Dermatitis

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1. What is Dermatitis?
2. What Causes Dermatitis?
3. Dermatitis Symptoms
4. Dermatitis Treatment
5. Schedule an Appointment

If you suffer symptoms like itchy, dry skin and rashes, you may have dermatitis. This is a group of conditions that result in skin irritation, which may be caused by allergens in some cases. Dermatologists like Dr. Damstetter can help patients find relief from dermatitis symptoms, soothing itching, swelling, and redness. Common examples of dermatitis include eczema, allergic contact dermatitis, or cradle cap, and diaper rash. Dermatitis patients in Glenview Illinois and the surrounding area can call Reserve Dermatology to achieve healthy skin.

What is Dermatitis?

Dermatitis is a general term used in dermatology to refer to several types of skin irritation. In general, various types of dermatitis will cause itching, dry skin, and rashes. The condition may affect patients of any age or skin type but is most common among those with dry or sensitive skin as well as allergies. Dermatitis is not contagious. The most common types of dermatitis include:

• Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
• Seborrheic dermatitis
• Allergic contact dermatitis
• Cradle cap
• Diaper rash

Reviews

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“I had a recent visit to Dr Damstetter’s clinic and would like to share my experience. I am a Navy vet(corpsman) and usually get seen at the VA but since we don’t have a Derm provider right now, I was fortunately sent out to her clinic to be evaluated. It’s a nice clinic in a nice area and was relatively easy to find. A pleasant Ms. Nancy at the front desk was helpful in completing the check-in process. Easy day. I did not have to wait long and was soon met by Dr. Damstetter’s assistant, who for classified reasons I will refer to as “Agent 8”. I am sure if she gets tired of providing excellent medical care, her slick-ninja skillset could get her a job with the CIA or MI6 maybe. Short story long, Agent 8 brought me back to the patient area, where I was introduced to Dr Damstetter, who was all the things you would want in a doctor: a knowledgeable provider with a great bedside manner. She gave me a thorough exam which did end up showing that I needed a minor procedure. No worries. I felt well taken care of throughout my visit. No one likes to have to see the doctor, but if you have a dermatological concern, this is a good place with good people who did great by me, and I am thankful to have been sent here.”

“Dr. Liz is truly the best dermatologist I’ve ever been to. She is attentive, kind, and genuinely cares about her patients and their overall skin health. I can not recommend her enough!!!”

“Wonderful experience here! The doctor took the time to educate me on a variety of cosmetic options and gave her candid opinion resulting in just the right amount of cosmetic adjustments! Her staff was delightful and attentive! I would highly recommend for general derm needs and cosmetic adjustments.”

“Dr. Damstetter was the first dermatologist I trusted to do my Botox. She is both knowledgeable and professional and did a fantastic job. I will be using her for any and all of my future needs.”

What Causes Dermatitis?

Most types of dermatitis are defined by their various causes. The most common, contact dermatitis, is caused by direct contact with an allergen or irritant. This can include cleaning supplies, plants such as poison ivy, metals, or cosmetics, and personal care products like lotion or soap. Patients who have allergies and asthma are at a higher risk for dermatitis, as are those with medical conditions including congestive heart failure, chronic infections, or Parkinson’s disease. Improper skincare or other daily habits can also result in dermatitis, such as failing to moisturize the skin, using harsh soaps, or frequently washing your hands in hot water. For this reason, patients who work in certain industries, such as the medical field, may be more likely to experience dermatitis.

Dermatitis Symptoms

The primary symptoms of dermatitis are itchiness, dry skin, and rashes, which may appear light or red in color depending on your skin tone. Swelling, thickened skin, or blisters are also common. Dermatitis may also cause flaking or dandruff if it occurs on the scalp. Blisters may ooze or scab in some cases. In more severe dermatitis cases, the condition can cause pain or significant discomfort, and some patients may have trouble sleeping or feel distracted by their itching or other symptoms. Skin infections can occur, especially if patients scratch affected areas.

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Liz Damstetter, MD

Board-Certified Dermatologist

Meet the Doctor

Dermatitis Treatment

Treatment for dermatitis will vary depending on the source and intensity of your symptoms. In many cases, Dr. Damstetter will prescribe a corticosteroid to relieve inflammation, which may be either topical or oral. Calcineurin inhibitor creams are also an option to calm immune system response.

Light therapy is another option to relieve dermatitis symptoms. Controlled exposure to light can help relieve itching and rashes.

In more severe cases, applying wet dressings can be a suitable treatment option for dermatitis.

In addition to recommending an appropriate treatment option, Dr. Damstetter can offer advice to care for your skin at home to prevent future rashes.

Schedule an Appointment

To learn more about managing dermatitis symptoms, schedule an appointment with Dr. Liz Damstetter. Call Reserve Dermatology in Glenview, Illinois or contact us online to set up your first appointment.