What is Stasis Dermatitis?

Like other types of dermatitis, Stasis Dermatitis goes by many names all of which are good descriptors of what is happening in this particular kind of eczema. Stasis Dermatitis is a form of eczema that does not affect children.

“Stasis” means inactivity and this describes many facets of this condition. There is a relative lack of movement of the fluid in the lower legs, poor circulation, and this pooling of fluid leads to the rash commonly found on the lower legs and feet. More commonly this occurs in older individuals that have what is called venous insufficiency but this can happen in younger people with varicose veins.

As we age the valves in our veins weaken and this allows fluid to flow backward. That is why another name for this condition is Venous Eczema. The word “venous” refers to veins. Specifically, this pooling of fluid then backs up into the skin first causing skin discoloration and swelling and the backed-up fluid leads to inflammation which leads to dryness, crusting, thickening of skin and possibly eventually ulcerations.

People in professions with little movement, those that sit for much of the day or stand for much of the day may be more predisposed to get this. This is why another name for Stasis Dermatitis is Gravitational Dermatitis.

There may be other underlying conditions besides just age that can cause this, high blood pressure for example, so it is a good idea to get in touch with your physician if you start having a rash in your lower extremities and you are over the age of 40. Hopefully, we have provided a broad enough overview so you know now what is stasis dermatitis.

How does one manage Stasis Dermatitis?

The American Academy of Dermatology provides a concise list of what one should do to manage this chronic condition, and we will summarize here. The problem starts with swelling so wearing a special sock called a compression dressing will reduce swelling by squeezing the pooled fluids back into circulation. Elevating the legs is beneficial throughout the day, remember gravity is one of the culprits in this disease process. To help the skin crusting and swelling a physician can prescribe topical medications like steroids for example. Sometimes these areas can get infected and antibiotics are needed. Also, there can be a lot of itch so using an antihistamine may be crucial for enhanced comfort [1].

Just like in any eczematous condition, using an irritant-free moisturizing eczema cream twice a day is crucial. The AAD says, “Because stasis dermatitis makes the skin so sensitive, you’ll want to use a moisturizer that is free of fragrance, dyes, and perfumes. Good options include petroleum jelly and thick cream that says “fragrance-free” on the label [1].”

How can Happy Cappy help Stasis Dermatitis?

It just so happens that we make a moisturizing cream for eczema relief that fits the American Academy of Dermatology requirements mentioned above. Furthermore,our cream is dermatologist and clinically tested, free of a preservative called parabens that can cause allergic contact dermatitis.

This hydrating cream also has moisture infusing ingredient glycerin and redness soothing ingredient licorice root extract in a base of pharmaceutical-grade petroleum jelly. These ingredients combined together have been shown in a large study called a Cochrane Review to help soothe eczema in a superior manner. Happy Cappy Moisturizing Cream is fast-absorbing and not greasy.

Keeping Stasis Dermatitis well managed can improve your quality of life and Dr. Eddie’s Happy Cappy is here to help.

References:

1. “STASIS DERMATITIS: DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT.” American Academy of Dermatology. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema/types/stasis-dermatitis/treatment . Accessed 27 August 2020.

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Dr. Eddie Valenzuela

Dr. Eddie Valenzuela is an award winning pediatrician and the founder and CEO of Pediatric Solutions, LLC.

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