The term eczema and dermatitis means “inflammation of the skin”. Several skin conditions consisting of red, dry patches and rashes are used to describe both. Usually, both these words are used interchangeably but “contact dermatitis” is an exception as this term wouldn’t be used in place of eczema. Different types of eczema and dermatitis have different causes and symptoms, but both forms can be managed by following a good skincare regimen and avoiding irritants that cause flare-ups. Understanding eczema vs atopic dermatitis is really important as eczema is an inflammatory condition whereas genetic influence plays an important role in atopic dermatitis.

1. Eczema

Eczema is a term used to describe several types of inflammatory skin conditions known as dermatitis. All types of eczema cause the affected area to appear irritated and itchy. There are different types of eczema which show different symptoms depending upon the severity. Even though the main cause of eczema is not known but it is not at all contagious.

Sometimes it gets triggered by an overactive immune system which reacts aggressively when it comes in contact with irritants. An abnormal response by the proteins present in the body can also cause eczema as the body’s immune system is unable to differentiate between the proteins already present and the viruses that attack the proteins causing inflammation.

Anyone could be affected by this condition i.e. a child or even an adult. It is a long-lasting disease and might get better or worse with time. Irritants such as chemicals, synthetic fibers, sweating, stress, and food allergies are some triggers of eczema flare-ups. There is no test to identify this disease and one can recognize it only by studying the symptoms. Once the symptoms are identified, proper medication and treatment are possible, although proper cure is not likely.

2. Atopic dermatitis

The word “atopic” means a disease caused by allergic reactions and the word “dermatitis” refers to a condition of the skin. Atopic dermatitis is one of the many conditions to fall under the “eczema” umbrella. Although all types of eczema cause itching and redness, atopic dermatitis is the most chronic and severe type of eczema and is usually accompanied by asthma and hay fever.

Dry and itchy skin that usually turns into a red rash is the main symptom of this disease. This type of eczema usually develops in early childhood i.e. before the age of five and is common among people with a family history of this condition. It is not a contagious disease and is caused by the presence of inflammatory cells in the skin.

Some symptoms that trigger atopic dermatitis include sweat, heat, dry weather, synthetic fibers, allergens like pollen, stress, etc. Although there is no cure for atopic dermatitis, maintaining healthy skin helps the body to retain the moisture and protect the body from bacteria and irritants. Bathing regularly, having a healthy lifestyle, and moisturizing the skin regularly can also help in preventing atopic dermatitis.