Symptom 4: Cracked, Weeping Skin
Severe atopic dermatitis can lead to cracked, weeping skin, which can be both painful and prone to infections. The constant itch-scratch cycle can damage the skin, causing small cracks or fissures. As a result, the skin may weep or ooze fluid, which can be clear, yellow, or pus-like.
Cracked, weeping skin can be challenging to manage, as it often leads to further complications, such as bacterial or fungal infections. To prevent infections, it’s crucial to keep the affected areas clean and dry, using gentle cleansers and avoiding irritants that may worsen the condition.
Your healthcare provider may prescribe topical antibiotics or antifungal medications to treat any underlying infections. In addition, they may recommend using over-the-counter or prescription-strength barrier creams to help protect and heal the skin. Maintaining proper hydration and moisturizing the skin regularly can also help alleviate this symptom and promote faster healing. (4)