Atopic Dermatitis Action Plan


For more information about atopic drematitis, see next blog. This page concerns treatment.



1. Frequent hydration. Bathing is encouraged. Take at least one soaking luke warm soapless bath daily. Immediately after exiting bath proceed to #2.

2. Occulsive moisturization. Seal the water into the top layer of the skin using the medicaitons and moisturizers recommended. Each part of the skin, from head to toe should get treated with either the medicated preparations or the moisturizing agents:

Medications:

Triamcinolone cream
Triamcinolone ointment
Fluocinolide
Fluticasone
Mometasone
Tacrolimus (Protopic)
Pimecrolimus (Elidel)


3. Moisturizers:
Vanicream
Lubriderm
Eucerin
Aquaphor

4. Control of itching can be achieved using antihistamines such as:

Zyrtec
Xyzal
Hydroxyzine
Benadryl

5. Identify and address allergic triggers. In children especially, food allergy may be associated with atopic dermatitis or eczema.

6. Be aware that other conditions commonly occur with atopic dermatitis (asthma, allergic rhinitis)

7. Other therapeutic measures may need to be considered including bleach baths, systemic and topical antibiotic treatments if indicated.

8. Other common sense recommendations incldue wearing comfortably clothing, keeping finger nails short, using hypoallergenic laundry detergent, doubling rinsing clothes, using sunscreen.

9. Eat a balanced diet. Some studies have shown supplental vitamin E to be helpful. Ongoing investigations on probiotics and other nutritional interventions may provide more helpful information soon.