Atopic dermatitis is a skin disease that is one of the first places in the world in terms of prevalence among the population. And although it often appears in adulthood, basically a similar condition is diagnosed in children. Statistics show that almost 12% of the world's population suffers from this ailment. So what are the causes of atopic dermatitis in children? What are the main symptoms? What are the treatments for the disease? Many parents are interested in this information.
The main causes of atopic dermatitis in children
It should be noted right away that this is a chronic, allergic disease that affects skin tissue. In most cases, the first symptoms in a child appear at the age of 6 to 12 months, much less often the disease manifests itself later. In fact, the causes of the disease can not always be determined, but scientists identify several risk factors.
Atopic dermatitis is a hereditary disease, which is accompanied by a violation of the normal functioning of the immune system and the development of the so-called hypersensitivity of the body to certain substances. The most common allergens are food, but it can also be cosmetics and cleaning products (such as shampoo or washing powder), animal metabolism products, fabrics, etc.
In any case, heredity alone is not enough for the appearance of atopic dermatitis in children. It is proved that the disease manifests itself much more often in the presence of some other factors, in particular, chronic or infectious diseases of the newborn, alcoholism and smoking of the mother during pregnancy, insufficient breastfeeding, improper introduction of complementary foods to the infant’s diet, etc.
The main symptoms of atopic dermatitis in children
In fact, the disease can be accompanied by various symptoms. In most cases, it begins with the formation of bright red spots on the skin of the face. Then the rash passes to other parts of the body. In this case, the child is constantly tormented by severe itching and burning. As the disease develops, the affected areas begin to get wet and become covered with a yellowish crust. Sometimes, on the contrary, the skin becomes dry and cracking, resulting in bleeding sores. In addition, dermatitis is often associated with various fungal and bacterial infections, which only exacerbates the condition of the baby.
Methods of treating atopic dermatitis in children
The treatment regimen can only be compiled by a doctor, since the methods used depend largely on the severity and causes of the disease. As a rule, a child is prescribed antihistamines, as well as drugs that cleanse the body of toxins (sorbents), various ointments and gels that stimulate the regeneration process and relieve itching. In more severe cases, hormonal drugs are used.
Atopic dermatitis in children: diet
Of course, proper nutrition is an integral part of treatment. The menu of a child with atopic dermatitis is also compiled by a doctor. As a rule, experts recommend excluding sugar, chocolate, canned foods, smoked meats, spices, red and orange raw fruits and vegetables from the diet. But cereals, stews and dairy products will positively affect the well-being of the child. From meat, only low-fat boiled chicken and beef are suitable.