Know about Seborrhoeic Dermatitis Causes at Dr Batra's™ Clinic

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis – Causes

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis is a non-contagious skin condition. It causes scaly patches of skin with oily, dandruff-like flakes. It generally occurs on the areas of the body where there are a lot of oil-producing (sebaceous) glands, such as the scalp, face and upper back. When it occurs in infants during the first few months of their life, it usually goes away on its own within one year and generally does not recur. However, if someone experiences Seborrhoeic Dermatitis for the first time as a teenager or adult, it almost always tends to recur during their lifetime.

Reasons for Seborrhoeic Dermatitis

The exact reason for Seborrheic Dermatitis is not known as of yet. However, different factors may play a role in increasing the risk of developing Seborrhoeic Dermatitis.

Overgrowth of Malassezia Yeast

One of the main Seborrheic Dermatitis causes involves a yeast (fungal infection species) called Malassezia. This fungal organism generally lives on the skin. But for some unexplained reason, people with Seborrhoeic Dermatitis exhibit an abnormal, inflammatory response to its presence. The abnormal growth of Malassezia may cause the skin cells to secrete more sebum (oil) than normal. The increased production of oil can become a reason for Seborrheic Dermatitis.

Gender and Age

The gender and age of a person may make him/her more susceptible to developing Seborrhoeic Dermatitis. According to the Indian Journal of Dermatology, Seborrhoeic Dermatitis is most commonly seen in infants and in adults between the age of 30 years and 60 years. As per the Journal of Clinical and Investigative Dermatology, when it comes to adolescents and adults, the condition is more commonly seen in men.

Underlying Medical Conditions

Certain underlying medical conditions may act as Seborrhoeic Dermatitis causes in some individuals. Some of these medical conditions are as listed below:

Parkinson's disease
Other neurological conditions such as epilepsy and traumatic spinal cord or brain injury
Recovering from a heart attack or a stroke
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
Hepatitis C virus
Chronic alcoholic pancreatitis
Certain psychiatric conditions like eating disorder or depression
Down syndrome
Zinc deficiency

Reaction to Medications

Similar to certain medical conditions, certain psychotropic medications may also act as Seborrhoeic Dermatitis causes:

Buspirone
Lithium
Haloperidol decanoate
Chlorpromazine

Family history

According to an article in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, eleven gene mutations or protein deficiencies appear to be more common in individuals with Seborrhoeic Dermatitis. Most of these genes and proteins play a role in determining the functioning of the immune system or how the cells in the outer layer of the skin mature (epidermal differentiation).

Lifestyle and environmental factors

Apart from your gender, age, genes and health-related factors; different lifestyle and environmental factors can also become Seborrheic Dermatitis reasons. These factors include:

Living in a region with cold, dry climate

Sleep deprivation

Excessive stress

FAQs

Is hair loss from Seborrheic Dermatitis permanent?

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis commonly affects the scalp. In some cases, Seborrhoeic Dermatitis causes hair fall due to inflammation or aggressive scratching. However, hair starts to grow back once the condition is medically treated. If you are suffering from Seborrhoeic Dermatitis and notice hair loss, book an appointment with us on https://www.drbatras.com/book-an-appointment. Our team of expert doctors and trichologists will put together a homeopathic treatment plan most suitable for your specific symptoms and reasons for Seborrheic Dermatitis.

What causes Seborrhoeic Dermatitis to flare-up?

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis in adults is a chronic condition. The condition can recur throughout a person’s lifetime. Changes in the weather, particularly cold and dry weather, can cause a flare-up and act as a reason for Seborrheic Dermatitis. Extreme stress is another one of the Seborrhoeic Dermatitis causes. To understand the exact cause of Seborrhoeic Dermatitis, book an appointment with us on https://www.drbatras.com/book-an-appointment.Our expert homeopathic doctors, after a thorough evaluation of your case history and the condition of your scalp, will be able to tell you the specific reasons for Seborrheic Dermatitis in your case.

What kills the fungus causing Seborrhoeic Dermatitis?

A type of fungus known as Malassezia yeast is one of the factors that play a role in the development of Seborrhoeic Dermatitis. Therefore, creams, shampoos and lotions (antifungals or antimycotics) that kill fungus or slow its growth down are generally used for treatment. However, in most cases, these topical medications only provide temporary relief. For long-term relief, it is important to understand the underlying Seborrhoeic Dermatitis causes. Homeopathic treatment takes into account the specific Seborrheic Dermatitis reasons and symptoms, which are different for each patient. The medicines are made from natural ingredients and are free from side-effects. Hence, homeopathy is a safe medium of treatment for chronic conditions like Seborrhoeic Dermatitis.

What is the root cause of Seborrhoeic Dermatitis?

An inflammatory reaction to the excess growth of Malassezia yeast, an organism that normally lives on the skin’s surface, is one of the most likely Seborrheic Dermatitis reasons. Other than this, family history, age, gender, underlying medical conditions, certain medications, cold or dry climate, stress and sleep deprivation amongst others may also be responsible for developing Seborrhoeic Dermatitis.

Is Seborrhoeic Dermatitis caused by poor hygiene?

Contrary to popular belief, poor hygiene is not one of the Seborrhoeic Dermatitis causes. The condition is primarily caused due to the overgrowth of a fungus known as Malassezia yeast.