Reasons for flare-ups in children and adults
Researchers are working to figure out what causeseczema(atopic dermatitis).
Because eczema runs in families, genetics are likely involved.
This article will discuss common genetic and environmental factors that may cause eczema in babies and adults.
Verywell / Katie Kerpel
Anyone, from newborns to people older than 65, can have atopic dermatitis.
Rashes can be quite painful and mayincrease your riskof developing a skin infection.
In Babies
Atopic dermatitis is common in children.
Symptoms typically show up during the first months of a babys life.
People of all ages can be susceptible toallergens(substances that trigger an allergic reaction).
But babies may be more vulnerable to irritants because their skin is so sensitive.
Keep in mind that the severity of childhood eczema varies widely.
Asian and Black people are more likely to develop atopic dermatitis.
Irritants that affect babies can also affect adults.
However, researchers dont really know why stress exacerbates symptoms.
Differences in Rash Appearance by Age
Theappearance of atopic dermatitismay depend on your age.
It also helps prevent water loss.
A gene called FLG helps to create a strong barrier in the outermost layer of the skin.
Having a mutation in FLG is a major risk factor for atopic dermatitis.
Other mutations that may increase the risk of atopic dermatitis are involved in the immune system.
These mutations may lead to a very sensitive immune system.
The immune system may overreact to everyday things like pollen and dust.
Mutations associated with atopic dermatitis are found in genes that increase immunoglobin E (IgE) production.
IgE are antibodies the immune system produces to mount an allergic response.
Diagnosis
Atopic dermatitis is usuallydiagnosedbased on the person’s history and physical examination features.
In atypical cases, askin biopsyis occasionally used to rule out malignancy or other diagnoses.
Lifestyle Risk Factors
Some people are more susceptible to developing eczema because of lifestyle risk factors.
These include:
Treatment for Eczema
There is no cure for it, but eczemacan be managed.
Summary
Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is an itchy skin rash due to an immune reaction.
The reaction can be triggered by many different kinds of irritants in babies and adults.
Certain genetic mutations can increase the risk of atopic dermatitis, as can environmental factors.
It can also happen if you experience a period of heightened stress.
Flares can also occur spontaneously without exposure to any known trigger.
Theres a link between food allergies and eczema.
People with eczema are more likely to have food allergies and vice versa.
However, foods that directly cause flare-ups are rare.
People with eczema probably have over-reactive immune systems.
This causes the immune system to produce an inflammatory response when exposed to certain triggers.
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