Atopic dermatitis is a skin disease that occupies one of the first places in the world in terms of distribution among the population. And although it often appears in adulthood, basically this condition is diagnosed in children. Statistics show that almost 12% of the world's population suffers from this disease. So what are the causes of atopic dermatitis in children? What are the main symptoms? What methods of treatment of the disease exist? Many parents are interested in this information.
Main causes of atopic dermatitis in children
It should be noted right away that this is a chronic, allergic disease that affects skin tissues. In most cases, the first symptoms in a child appear between the ages of 6 and 12 months, much less often the disease manifests itself later. In fact, it is not always possible to find out the causes of the disease, but scientists identify several risk factors.
Atopic dermatitis is a hereditary disease thataccompanied 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. Foods are the most common allergens, but they can also be cosmetics, cleaning products (such as shampoo or laundry detergent), animal waste products, fabrics, etc.
In any case, one heredity is not enough for the appearance of atopic dermatitis in children. It has been proven that the disease is much more likely to manifest itself 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 into the infant's diet, etc.
Main symptoms of atopic dermatitis in children
In fact, the disease can be accompanied by different symptoms. In most cases, it begins with the formation of bright red spots on the skin of the face. The rash then spreads to other parts of the body. At the same time, the child constantly suffers from severe itching and burning. As the disease progresses, the affected areas begin to become wet and covered with a yellowish crust. Sometimes, on the contrary, the skin becomes dry and cracked, resulting in bleeding ulcers. In addition, dermatitis is often associated with various fungal and bacterial infections, which only aggravates the baby's condition.
Treatment methods for atopic dermatitis in children
The treatment regimen can only be drawn up by a doctor, since the methods used largely depend on the severity and causes of the disease. As a rule, the 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 medications 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 sour-milk products will positively affect the well-being of the child. From meat, only lean boiled chicken and beef are suitable.
