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What Are The Causes Of Dermatitis

By: The Alternate Medic Those of us who suffer from dermatitis , the itchiness redness and flare ups wish we knew what causes it and above all how to get rid of it forever.

Unfortunately the causes of dermatitis are poorly understood and are still the subject of active research. Modern research is showing that it develops as a result of interaction between our immune system, the environment, and genetics. The immune systems of the people with this condition are very sensitive and they are more prone to react to irritants and allergens. Most people who have dermatitis have a family history of allergic conditions.

When genetic predispositions exist it is likely that the sufferer is easily aggravated by factors such as infections, food allergies, temperature, irritating chemicals, stress and humidity. In areas of extreme temperature and humidity, dermatitis is likely to flare up. High levels of psychological stress and subsequent sweating can also agrevate the condition.

Naturally there are other causes of dermatitis such as irritations which seem to have the capacity to change the epidermal structure by encouraging immunoglobulin E activity to increase. This occurs even after the cessation of exposure to allergens and after it has undergone controlled treatment, the chronic skin irritation continues.

The Causes of Dermatitis Are Still Unknown

As the answers are still to be found the causes of dermatitis are still unknown, however, several theories attempt to explain its pathogenesis. Causes of dermatitis undoubtedly represent more than one condition. The underlying metabolically or biochemical conditions indicate that induced skin disorder is genetically linked to elevated serum immunoglobulin E levels. This is one of the theories; the other cause of dermatitis is thought to be defective T-cell function.

As we have seen the causes of dermatitis include a number of health conditions, genetic factors, allergies, and irritants, mental and physical stresses. We also need to point out that working in the wet is a main cause of dermatitis. Another form of dermatitis is Contact Dermatitis which is caused by direct contact with one of many irritants or allergens.

Dermatitis can be caused by different substances in different people and many allergic reactions can be of genetic origin. Burns and sunburn are also known to increase the risk of dermatitis. The process and causes of contact dermatitis are much clearer, even though little is known about what makes people susceptible to allergic dermatitis.

What Are The Main Types of Dermatitis

The three main types of dermatitis are atopic, contact allergy and contact irritant. They all have different triggers, although it must be noted that some are similar. Atopic dermatitis is a genetic disorder that is influenced by environmental factors. Little is known what makes people susceptible to allergic dermatitis. Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when a reactive chemical substance comes into direct contact with the skin. Nummular dermatitis usually occurs in cold weather and is common to people with dry skin. Unfortunately,The root causes of all these are still unknown.

Fortunately, sufferers can make use of the various medications currently available both over the counter and through prescriptions. By examining what causes your dermatitis you will establish what to stay clear of so that you do not incur further attacks of dermatitis.