Managing atopic dermatitis (AD, also known as eczema) can be fraught with uncertainty about when the next flare-up will happen. You may go weeks or even months without any symptoms, only to have acute, intense inflammation and itching come up suddenly — necessitating treatments like topical steroids or calcineurin inhibitors.
Not only can this be frustrating in the moment, but over time, the “flare-fix” cycle can take a toll on physical and emotional well-being, says Mona Foad, MD, a dermatologist and the founder of MONA Dermatology in Cincinnati.
“When the skin is constantly inflamed, or going through cycles of inflammation, the body never fully gets a chance to reset,” she explains. “Over time, this can increase levels of stress hormones and inflammatory cytokines, leading to persistent discomfort, sleep disruption, lower self-confidence, and mood changes.”
That’s why switching from a reactive perspective — treating flares as they happen — to a proactive approach is important, says Dr. Foad. By addressing underlying inflammation, it may be possible to stop the flare-fix cycle and manage AD more effectively. Here’s a look at why “good enough” falls short, along with strategies that may help with prevention.
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