What is Atopic Dermatitis?
Like humans, dogs can develop environmental and / or food allergies. Atopic dermatitis refers to an allergic reaction that affects the skin.
This condition is very common and isn’t life-threatening, however it can cause pets a lot of discomfort. Itchy, red, and irritated skin — particularly around the eyes and mouth, under the belly, on the paws, and on the behind — are common symptoms of atopic dermatitis. If symptoms go untreated, the pet’s incessant scratching and gnawing can result in raw skin or infected hot spots. Further, these ongoing issues can lead to chronic ear infections or yeast infections on the skin.
What Causes Atopic Dermatitis?
The exaggerated immune response can be set off by environmental allergens like pollen, mold, dander, dust, and even bug bites. In the case of environmental allergies, symptoms are often seasonal.
If the issue is an ingredient in the patient’s food, eliminating it from their diet can remedy the symptoms. Wheat is often a culprit, especially in low-quality kibble; soy, corn, dairy, eggs, lamb, beef, chicken, and fish are also common food allergens.
What Are The Symptoms Of Atopic Dermatitis?
- Nibbling or gnawing at a particular area, especially the paws / legs, under the arms, on the belly, or near the anus
- Pawing / rubbing at eyes
- Watery / red eyes
- Red or irritated skin
- Hot spots
- Chronic yeast / bacterial infections of the skin
- Chronic ear infections
- Swollen paws and interdigital spaces
- Year round symptoms despite food trials
How Is Atopic Dermatitis Diagnosed?
There is no test for atopic dermatitis; instead, it’s diagnosed based on symptoms. Allergy tests blood tests skin tests are available to pinpoint which allergen may be causing the issue. The results of these tests can be used to formulate a customized shot to help the pet overcome the allergy altogether (more below).
How Is Atopic Dermatitis Treated?
Natural ways to help manage symptoms include frequent baths and brushings (to remove environmental allergens from the coat), or wiping down the paws after being outside. An omega 3 fatty acid supplement can also help reduce inflammation, but it may take several weeks for it to accumulate in the system and become effective. If food is suspected in causing the symptoms, veterinarians may recommend an elimination diet or a simple change in food for a period of time.
Oftentimes, antihistamine medication can relieve the pet of their incessant itchiness. For more severe cases, steroidal medications may be prescribed in order to quickly alleviate inflammation. Another option is to give pets allergy shots, which doesn’t mask symptoms, but stops the immune system’s response to the allergen altogether. Medications such as Cytopoint and Cyclosporine may also be recommended to treat this condition. It’s also important for pet parents to administer flea / tick protection to their pets regularly, killing pests whose bites may be causing a reaction.
The final thing to note is that any secondary infections, such as ear infections or hot spots, should be treated as soon as possible so they don’t get any worse.