Slightly different symptoms and clinical signs exist for each type of atopic dermatitis, and they can range in terms of severity and location on the body. However, the first symptom of atopic dermatitis is usually intense itching, followed by a patchy, flaky, scaly, dry, hot, inflamed skin rash. Other atopic dermatitis symptoms and clinical signs include:
- Repeated rashes
- Redness
- Swelling
- Crusting
- Scabbing
- Blistering
- Cracking
- Oozing
- Bleeding
As there are different types of atopic dermatitis, so too are there different triggers, which can range from chemicals, bacteria, allergens, side effects of medications and psychological factors. Some triggers include:
- Soaps and detergents
- Cosmetics
- Weather conditions (heat, cold, humidity, dryness)
- Environmental allergens (such as poison ivy, ragweed, and primrose)
- Jewellery
- Creams
- Food handling
- Clothing (due to the chemicals used in manufacturing)
- Sweating
- Gloves
- Rubbing
- Emotional or mental stress
Flare-ups can be caused by:
- Illness
- Unusual physical or mental stress
- Exposure to skin irritants
- Skin infections
