In most cases, the terms atopic dermatitis , as well as eczema, are used interchangeably. The reason for this confusion is because both basically refer to an inflammation of the skin. One of the main differences between the two, however, is that eczema is a skin inflammation that causes itchiness while dermatitis , on the other hand, does not cause itchiness. Let’s understand a bit more about both of these disorders in detail, paying special heed to the kind of treatment that they require:

Atopic dermatitis treatment
One important thing to remember about atopic dermatitis is that it may persistently stay for long. The patients may suffer through its flares even after it has healed completely. However, here are some steps that may be taken as measures to get rid of atopic dermatitis:

• Using creams
  The doctor may prescribe corticosteroids and even topical creams that may help in reducing the flare. These will also help repair the skin and are good for an overall treatment.

• Administering the right drugs
  The doctor may advise you with a combination of treatments wherein you would need to apply creams besides taking the prescribed antibiotics to get the adequate treatment. Depending on the severity of the condition, the doctor may recommend more than one method to get rid of your problem.

• Consuming oral drugs
  This is generally advised to people who have a more severe infection and need to reduce the inflammation almost immediately. In such cases, the doctor may ask you to have stronger oral corticosteroids such as prednisone.

• Using dupilumab
  The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently introduced this medicine wherein the patient may simply use an injectable biologic to avail better results for this problem.

• Going for additional therapies
  You may also resort to other therapies such as wet dressings, counseling, light therapy, and even relaxation for an early relief from atopic dermatitis.

• Home remedies
  Home remedies such as moisturizing your skin frequently, not scratching, taking warm water showers may help in expediting the recovery.

Eczema treatment
Depending on the severity of eczema , you may undertake one or more of the following steps:

• Using over-the-counter (OTC) products
  This is the most common form of treatment used for eczema. You do not require a prescription for them. However, in server conditions, you must consult a skin specialist for treatment. Using OTC medicines is extremely helpful for patients who are in constant discomfort due to skin inflammation.

• Moisturizing and bathing
  Eczema may sometimes be a result of extensively dry skin. To heal this properly, you will need to keep your skin hydrated and clean. Regular showers with clean water with an adequate temperature will help you treat the skin condition.

• Opting for phototherapy
  In this particular therapy, experts use a specialized machinery wherein narrowband ultraviolet light is emitted onto the affected skin in order to get great results. Not only does it help in the reduction of inflammation, but the exposure to Vitamin D is also quite helpful.

• Trying biologics
  You may try biologics or drugs that target the particular affected area and get results pertaining to that particular area itself.

• Going for alternative and complementary therapies
  You may explore plant-based topicals such as coconut oil or other home remedies that help keep the skin hydrated and moisturized. Even therapies such as meditation may help you in improving the severity of eczema.

However, visiting a dermatologist to get the right diagnosis done is crucial. Hence, visit a physician or a dermatologist who may understand the difference between atopic dermatitis and eczema while charting out the right course of treatment for you.