What is the Difference Between Eczema and Atopic Dermatitis

Introduction 

It has been commonly noticed that most people are unclear about the difference between two terms of skin condition, i.e. Eczema and Dermatitis. As both these terms have similar symptoms, it becomes confusing for one to guess what condition they are affected by. Therefore, to help everyone with this dilemma, this article will explain some important points. Let’s first start with understanding the terms individually, then will move forward to their difference.

What is Eczema Disease?

It is one of those skin diseases that are non-contagious to human health. However, it is still categorized under chronic health concern i.e. it does not go on its own. Without proper treatment, it can grow over the years and affect skin and overall health. The symptoms of atopic eczema that one may notice include itching, dryness, redness, scale, blisters, and changes in skin color. These symptoms are very disturbing, therefore, to attain permanent relief one should trust Ayurveda. With proper Ayurvedic treatment, the person will eventually start to notice positive changes in their skin and internal health.

This condition is also further categorized into a few types. Let’s check their names -

• Atopic Dermatitis

• Contact Dermatitis

• Dyshidrotic Eczema

• Neurodermatitis

• Seborrheic Dermatitis

• Stasis Dermatitis

Unraveling Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic Dermatitis is eczema most common type. Thus, eczema or atopic dermatitis terms are both used to interchange for the same skin disease. This condition mainly begins during the initial years of life i.e. during childhood. The common age studied is between 2 months to 5 years. It starts with a red rash on the knees or elbows. It can also develop on the scalp and cheeks. Therefore, the parents are responsible for noticing atopic dermatitis symptoms in their kids.

Atopic dermatitis mainly affects those individuals who have a history of either personal or family hay fever or asthma. The affected area of the skin turns dark and small bumps start to develop. The skin cracks when these bumps are scratched. It no doubt affects children mainly but individuals of any age group are at risk.

Difference Between Eczema and Atopic Dermatitis

Do not get confused! Here’s the answer one has been looking for - 

Well, there is no specific difference between atopic dermatitis and eczema. People do get confused between these terms but the correct answer to this question is simple. The three main basis that differentiate them are concept, age, and categorization. 

• Eczema is a much wider concept than Atopic dermatitis. It describes a group of skin diseases that show similar symptoms with different causes. And atopic dermatitis is the most common type among them. 

• The second small difference was studied i.e. atopic dermatitis can affect individuals of any age group, though it mainly affects children. On the other hand, eczema affects adults. 

• As discussed above, eczema is further categorized into a lot many types. Whereas, atopic dermatitis is itself a type and does not categorize into another.

So these were the basic differences. 

When talking about atopic dermatitis, people often say “eczema” or “atopic eczema”. They usually call other types of eczema with their specific name but interchange the atopic dermatitis with eczema. That is why the confusion began. Next time when someone uses the word eczema in any healthcare center, make sure to ask the person what type of eczema they are specifically referring to. 

How long does Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) last?

It's a long-term disease. In many children, their condition heals and goes away by their teenage years. This only happens when the correct treatment has been opted in firsthand. Otherwise, some people have to face it for a lifetime. 

Ayurveda promises to cure the disease from its roots if one strictly follows the advice of the doctor. Many patients went home safely healed and happy from Dr. Sharda Ayurveda after following the advice of experts. 

The early diagnosis and right-time prevention are better than lifelong grief. Therefore, visit Dr. Sharda Ayurvedic Clinic nearby  and get a personalized treatment plan for oneself.  

Conclusion

While summarizing the article, it is safe to say that the term Eczema is used for a group of conditions that cause skin irritation and inflammation. On the contrary, Atopic dermatitis is just one of its types. But many individuals simply refer to it as an eczema only. 

The eczema has many other types. While their symptoms and features are similar to each other, their cause and ways of treatment differ completely. To manage it well, it is crucial to first understand the type. An Ayurvedic treatment plan that’s customized to meet the needs can help prevent atopic dermatitis from worsening.