Difference between revisions of "Ease the Symptoms of Spongiotic Dermatitis"
(importing article from wikihow) |
m (Update ref tag) |
||
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
| − | {{fa}}Spongiotic dermatitis is a skin condition that is generally considered a form of acute eczema.<ref>http://dermatitisinformation.com/article/spongiotic-dermatitis-treatment</ref> While this form of dermatitis is often painful, it is relatively easy to prevent and treat. Once you have a medical diagnosis of spongiotic dermatitis, you can use home remedies and medical intervention to treat the condition as necessary. | + | {{fa}}Spongiotic dermatitis is a skin condition that is generally considered a form of acute eczema.<ref name="rf1">http://dermatitisinformation.com/article/spongiotic-dermatitis-treatment</ref> While this form of dermatitis is often painful, it is relatively easy to prevent and treat. Once you have a medical diagnosis of spongiotic dermatitis, you can use home remedies and medical intervention to treat the condition as necessary. |
[[Category:Eczema]] | [[Category:Eczema]] | ||
| Line 6: | Line 6: | ||
===Getting Diagnosed and Identifying Symptoms=== | ===Getting Diagnosed and Identifying Symptoms=== | ||
#Get diagnosed by a medical doctor. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of spongiotic dermatitis, it’s important to get diagnosed with the condition by a medical doctor. She will help you take steps to treat the condition either through prevention and home remedies or medication. | #Get diagnosed by a medical doctor. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of spongiotic dermatitis, it’s important to get diagnosed with the condition by a medical doctor. She will help you take steps to treat the condition either through prevention and home remedies or medication. | ||
| − | #Identify the symptoms of spongiotic dermatitis. The symptoms of spongiotic dermatitis vary widely from person to person, but there are some general signs you can look for to help identify the condition. Knowing these signs may make it easier to relieve your symptoms at home. Typical symptoms of spongiotic dermatitis include:<ref>http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eczema/basics/symptoms/con-20032073</ref> | + | #Identify the symptoms of spongiotic dermatitis. The symptoms of spongiotic dermatitis vary widely from person to person, but there are some general signs you can look for to help identify the condition. Knowing these signs may make it easier to relieve your symptoms at home. Typical symptoms of spongiotic dermatitis include:<ref name="rf2">http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eczema/basics/symptoms/con-20032073</ref> |
#*severe itching, especially at night | #*severe itching, especially at night | ||
#*red to brownish-gray patches on the skin | #*red to brownish-gray patches on the skin | ||
| Line 12: | Line 12: | ||
#* thickened, cracked, dry, and scaly skin | #* thickened, cracked, dry, and scaly skin | ||
#* raw, sensitive, and swollen skin that occurs as a result of scratching | #* raw, sensitive, and swollen skin that occurs as a result of scratching | ||
| − | #*The most common place for spongiotic dermatitis to occur is on the chest, stomach, and buttocks. It can spread from these areas to other parts of the body.<ref | + | #*The most common place for spongiotic dermatitis to occur is on the chest, stomach, and buttocks. It can spread from these areas to other parts of the body.<ref name="rf1" /> |
#Be aware of possible irritants and risk factors. There are some irritants and risk factors that can make you more prone to a flare-up of spongiotic dermatitis. Being aware of these will help you take the proper steps to prevent the condition. | #Be aware of possible irritants and risk factors. There are some irritants and risk factors that can make you more prone to a flare-up of spongiotic dermatitis. Being aware of these will help you take the proper steps to prevent the condition. | ||
| − | #*Working with metals such as nickel, solvents, or cleaning supplies, can increase your risk of spongiotic dermatitis.<ref>http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dermatitis-eczema/basics/risk-factors/con-20032183</ref> | + | #*Working with metals such as nickel, solvents, or cleaning supplies, can increase your risk of spongiotic dermatitis.<ref name="rf3">http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dermatitis-eczema/basics/risk-factors/con-20032183</ref> |
| − | #*Certain health conditions including congestive heart failure, Parkinson's disease, and HIV/AIDS can also make you more prone to spongiotic dermatitis.<ref | + | #*Certain health conditions including congestive heart failure, Parkinson's disease, and HIV/AIDS can also make you more prone to spongiotic dermatitis.<ref name="rf3" /> |
#*Spongiotic dermatitis can flare up if you have sensitive skin and/ or use very harsh and strong soaps that can cause an allergic reaction on the skin. | #*Spongiotic dermatitis can flare up if you have sensitive skin and/ or use very harsh and strong soaps that can cause an allergic reaction on the skin. | ||
===Using Home Remedies=== | ===Using Home Remedies=== | ||
| Line 21: | Line 21: | ||
#*The trigger could be an allergen, food allergy, cosmetic, environmental factor, insect bite, or harsh soap or detergent. | #*The trigger could be an allergen, food allergy, cosmetic, environmental factor, insect bite, or harsh soap or detergent. | ||
#*If you suspect a specific trigger, try to limit your exposure to it and see if it relieves your symptoms. | #*If you suspect a specific trigger, try to limit your exposure to it and see if it relieves your symptoms. | ||
| − | #*Certain external factors can worsen spongiotic dermatitis including dry skin from taking baths or showers that are too hot, stress, sweat, wearing wool, exposure to tobacco smoke and pollution.<ref> http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eczema/basics/symptoms/con-20032073</ref> | + | #*Certain external factors can worsen spongiotic dermatitis including dry skin from taking baths or showers that are too hot, stress, sweat, wearing wool, exposure to tobacco smoke and pollution.<ref name="rf4"> http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eczema/basics/symptoms/con-20032073</ref> |
| − | #*Certain foods can also worsen spongiotic dermatitis including eggs, milk, peanuts, soybeans, fish, and wheat.<ref | + | #*Certain foods can also worsen spongiotic dermatitis including eggs, milk, peanuts, soybeans, fish, and wheat.<ref name="rf2" /> |
#*Use mild or “hypoallergenic” soaps and laundry detergents. These contain fewer harmful chemicals that can irritate your skin. Rinse clothes twice after washing to ensure that the detergent is well removed. | #*Use mild or “hypoallergenic” soaps and laundry detergents. These contain fewer harmful chemicals that can irritate your skin. Rinse clothes twice after washing to ensure that the detergent is well removed. | ||
#*Any product marked “hypoallergenic” has been tested for sensitive skin and will likely not irritate your skin. | #*Any product marked “hypoallergenic” has been tested for sensitive skin and will likely not irritate your skin. | ||
| − | #Don’t scratch. No matter what treatment you seek for spongiotic dermatitis, do not scratch the patches on your skin. Scratching the rash can open any sores you may have and cause further problems, including infection.<ref>http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dermatitis-eczema/basics/complications/con-20032183</ref> | + | #Don’t scratch. No matter what treatment you seek for spongiotic dermatitis, do not scratch the patches on your skin. Scratching the rash can open any sores you may have and cause further problems, including infection.<ref name="rf5">http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dermatitis-eczema/basics/complications/con-20032183</ref> |
| − | #*If you cannot avoid scratching the irritated areas, occasionally apply bandages to any areas seriously affected by spongiotic dermatitis. This will limit exposure to irritants and keep you from scratching.<ref>http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eczema/basics/lifestyle-home-remedies/con-20032073</ref> Do not cover the areas frequently, as this may actually cause more irritation. | + | #*If you cannot avoid scratching the irritated areas, occasionally apply bandages to any areas seriously affected by spongiotic dermatitis. This will limit exposure to irritants and keep you from scratching.<ref name="rf6">http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eczema/basics/lifestyle-home-remedies/con-20032073</ref> Do not cover the areas frequently, as this may actually cause more irritation. |
| − | #Keep your skin well hydrated to reduce irritation. Maintaining your skin’s natural hydration will prevent dryness and help prevent further irritation. You can help keep your skin hydrated by different means including moisturizing, avoiding temperature extremes, and using a humidifier.<ref | + | #Keep your skin well hydrated to reduce irritation. Maintaining your skin’s natural hydration will prevent dryness and help prevent further irritation. You can help keep your skin hydrated by different means including moisturizing, avoiding temperature extremes, and using a humidifier.<ref name="rf6" /> |
#*Use a gentle cleanser made for sensitive skin when you bathe or shower. Recommended choices include Dove, Aveeno, and Cetaphil. Don't use overly hot water, as this can dry out and irritate skin. | #*Use a gentle cleanser made for sensitive skin when you bathe or shower. Recommended choices include Dove, Aveeno, and Cetaphil. Don't use overly hot water, as this can dry out and irritate skin. | ||
| − | #*Apply moisturizer to your skin at least twice a day. The best time to apply is after a shower or bath while your skin is still damp. Later in the day, consider using an oil to moisturize your skin.<ref | + | #*Apply moisturizer to your skin at least twice a day. The best time to apply is after a shower or bath while your skin is still damp. Later in the day, consider using an oil to moisturize your skin.<ref name="rf6" /> |
| − | #*Make sure to use unscented and uncolored moisturizers that will not irritate your skin.<ref | + | #*Make sure to use unscented and uncolored moisturizers that will not irritate your skin.<ref name="rf6" /> If you aren't sure what moisturizer is best for your skin, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Use creams or ointments, as they are usually thicker and more effective than lotions, and they're usually less irritating to the skin. |
| − | #*Taking a 10-15 minute bath in warm water sprinkled with baking soda, uncooked oatmeal or colloidal oatmeal will help your skin stay moisturized. Make sure to moisturize your skin with a cream or oil after the bath.<ref | + | #*Taking a 10-15 minute bath in warm water sprinkled with baking soda, uncooked oatmeal or colloidal oatmeal will help your skin stay moisturized. Make sure to moisturize your skin with a cream or oil after the bath.<ref name="rf6" /> |
| − | #*Keeping a humidifier in your home will ensure that the air is moist and won’t dry out your skin.<ref | + | #*Keeping a humidifier in your home will ensure that the air is moist and won’t dry out your skin.<ref name="rf6" /> |
#*Avoid temperature extremes, which can dry out skin. | #*Avoid temperature extremes, which can dry out skin. | ||
| − | #Stay hydrated by drinking water. Making sure that you drink enough water will help your skin stay hydrated as well. Drink at least eight glasses of water every day to help your skin retain previous moisture and prevent dehydration.<ref>http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/hydrated-skin/faq-20058067</ref> | + | #Stay hydrated by drinking water. Making sure that you drink enough water will help your skin stay hydrated as well. Drink at least eight glasses of water every day to help your skin retain previous moisture and prevent dehydration.<ref name="rf7">http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/hydrated-skin/faq-20058067</ref> |
| − | #Apply a cold compress to relieve itching and inflammation. The itching and inflammation from spongiotic dermatitis comes from histamine in your blood. Cold packs or compresses can help relieve itching and inflammation associated with spongiotic dermatitis by constricting blood flow and cooling the skin.<ref | + | #Apply a cold compress to relieve itching and inflammation. The itching and inflammation from spongiotic dermatitis comes from histamine in your blood. Cold packs or compresses can help relieve itching and inflammation associated with spongiotic dermatitis by constricting blood flow and cooling the skin.<ref name="rf6" /> |
#*Histamine is produced when an allergen enters in the body. It is involved in all of the symptoms of allergic reactions, including itching and inflammation. | #*Histamine is produced when an allergen enters in the body. It is involved in all of the symptoms of allergic reactions, including itching and inflammation. | ||
| − | #*You can place a cold compress on your rashes intermittently for 10 to 15 minutes, once every 2 hours or as needed.<ref | + | #*You can place a cold compress on your rashes intermittently for 10 to 15 minutes, once every 2 hours or as needed.<ref name="rf6" /> |
#Protect your skin. You can prevent and relieve spongiotic dermatitis by protecting your skin. Clothing, bandages, and even bug spray will protect your skin. | #Protect your skin. You can prevent and relieve spongiotic dermatitis by protecting your skin. Clothing, bandages, and even bug spray will protect your skin. | ||
| − | #*Wear cool, loose, smooth textured clothing such as cotton or silk to keep yourself from scratching and prevent excess sweating.<ref | + | #*Wear cool, loose, smooth textured clothing such as cotton or silk to keep yourself from scratching and prevent excess sweating.<ref name="rf6" /> Do not wear wool, as it can irritate your skin. |
| − | #*Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to keep yourself from scratching your skin and protect it from external irritants.<ref | + | #*Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to keep yourself from scratching your skin and protect it from external irritants.<ref name="rf6" /> |
#*You can also apply bug repellant to areas that do not have rashes when you go outside where you are at risk of being bitten. This will prevent insects from getting too close to your skin and causing further allergic reactions. | #*You can also apply bug repellant to areas that do not have rashes when you go outside where you are at risk of being bitten. This will prevent insects from getting too close to your skin and causing further allergic reactions. | ||
#Apply calamine lotion or anti-itch cream. Applying a calamine lotion or non-prescription anti-itch cream can relieve the symptoms of spongiotic dermatitis. You can purchase these creams at grocery and drug stores both in-store and online. | #Apply calamine lotion or anti-itch cream. Applying a calamine lotion or non-prescription anti-itch cream can relieve the symptoms of spongiotic dermatitis. You can purchase these creams at grocery and drug stores both in-store and online. | ||
#*A nonprescription anti-itch, or hydrocortisone, cream, can help relieve itching. Make sure to purchase a cream with at least 1% hydrocortisone. | #*A nonprescription anti-itch, or hydrocortisone, cream, can help relieve itching. Make sure to purchase a cream with at least 1% hydrocortisone. | ||
| − | #*Apply these creams to the affected area before you moisturize your skin.<ref | + | #*Apply these creams to the affected area before you moisturize your skin.<ref name="rf6" /> |
#*Follow the specific product instructions for how often you can use the cream on your skin. | #*Follow the specific product instructions for how often you can use the cream on your skin. | ||
#Take over-the-counter antihistamines to reduce your inflammation and itching. These drugs will block the histamine that causes allergic reactions and help relieve itching and skin inflammation. There are many different over-the-counter antihistamines that are available at drug and grocery stores both in store and online. Before taking any new medications, consult with your doctor, as some may interact with other medical conditions or current medications. | #Take over-the-counter antihistamines to reduce your inflammation and itching. These drugs will block the histamine that causes allergic reactions and help relieve itching and skin inflammation. There are many different over-the-counter antihistamines that are available at drug and grocery stores both in store and online. Before taking any new medications, consult with your doctor, as some may interact with other medical conditions or current medications. | ||
| Line 57: | Line 57: | ||
===Getting Medical Assistance=== | ===Getting Medical Assistance=== | ||
#Visit your doctor if your condition worsens. If your blisters and rash don’t go away after a week, or you become very uncomfortable, see your doctor. The doctor may prescribe oral medications, steroid creams, or light therapy to treat your spongiotic dermatitis. | #Visit your doctor if your condition worsens. If your blisters and rash don’t go away after a week, or you become very uncomfortable, see your doctor. The doctor may prescribe oral medications, steroid creams, or light therapy to treat your spongiotic dermatitis. | ||
| − | #*See your doctor if: you're so uncomfortable that it disrupts your sleep or ability to function daily, your skin is painful, self-care and home remedies haven’t worked, or you suspect your skin is infected.<ref>http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dermatitis-eczema/basics/symptoms/con-20032183</ref> | + | #*See your doctor if: you're so uncomfortable that it disrupts your sleep or ability to function daily, your skin is painful, self-care and home remedies haven’t worked, or you suspect your skin is infected.<ref name="rf8">http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dermatitis-eczema/basics/symptoms/con-20032183</ref> |
| − | #Use light therapy. A doctor may prescribe phototherapy (light therapy) to help heal spongiotic dermatitis. This very effective treatment can be as simple as limited sun exposure or may use artificial light, but it does not come without risks.<ref>http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dermatitis-eczema/basics/treatment/con-20032183</ref> | + | #Use light therapy. A doctor may prescribe phototherapy (light therapy) to help heal spongiotic dermatitis. This very effective treatment can be as simple as limited sun exposure or may use artificial light, but it does not come without risks.<ref name="rf9">http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dermatitis-eczema/basics/treatment/con-20032183</ref> |
| − | #*Phototherapy exposes the skin to controlled amounts of natural sunlight or artificial ultraviolet A (UVA) and narrow band UVB. This treatment can be used alone with in conjunction with medications.<ref>http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eczema/basics/treatment/con-20032073</ref> | + | #*Phototherapy exposes the skin to controlled amounts of natural sunlight or artificial ultraviolet A (UVA) and narrow band UVB. This treatment can be used alone with in conjunction with medications.<ref name="rf10">http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eczema/basics/treatment/con-20032073</ref> |
| − | #*Light exposure increases your risk for premature aging and skin cancer.<ref | + | #*Light exposure increases your risk for premature aging and skin cancer.<ref name="rf10" /> |
| − | #Use prescription corticosteroids. If the itching or rash is not relieved by applying an over-the-counter topical corticosteroid, your doctor may prescribe either a stronger topical or oral corticosteroid such as prednisone.<ref | + | #Use prescription corticosteroids. If the itching or rash is not relieved by applying an over-the-counter topical corticosteroid, your doctor may prescribe either a stronger topical or oral corticosteroid such as prednisone.<ref name="rf10" /> |
| − | #*Oral steroids and strong topical steroids can have serious side effects when used long term. Follow your doctor's instructions and don't use these medications for longer than advised.<ref> http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eczema/basics/treatment/con-20032073</ref> | + | #*Oral steroids and strong topical steroids can have serious side effects when used long term. Follow your doctor's instructions and don't use these medications for longer than advised.<ref name="rf11"> http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eczema/basics/treatment/con-20032073</ref> |
| − | #*Continue to moisturize your skin while using oral and topical corticosteroids. Not only will they keep your skin hydrated, but they will help prevent flare-ups when you discontinue use of the steroids.<ref | + | #*Continue to moisturize your skin while using oral and topical corticosteroids. Not only will they keep your skin hydrated, but they will help prevent flare-ups when you discontinue use of the steroids.<ref name="rf11" /> |
#Get an antibiotic prescribed to combat infection. In case your blisters or rash area is infected, you can get an antibiotic to help make sure you remain healthy. Talk to your doctor if you see signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, or pus. | #Get an antibiotic prescribed to combat infection. In case your blisters or rash area is infected, you can get an antibiotic to help make sure you remain healthy. Talk to your doctor if you see signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, or pus. | ||
| − | #*The type of antibiotic your doctor prescribes may vary. Common antibiotics include erythromycin, penicillin, dicloxacillin, clindamycin, or doxycycline.<ref>http://dermnetnz.org/dermatitis/treatment.html</ref> | + | #*The type of antibiotic your doctor prescribes may vary. Common antibiotics include erythromycin, penicillin, dicloxacillin, clindamycin, or doxycycline.<ref name="rf12">http://dermnetnz.org/dermatitis/treatment.html</ref> |
#Use a calcineurin inhibitor cream to help repair the skin. When no other treatment works, get a calcineurin inhibitor cream that will help repair your skin. These drugs, which include tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, will help maintain normal skin, control itching, and reduce flares of spongiotic dermatitis. | #Use a calcineurin inhibitor cream to help repair the skin. When no other treatment works, get a calcineurin inhibitor cream that will help repair your skin. These drugs, which include tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, will help maintain normal skin, control itching, and reduce flares of spongiotic dermatitis. | ||
| − | #*Calcineurin inhibitors directly affect the immune system and come with potential side effects including kidney problems, high blood pressure and headaches. Serious but rare side effects include an increased risk of certain cancers.<ref>http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/549094_2</ref> | + | #*Calcineurin inhibitors directly affect the immune system and come with potential side effects including kidney problems, high blood pressure and headaches. Serious but rare side effects include an increased risk of certain cancers.<ref name="rf13">http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/549094_2</ref> |
| − | #*These drugs are prescribed only when other treatments have failed and are approved for most people over the age of 2.<ref>http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15799678</ref> | + | #*These drugs are prescribed only when other treatments have failed and are approved for most people over the age of 2.<ref name="rf14">http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15799678</ref> |
==Sources and Citations== | ==Sources and Citations== | ||
