Dermatitis Treatment

Description

Dermatitis is a condition in which a limited area of skin becomes red, thickened, and covered with a rash of small, red bumps. The area may itch mildly or severely. The term dermatitis means “inflammation of the skin” and refers to specific ailments, such as eczema, allergic contact dermatitis, irritant contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, stasis dermatitis, diaper rash, and seborrheic dermatitis-all conditions with similar symptoms.

Dermatitis can be caused by exposure to a skin irritant, such as a new skin care cream or piece of jewelry. Extreme anxiety, stress, or excessive perspiration can also cause a reaction. Some people experience a recurring form of the disease, which comes unexpectedly, goes away when treated, and shows up again sometime later.

Signs and Symptoms

• A rash of small, red bumps and thickened skin; the bumps are often filled with fluid
• Itching at the affected site
• Scaling at the affected area

Conventional Medical Treatment

If you suspect you have dermatitis, visit a dermatologist, who can diagnose the condition with a physical exam. Most cases are treated with a hydrocortisone cream, which is applied to the area to reduce inflammation and itching. You will also need to keep the afflicted skin clean (your derma tologist may advise using a nonperfumed soap), and dry. If your dermatitis was caused by a skin irritant, you will certainly want to avoid further contact with the substance or object. Most cases of dermatitis disappear within three days to a week of treatment.

complementary and Alternative Treatments

Nutrition and supplementation

Nutritionists recommend a high-fiber, vegetarian diet for healthy skin. Foods should be eaten with as little preparation as possible-that is, raw or close to it. Focus on foods low in fat and protein, high in complex carbohydrates. Foods such as potatoes, yams, carrots, dark green vegetables, and peppers are high in vitamins A and C, beta-carotene, and chlorophyll. Water is also essential to good skin condition, and you should drink at least 58-ounce glasses of pure water daily. Also 2 or 3 8-ounce servings of fresh juice provide a healthy supply of nutrients.

Foods to avoid include dairy products, sugar, fats, and fried or processed foods. Check for food, allergies, beginning with gluten (wheat, oats, barley, rye), which often contributes to dermatitis. Try a gluten-free diet for six weeks, and then slowly introduce gluten back into your diet. If your condition improved on the gluten-free regimen, you’ll know to completely remove it from your diet.

Nutritionists suggest the following daily supplements:

Most Important

• vitamin B complex (50 to 100 mg 3 times with meals)-necessary for circulation and aids in cell reproduction
• kelp (1000 mg)-contains minerals that promote healing of tissues
• flaxseed oil (1 tbsp)-promotes lubrication of the skin
• vitamin E (400 IU or more)-relieves itching
• zinc (30 mg)-aids healing; use in lozenge form

Also Recommended

• free-form amino acid complex (as directed on label)-supplies protein necessary for repair of all tissues
• vitamin A emulsion (100,000 IU daily for 1 month, then 50,000 IU for 2 weeks, then 25,000 IU; do not exceed 8000 IU daily if you are pregnant)-promotes smooth skin and helps prevent dryness
• vitamin D (400 to 1000 IU daily)-heals tissues
• vitamin C (2000 mg)-important for skin repair (For an acute condition, take supplements until your symptoms subside. If symptoms persist, seek the advice of your healthcare provider. For a chronic condition, consult your healthcare provider regarding the duration of treatment.)

Aromatherapy

To relieve itchy skin, add 10 drops of German chamomile to warm bath water, then soak for about 10 minutes. Pat dry. (Rubbing your skin will make it itchier.) After bathing, apply lotion or almond oil to which you’ve added the essential oils of German chamomile, lavender, and bergamot. Other beneficial essential oils include geranium, hyssop, peppermint, and myrrh.

Herbal Therapy

Evening primrose oil is a highly effective treatment for the intense itch that accompanies dermatitis. Take 4 500 mg capsules twice daily until symptoms subside.

Burdock and dandelion teas are also quite helpful in relieving inflammation and itching. Simmer 1 tablespoon of the dried root of either herb in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes; strain. Drink a cupful several times daily.

Other beneficial herbal remedies include: tinctures of nettle, red clover, and cleavers (combine in equal amounts and take 1/2 teaspoonful daily), or nettle and cleavers teas (drink daily). You also can wash the affected area with a chickweed infusion, or apply a calendula salve to affected skin.

Herbal products are available in health food stores and in some pharmacies and supermarkets. Follow package for specific directions.

Homeopathy

Dermatitis may respond to homeopathic treatment. However, the selection of a remedy-more than one is available-depends on your symptoms and the stage of the condition. Don’t try treating this disorder yourself. See a homeopathic professional.

Hydrotherapy

Cold compresses can help quiet itching and pain. Apply 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off while symptoms last. Remember not to use cold for more than 20 minutes at a time; prolonged exposure can damage skin.

Alternately, try a lukewarm (940 to 980 F) bath to which you’ve added 1 cup of baking soda; soak for 30 to 60 minutes and pat dry.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture This modality is very effective in lessening the itchiness and inflammation associated with dermatitis and related conditions, such as eczema.

Acupressure Acupressure can be used to enhance immunity, thereby reducing the chances of allergic reactions, such as contact dermatitis or eczema. To stimulate the immune system, an acupressurist may target Bladder 47 and 23. Eczem may be treated by pressing on Liver 3, Stomac 36, and various ear points.

Chinese Herbal Therapy Aloe vera is an herb traditionally used to treat dermatitis and eczema. Dang Gui and Arctium Combination can be used to treat chronic dermatitis. Any constitutional diagnosis can be treated by a practitioner / acupuncturist.

Yoga and Meditation

Dermatitis flares up when stress levels rise. To control stress and release tension, use deep breathing, meditation, and yoga in a daily routine. Be sure to include at least four yoga poses in your program. One should be a relaxation pose, such as the Baby, Corpse, or Wind Removal. Breath of Fire breathing can also be helpful.

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