What are the common causes of itchy rashes on hands and feet. How can you effectively treat these skin conditions at home. When should you seek medical attention for a persistent rash. What preventive measures can help avoid recurring skin irritations.

Understanding Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease: A Contagious Viral Infection

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects young children but can occur in adults as well. The coxsackievirus is often the culprit behind this condition, which manifests as a distinctive rash on the hands, feet, and sometimes buttocks, accompanied by oral sores.

Symptoms and Characteristics

• Painful blisters on hands, feet, and mouth
• Fever and sore throat
• Rash may not be itchy but can be uncomfortable
• Typically resolves within 7-10 days

Is hand, foot, and mouth disease preventable? While it’s challenging to completely prevent this viral infection, maintaining good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with infected individuals, can significantly reduce the risk of transmission.

Granuloma Annulare: A Mysterious Skin Condition

Granuloma annulare is an enigmatic skin disorder characterized by ring-shaped lesions that can appear on various parts of the body, including hands and feet. This chronic condition affects women more frequently than men and often emerges during young adulthood.

Types of Granuloma Annulare

1. Localized granuloma annulare
2. Generalized or disseminated granuloma annulare
3. Subcutaneous granuloma annulare
4. Perforating granuloma annulare
5. Linear granuloma

Can granuloma annulare resolve on its own? In many cases, especially with the localized form, granuloma annulare may clear up without treatment within a few months to two years. However, recurrence is possible, and some individuals may require medical intervention for persistent or widespread cases.

Dyshidrotic Eczema: An Intensely Itchy Skin Condition

Dyshidrotic eczema, also known as dyshidrosis or pompholyx, is a form of eczema characterized by small, intensely itchy blisters on the palms of hands, sides of fingers, soles of feet, and toes. This condition tends to flare up during spring and summer, often coinciding with seasonal allergies.

Key Features of Dyshidrotic Eczema

• Deep-set, itchy blisters
• More common in women
• Not contagious
• Can be painful and last for several weeks

How can dyshidrotic eczema be managed effectively? While there is no cure for dyshidrotic eczema, symptoms can be managed through a combination of moisturizing, avoiding triggers, and using topical treatments prescribed by a dermatologist. In severe cases, oral medications or light therapy may be recommended.

Impetigo: A Highly Contagious Bacterial Skin Infection

Impetigo is a superficial bacterial skin infection that primarily affects children but can occur in adults as well. It typically starts around the mouth and nose as red sores that ooze and crust over, and can spread to the hands and feet through contact.

Recognizing Impetigo

• Red sores that burst and develop yellowish-brown crusts
• Itchy and sometimes painful rash
• Highly contagious
• More common in warm, humid environments

What is the most effective treatment for impetigo? Antibiotics are the primary treatment for impetigo. Depending on the severity and extent of the infection, a healthcare provider may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics. Good hygiene practices are crucial to prevent the spread of the infection to others and to other parts of the body.

Hand-Foot Syndrome: A Side Effect of Chemotherapy

Hand-foot syndrome, also known as palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia, is a side effect experienced by some cancer patients undergoing certain chemotherapy treatments. This condition can cause significant discomfort and impact daily activities.

Symptoms of Hand-Foot Syndrome

• Redness, swelling, and pain in palms and soles
• Tingling or burning sensations
• Skin peeling or blistering
• Cracked skin in severe cases

How can hand-foot syndrome be managed during chemotherapy? Managing hand-foot syndrome often involves a multifaceted approach, including dose adjustments of chemotherapy drugs, topical treatments to soothe and protect the skin, pain management strategies, and lifestyle modifications to reduce friction and pressure on affected areas.

Athlete’s Foot: A Common Fungal Infection

Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that typically begins between the toes and can spread across the foot. In some cases, it may even affect the hands, particularly if an individual scratches or picks at the infected areas on their feet.

Characteristics of Athlete’s Foot

• Scaly, red, itchy rash
• Often starts between toes
• Can spread to hands through contact
• Thrives in warm, moist environments

What are effective prevention strategies for athlete’s foot? Preventing athlete’s foot involves keeping feet dry, changing socks regularly, wearing breathable footwear, and avoiding walking barefoot in public areas like locker rooms and swimming pools. Using antifungal powders or sprays can also help prevent recurrence in susceptible individuals.

Home Treatments for Hand and Foot Rashes

Many hand and foot rashes can be effectively managed with home treatments, although severe or persistent cases may require medical intervention. Here are some common at-home remedies that can help alleviate symptoms:

• Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream
• Antihistamine creams or oral medications
• Cool compresses to reduce inflammation
• Oatmeal baths for soothing itchy skin
• Moisturizers to prevent skin dryness

When should you seek medical attention for a hand or foot rash? If a rash persists for more than a week, worsens despite home treatment, or is accompanied by fever, severe pain, or signs of infection, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Preventive Measures for Recurring Skin Irritations

While not all skin conditions can be prevented, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing or exacerbating hand and foot rashes:

1. Practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing
2. Keep skin moisturized to maintain its protective barrier
3. Avoid known allergens and irritants
4. Wear protective gloves when handling harsh chemicals
5. Choose breathable footwear and moisture-wicking socks
6. Manage stress, as it can trigger or worsen some skin conditions
7. Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated

Can dietary changes impact skin health? While the connection between diet and skin health is complex, some studies suggest that a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins A, C, and E may support overall skin health and potentially reduce inflammation associated with certain skin conditions.

When to Consult a Dermatologist

While many hand and foot rashes can be managed at home, certain situations warrant professional medical attention. A dermatologist can provide expert diagnosis and treatment for persistent or severe skin conditions.

Signs You Should See a Dermatologist

• Rash persists for more than two weeks despite home treatment
• Severe pain or itching that interferes with daily activities
• Signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or pus
• Rash accompanied by fever or other systemic symptoms
• Rash spreads rapidly or covers a large area of the body
• History of recurrent or chronic skin issues

What diagnostic methods do dermatologists use for skin rashes? Dermatologists employ various techniques to diagnose skin conditions, including visual examination, dermoscopy (examination with a special magnifying device), skin scrapings for microscopic analysis, and in some cases, skin biopsies. They may also consider a patient’s medical history and any potential environmental factors contributing to the skin issue.

Advanced Treatments for Persistent Skin Conditions

When conventional treatments fail to provide relief for chronic or severe hand and foot rashes, dermatologists may recommend more advanced therapies. These cutting-edge treatments can offer hope for individuals struggling with persistent skin conditions.

Innovative Therapies for Skin Rashes

1. Phototherapy (light therapy)
2. Biologics for severe eczema or psoriasis
3. Laser treatments for certain skin conditions
4. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
5. Immunosuppressive medications for autoimmune-related skin issues

How effective are biologics in treating severe skin conditions? Biologic medications have shown remarkable efficacy in treating severe cases of conditions like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. These drugs target specific components of the immune system involved in inflammation, offering significant improvement in symptoms and quality of life for many patients who haven’t responded well to traditional treatments.

The Psychological Impact of Chronic Skin Conditions

Persistent hand and foot rashes can have a significant impact on an individual’s mental health and overall well-being. The visible nature of these conditions, combined with physical discomfort, can lead to emotional distress and social anxiety.

Coping Strategies for Skin-Related Stress

• Seeking support from friends, family, or support groups
• Practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
• Engaging in activities that boost self-esteem
• Considering professional counseling or therapy
• Educating others about the condition to reduce stigma

How can healthcare providers address the psychological aspects of chronic skin conditions? A holistic approach to treating skin conditions should include addressing the psychological impact. This may involve collaboration between dermatologists and mental health professionals to provide comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of living with a chronic skin condition.

Future Directions in Dermatological Research

The field of dermatology is constantly evolving, with ongoing research aimed at improving our understanding and treatment of various skin conditions. Several promising areas of study could lead to breakthroughs in managing hand and foot rashes.

Emerging Research Areas

1. Microbiome-based therapies
2. Gene therapy for genetic skin disorders
3. Nanotechnology in topical treatments
4. Artificial intelligence in skin disease diagnosis
5. Personalized medicine approaches to dermatological care

What role might the skin microbiome play in future treatments? Recent studies have highlighted the importance of the skin microbiome in maintaining skin health and potentially influencing various skin conditions. Researchers are exploring ways to manipulate the skin microbiome to treat or prevent skin disorders, which could lead to novel probiotic or prebiotic therapies for conditions like eczema or acne.

As our understanding of skin biology and disease mechanisms continues to grow, so too does the potential for more effective, targeted treatments for hand and foot rashes. By staying informed about these advancements and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals affected by chronic skin conditions can look forward to improved management strategies and potentially even cures in the future.

Rash on Hands and Feet: Common Causes and Treatment

A rash on your limbs can result from a bacterial or fungal infection. It may also occur due to a health condition or medication. You may also experience other symptoms, including itchiness.

Rashes are earmarked by a change in the color and texture of your skin. They may have blisters, and they may itch or hurt. Rashes that break out on your hands and feet have a wide range of underlying causes.

We’ll explore some of the common conditions that cause rashes to occur on the hands and feet. We’ll also look at treatment options you can try at home, or under a doctor’s care.

Rashes on the hands and feet can be caused by environmental factors, such as irritants or allergens. They may also be the result of medical conditions or infections.

Some common causes of rashes on hands and feet include:

Hand, foot, and mouth diseas

e

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a contagious infection caused by several viruses, including the coxsackie virus. Anyone can get hand, foot, and mouth disease, although it most commonly occurs in babies and children.

This condition causes a rash on the hands and feet, as well as sores in the mouth and on the tongue. You may experience fever and a sore throat with this condition.

The hand and foot rash caused by this condition sometimes causes blistering to occur, and may be painful, but not itchy. In some instances, it may appear on the buttocks, as well.

Granuloma annulare

Granuloma annulare is a chronic, degenerative skin condition with an unknown cause. There are five recognized types:

• localized granuloma annulare
• generalized or disseminated granuloma annulare
• subcutaneous granuloma annulare
• perforating granuloma annulare
• linear granuloma

The most common type, localized granuloma annulare, causes rings of flesh-toned, red, or yellow nodules to form on the feet, hands and fingers.

These nodules are small and hard, but do not typically itch. The rings usually clear up on their own without treatment, within a few months to two years. They may, however, come back.

Granuloma annulare is more common in women than in men, and tends to occur during young adulthood.

Dyshidrotic eczema (dyshidrosis, pompholyx)

This very itchy, common form of eczema causes deep-set blisters on the palms of hands, edges of fingers, soles and sides of feet, and toes. The blisters can become large and painful, and may last for several weeks.

Dyshidrotic eczema outbreaks often coincide with seasonal allergies, during spring and summer. It’s more common in women than in men. This condition is not curable, but its symptoms can be successfully treated. It’s not contagious.

Impetigo

This very contagious, bacterial skin infection begins with an oozing rash of red sores around the mouth and nose that can be spread to the hands and feet via touch. When the sores burst, they develop brownish-yellow crusts.

The rash can be itchy, and painful. Impetigo most commonly occurs in infants and children. Itching and soreness are other symptoms.

Hand-foot syndrome (acral erythema or palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia)

This condition is a side effect of certain chemotherapy drugs used for cancer treatment. It’s earmarked by pain, swelling, and redness in either or both the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. It can also cause tingling, burning, and blisters. In severe cases, deeply cracked skin and extreme pain may occur.

Athlete’s foot

Athlete’s foot is caused by a contagious fungal infection. It usually starts between the toes, and spreads to the entire foot. This condition is earmarked by a scaly, red rash that itches.

In some instances, athlete’s foot can spread to the hands. This is more likely to happen if you pick at or scratch the rash on your feet.

Athlete’s foot is caused by keeping very sweaty feet trapped in shoes. It can also be transmitted on locker room and shower floors.

Many hand and foot rashes can be treated at home, but some require medical treatment, based on their underlying cause and severity.

There are a number of over-the-counter and at-home rash treatments that may help alleviate itching and pain, plus reduce the appearance of the rash. You may have the best success by combining several.

Home treatments include:

• topical application of over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream
• topical application of anti-itch medications containing pramoxine
• topical application of lidocaine, or other types of pain medication
• cold compresses
• oral antihistamines
• oral pain medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• cool oatmeal baths
• applying unscented moisturizing cream
• avoiding triggers, such as pollen

If you have dyshidrotic eczema: Avoid cobalt and nickel in food and in everyday items. Foods that contain cobalt include clams, fish, and leafy green vegetables. Foods that contain nickel include chocolate, soy beans, and oatmeal.

If you have impetigo: Cleaning and soaking the blisters and removing the crusts every few days may help. Cover the area with an antibiotic cream and loose dressing after treating.

If your rash does not clear up, your doctor may recommend the following:

• corticosteroid injections
• liquid nitrogen, applied directly to the rash to freeze the area and remove lesions
• oral medication to reduce immune system reactions
• light therapy using a laser
• blister draining
• antibiotics, if infection occurs

Any rash that’s painful, accompanied by fever, or looks infected should be seen by a doctor. You should also seek medical attention for a rash that doesn’t clear up easily with treatments you use at home.

Your doctor may be able to diagnose the rash visually after taking an oral history. In some instances, you may also expect diagnostic tests, such as:

• skin culture
• allergy tests
• skin lesion biopsy

If your child has a rash that does not clear up within one or two days, they should be seen by their pediatrician. This will help determine the cause of the rash, and provide relief for their symptoms.

If your child has sores in their mouth or throat that prohibit them from drinking, they should also be seen by their doctor, to avoid complications such as dehydration.

Since conditions such as hand, foot, and mouth disease and impetigo are contagious, make sure to wash your hands after caring for your child.

If you’re a cancer patient experiencing hand-foot syndrome, let your doctor know. Your doctor may be able to change the dosage or type of medication you’re taking.

Rashes on the hands and feet can be caused by a wide range of conditions. These types of rashes sometimes clear up on their own, or they are treated easily at home.

Depending on their underlying conditions, some rashes will respond better to treatments performed or prescribed by a doctor. See your healthcare provider for any rash that’s accompanied by fever or pain.

Rash on Hands and Feet: Common Causes and Treatment

A rash on your limbs can result from a bacterial or fungal infection. It may also occur due to a health condition or medication. You may also experience other symptoms, including itchiness.

Rashes are earmarked by a change in the color and texture of your skin. They may have blisters, and they may itch or hurt. Rashes that break out on your hands and feet have a wide range of underlying causes.

We’ll explore some of the common conditions that cause rashes to occur on the hands and feet. We’ll also look at treatment options you can try at home, or under a doctor’s care.

Rashes on the hands and feet can be caused by environmental factors, such as irritants or allergens. They may also be the result of medical conditions or infections.

Some common causes of rashes on hands and feet include:

Hand, foot, and mouth diseas

e

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a contagious infection caused by several viruses, including the coxsackie virus. Anyone can get hand, foot, and mouth disease, although it most commonly occurs in babies and children.

This condition causes a rash on the hands and feet, as well as sores in the mouth and on the tongue. You may experience fever and a sore throat with this condition.

The hand and foot rash caused by this condition sometimes causes blistering to occur, and may be painful, but not itchy. In some instances, it may appear on the buttocks, as well.

Granuloma annulare

Granuloma annulare is a chronic, degenerative skin condition with an unknown cause. There are five recognized types:

• localized granuloma annulare
• generalized or disseminated granuloma annulare
• subcutaneous granuloma annulare
• perforating granuloma annulare
• linear granuloma

The most common type, localized granuloma annulare, causes rings of flesh-toned, red, or yellow nodules to form on the feet, hands and fingers.

These nodules are small and hard, but do not typically itch. The rings usually clear up on their own without treatment, within a few months to two years. They may, however, come back.

Granuloma annulare is more common in women than in men, and tends to occur during young adulthood.

Dyshidrotic eczema (dyshidrosis, pompholyx)

This very itchy, common form of eczema causes deep-set blisters on the palms of hands, edges of fingers, soles and sides of feet, and toes. The blisters can become large and painful, and may last for several weeks.

Dyshidrotic eczema outbreaks often coincide with seasonal allergies, during spring and summer. It’s more common in women than in men. This condition is not curable, but its symptoms can be successfully treated. It’s not contagious.

Impetigo

This very contagious, bacterial skin infection begins with an oozing rash of red sores around the mouth and nose that can be spread to the hands and feet via touch. When the sores burst, they develop brownish-yellow crusts.

The rash can be itchy, and painful. Impetigo most commonly occurs in infants and children. Itching and soreness are other symptoms.

Hand-foot syndrome (acral erythema or palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia)

This condition is a side effect of certain chemotherapy drugs used for cancer treatment. It’s earmarked by pain, swelling, and redness in either or both the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. It can also cause tingling, burning, and blisters. In severe cases, deeply cracked skin and extreme pain may occur.

Athlete’s foot

Athlete’s foot is caused by a contagious fungal infection. It usually starts between the toes, and spreads to the entire foot. This condition is earmarked by a scaly, red rash that itches.

In some instances, athlete’s foot can spread to the hands. This is more likely to happen if you pick at or scratch the rash on your feet.

Athlete’s foot is caused by keeping very sweaty feet trapped in shoes. It can also be transmitted on locker room and shower floors.

Many hand and foot rashes can be treated at home, but some require medical treatment, based on their underlying cause and severity.

There are a number of over-the-counter and at-home rash treatments that may help alleviate itching and pain, plus reduce the appearance of the rash. You may have the best success by combining several.

Home treatments include:

• topical application of over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream
• topical application of anti-itch medications containing pramoxine
• topical application of lidocaine, or other types of pain medication
• cold compresses
• oral antihistamines
• oral pain medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• cool oatmeal baths
• applying unscented moisturizing cream
• avoiding triggers, such as pollen

If you have dyshidrotic eczema: Avoid cobalt and nickel in food and in everyday items. Foods that contain cobalt include clams, fish, and leafy green vegetables. Foods that contain nickel include chocolate, soy beans, and oatmeal.

If you have impetigo: Cleaning and soaking the blisters and removing the crusts every few days may help. Cover the area with an antibiotic cream and loose dressing after treating.

If your rash does not clear up, your doctor may recommend the following:

• corticosteroid injections
• liquid nitrogen, applied directly to the rash to freeze the area and remove lesions
• oral medication to reduce immune system reactions
• light therapy using a laser
• blister draining
• antibiotics, if infection occurs

Any rash that’s painful, accompanied by fever, or looks infected should be seen by a doctor. You should also seek medical attention for a rash that doesn’t clear up easily with treatments you use at home.

Your doctor may be able to diagnose the rash visually after taking an oral history. In some instances, you may also expect diagnostic tests, such as:

• skin culture
• allergy tests
• skin lesion biopsy

If your child has a rash that does not clear up within one or two days, they should be seen by their pediatrician. This will help determine the cause of the rash, and provide relief for their symptoms.

If your child has sores in their mouth or throat that prohibit them from drinking, they should also be seen by their doctor, to avoid complications such as dehydration.

Since conditions such as hand, foot, and mouth disease and impetigo are contagious, make sure to wash your hands after caring for your child.

If you’re a cancer patient experiencing hand-foot syndrome, let your doctor know. Your doctor may be able to change the dosage or type of medication you’re taking.

Rashes on the hands and feet can be caused by a wide range of conditions. These types of rashes sometimes clear up on their own, or they are treated easily at home.

Depending on their underlying conditions, some rashes will respond better to treatments performed or prescribed by a doctor. See your healthcare provider for any rash that’s accompanied by fever or pain.

Atopic dermatitis in adults: causes and treatment

Atopic dermatitis is treated by a dermatologist

Mild forms of atopic dermatitis can be observed by a general practitioner (pediatrician, internist). If the allergic nature of the disease is suspected or proven, consultation or observation of an allergist is necessary.

In different countries, atopic dermatitis may be referred to as atopic eczema, eczema, neurodermatitis, neurodermatitis.

What is atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin disease that is manifested by redness, rashes, peeling.

As a rule, atopic dermatitis is accompanied by severe itching. It is characterized by a chronic or recurrent (periods of exacerbations alternate with periods of remission) course. In some cases, a state of prolonged and stable remission is possible.

Forms and complications of atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis rash can look different depending on age. There are infant, child and adult forms of the disease. In addition, two forms of atopic dermatitis are currently distinguished depending on the presence of atopy – atopic and non-atopic.

In the atopic form, there is a connection of exacerbations with food, house dust allergens, less often pollen. Often there are other atopic diseases: bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis – both in the patient himself and in his close relatives.

The existence of other forms of atopic dermatitis is also assumed, since in different patients the disease can have a different set of symptoms and proceed in different ways. However, clear markers that allow us to judge what scenario the disease will follow in a particular case have not yet been identified.

Atopic dermatitis can be complicated by the addition of an infection – bacterial, fungal or viral. If the picture of the rash has changed, the general condition is disturbing (fever, lethargy, headache, etc.), you should consult a doctor.

Causes of disease

There is no single reason for the development of atopic dermatitis. The occurrence of the disease is facilitated by a whole range of conditions: genetic characteristics and environmental factors. These include a violation of the protective function of the skin (it becomes more vulnerable to the effects of detergents or other irritants), features of the immune system, climatic conditions (temperature, humidity, dust, tobacco smoke and other impurities in the environment). The possible impact of the microbiome is being studied.

Symptoms

• Eruptions on the skin
• Itching
• Dry skin and flaking of the skin

Stages of atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis proceeds with stages of exacerbation (there are clinical manifestations, complaints) and remission (there are no manifestations of the disease).

In some patients, remissions are short-term and may last only a few days after treatment is discontinued. This course of atopic dermatitis is called severe and requires long-term maintenance treatment. In other cases, the course is more favorable, and remissions can persist for many years.

Treatment of atopic dermatitis

A feature of the treatment of atopic dermatitis is a stepwise approach from simpler methods of external therapy and skin care to complex innovative techniques.

Means and methods of treatment of atopic dermatitis

In the treatment of atopic dermatitis are used:

• Emollient and moisturizing creams and ointments are the mainstay of atopic dermatitis treatment. These products keep the skin hydrated and soft.
• Steroid creams and ointments are applied to the skin to help relieve redness and itching. In severe cases, steroid tablets or injections may be required, but your doctor will keep the course of treatment as short as possible, since the high effectiveness of injections is combined with a high risk of side effects.
• Medications that affect the immune system are highly effective but have side effects and may be used when safer treatments have failed.
• Antihistamines may be used in patients who report improvement in pruritus.
• To increase the effectiveness of therapy, it is possible to carry out wet wraps (Wet Dressing, Wet Wrap Therapy).

Wet Dressing, Wet Wrap Therapy

Treatment with Wet Wrap Therapy helps to quickly clear the skin of rashes and can be used both in a medical institution or hospital, and at home. The effect is associated with improved penetration of the drug used, deeper and longer hydration, and a decrease in skin water loss. Dressings provide protection against scratching, which leads to the formation of an itch-scratch cycle, preventing scratches that further increase itching, which improves skin healing. Cooling the surface of inflamed skin by evaporating water from the dressings helps reduce inflammation, itching, and soreness.

For severe eczema, wet wraps are prescribed in a medical facility. They can also be used at home to maintain good health or at the first sign of deterioration and reduce the need for medical attention and the likelihood of hospitalization.

There are various modifications of Wet Wrap Therapy, the essence of the method is the use of external drugs (emollients or steroids) under two layers of dressings. The bottom layer is warm and moist, on top of which a second dry layer is made. For a bandage, you can use a regular bandage, special tubular bandages or special clothing. The bottom layer must be periodically moistened with ordinary warm water, preventing it from drying out. The use of topical steroids under a wet dressing can increase the effectiveness of treatment. The procedure can be carried out 1-2 times a day, daily, during the period of exacerbation. With a decrease in exacerbation, the procedure can be done less frequently, conducting 1-2 times a week during the remission period. With good tolerance, the bandage with the medicine can be left overnight, remembering to periodically moisten the bottom layer of tissue.

The procedure takes quite a long time, and in the early stages (especially in patients with severe skin lesions) may require the participation of medical personnel. After training and improvement in the condition, the procedure can be continued at home.

Benefits of atopic dermatitis treatments

1. Wet wraps . Wet wraps make external therapy more effective by increasing the penetration of hormonal ointments or creams (topical steroids) into the deeper layers of the skin, better coverage of the skin surface with emollient components, reducing water loss and creating a mechanical obstacle to combing. This allows you to reduce the duration of use, use hormonal ointments of less activity, quickly reduce dry skin and itching. In some cases, it avoids the appointment of systemic therapy with corticosteroid hormones or immunosuppressive agents.
2. Immunosuppressive agents used in the treatment of atopic dermatitis may be topical (as ointments and creams) and systemic (as injections or tablets). Preparations of this group are used externally with insufficient effectiveness of corticosteroid hormones, with the localization of rashes in areas where the use of external hormonal ointments or creams is best avoided (for example, the face, large skin folds). In severe condition (large area of ​​skin lesions, lack of effect from previous treatment), drugs of this group can be administered orally under the strict supervision of a doctor. Immunosuppressive treatment allows you to quickly achieve improvement in the condition, reduce the frequency and duration of application of drugs to the skin (intensive and frequent use of ointments with a large area of ​​​​rashes can also be a factor that reduces the patient’s quality of life). It has fewer side effects than corticosteroids and therefore can be used effectively for a longer time.

How is atopic dermatitis treated at Rassvet Clinic?

In order to prescribe the necessary treatment, a dermatologist will examine your skin and ask questions about your condition. It is important to tell your doctor what factors you feel are causing the condition to worsen; what treatment you have already received before, whether it was effective; which medications worked best and which didn’t work.

The diagnosis of “atopic dermatitis” is established on the basis of a doctor’s examination; there are no specific laboratory diagnostic tests.

Additional studies may be required to clarify the form of the disease. If your doctor is in doubt as to whether your condition is consistent with the diagnosis of atopic dermatitis, a diagnostic skin biopsy (removal of a piece of skin) and a histological examination (examination of the obtained material under a microscope) may be required.

Treatment of atopic dermatitis, depending on the severity of the condition, is carried out according to a stepwise scheme. This means that during periods of improvement, the intensity of treatment may decrease, and in case of deterioration or insufficient effect, more active methods of treatment are added.

Dermatologist Rassvet recommendations for patients with atopic dermatitis

Tips from a dermatologist for a patient with atopic dermatitis and eczema:

Avoid dry skin, use thick, emollient, unscented creams.

Try to exclude factors contributing to the deterioration of the skin condition in atopic dermatitis and eczema:

• dry skin not softened with creams
• heat and profuse sweating
• very dry air
• stress and anxiety
• abrupt change in air temperature
• harsh soaps and cleansers
• perfume
• woolen and synthetic fabrics

Author:

Voronina Vera Removna
dermatologist

Publication date: August 6, 2019

Update date: June 2, 2023

Facial rosacea: symptoms and treatment

In case of eye damage, an ophthalmologist’s consultation may be required.

What is rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. It is manifested by redness and the appearance of dilated vessels on the skin of the face; the appearance of red or pink, rising above the skin, rashes, which in typical cases are located in the central zone of the face (on the nose, chin, on the forehead and cheeks).

Rosacea can occur with periodic improvements and exacerbations.

Forms and complications of rosacea

Previously, several subtypes of the disease were distinguished in accordance with the most pronounced skin changes: erythemato-telangiectatic; papulo-pustular; phymatous; eye. The updated guidelines propose an individualized approach by assessing a set of skin changes in a particular patient.

Previously, conditions such as phimosis (thickening of tissues, usually on the skin of the nose) and eye lesions (ophthalmic rosacea) were considered complications of the disease. Currently, they are evaluated in the complex of detectable changes.

Causes

There are different opinions about the causes of rosacea. Vascular, immunological and hereditary mechanisms of the development of the disease are assumed, which are activated under the influence of various external influences. The starting role of microbes and microscopic mites living on the surface of the skin is considered; exposure to ultraviolet sunlight; possible influence of the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which lives in the gastrointestinal tract and causes some diseases of the digestive system. The role of bacteria that inhabit the body of mites that live on the surface of the skin and are normal is also discussed, since in most cases the presence of mites on the skin does not lead to adverse consequences for humans in most cases.

None of these factors fully explains the mechanism of the development of the disease, probably the combination of several is important.

The cause of rosacea can be even a short application of hormonal creams and ointments to the skin of the face. A more frequent combination of rosacea with some common diseases (inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, metabolic disorders, some tumors) was also revealed. Often rosacea occurs or worsens during menopause and menopause, in which case it may be useful to consult a gynecologist. However, such combinations do not occur in all patients, and the causal relationship remains unclear.

Symptoms of rosacea

• Reddening of the skin of the face
• Rashes
• Itching
• Feeling of discomfort and dryness.

Flow stages

Previously, it was believed that the disease develops according to the stages: redness of the skin, rashes, the formation of bumps and thickenings. Recent data show that the sequence of changes does not always follow a pattern and may differ from patient to patient.

Rosacea treatment

Depending on the individual characteristics of rosacea in a particular patient, agents are used that affect the state of blood vessels, inflammation, and skin microflora. In some cases, treatment is carried out using lasers or surgical techniques.

For all patients with rosacea, special skin care and the exclusion of provoking factors are required.

Features and benefits of rosacea treatment at Rassvet Clinic

Our clinic offers management of patients in accordance with the individual characteristics of rosacea, and not grouping according to previously recommended forms and stages of the disease. This allows for individualized treatment and skin care.

How rosacea is treated at Rassvet Clinic

Before prescribing the necessary treatment, the dermatologist will examine the skin and ask questions about your condition. Ask to talk about the factors that (subjectively) cause deterioration; previous treatment, its effectiveness; the action of drugs.

The diagnosis of rosacea is established on the basis of an examination by a dermatologist. There are no specific laboratory diagnostic tests.

If your doctor is in doubt as to whether your condition is consistent with a diagnosis of rosacea, a diagnostic skin biopsy and histological examination may be required.

At different stages of the disease, control of symptoms is achieved with the help of drugs with different mechanisms of action, they can be used for a long time. With a decrease in the effectiveness of drugs, the treatment regimen is adjusted by the attending physician.

The intensity of therapy may decrease as the condition improves.