NEURODERMITIS

What is neurodermatitis?

Neurodermatitis, also called lichen simplex chronicus, is a chronic skin condition characterised by intense itching and recurring skin lesions. It is not a disease in itself but a skin reaction to constant itching and scratching.

Neurodermatitis has specific symptoms related to skin inflammation, thickening and itching. The main symptoms of neurodermatitis are:

Intense itching

Itching is one of the most prominent symptoms and often gets worse at night or during stress. Long-term itching can lead to a vicious circle in which itching and scratching worsen the skin damage and make it itch even more.

Skin lesions

Redness, swelling and cracking are typical signs of neurodermatitis. Prolonged scratching causes the skin to thicken. Lesions usually appear on the neck, arms, legs, scalp, buttocks or torso.

Thickened, rough skin

Areas affected by neurodermatitis may become thickened and rough as a result of constant scratching.

Sores

Scratching can cause sores and blisters. This is a fairly common sign of neurodermatitis.

Discomfort

Intense itching and discomfort can interfere with sleep, work, study and daily life.

Causes

The causes of neurodermatitis are not fully understood, but the condition is thought to be caused by various factors, such as nervous system disorders, immune system reactions, genetics, stress and psychological tension.

Nervous system disorders

Nervous system disorders that make the skin's sensory nerves more sensitive can contribute to increased itching and skin damage.

Immune system reactions

Immune system factors associated with inflammatory reactions in the skin may also play a role in the development of neurodermatitis.

Genetics

A genetic predisposition to neurodermatitis can be passed from parents to children. People with other allergic conditions, such as asthma or allergic rhinitis, may also have a higher risk of developing it.

Stress and psychological tension

Stress and emotional factors can increase itching, scratching and skin damage, so symptoms may appear or worsen during stressful periods.

Skin prone to dryness

Dry skin is more prone to itching and inflammation, so people with dry skin may be more vulnerable, which can contribute to neurodermatitis.

Paradoxically, excessive hygiene can harm the skin and increase the risk of neurodermatitis. Contributing factors include:

1. Damage to the skin barrier. Frequent, vigorous washing with harsh soaps, scrubs or other skin care products can disrupt the skin barrier, dry it out and make it more vulnerable to inflammation and infection.
2. Dry skin. Excessive showering or bathing can dry out the skin. Dry skin is more prone to itching and inflammation, which can increase the risk of neurodermatitis.
3. Microbiome imbalance. The skin microbiome is a natural community of bacteria, fungi and viruses that helps protect the skin from infection. Excessive hygiene can upset this balance, weakening the skin's protective properties and increasing the risk of inflammatory skin conditions such as neurodermatitis.

Because too much hygiene can increase the risk of neurodermatitis, it is important to find the right balance that protects the skin from infection without damaging its barrier. We recommend washing in warm (not hot!) water and using fragrance-free, gentle soaps and body washes.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing neurodermatitis can be difficult because its symptoms are similar to those of other skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis, eczema or psoriasis. As there is no specific test for neurodermatitis alone, diagnosis is usually based on clinical symptoms, medical history and assessment.

When diagnosing neurodermatitis, the doctor will:

• Take a medical history. The doctor will listen to the patient's complaints and ask about symptoms, their severity and duration. Family history of allergies, asthma or other immune disorders will also be discussed.
• Carry out a physical examination. The doctor will carefully examine the skin to identify typical signs of neurodermatitis, such as redness, inflammation, thickened skin and sores.
• Compare it with other skin conditions. Because the symptoms can resemble other skin conditions, the doctor will rule out other possible diagnoses such as atopic dermatitis, eczema or psoriasis.
• Order additional tests. Sometimes additional tests, such as blood tests, may be done to detect allergies or inflammatory reactions. A skin biopsy may be performed in rare cases when the symptoms and history are not clear enough, or to confirm or rule out other skin conditions.

Treatment and psychological support

Although neurodermatitis cannot be completely cured, several treatments can help reduce symptoms and flare-ups and improve quality of life. The doctor will prescribe an individual treatment plan, which may include one or more of the following:

1. Creams and ointments. Moisturisers, emollients and steroid ointments can help reduce inflammation, itching and redness. Using them consistently is an important step in keeping the skin healthy and reducing flare-ups.
2. Antihistamines. Oral antihistamines can reduce itching and help improve sleep. They are especially useful if symptoms get worse at night.
3. Topical calcineurin inhibitors. These medicines can reduce skin inflammation and itching. They can be used together with steroid ointments or as an alternative when steroid ointments are unsuitable or ineffective.
4. Immunosuppressants. In severe cases, when other treatments do not work, immunosuppressants may be used. These medicines suppress the immune system to reduce symptoms but can cause side effects.
5. Stress management and psychological support. Since stress can worsen symptoms, it is important to find ways to reduce it.
   

Neurodermatitis in babies and children

Neurodermatitis is quite common in babies and children, often appearing in the first year of life. In children, the signs may differ from those in adults and include:

1. Dry, rough skin.
2. Redness, usually on the face, arms, legs and buttocks.
3. A rash, which may be blistering.
4. Itching, which can be very intense and disturb sleep.

Does food affect neurodermatitis?

Food can have some influence on the symptoms and severity of neurodermatitis. Although there is no specific diet that works for everyone, eating or avoiding the following may help:

Allergens

For some people, especially children, avoiding certain allergens such as milk, eggs, soy, fish, nuts and wheat may help reduce symptoms. Before making any dietary changes, it is important to consult a doctor or allergist and have the appropriate tests done.

Anti-inflammatory foods

Including foods rich in natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatory substances can reduce inflammation in the body and improve skin health. These include fish oil, seeds, green vegetables, berries and olive oil.

Probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms that can help restore and maintain a healthy gut flora, which has a positive effect on the immune system. Some studies suggest that probiotics may help reduce symptoms of neurodermatitis. Consult your doctor before taking probiotics.

Water

Drinking enough water is important because it helps keep the skin hydrated and healthy. Depending on age, sex and level of physical activity, you should drink 8–12 glasses of water a day.

Avoid irritants

Certain foods and drinks, such as alcohol, chilli, coffee and processed foods, can irritate the skin or cause inflammation. It is important to notice whether certain foods make symptoms worse and adjust your diet to your individual needs.

Our recommendation. For daily care of very dry, flaky and itchy skin, choose Eubos Urea 10% body lotion. It can be used as a complementary body care product alongside treatment prescribed by your doctor.

Prepared from online sources.