The exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis is unclear, but it is believed to be related to an overgrowth of a naturally occurring fungus on the skin called Malassezia. This fungus lives on the skin of most people without causing any problem, but it might cause skin inflammation in some people when it grows too much.
Hormone changes, such as those seen during puberty, stress, and changes in the weather, can trigger overgrowth of the fungus and cause seborrheic dermatitis to flare. Other factors that increase one’s risk of developing seborrheic dermatitis include weakened immune system, too much sweat, oily skin, and infrequent shampooing.
Does seborrheic dermatitis go away?
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition that can cause an itchy and scaly rash. Unfortunately, it doesn’t typically go away on its own, but it can usually be managed with proper treatment and lifestyle changes.
Depending on the severity, treatment may include the use of over-the-counter and prescription-strength medicated creams, ointments, and shampoos, as well as lifestyle changes such as reducing stress, regular exercise, and healthy sleep habits.
Additionally, it’s important to avoid triggers such as extreme temperatures, harsh skin products, and greasy or spicy foods. With proper treatment and lifestyle management, most people can keep seborrheic dermatitis under control and reduce symptoms until it goes away.
What autoimmune disease is linked to seborrheic dermatitis?
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin disorder that is linked to a variety of auto-immune diseases. These include psoriasis, eczema, and lupus. Each of these autoimmune diseases causes an immune system to malfunction, resulting in skin problems ranging from rashes and itching to thick, scaly patches.
The exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis is unclear, but genetics may play a role. Certain genes may make people more likely to develop the disorder. Seborrheic dermatitis can cause inflammation of the skin and scalp, which can lead to itching, flaking, and scalp scaling.
In severe cases, it can also cause hair loss. Treatment of seborrheic dermatitis typically includes topical creams, lotions, and shampoos containing antifungal and anti-inflammatory ingredients that can help reduce symptoms.
In more severe cases, oral medications or phototherapy may be recommended.
Is seborrheic dermatitis related to an autoimmune disease?
Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a skin condition that typically causes red, scaly, oily, and itchy patches on areas of the body such as the scalp, face, chest, upper back, and behind the ears. Although there is no definitive cause of SD, it is believed to be related to overproduction of a type of yeast called Malassezia, which is found on the skin of all humans.
While SD is not an autoimmune disease itself, research has suggested that there may be a link between them.
Since autoimmune diseases involve the immune system attacking and damaging healthy cells, doctors have hypothesized that SD may be caused in part by an overactive immune system, which leads the body to produce antibodies directed against its own sebaceous glands.
This results in inflammation, which can trigger SD. Additionally, some studies have shown that people with SD have higher levels of certain antibodies that are associated with autoimmune diseases, such as psoriasis, although it is unclear whether these are a cause or a consequence of SD.
In any case, although there is some evidence of a connection between SD and autoimmune diseases, we do not yet have enough research to conclude that the two are definitively linked. Further scientific research is needed to better understand the possible connection between the two conditions.
Can seborrheic dermatitis cause other health problems?
Yes, while seborrheic dermatitis is primarily a skin condition that causes red, scaly, irritated patches of skin, it can lead to other health issues. It is linked to an overgrowth of yeast living on the skin.
The overgrowth can cause blepharitis, an inflammation of the eyelid, as well as an inflammation of the ears, mouth, and scalp. Seborrheic dermatitis can also cause hair loss, as the overgrowth can damage hair follicles.
Additionally, it can cause psychological distress due to the physical and aesthetic effects of the condition. Finally, it has been linked to an increased risk of stroke as well as an increased risk of heart attack.
Therefore, it is important to have seborrheic dermatitis treated promptly to avoid potential health risks.
