Seborrheic dermatitis (Seborrhea) is a common skin condition that can affect people of any age. Recognized as a scaly, red, itchy rash that is commonly found on the scalp, eyebrows, eyelids, sides of the nose, behind the ears and on the chest, it is an uncomfortable and often embarrassing condition. Seborrheic dermatitis affects millions of people in the United States alone - fortunately, it is more embarrassing than it is a health risk, and this disturbing skin condition is easily treated. While there is no cure for seborrheic dermatitis, one can learn more about it and lessen the effects, discomfort and embarrassment.
Seborrheic Dermatitis occurs when the sebaceous glands (the body's natural oil glands) begin to produce too much oil, also known as sebum. While for some people, this just results in oily skin, people who suffer from seborrheic dermatitis have the problem with the oily skin, but a pityrosporum yeast begins to grow in the sebum, and this can be further complicated by the presence of bacteria. When you mix the abundance of sebum with the unnatural yeast growth, your body creates the ideal surface for seborrheic dermatitis to set in.
Seborrhea is caused by yeast that's present in the hair follicle. You can control the growth of seborrhea, but it can recur from time to time. Consult a dermatologist if you have more than mild symptoms.
While seborrheic dermatitis is commonly seen on the scalp, chest and facial areas, it can also be found in the ear canals, under the arms, or even in the groin area. In truth, seborrheic dermatitis can strike just about anywhere, can affect people of all ages and ethnicities, and can be further complicated by a person's mood, their environment, and their personal hygiene.
Who is at Risk?
This embarrassing condition is commonly seen amongst people of 3 different ages: Found in infants, seborrheic dermatitis often affects the scalp and, for this reason, is commonly called "cradle cap." This usually happens simply because the body is getting used to working properly and it takes it some time to adjust and know how much oil to produce. Fortunately, most children grow out of their cradle cap by the time they're 3 years old.
Many middle-aged people begin to develop seborrheic dermatitis and, finally, this condition is commonly found amongst the elderly, particularly those who are in hospitals or nursing homes. In addition to the age factor, seborrheic dermatitis affects people who are suffering from extreme fatigue or stress, those who are obese, and the risk of developing this condition can also increase for those who have relatives with the condition.
Weather conditions, such as those found in the cold northern climates, can further irritate seborrheic dermatitis, and this condition is commonly associated with people who have also suffered head injuries, heart attacks, stroke, or have autoimmune disorders. Seborrheic dermatitis is commonly found in people who suffer from AIDS, as well as those who have Parkinson's Disease.
How is it Diagnosed?
For most people, seborrheic dermatitis merely requires a visit to the doctor. In most cases, there is no need for blood or urine tests, though your doctor may decide to do a scraping or skin biopsy, just to rule out the presence of another disease, but this is mainly done if the patient's condition seems to resist treatment. While many commonly confuse seborrheic dermatitis with other conditions, such as dandruff or psoriasis, most doctors are able to make a quick diagnosis without much ado.
What Treatments are Available?
While there is no cure for seborrheic dermatitis, there are methods of treating the symptoms and lessening the discomfort. For infants, simply using a mild shampoo will help, as well as applying a thin layer of mild corticosteroid cream or lotion to the affected areas. Anti-fungal topical ointments may also provide relief.
Adults who suffer from seborrheic dermatitis may require a special, medicated shampoo or a stronger corticosteroid medication to control their conditions. In more severe cases, the doctor may prescribe a cream, gel, or foam to use on the skin, or they may give you a prescription for a special shampoo that's not available over the counter. In many cases, seborrheic dermatitis is lessened when people go outside, especially during the summer, and engage in a little fun in the sun.
If you suspect you may have seborrheic dermatitis, the best thing that you can do is get in to your doctor and have it diagnosed. While this condition is not contagious, there's no reason to suffer the discomfort and embarrassment that seborrheic dermatitis may cause. Follow your doctor's advice and you're sure to be feeling better in no time.
