DH is an itchy, inflammatory skin disorder known medically as dermatitis herpetiformis. It is a symptom of gluten intolerance and occurs in people who have celiac disease. While climate might not cause DH to form, warm weather conditions can make your rash look and feel worse. Celiac disease and DH are incurable, but you can make them more manageable with certain lifestyle changes, which a doctor can help you develop.
Appearance
DH most often plagues your scalp, buttocks, torso, elbows and knees, but you can experience an outbreak on any area of your body. It produces incredibly itchy bumps and blisters that can become as large as 1 cm in diameter. Before the bumps form, your skin might feel as though it is burning, and the skin surrounding the rash might either redden or appear normal. The sores then scab over and fall off, but more typically show up in their place. DH often fluctuates in severity from week to week, but DermNet NZ states that you will most likely require medical treatment to clear up the rash.
Cause
DH is a rare component of celiac disease or a gluten intolerance, most often affecting young adults. Gluten is a type of protein found in wheat and other kinds of grains, and as of 2010 doctors are unclear as to why some people's bodies are intolerant of this protein, according to MayoClinic.com. However, both celiac disease and DH are often genetic, so those with a family history of these conditions are more likely to develop them.
Topical Treatments
To control DH outbreaks, your doctor will most likely prescribe a topical steroid to cut down on the inflammation, itching and scaling. You also might require a prescription for an antibiotic known as dapsone, which the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology states will help reduce your DH outbreak within days. However, this drug also can cause adverse side effects and some people are allergic to it. If this is the case, your doctor can prescribe a different antibiotic, such as tetracycline, although other treatments might not be as effective as dapsone.
Lifestyle Changes
Eating a diet that is free of gluten is the most significant step you can take in controlling celiac disease and DH. MayoClinic.com advises that you avoid all foods that contain gluten, such as barley, rye, semolina, wheat and bulgur. You also might need to take a vitamin supplement to ensure that you are getting enough nutrients, or oral steroids to control any inflammation in your small intestines, which DH can cause. Avoid any triggers that seem to make your DH rash worse, such as hot water or spending time in a warm climate, which can dry out your skin and lead to further discomfort.
