3 ways to help manage atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis, also known as AD, is a type of eczema that causes your skin to become red, itchy, and flaky. It is most commonly seen in children, but even adults can develop the condition. Approximately 16.5 million adults in the country suffer from atopic dermatitis. In this article, read on to know the common treatment options, foods, and lifestyle changes that can help control and manage the symptoms of atopic dermatitis:

Treatments for atopic dermatitis
While there is no cure for atopic dermatitis, you can manage it via specific treatments. Here are some common prescriptions:

• CIBINQO®
  CIBINQO® is an oral treatment for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. This is mainly prescribed to those who cannot control the symptoms of this condition with other modes of treatment and therapies. Individuals who use CIBINQO® have a higher risk of developing severe infections such as herpes simplex, herpes zoster, UTI, and dizziness, among other side effects.
• DUPIXENT®
  DUPIXENT® is mainly used to treat eczema and atopic dermatitis. It works by targeting the source of inflammation beneath the skin, helping prevent flare-ups. This treatment is not a cream, steroid, or immunosuppressant. It is a biologic that has to be administered subcutaneously via injection. DUPIXENT® has serious side effects, including allergic reactions, eye troubles, and joint pains. Some of the common side effects include site reactions and cold sores.
• RINVOQ®
  The FDA recently approved the use of RINVOQ® (upadacitinib) to treat moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis in adults and children over the age of twelve. RINVOQ® can lead to severe side effects, including serious infections due to lowered immunity, increased risk of cardiovascular condition, increased risk of cancer, blood clots, and allergic reactions.
• EUCRISA®
  EUCRISA® is a topical prescription treatment for atopic dermatitis. It is completely steroid-free and can be used to tackle mild-to-moderate forms of eczema. It is also suitable for all skin types and for individuals of all ages, including babies over three months of age. EUCRISA® works both above and below the skin to tackle eczema and contains the active ingredient crisaborole 2%. Common side effects include allergic reactions, site pain, burning, and stinging.

Foods to tackle atopic dermatitis
Foods can also play a role in managing atopic dermatitis. Certain foods such as cow’s milk, eggs, soy products, gluten, nuts, and fish can trigger a flare-up in those with the condition. Individuals should opt for anti-inflammatory foods, such as fatty fish and foods with quercetin and probiotics.

Lifestyle changes
Many lifestyle changes can help keep atopic dermatitis at bay. Avoid taking baths with very hot or very cold water, stick to brief showers, and choose fragrance-free skincare, and wear clothes made of cotton and linen only to contain this skin condition.