The 6 Most Common Long-Term Complications of Atopic Dermatitis
If you’re living with AD, you should look out for these six complications:
1. Skin Infections
Fragile, damaged skin from atopic dermatitis can increase the risk of staph infections, including the very contagious impetigo, which causes inflamed skin and pus-filled bumps. There’s also an increased chance of developing an infection called eczema herpeticum, which is caused by the herpes simplex virus and can become severe. To stay on top of potential infections, Davis routinely samples and tests her patients’ atopic dermatitis lesions, treating them as needed.
“A skin culture can quickly identify the infection source and point to a particular antiseptic or antimicrobial to suppress it,” she says.
2. Asthma and Allergies
About 25 percent of those with AD also have asthma, which constricts and inflames airways, making it difficult to breathe. Atopic dermatitis also increases the possibility of developing food allergies: Children with the condition are six times as likely to develop one than those without the condition. Your doctor should ask about your lung health and allergies and, if needed, refer you to a pulmonologist or allergist.
3. Eye Problems
If atopic dermatitis makes your eyes itchy, causing you to rub them frequently, you may get pink eye (conjunctivitis) or keratoconus, a condition in which the shape of the cornea changes. Both conditions require immediate care by an ophthalmologist. If you experience vision loss, double vision, or crusty, red eyes, call your doctor immediately.
4. Mental Health Issues
Managing the symptoms and lifestyle implications of AD, such as avoiding certain activities or having lower self-esteem, can take a toll on your mental health and lead to anxiety and depression.
If you’re embarrassed by your inflamed, patchy skin, you may feel like isolating yourself, which can make depression worse. Some people turn to alcohol, nicotine, drugs, or other compulsive behaviors to cope, which can lead to a substance use disorder. Dermatologists often recommend developing healthy coping skills via psychological counseling, support groups, meditation, and relaxation training for people living with AD.
5. Sleep Problems
Intense itchiness makes falling and staying asleep challenging. And frequently being sleep deprived can potentially damage your job performance, personal relationships, and mental stability.
The key to better sleep is getting the itch under control. To do this, your doctor may prescribe antihistamines, over-the-counter or prescription topical treatments, systemic AD medications, or sleep medications. You may also find it helpful to see a therapist or sleep specialist.
6. Cardiovascular Problems
Research has found an increased risk of cardiovascular complications among adults with atopic dermatitis, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT), particularly among people with severe illness. The study’s authors noted that, in addition to DVT, they found small increases in the risks of cerebrovascular accidents, diabetes, and cholesterol imbalances among adults with AD. Adults with severe AD also had higher risks of heart attack and pulmonary embolism.
“That’s because AD inflammation circulates everywhere, including to the heart and blood vessels,” Davis says. For people with AD, standard heart screenings are common and could help you keep an eye on things.
