Seborrheic Dermatitis

Me 2 years before Measles

In my early childhood (as far as I know) I had no problems whatsoever with Dermatitis or skin-related conditions.

However, an episode of Measles at the age of 7 years old changed all that.

Although my attack of Measles wasn't particularly severe it did seem to cause a huge number of problems in my ears. I suffered from very severe earache and would have to lie with a hot-water bottle permanently attached to the side of my head to try and relieve the pain.

On recovery, I found that strong, cold winds would trigger off ear-ache. I think it was only when I was in my teens that Eczema would then rear its ugly head within my ear canal.

Treatment would involve lying with my head on my mother's lap whilst she inserted a couple of drops of Betnovate Scalp Lotion into my ear canals. A few wads of cotton wool would then be applied to stop the lotion from running out when I lifted my head.

As you're probably not aware, Betnovate Scalp lotion is an acid and applying this directly to sore and open skin was excruciating. It still is! However, this was the only treatment I knew which was given to me by my GP. I've had no referrals to skin specialists since that first diagnosis and still use the Betnovate Scalp lotion today. I also need to apply the same lotion onto my scalp which is where the Seborrheic Dermatitis is at its worst.

1. Red, itchy, scaly rash that develops on the face, scalp, chest and back.
2. On the scalp it normally causes dandruff (something I don't tend to have a problem with)
3. Rash often develops in times of stress but exact cause is unknown.
4. Can cause hair loss
5. Can also cause hair thinning
6. My hair usually goes dry and brittle if the shampoo is not used. If I don't have any of the prescription shampoo I use T-Gel or Neutrogena.
7. Scalp pain. If this occurs in a large enough area it can cause headaches in me, something I don't often have a problem with.

General Dermatitis is a form of allergy.

The exact cause of Seborrheic Dermatitis is unknown but it is triggered by stress. I feel my Pernicious Anaemia is a contributory factor.

Contact Dermatitis is caused by coming in direct contact with an allergen which can include cheap metals, detergents, chemicals, cosmetics and medications. It can also be caused by a direct toxic effect of the substance.

Photodermatitis: This is a reaction in people whose skin is abnormally sensitive to light. Spots or blisters develop in clusters on the area of the skin exposed.

Eczema is a skin condition very similar to Dermatitis which is caused by allergens or stress. In its worse form it can be extremely painful and can affect quality of life.

Psoriasis is a fairly common skin condition which affects the outer layers of the skin. It is not contagious. It is often painful and is very distressing for the sufferer. It can become dangerous if it spreads rapidly.

Impetigo is a bacterial skin condition which I suffered from in my early twenties. It is treated by antibiotic creams or injections. It is highly contagious. Clusters of small abscesses occur on the surface of the skin. There is also some discomfort in the lymph nodes in the neck.

Urticaria is often known as hives or nettle rash and is another form of Dermatitis. It is caused by an allergic reaction to an irritating substance. Hives causes red, itchy or painful blotches on the skin.

Toft, Roy
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In the Larder:

Nettle Tea if taken three times a day may be beneficial in some cases of Contact Dermatitis. Sesame Oil and Apricot Kernal Oil are good for moisturising and soothing the skin. A few drops of Vinegar in the bath may also help to soothe irritated skin. A paste of baking soda can be applied to the area. Cabbage poultices are worth a try. Wash, pound and warm the leaves and then use a bandage to hold several layers of them in place every morning and night.

Supplements:

Evening Primrose Oil has been shown to help in some case of Eczema but some experts will dispute this. Fish-oil supplements give relief to atopic eczema (do not eat fish though if this is known to trigger off a reaction). A deficiency in Zinc is worth finding out about. Supplements of B-Complex vitamins and Vitamin C may help.

1. Avoid becoming too hot. Wear cool clothing in thin layers and use sheets and blankets rather than duvets.

2. Avoid antibiotics.

3. Avoid chlorinated water (swimming) as this can dry out your skin.

4. Avoid Petroleum Jelly. This can prevent the skin cracking but blocks the sweat glands increasing itching.

5. Avoid rubbing! It can make the rash worse and lead to thickening of the skin.

6. Sodium Laurel Sulphate. A common chemical used in household detergents. It can cause contact irritation.

7. Avoid wool clothing as the lanolin is very irritating.

The Seborrheic Dermatitis occurred on my scalp maybe in my early 30's and I suffer from repeated attacks of this condition usually when I'm stressed or run down. However, it is there on a permanent basis but in a very mild form.

My treatment for the Dermatitis on my scalp is Betnovate Scalp application and a shampoo called Ketoconazole.

On the rest of my body, which includes my genitals and arms I suffer from the occasional bout of Eczema.

Other skin conditions/afflictions I've suffered from or are prone to:

Eczema
Cysts (blocked sebaceous glands that have become infected leaving scars)
Impetigo
Unexplained rashes
Warts
Freckles
Numerous Moles
Acne (in teenage years and adulthood)

Soothing Touch Desert Bliss Bath Salts, 20oz

I use Tidman's Soothing Sea Salt bathing crystals maybe once a week and I find it helps my eczema and Seborrheic Dermatitis a lot.

Sea salt:

- is an effective cleansing and healing agent
- helps to soothe aching muscles
- helps to improve skin conditions
- helps to relax the body.

When I've run a bath of sea salts I always make sure I wash my hair in the water. The salt does wonders for my Seborrheic Dermatitis. I also have numerous cuts, sores and blisters over my body so the salt is good for healing these too.

Since I've been using the Sea salts, my eczema has cleared up so they're well worth a try.

Don't make the same mistake as I did by using too much! It will hurt like hell and will dry out your skin.

1. Avoid perfumed soaps and soap powders with stain digesters.

2. Wear cotton clothing whenever possible.

3. Avoid known allergens.

4. I make sure to wash my face or hair first before the rest of the bath water is contaminated with soap or dirt (my partner loves me! ;))

5. Try changing your diet to avoid additives, refined and processed food, dairy products, citrus fruits, wheat and eggs. Food allergies and/or intolerances can trigger eczema and forms like it.

6. Keep the skin clean to prevent infections and thereby needing antibiotics which can cause resistant bacteria.

7. After applying creams, if you can, bandaging will help topical steroids or moisturisers to soak into the skin. Wet bandages (bandages soaked in cream) and topped with a dry bandage works better.

8. Dandruff is a mild and uninflamed form of Seborrheic Dermatitis. Try a medicated shampoo like Allergenics Emollient Hair Shampoo.

9. Systemic Immunosuppressants can be used to treat severe forms of the skin condition.

10. Oatmeal can help to restore the skin's PH balance to reduce itching. Use direct to the skin or mixed with your bath water.