affect various aspects of daily living, including sleep, clothing choices, and social interactions. However, with proper management and coping strategies, many individuals with discoid eczema lead fulfilling lives with minimal disruption.

Discoid Eczema vs. Other Skin Conditions: Differential Diagnosis

Distinguishing discoid eczema from other skin conditions is crucial for appropriate treatment. Several conditions can present with similar symptoms, making accurate diagnosis challenging at times.

Common Conditions to Consider

• Ringworm: Fungal infection with circular patches
• Psoriasis: Chronic condition causing red, scaly patches
• Contact dermatitis: Skin reaction to irritants or allergens
• Atopic eczema: Chronic, itchy inflammation of the skin

Key Differentiating Factors

1. Shape and distribution of patches
2. Presence or absence of scaling
3. Associated symptoms (e.g., itching, pain)
4. Response to treatment
5. Patient history and risk factors

Why is differential diagnosis important in skin conditions? Accurate diagnosis ensures that patients receive the most appropriate treatment, avoiding potential complications from misdiagnosis or inappropriate interventions. Healthcare providers may use various diagnostic tools, including skin scrapings, biopsies, or blood tests, to confirm the diagnosis when necessary.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Discoid Eczema Treatment

As our understanding of discoid eczema evolves, researchers continue to explore new treatment options and management strategies. These advancements hold promise for improved outcomes and quality of life for those affected by the condition.

Areas of Active Research

• Novel topical treatments with fewer side effects
• Biologic therapies targeting specific immune pathways
• Microbiome-based interventions
• Personalized medicine approaches

Potential Future Developments

1. Advanced diagnostic tools for early detection
2. Targeted therapies based on genetic profiles
3. Improved barrier repair technologies
4. Integrative approaches combining conventional and alternative therapies

How might future treatments change the landscape of discoid eczema management? As research progresses, we may see more effective, personalized treatments with fewer side effects. These advancements could lead to better symptom control, reduced recurrence rates, and improved overall outcomes for individuals with discoid eczema.

In conclusion, discoid eczema is a complex skin condition that requires a multifaceted approach to diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management. By understanding its unique characteristics, recognizing symptoms early, and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals with discoid eczema can effectively manage their condition and maintain a good quality of life. As research continues to uncover new insights and treatment options, the future holds promise for even better outcomes in the management of this challenging skin condition.

Discoid eczema | nidirect

Discoid eczema, also known as nummular or discoid dermatitis, is a long-term skin condition. It causes skin to become itchy, reddened, swollen and cracked in circular or oval patches. See your pharmacist or GP if you think you may have discoid eczema so they can recommend a suitable treatment.

Symptoms of discoid eczema

Circular or oval patches of eczema

Circular or oval patches of eczema can affect any part of the body, although they don’t usually affect the face or scalp.

They start as a group of small red spots or bumps on the skin which join up to form larger pink, red or brown patches that can range from a few millimetres to several centimetres in size.

Blistering

At first, these patches of eczema are often swollen, blistered (covered with small fluid-filled pockets) and ooze fluid.

Itchiness and pain

The patches also tend to be very itchy, particularly at night.

Dry, crusty, cracked and flaky skin patches

Over time, the patches may become dry, crusty, cracked and flaky. the centre of the patch also sometimes clears, leaving a ring of discoloured skin that can be mistaken for ringworm.

Discoid eczema causes circular or oval patches of eczema on the skin

You may just have one patch of discoid eczema, but most people get several patches. The skin between the patches is often dry.

Patches of discoid eczema can sometimes become infected.

Signs of an infection can include:

• the patches oozing a lot of fluid
• a yellow crust developing over the patches
• the skin around the patches becoming red, hot, swollen, and tender or painful
• feeling sick
• chills
• feeling unwell

When to get medical advice

See your pharmacist or GP if you think you may have discoid eczema so they can recommend a suitable treatment.

You should also seek medical advice if you think your skin may be infected. You may need treatment.

Your GP should be able to make a diagnosis just by examining the affected areas of skin. In some cases they may also ask questions or arrange some tests to rule out other conditions.

Your GP may refer you to a dermatologist (a doctor who specialises in managing skin conditions) if they’re unsure of the diagnosis or if you need patch testing.

Causes of discoid eczema

The cause of discoid eczema is unknown, although it may occur as a result of having particularly dry skin.

Dry skin means your skin can’t provide an effective barrier against substances that come into contact with it. This could allow a previously harmless substance, such as soap, to irritate (damage) your skin.

It’s important to look carefully at all the chemicals in cosmetics and toiletries that may have come into contact with your skin. Contact dermatitis, a type of eczema caused by coming into contact with a particular irritant, may have a role in discoid eczema.

Some people with discoid eczema also have a history of atopic eczema, which often occurs in people who are prone to asthma and hay fever. However, unlike atopic eczema, discoid eczema doesn’t seem to run in families.

Other possible triggers

An outbreak of discoid eczema may sometimes be triggered by a minor skin injury, such as an insect bite or a burn.

Some medicines may also be associated with discoid eczema, as patches of eczema can appear in people taking:

• interferon and ribavirin – when they’re used together to treat hepatitis C 
• tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) blockers – used to treat some types of arthritis
• statins (cholesterol-lowering medication) – which can cause dry skin and rashes

Dry environments and cold climates can make discoid eczema worse, and sunny or humid (damp) environments may make your symptoms better.

Treating discoid eczema

Discoid eczema is usually a long-term problem. But medications are available to help relieve the symptoms and keep the condition under control.

Without treatment, discoid eczema can last for weeks, months or even years. It may also keep recurring – often in the same area that was affected previously.

Treatments used include:

• emollients – moisturisers applied to the skin to stop it becoming dry
• topical corticosteroids – ointments and creams applied to the skin that can help relieve severe symptoms
• antihistamines – medications that can reduce itching and help you sleep better

There are also things you can do yourself to help, such as avoiding all the irritating chemicals in soaps, detergents, bubble baths and shower gels.

Additional medication can be prescribed if your eczema is infected or particularly severe.

Occasionally, areas of skin affected by discoid eczema can be left permanently discoloured after the condition has cleared up.

Other types of eczema

Eczema is the name for a group of skin conditions that cause dry, irritated skin. Other types of eczema include:

• atopic eczema (also called atopic dermatitis) – the most common type of eczema, it often runs in families and is linked to other conditions such as asthma and hay fever
• contact dermatitis – a type of eczema that occurs when the body comes into contact with a particular substance
• varicose eczema – a type of eczema that most often affects the lower legs and is caused by problems with the flow of blood through the leg veins

• Discoid eczema

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Discoid eczema | NHS inform

There is no simple cure for discoid eczema, but there are medications that can help ease the symptoms.

These include:

• emollients – to use all the time
• soap substitutes – to replace irritating soaps and cleaning products
• topical corticosteroids – for flare-ups
• oral corticosteroids – for severe flare-ups
• antibiotics – for infected eczema
• antihistamines – for severe itching

There are many different preparations for each type of medication and it is worth taking time with your pharmacist to find the best one for you.

A range of emollient products, soap substitutes and some topical corticosteroids can be bought from pharmacies without a prescription. Some of them are cheaper to buy this way than with a prescription.

Ask your pharmacist for advice on the different products and how to use them. See your GP if your eczema does not improve after using an over-the-counter preparation.

Self-help

There are also some self-help tips that may help to control symptoms of discoid eczema, such as:

• avoiding soaps and detergents, including liquid soaps, bubble bath, shower gels and wet wipes – even if these do not obviously irritate your skin; you should use an emollient soap substitute instead
• protecting your skin from minor cuts (for example, by wearing gloves) as they may trigger discoid eczema
• taking daily lukewarm baths or showers – using an emollient when washing may reduce your symptoms, and remember to apply your treatments soon afterwards
• not scratching the patches – keeping your hands clean and your fingernails short may help reduce the risk of skin damage or infection from unintentional scratching
• making sure you use and apply your treatments as instructed by your GP or pharmacist

If you suspect your skin is infected, for example because there is excessive weeping or tenderness in the patches of eczema, see your GP. Infection can spread quickly, and the use of topical corticosteroid creams can mask or further spread the infection.

Emollients

Emollients are moisturising treatments applied directly to the skin to reduce water loss and cover it with a protective film. They are often used to help manage dry or scaly skin conditions such as eczema.

Choice of emollient

Several different emollients are available. You may need to try a few to find one that works for you. You may also be advised to use a mix of emollients, such as:

• an ointment for very dry skin
• a cream or lotion for less dry skin
• an emollient to use instead of soap
• an emollient to add to bath water or use in the shower
• one emollient to use on your face and hands, and a different one to use on your body

The difference between lotions, creams and ointments is the amount of oil they contain. Ointments contain the most oil so they can be quite greasy, but are the most effective at keeping moisture in the skin. Lotions contain the least amount of oil so are not greasy, but can be less effective. Creams are somewhere in between.

Creams and lotions tend to be more suitable for red, inflamed (swollen) areas of skin. Ointments are more suitable for areas of dry skin that are not inflamed.

If you have been using a particular emollient for some time, it may eventually become less effective or may start to irritate your skin. If this is the case, your GP will be able to prescribe another product.

How to use emollients

Use your emollient all the time, even if you are not experiencing symptoms as they can help limit the return of your condition. Many people find it helpful to keep separate supplies of emollients at work or school.

To apply the emollient:

• use a large amount
• don’t rub it in, smooth it into the skin in the same direction that the hair grows instead
• for very dry skin, apply the emollient every two to three hours
• after a bath or shower, gently dry the skin and then immediately apply the emollient while the skin is still moist

If you are exposed to irritants at work, make sure you apply emollients regularly during and after work.

Don’t share emollients with other people.

Side effects

Occasionally, some emollients can irritate the skin. If you have discoid eczema, your skin will be sensitive and can react to certain ingredients in over-the-counter emollients. If your skin reacts to the emollient, stop using it and speak to your GP, who can recommend an alternative product.

Emollients added to bath water can make your bath very slippery, so take care getting in and out of the bath.

Topical corticosteroids

To treat the patches of discoid eczema, your GP may prescribe a topical corticosteroid (corticosteroid medication that is applied directly to your skin) to reduce the inflammation.

You may be concerned about using medication that contains steroids. However, corticosteroids are not the same as anabolic steroids, which are sometimes used by bodybuilders and athletes. When used as instructed by your pharmacist or doctor, corticosteroids are a safe and effective treatment for discoid eczema.

Choice of topical corticosteroid

There are different strengths of topical corticosteroids that can be prescribed depending on the severity of your eczema. Discoid eczema usually needs a stronger type of corticosteroid than other types of eczema.

You might be prescribed a cream to be used on visible areas, such as face and hands, and an ointment to be used at night or for more severe flare-ups.

How to use topical corticosteroids

When using corticosteroids, apply the treatment accurately to the affected areas. Unless instructed otherwise by your doctor, you should follow directions on the patient information leaflet that comes with the corticosteroid.

Do not apply the corticosteroid more than twice a day. Most people will only have to apply it once a day. 

To apply the topical corticosteroid, take the following steps:

• apply your emollient first and ideally wait around 30 minutes before applying the topical corticosteroid, until the emollient has soaked into your skin
• apply a good amount of the topical corticosteroid to the affected area  
• use the topical corticosteroid until the inflammation has cleared up, unless otherwise advised by your GP

Speak to your prescriber if you have been using a topical corticosteroid and your symptoms have not improved.

Side effects

Topical corticosteroids may cause a mild and short-lived burning or stinging sensation as you apply them. In rare cases, they may also cause:

• thinning of the skin
• changes in skin colour
• acne (spots)
• increased hair growth

Most of these side effects will improve once treatment stops.

Generally, using a stronger topical corticosteroid, or using a large amount of topical corticosteroid, will increase your risk of getting side effects. For this reason, you should use the weakest and smallest amount possible to control your symptoms.

Corticosteroid tablets

If you have a severe flare-up, your doctor may prescribe corticosteroid tablets to take for up to a week.

If corticosteroid tablets are taken often or for a long time, they can cause a number of side effects, such as:

• reduced growth rate in children
• high blood pressure (hypertension)
• osteoporosis (brittle bones)
• diabetes

For this reason, your doctor is unlikely to prescribe repeat courses of corticosteroid tablets without referring you to a specialist.

Antibiotics

If your eczema becomes infected, you may also be prescribed an antibiotic.

Oral antibiotics

If you have an extensive area of infected eczema, you may be prescribed an antibiotic to take by mouth. This is most commonly flucloxacillin, which is usually taken for one week. If you are allergic to penicillin, you might be given an alternative such as clarithromycin.

Topical antibiotics

If you have a small amount of infected eczema, you will normally be prescribed a topical antibiotic, such as fusidic acid. This means the medicine is applied directly to the affected area of skin, in the form of an ointment or cream.

Some topical antibiotics are available in creams or ointments that also contain topical corticosteroids.

Topical antibiotics should normally be used for up to 2 weeks as necessary.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are a type of medicine that work by stopping the effects of a substance in the blood called histamine. Your body often releases histamine when it comes into contact with an irritant. Histamine can cause a wide range of symptoms, including sneezing, watery eyes and itching.

Antihistamines may be prescribed during flare-ups of discoid eczema to cope with the symptom of itching, particularly if it is interfering with your sleep. However, they will not treat the damaged skin.

Many older types of antihistamines can make you drowsy, which can be useful if your symptoms affect the quality of your sleep. Otherwise, ask your pharmacist or GP to recommend one of the more modern “non-sedating” antihistamines.

Further treatments

If the treatments prescribed by your GP are not successfully controlling your symptoms, they may refer you for assessment and treatment by a dermatologist (specialist in treating skin conditions).

Further treatments that may be available from your dermatologist include:

• phototherapy – where the affected area of skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light to help reduce inflammation
• bandaging – where medicated dressings are applied to your skin
• immunosuppressant therapy – medicines that reduce inflammation by suppressing your immune system

Dry spots on the skin

Redness, itching, scaly spots on the body are clear signs of eczema and atypical dermatitis. Let’s talk about what could be the causes of red dry spots on the skin, when to contact a dermatologist, as well as what components in cosmetics control the hydration of the epidermis, and also serve as a prevention of skin diseases.

REDENESS AND SHELLING OF THE SKIN

The skin protects the body from the negative effects of the environment: viruses, toxins, dust. The epidermis is primarily involved in the implementation of the protective function. When the skin is not sufficiently hydrated, the protective functions of the epidermis weaken.

Dry red skin can be a consequence of insufficient hydration, or it can indicate the presence of a skin disease. If, with regular moisturizing, red dry spots appear on the skin, then the reasons may be the following:

Simple contact dermatitis is manifested by reddening of the skin, a tingling sensation. The most common cause is friction with synthetic fabric. In the area of ​​​​contact of the skin with the tissue, diaper rash occurs, which develops into irritation.

Dry eczema is characterized by white, dry, scaly patches on the body. First, there is severe dryness, a feeling of tightness, then itching appears, the skin becomes covered with scales. If you do not moisturize the skin, then cracks form. Insufficient hydration, frequent contact with water, as well as aggressive cleansing methods (frequent use of peels, scrubs, hard washcloths) can cause redness even on healthy skin.

Pityriasis rosea refers to fungal dermatitis, exacerbated in spring and autumn. Appears as one or more dry light pink spots. Such spots do not go away without medical treatment. It is important to avoid contact with household irritants and decorative cosmetics.

Allergic dermatitis – skin reaction to an allergen to which high sensitivity occurs. Most often, allergic dermatitis occurs through contact with:

• washing powder
• dishwashing detergent
• cosmetic products (decorative cosmetics, care products)
• dyes (with hair dye)
• shower gels, facial cleansing emulsions
• often allergic dermatitis appears after taking medications.

When contact with the allergen is stopped, round dry spots on the skin gradually disappear.

MOISTURIZING SENSITIVE SKIN

Hydrated skin has a healthy protective barrier. This allows her to better cope with viruses and allergens, it is easier to tolerate negative effects from the environment. When the skin is damaged, its ability to form a complete epidermal barrier is lost. It poorly retains moisture, easily passes allergens, toxins.

Almost all skin diseases are accompanied by dryness. Dermatologists note that the use of moisturizing cosmetics reduces the feeling of discomfort when the integrity of the epidermis is violated and improves the barrier functions of skin immunity.

A bit of science: The purpose of moisturizing with cosmetics is not just to saturate the stratum corneum with water, but to provide conditions under which the level of hydration will be normal. Ceramides are the main element of the lipid barrier. They perform not only a structural function, but are also a regulator of skin hydration both from the outside and from the inside.

CERAMED Ultra Moisturizing Face and Body Cera Cream contains a complex of ceramides and emollients, restores hydro-lipid balance, improves the protective function of the skin, and also:

• Deeply moisturizes the skin from the outside and inside
• Restores the lipid barrier
• Softens, soothes the skin after chapping
• Instantly absorbed, does not leave a sticky film

The effectiveness of cera-cream is confirmed by clinical studies on the basis of the Medical Scientific and Practical Center for Expert Evaluation of Nutrition and Cosmetics “KosmoProdTest”, founded in 2008.

The studies were carried out in the own laboratory of BIG LLC on a special device (Dermatoscope Aramo SG), which shows the level of skin hydration BEFORE and AFTER applying cera-cream. After applying Cera-cream, the level of hydration of the epidermis increases significantly, the skin acquires a smooth, well-groomed, healthy appearance.

Important: before using any cosmetics for skin diseases, you should consult a dermatologist.

Cera-board

Of course, a dermatologist should treat pink scaly spots on the body. However, there are precautions that will help avoid the appearance of inflammatory processes on sensitive skin.

CERAMED recommends:

• eat right;
• avoid severe stress;
• wear protective gloves when handling household chemicals;
• when choosing casual clothes, give preference to natural fabrics;
• observe a full drinking regimen.

The water balance of the epidermis is important not only for the appearance and normal functioning of the skin – it is important for the whole organism. Therefore, we recommend that you keep the drinking regime during the day. For a healthy person, the norm is approximately 1.5 – 2 liters of pure per day.

What is atopic dermatitis? – The First Izmailovo Clinic of Dr.

Bandurina

Atopic dermatitis is the earliest manifestation of allergy and occurs with intestinal dysbacteriosis in response to food intolerance.

Atopic dermatitis is a disease that is diagnosed in children of the first, less often the second year of life. At this time, the baby’s skin is especially thin and sensitive, so it immediately reflects internal problems. Atopic dermatitis manifests itself with skin manifestations on the face, trunk, and extremities. Often the first manifestations occur in the second month of life. They can start later, but not earlier, so all the manifestations on the skin that appear in the first month of life are explained by other reasons. The skin becomes dense to the touch, dry, flaky. Further, atopic dermatitis can develop in the form of dry reddish spots of fuzzy or, conversely, very clear outlines on the extensor surfaces of the arms and legs, sometimes weeping joins. Or red spots covered with a flaky crust can be located in the elbows, popliteal fossae – above the flexors of the arms and legs, often get wet, especially in the evening, cracks form in the folds and can really disturb the baby. This is how a disease called neurodermatitis begins to form.

Atopic dermatitis is the earliest manifestation of allergy and occurs with intestinal dysbacteriosis in response to food intolerance.

Atopic dermatitis is a disease that is diagnosed in children of the first, less often the second year of life. At this time, the baby’s skin is especially thin and sensitive, so it immediately reflects internal problems. Atopic dermatitis manifests itself with skin manifestations on the face, trunk, and extremities. Often the first manifestations occur in the second month of life. They can start later, but not earlier, so all the manifestations on the skin that appear in the first month of life are explained by other reasons. The skin becomes dense to the touch, dry, flaky. Further, atopic dermatitis can develop in the form of dry reddish spots of fuzzy or, conversely, very clear outlines on the extensor surfaces of the arms and legs, sometimes weeping joins. Or red spots covered with a flaky crust can be located in the elbows, popliteal fossae – above the flexors of the arms and legs, often get wet, especially in the evening, cracks form in the folds and can really disturb the baby. This is how a disease called neurodermatitis begins to form.

It is not surprising that even minimal skin manifestations in a baby are very upsetting for mothers, since it is well known that they indicate a predisposition to allergies. Of course, such skin is more vulnerable – its protective properties suffer, and infection often develops on it, but the main danger is different. Often it is with atopic dermatitis that the “allergic march” begins – consecutive manifestations of allergies on the skin, in the respiratory system, ENT – organs. Therefore, if the “allergic march” is not stopped in time, it is possible to develop allergic processes in the bronchi – bronchial asthma. No wonder atopic dermatitis used to be called the word “diathesis”, which meant a predisposition to allergies.

It used to be thought that atopic dermatitis develops due to a hereditary defect in the immune system. Babies who received this defect from their parents, especially from their mother, are prone to allergies. Moreover, this allergy may not manifest itself for a long time, but if the body falls into adverse conditions, then the mechanism for the development of allergies is triggered. It is now well known that even if there is a burdened heredity, an allergy will not necessarily develop. Moreover, this is the common task of the doctor and parents – to prevent the allergy mechanism from starting up and starting to unwind.

So, the trigger that launches the “allergic march” is the baby’s intestinal problems. Parents should remember that in the environment: in the air, on diapers, on the mother’s skin, there are a wide variety of microbes. When they get to the baby, some of them die. Those for which the intestines of the crumbs are a favorable habitat take root. Here, a lot depends on the intestinal contents, that is, on what the baby eats. If the “wrong” microbes settle in the intestines, they can damage the intestinal wall and contribute to the development of food allergies. Therefore, it is important to restore and maintain good bowel health. AND FOR THIS, YOU NEED TO GO TO THE DOCTOR, AFTER NOTICING THE SIGNS OF UNBELIEVABILITY. The specialists of the Clinic of Dr. Bandurina are ready to provide professional assistance to all residents of the East Administrative District (Izmailovo, Golyanovo, Preobrazhenskoye, Novogireevo)

To begin with, a few mandatory feeding rules, without which it is impossible to put the intestines in order. THESE RULES ONLY THREE: 1. REFUSE SWEET. This rule is important for both the nursing mother and the baby. 2. DO NOT DESERVE YOUR DIET by refusing valuable foods – milk, meat, poultry, vegetables 3. KEEP A FOOD DIARY to identify the cause of skin irritation. The food diary records everything that the nursing mother and the child ate during the day, if he receives anything other than breast milk. First of all, for mothers who are breastfeeding and believe that breast milk has become the cause. Remember, BREAST MILK DOES NOT GO BORSHIT FROM BORSCH. Do not impoverish your diet – meat, fish, chicken, cottage cheese, milk and vegetables (including carrots, cabbage and beets) must be present in your diet. I am addressing the lovers of the sweet life – BREAST MILK CAN BE “POILED” FROM SWEET. Reconsider your diet – exclude sweet foods – give up cakes, gingerbread and sweets, honey, jam and sweet yogurts, you should not eat grapes, bananas and dried fruits in any quantities. Excess sugar will easily pass into the blood, and sweet milk is an excellent nutrient medium for the development of dysbacteriosis – this is the answer why borscht is possible, and not sugar. The wrong flora will develop in the intestines – the tummy will immediately swell and the cheeks will flare up.

I advise the same for mothers whose babies receive breast milk substitutes – choose a formula that is not too sweet. Babies “with red cheeks” are better suited fermented milk mixtures. Pay attention to cereals – preference should be given to natural ones, since instant cereals, especially sweet ones, are also a tasty dish for harmful bacteria. Vegetable purees for children with atopic dermatitis should consist mostly of zucchini and Brussels sprouts and cauliflower, to a lesser extent of carrots and pumpkin, since red vegetables are also a good breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Children who already have a more varied diet should write down everything they eat and drink during the day. In the event that atopic dermatitis flares up, a food diary will help the doctor pinpoint the cause and avoid unnecessary food restrictions.

In many cases, following these simple rules is enough for the cheeks to “extinguish”, dryness disappears, and an even, healthy skin tone returns. Sometimes the doctor will prescribe additional treatment – he will recommend special preparations so that normal microbes – lacto- and bifidumbacteria live in the intestines. Baby skin care should be especially thorough. First, try to keep your baby in a diaper as little as possible. Sometimes diapers cause irritation of the perineum – a special type of atopic dermatitis develops – diaper dermatitis. If this happens, try using a different view. More often “walk” without a diaper. The child should remain naked as long as possible, and the room should not be hot – the optimum temperature is about 20 degrees. Cold hands and feet are not a sign that the child is cold – he simply “saves” heat by constricting blood vessels. Do not be afraid that the baby will freeze, if this happens, he will let you know about it.

Baths with celandine give a good effect. The baby can be bathed in herbs every day at normal temperature (from 37 to 34). If the manifestations are significant, the water temperature is recommended to be reduced by a degree.

Various creams and ointments are used to treat atopic dermatitis:

In some cases, if the skin manifestations are very severe and they bother the baby, the doctor may prescribe hormonal ointments. They will help to remove acute manifestations very quickly, and if used in a short course, they will not bring harm.

Ointments containing zinc can be used for a longer time, they are practically harmless and relieve inflammation very well – they reduce redness before the eyes, make the skin thinner, smooth it.

A large number of combination ointments or creams are now available.