In the old days, skin health or having healthy skin may be seen as something that is only pursued by women. Even so, the modern world has shown that both men and women do want to have good skin as it helps them to stay young and even helps to boost one’s confidence. While it is true that having healthy skin does bring a lot of benefits for the person who has it, conditions such as neurodermatitis may cause a person to ask a doctor on ways to clear it.
To understand more on neurodermatitis, you might want to know a bit more on eczema first as neurodermatitis is a type of eczema. Eczema in general is a term used to describe a group of skin conditions characterised by itchy dryness and inflammation. Neurodermatitis is a common type of eczema which comprises 12% of the population. Eczema itself is a type of dermatitis. It is important to note that while all eczema is dermatitis, not all dermatitis is an eczema. Dermatitis refers to a group of inflammation that causes itchiness characterised by changes in the epidermal layer (skin layer). Furthermore, people with eczema tend to have an overactive immune system which is in contrast with dermatitis in general as anyone can have it with or without the presence of the overactive immune system.
Neurodermatitis is also known as lichen simplex chronicus. It is a skin condition involving itching and scratching. It usually starts with itchiness. Neurodermatitis is unlike atopic dermatitis as it is usually restricted to one or two patches of skin. Atopic dermatitis on the other hand is often widespread. Repeated scratching can cause thickening of skin known as lichenification.
Neurodermatitis is common in mid-late adulthood with the highest likelihood in those aged between 30 to 50 years old. While this condition can occur in anyone without any other skin problems or health conditions, it is typically found in patients with certain psychiatric conditions, history of atopic eczema and diseases associated with itchy skin (pruritus).
The exact cause for neurodermatitis remains unknown but research suggests that it is the many factors altogether that plays a role such as diseases, psychological issues and environments. Environments include wearing tight clothes, sweat, chemical irritants and bug bites. Diseases such as psoriasis and lichen planus can cause itchiness that develops into neurodermatitis. While it is true that most cases of neurodermatitis are caused by environmental factors or skin issues, it is common for the condition to be associated with mental disorders such as anxiety, depression and obsessive compulsive disorder as there is repetitive behaviour.
Neurodermatitis can be said to be the result from the chronic ‘itch-scratch’ cycle. The repetitive scratching will cause lichenification which is the main characteristic for neurodermatitis. This lichenified patches or plaques will also cause an exaggeration of the normal skin marking creases which is the ‘criss cross’ pattern. The lesion can be presented as single or more than one lesion. The lesions are often dry, discoloured and feel slightly elevated. Most commonly this lesion is found within reach such as the scalp, neck, wrist, forearms, ankles and thigh. Persistent scratching can result in wounds and possible skin infections. In severe cases, the constant itching can affect an individual’s sleep quality and the person’s daily life. Neurodermatitis can be a serious one as the thickened skin that is supposed to protect the person, causes more itchiness to the extent that some people may not realise that they have had scratched so often that they stop noticing that they are scratching.
Due to the fact that neurodermatitis can be a great problem to a person’s quality of life, getting treatment on clearing the condition can be a great help. Treatment is aimed at tackling the underlying problems. For example, those with neurodermatitis and have psoriasis or eczema, can benefit from immunosuppressive medication such as oral corticosteroid. In cases associated with psychological disorders, psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioural therapy and medications such as antidepressants can help patients ease symptoms. In many cases, topical steroids are prescribed to help with itching and are recommended to cover the skin where there is lesion to avoid itching onto the area.
Beside treatment from doctors, patients need to make changes to their life. This includes wearing loose-fitting clothes, applying moisturisers, avoiding the triggers and to keep nails short to avoid injury to the skin. Despite there being treatment and ways of coping with the condition, the condition itself is persistent and often returns. It is rare for neurodermatitis to go away without treatment. Since neurodermatitis is often caused by many factors or underlying conditions, it is best for patients with symptoms of neurodermatitis to get checked by doctors as this can help treat both the underlying condition and the skin conditions. The best way to keep neurodermatitis at bay is to ensure patients are practising self-care both mentally and physically.
