Are Your Atopic Dermatitis Symptoms Under Control?

Atopic dermatitis, a type of eczema, is a very common skin condition, cropping up in about 1 in 10 people in the United States, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). For some people, a good moisturizer can eliminate most of the symptoms, but for those who have moderate to severe eczema, relief can be harder to come by.

Some of the classic symptoms of atopic dermatitis include sensitive, dry, and itchy skin that can become discolored, inflamed, or swollen. People with atopic dermatitis can also develop rough or scaly patches of skin, as well as bumps that leak fluid or crust over.

People with severe cases of atopic dermatitis may develop symptoms on more than 10 percent of their skin, but the definition of “severe eczema” can vary from person to person. “Moderate-to-severe eczema is not only about body surface area, but also how severely it affects a person,” says Suzanne Friedler, MD, FAAD, a clinical instructor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital and a dermatologist at Advanced Dermatology in New York City.

For example, she says, eczema that isn’t well managed can cause a range of issues, including self-consciousness, trouble performing at work, or difficulty managing relationships.

Still, no matter how severe your condition is, it’s possible to have clear skin — with the right lifestyle changes and treatment. Take this quiz to see if your symptoms are under control or whether you might want to change up your skin-care routine.