Author: Chris Hoytbr
Source: ezinearticles.combr
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Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin disorder characterized by scaly, itchy and red patches. This condition commonly occurs in infants and people aged 30 years and above. It is easy to mistake this condition as dandruff, since the symptoms of Seborrheic dermatitis are somewhat similar, except for the redness of the skin.
In infants, it generally affects the scalp and diaper area. When the scalp gets affected, the condition is known as Cradle Cap. Such babies have deposits of yellow scales on their scalp. The exact cause of this problem is unknown. Some babies develop this problem due to yeast infection while others due to oiliness of their skin. The problem disappears with time and is not serious or contagious. But since the patches are unsightly, parents get worried and look for remedies. The use of antidandruff shampoos and some anti fungal lotions can help but it is best to consult the doctor before treating your baby with them. Some doctors insist on treating such babies with home remedies only. One of the common home remedies is massaging the babys scalp with oil and then washing it with a mild shampoo after a few hours. Brushing the scalp a few times a day also reduces the flakes.
In adults, Seborrheic dermatitis mainly affects the scalp. Depending on the severity of the problem, it may also affect other areas like eyebrows, nose, external areas of the ears, chest, back, and at the creases of the skin like groin and armpits. The symptoms are similar to psoriasis except that the flakes are thinner and less dense. The most common cause of this skin disorder is the yeast Malassezia furfur. Malassezia is present on the skin of every human being but patients of Seborrheic dermatitis have this yeast in large amounts. They also have low immunity to this yeast. The overactive sebum glands also contribute to this problem. Other causes include stress, hormonal disorders, poor diet, obesity, acne, side effects of medication, use of cosmetics, and heredity. People suffering from diseases like HIV and cancer have a higher risk of developing this skin disorder, as their immunity is low. This disease is more prevalent in men than women.
The problem may come and go in some patients. The problem worsens in winter when the skin develops more scales. If you have Seborrheic dermatitis, you should consult your doctor. It is essential to determine the cause of the problem so that it can be treated. Your doctor will conduct a physical examination of the scalp and other affected areas and in few cases conduct a skin biopsy. The use of medicated shampoos and anti fungal creams helps to treat the problem. You can also keep a check on this condition by keeping your skin clean and dry in order to minimize the effects of fungus and reduce the deposition of oil and bacteria.
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pChris Hoyt is an affiliate marketer blogger who enjoys writing articles short stories about his interests. After being diagnosed with seborrheic dermatitis in 2004, he decided to start a website, forum and blog to help others learn more about this skin condition. For more information, please visit a target=_new href=http://seborrheicdermatitistreatment.com rel=nofollowhttp://seborrheicdermatitistreatment.com/a/pbr
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Tags: Seborrheic dermatitis, sebum, shampoos anti fungal, skin