Eczema

What is eczema?

Eczema can be confusing because it refers to a specific condition: atopic dermatitis. However, it’s also an umbrella term for several skin conditions, including contact dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis (cradle cap).

But we’re focusing here on atopic dermatitis, a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that often begins in childhood. Babies can develop eczema in the first few months of their life, and 80% of all cases appear before age six. However, eczema isn’t limited to children.

Eczema can also first appear in adults. And the condition doesn’t always clear up in children, so they continue struggling with skin problems into adulthood.

Though eczema’s causes are still being studied, medical professionals believe the condition begins when genetic changes weaken the skin barrier. As a result, your skin is vulnerable to inflammation and rashes caused by irritants.

What are the symptoms of eczema?

Eczema causes intense itching and other skin symptoms like:

• Red, inflamed skin
• Scaly, dry skin
• Raw, sensitive skin
• Small, red bumps (rash)
• Blisters that ooze and crust over
• Thickened, discolored skin

One of the biggest challenges is avoiding scratching. Scratching causes more skin damage and inflammation, creating a possible ongoing cycle in which eczema doesn’t have time to get better.

What causes eczema flare-ups?

Eczema cycles between flare-ups and remission. Everyone has their own triggers, but a few examples include:

• Stress
• Fatigue
• Allergies
• Hot water
• Fragrances
• Dish soap
• Fabrics (wool and polyester)
• Laundry detergent
• Soap, shampoos, body wash
• Skin care products
• Antibacterial ointments
• Some foods

Dry skin also triggers eczema flare-ups, posing a constant challenge because a damaged skin barrier leads to dehydration.

How is eczema treated?

If your provider suspects allergies trigger your eczema, they do allergy testing and recommend treatments, possibly including allergy shots. If allergies aren’t involved, eczema treatment typically includes:

Skin care

Daily skin care is essential to keep the skin barrier healthy and strong. You should use gentle, irritant-free products, take short showers in warm water and frequently apply a protective moisturizer.

Medication

Your provider could prescribe topical or oral medications to relieve the itching and reduce inflammation. Severe eczema that doesn’t improve with standard treatments might respond to biologic therapy. Biologics are injectable medications that ease inflammation by calming your immune system.

Call Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates today or request an appointment online to get immediate eczema care.