The early signs of dermatitis include
- Red, dry, itching skin
- Crusty scales, painful cracks in the skin, or blisters that ooze fluid
- Swelling and irritation of the skin
- Rashes that may ooze, weep clear fluid, or bleed when scratched
- Thickening and hardening of the skin
Recognising these early signs of dermatitis is important for prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent the condition from worsening.
Symptoms of Dermatitis
Dermatitis symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:
- Redness and inflammation: Affected areas often appear red and swollen, commonly found on the face, neck, hands, and areas prone to friction or moisture.
- Itching: Intense itching is a hallmark symptom, leading to discomfort and potential skin damage from scratching. This can disrupt sleep and daily activities.
- Dryness and flaking: Skin may become dry, rough, and flaky, leading to scaly patches, particularly in chronic cases.
- Blisters and oozing: In some types, like allergic contact dermatitis, small blisters may form and ooze fluid. Open blisters can become infected if not properly cared for.
- Thickened skin: Prolonged scratching or irritation can cause the skin to thicken (lichenification), resulting in a leathery appearance เล่น UFABET ผ่านมือถือ สะดวกทุกที่ ทุกเวลา that is darker than surrounding areas.
- Crusting: Areas of dermatitis can develop a crusty appearance due to oozing and subsequent drying. Proper hygiene is important to prevent infection.
- Colour changes: Affected areas may exhibit changes in pigmentation, appearing darker or lighter than the surrounding skin. These changes can persist even after other symptoms have resolved.
- Sensitivity to touch: Areas of dermatitis may become sensitive, causing pain or discomfort with light touch or pressure, complicating daily activities.
- Flare-ups: Symptoms may wax and wane, with periods of worsening often triggered by allergens, irritants, or stress. Identifying triggers can help manage and prevent exacerbations.
- Associated symptoms: In some cases, dermatitis may be accompanied by other conditions such as asthma or hay fever, particularly in atopic dermatitis.
Stages of Dermatitis
Dermatitis can be classified into three stages, including:
- Acute: This stage is characterised by sudden onset of redness, swelling, and itching. The skin may also develop small, fluid-filled blisters that can ooze and crust over.
- Sub-acute: In this stage, the skin remains red and itchy but becomes drier and scalier. The blisters may have healed, leaving behind dry, flaky patches.
- Chronic: This stage is marked by persistent inflammation and thickening of the skin. The affected areas may become rough, leathery, and discoloured due to repeated scratching and rubbing.
Causes of Dermatitis
Dermatitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Allergic reactions: The immune system may overreact to substances such as nickel, latex, or certain chemicals found in personal care products. This reaction can lead to inflammation and discomfort on the affected skin areas.
- Irritants: Direct exposure to harsh substances like acids, strong soaps, and detergents can damage the skin’s protective barrier. This damage often results in redness, itching, and inflammation.
- Environmental factors: Environmental triggers, including pollen, certain plants like poison ivy, and ultraviolet light, can provoke dermatitis symptoms. These factors can initiate an immune response that manifests as skin irritation.
- Genetic factors: Individuals with a family history of atopic dermatitis are more likely to develop the condition themselves. This suggests a genetic link, often associated with other conditions like asthma and allergies.
- Dry skin: Dry skin can compromise the skin’s barrier, making it more susceptible to irritation and inflammation. This is particularly common in atopic dermatitis, where dryness can exacerbate symptoms.