Managing Atopic Dermatitis

To manage your symptoms and keep them in check, try these self-care tips:

Caring for Your Skin

• Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser for bathing. Rinse well. Pat skin dry.

• Take warm, not hot, baths. For a soothing bath, add oil or oatmeal to the water.

• Use moisturizer right after you bathe, while your skin is still damp.

Controlling Your Environment

• Avoid extremes of heat or cold.

• Avoid very humid or very dry air.

• If your home or office air is very dry, use a humidifier.

• Avoid allergens, such as dust, that may be present in bedding, carpets, plush toys, or rugs.

• Know that pet hair and dander can cause flare-ups.

Seeking Medical Treatment

Another way to keep symptoms under control is to seek medical treatment. Talk with your doctor about the type of treatment that may work best for you. A topical treatment may be prescribed to put on the skin daily. Oral medications (taken by mouth) may also be prescribed. Among medications you may be given are antihistamines, antibiotics, or corticosteroids. Sometimes injections may be needed to control the symptoms. Treatments do not work the same way for every patient. So, if symptoms persist or get worse, ask your doctor about other treatments.

Making Lifestyle Choices

• Manage the stress in your life.

• Wear loose-fitting cotton clothing that does not bind or rub the skin.

• Avoid contact with wool or other scratchy fabrics.

• Use fragrance-free products.