In reference to food, ânitrateâ really means sodium nitrate, but should really refer to sodium nitrite. While these are two completely different chemical compounds, they are often used interchangeably by those outside of the science realm. 1  Sodium nitrate is a type of salt, naturally found in Chile and Peru.
Symptoms. Diagnosis and Treatment. Prevention. 1  Patches of chronically itchy, dry, thickened skin, usually on the hands, neck, face, and legs (but it can occur anywhere). 2  In children, the inner creases of the knees and elbows are often involved.
Older children and adults often experience rashes on the knees or elbows (often in the folds of the joints), on the backs of hands or on the scalp. Symptoms of atopic dermatitis (eczema) include: Patches of skin that are red or brownish.