Home Skin Care Articles Dermatitis The Paths towards Dermatitis
The Paths towards Dermatitis
Skin Care - Dermatitis

The Paths towards Dermatitis


Anyone who suffers from the distress of dermatitis would be happy to know what causes the redness, itchiness, and flare-ups. Above all, they'd be glad to find the proper treatment to get rid of dermatitis forever.

Unfortunately, researchers are still hard at work in identifying the causes of dermatitis. Recent studies are suggesting that it is a result of the interaction among three key players: genetics, environment, and out immune system. Those who suffer from dermatitis usually have weaker and more sensitive immune systems. Thus, they tend to react more violently to irritants and other allergens. It has also been shown that dermatitis can run in the family. If the family has a history of allergic conditions, the chances are dermatitis may develop.

There are several theories that attempt to explain how dermatitis comes about. Because there is a wide variety of possible cause, experts suspect that it represents not just one condition. One theory says that elevated immunoglobulin E levels may lead to the skin condition upon examination of the body’s reactions and biochemical state. Another theory espouses that defects in the functions of the body’s T-cells may be to blame.

A variety of factors, including health conditions, genetics, irritants, allergies, and physical and mental stressors may cause predisposition to dermatitis development. Working in damp or wet areas is believed to be one of the primary causes of dermatitis. Contact dermatitis may also result from direct contact with allergens or irritants.

Allergic reactions and irritants are usually genetically determined. Environmental factors may include risks of burning or sunburn, as this may increase the chances of developing dermatitis. What goes on in the body when a person has dermatitis has been studied thoroughly, but there is little information about what can make a person prone to developing allergic dermatitis.

Dermatitis can occur in four types: contact, allergy, nummular, and atopic. The different types have different triggers, but some of them are alike. Atopic dermatitis is genetically determined. Environmental factors only serve to influence the breakout of dermatitis. Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when a harmful and highly reactive substance encounters the skin directly. Nummular dermatitis usually manifests during cold weather conditions. People with dry skin are susceptible to this type of dermatitis.

Dermatitis patients can take heart that scientists are still actively researching this condition. Over-the-counter medication and doctor-prescribed creams are also available in the market. To prevent further flare-ups, keep track of possible allergens or irritants and stay way from them.