Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a chronic skin disorder common in people with asthma, hay fever, and other allergies. It causes an itchy, red, raised rash that may weep or ooze clear fluid. The rash may develop as tiny blisters, which break and crust over. The lesions are prone to infection, especially if scratching is not controlled.

In children, atopic dermatitis (AD) appears most often on the face, scalp, buttocks, thighs, and torso. In adults, it usually affects the neck, inside the elbows, and backs of the knees.

Adults whose hands or feet are often exposed to irritating substances may often have AD on those areas.

AD is often worse during infancy and greatly improves by early adulthood. Many children improve by age five or six.

Home Treatment

Helping the skin retain moisture is important to successful treatment.

• Take brief daily baths or showers with lukewarm (not hot) water. Use a gentle soap (Dove, Oil of Olay, Neutrogena) or non-soap cleanser (Cetaphil or Aveeno). If possible, bathe without soap.
• After bathing, pat skin dry and apply a lubricating cream (Lubri-derm, Moisturel). The cream may help keep your skin from drying out. Reapply cream often.
• Use a humidifier in the bedroom.
• An oral antihistamine (Benadryl) may help relieve itching and relax you enough to allow sleep. Avoid antiseptic and antihistamine creams and sprays, because they irritate the skin.
• Avoid contact with any irritants or allergens that cause problems. Wear gloves when working with irritating substances.
• Wash clothes and bedding in mild detergent and rinse at least twice. Do not use fabric softener if it is irritating.

When to Call a health Professional

• If crusting or weeping sores appear, because a bacterial infection may be present.
• If itching interferes with sleep and home treatment is not working.
• If atopic dermatitis is not controlled with home treatment.

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