Seborrheic dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin condition that affects areas rich in oil glands, such as the scalp, face, and upper body. It is characterized by red, scaly patches and dandruff, which can be itchy and uncomfortable. Although it is not contagious, seborrheic dermatitis can be persistent and require ongoing management.
The exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast, which naturally resides on the skin. Factors that can contribute to the development and severity of seborrheic dermatitis include:
Genetics: A family history of the condition can increase the risk.
Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones can trigger symptoms.
Environmental Factors: Cold, dry weather can exacerbate the condition.
Stress: Emotional stress can worsen symptoms.
Certain Medical Conditions: Individuals with conditions like Parkinson’s disease or HIV are more prone to developing seborrheic dermatitis.
Seborrheic dermatitis can present with a range of symptoms, including:
Red, inflamed skin covered with greasy, white or yellowish scales.
Itching or burning sensation in the affected areas.
Flaky patches on the scalp, eyebrows, nose, ears, or chest.
Cradle cap in infants is characterized by thick, crusty patches on the scalp.
For those dealing with seborrheic dermatitis, consulting a dermatologist with expertise in managing this condition is essential. Dr. Atul Kathed, recognized as the best skin specialist in Indore, provides comprehensive care and personalized treatment plans to help patients manage their symptoms effectively. His approach focuses on minimizing flare-ups, controlling inflammation, and promoting overall skin health. If you are experiencing symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis, consider reaching out to Dr. Atul Kathed for expert guidance and treatment.
Signs and symptoms can vary from day to day and include:
WHO GETS IT?
While the exact cause is not known, researchers believe that a number of factors interact to cause seborrheic dermatitis. These factors include the genes we inherit, yeast that normally live on human skin, stress, climate, and overall general health.
The following tend to increase the likelihood of developing seborrheic dermatitis:
Infants. The condition usually clears on its own over a period of weeks or months but may return at puberty.
Adults. Seborrheic dermatitis is often chronic, flaring periodically and without warning.
VISUAL EXAMINATION OF THE SKIN AND COMPLETE MEDICAL HISTORY.
These are usually all that is needed to diagnose seborrheic dermatitis. It is best to see a dermatologist because seborrheic dermatitis can resemble many other skin conditions, including atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and rosacea. In infants, seborrheic dermatitis may develop only in the diaper area and be mistaken for diaper rash. Effective treatment requires an accurate diagnosis.
SKIN BIOPSY OR OTHER LABORATORY TESTING.
This may be necessary to eliminate the possibility of another medical condition.
While seborrheic dermatitis cannot be cured, most cases respond quickly to proper treatment. The goals of treatment are to loosen and remove scales and crusts, prevent skin infections, as well as reduce the inflammation and itch.
Treatment varies by age and area of the body to be treated:
Cradle cap, which only develops in infants, can usually be controlled by shampooing more frequently with a baby shampoo and by softly brushing away the scales. A dermatologist also may prescribe a mild corticosteroid or anti-fungal medication.
When the condition spreads beyond the scalp in infants, dermatologists usually prescribe a topical medication, such as a mild corticosteroid or anti-fungal cream.
Patients with seborrheic dermatitis may find that shampooing more frequently than usual and leaving the lather on the scalp for a longer time clears the condition. Shampoos specially formulated for dandruff relief are often effective. Sometimes getting results requires alternating dandruff shampoos so that a different shampoo is used every few days. A dermatologist can explain this process and recommend which shampoos a patient should use and when. To effectively treat the scalp, a dermatologist also may prescribe a topical corticosteroid or antifungal medication.
Medicated dandruff shampoos often provide relief beyond the scalp. A dermatologist can explain how to use shampoo to treat other affected areas. A topical corticosteroid or antifungal medication also may be prescribed. A severe case may require the addition of an oral antifungal medication or phototherapy.
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