FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can someone be cured or grow out of AD?

Currently, no cure has been found for AD. However, AD can be managed with a combination of treatments, self-care regimens and lifestyle changes, based on a patient’s individual needs and condition. Such management or changes may also help to prevent future flare-ups and thus help a patient “grow out of” AD over time.^[1]

What is the difference between AD and eczema?

Eczema covers a variety of conditions that include AD, which cause inflamed, irritated, or dry skin. AD is one of the most common types of eczema, which leads to people using the terms interchangeably. The term “atopic” refers to developing sensitive reactions to triggers, while other kinds of eczema can have other causes. ^[2]

How long do AD flare-ups last?

How long AD flare-ups last depend on the severity of the condition. With proper treatment, flare-ups can last anywhere from one to three weeks before going into remission, lasting up to weeks or even years. ^[3] Consider taking a short assessment to better understand your condition and how it impacts your quality of life. ^[4][5]

Is AD contagious?

AD is not contagious, nor are you able to catch it from someone who has an active rash, or a caregiver of AD patients. If you develop symptoms that resemble AD, there might be other underlying conditions or triggers, such as allergies.^[6]

Is AD genetic?

The genetics of AD are unclear. Some gene mutations such as caspase recruitment domain family member 11 or filaggrin are likely to cause AD in people, but not all people who have a risk-associated gene are more likely to develop the disease. In general, allergic disorders tend to run in families. If you have a family member with AD or asthma, it may raise the risk of you developing AD in the future. ^[7]

Can I develop AD from food or stress?

The link between food and AD is not straightforward and often based on anecdotes. Some patients may find that their AD symptoms clear up after avoiding specific foods. Others may be able to eat most foods without triggering a flare-up, or find their rashes get worse when eating specific foods that were previously fine.

It is possible that patients may have an underlying food allergy in addition to AD. Some research suggests that diet factors may worsen AD symptoms in infants and young children compared to other age groups, and these patients may require a food allergy test. In general, there is no specific food that directly causes AD. ^[8]

Stress, however, can cause and worsen AD. The body produces cortisol under stress, and too much cortisol can cause the skin to have rashes as an inflammatory response. ^[9]