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what is Dermatitis?
Dermatitis refers to skin irritation and can occur in many different forms. Generally, dermatitis symptoms include:
Dermatitis is not contagious, and using a moisturizer in your regular skincare routine usually helps control symptoms. If your symptoms persist, we may prescribe medicated ointments and creams to keep your symptoms at bay.
Types of Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is commonly known as eczema. This form of dermatitis makes your skin itchy and red, and the skin can become inflamed or infected from scratching. Periodic flare-ups of atopic dermatitis can last a long time, and periods between flare-ups can last years. Eczema is most common in children and can start as early as age five and may persist into adulthood.
Seborrheic dermatitis mainly affects the scalp (dandruff), causing scaly patches and persistent flaky skin. You might also experience this form of dermatitis in oily areas, like the ears, face, and chest. This type of dermatitis may go away without treatment. If the condition persists, we may prescribe an anti-fungal shampoo, and a topical corticosteroid (TCS) may also be prescribed to help expedite relief.
Signs of nummular dermatitis (also called nummular eczema or discoid eczema) include round spots on the skin that are often very itchy and might ooze or weep. It can occur on the arms, legs, torso, and/or hands. This type of dermatitis can be triggered by dry, sensitive skin or skin irritants. Other types of eczema may also cause nummular eczema flare-ups. Nummular eczema is a chronic skin condition that can last for weeks, months, or even years.
Stasis dermatitis is a skin condition that causes ulcers and itchy, inflamed skin on the lower legs. This type of dermatitis is most common in people with other conditions that affect the flow of blood in the legs. Treatment for stasis dermatitis includes using compression stockings and elevating legs to improve circulation. We may prescribe creams and antihistamines to relieve itching, and topical corticosteroids may be used to reduce swelling.
Dermatitis herpetiformis is a skin rash that consists of itchy bumps and blisters. This form of dermatitis will come and go and is common in people with immune system disorders and celiac disease. We prescribe antibiotics and a change in diet for patients who suffer this type of rash.
Perioral dermatitis is inflammation on the skin around the mouth and can spread up around the nose, cheeks, and eyes. This type of dermatitis is red and scaly or bumpy, and it may itch and burn. We will prescribe self-care steps and topical creams as treatments for perioral dermatitis.
Dermatitis FAQs
Dermatitis usually starts out as a rash or weeping bumps that form larger areas of irritation. Itchy, flaky, and inflamed patches of skin are usually signs of dermatitis.
The treatment for dermatitis depends on the type. Most of the time, we begin with conservative, self-care treatments, like anti-fungal shampoos and dietary changes, and then use topical corticosteroids and other medications to treat severe conditions.
Most forms of dermatitis will go away with proper care and treatment, but some types of dermatitis will persist throughout your life.
Different types of dermatitis have different triggers. Skin irritants, chemicals, and underlying conditions can trigger dermatitis.
Topical corticosteroids are commonly prescribed for dermatitis. We may also prescribe antibiotics if the area has become infected.
Dermatitis
Find Dermatitis Treatment in Brentwood, Tennessee
Our experienced dermatologists and staff are here to answer any questions you might have about your skin conditions. If you are experiencing itchy, inflamed skin, or any other dermatitis symptoms,
Schedule a consultation online or by calling (615) 377-3448 and let our caring team at Brentwood Dermatology provide personalized treatment options for your skin conditions.
Have questions or concerns? Please call us at 615.377.3448.