Influence of environmental factors on the condition of children suffering from the atopic dermatitis

Abstract

INFLUENCE OF ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS ON THE CONDITION OF CHILDREN SUFFERING FROM THE ATOPIC DERMATITIS

An atopic dermatitis is a chronic and relapsing inflammatory disease which is included among atopic allergoses. Influenced by many diverse factors, it is a complex paediatric problem. 

Aim of the study. The research determines the influence of environmental factors on the occurrence of the symptoms of atopic dermatitis among children. The study’s focus was on environmental factors, which include: allergens (food, air-derivative and contact), too high or too low ambient temperature, dry air, UV rays (sun), frost, stress, synthetic fiber clothes, exhaust fumes and industrial pollutants and excessive perspiration (e.g. during a increased physical effort). 

Material and methodology. A diagnostic survey was the adopted study method, while the preferred study technique was a survey using the questionnaire form especially designed to meet the study’s purpose. The research was carried out in two ways: directly, by handing out of the questionnaire form to parents of children hospitalized at the Children’s Clinic Hospital in Lublin and the Provincial Hospital in Krosno for exacerbation of atopic dermatitis symptoms, as well as with indirectly, via the Internet message board (http://www.atopowe-zapalenie.pl/forum/). 

Results and conclusions. The study determined a large impact of environmental factors on the condition of children suffering from the atopic dermatitis. Amongst the children surveyed, air-derivative allergens (78 %) had the most adverse effect on the disease development and evolution. Children in home environment were exposed to the house dust mite (94 %), but also to the tobacco smoke and mould. The environmental factor with the most detrimental influence on the state of health of the examined children was perspiration (77 %), followed by also dry air (49 %) and stress (42 %).