Eczema can be to a number of skin conditions, although it commonly refers to atopic dermatitis. Other forms of eczema include seborrheic dermatitis, nemmular dermatitis, and various rashes. In general, it describes disorders that result in irritated and itchy patches of skin. This skin condition is found in people of all ages, but it is particularly common in infants. Eczema can be found in about 1-2% of the adult population, regardless of race. It seems to have a genetic component, as those with eczema tend to have a family history of it, or other allergic conditions. Eczema tends to be a chronic condition, but it is not contagious and can be treated through various means.
What are the symptoms of eczema?
The symptoms of eczema vary slightly from person to person, but there is generally swelling and redness. Eczema sufferers also report itchiness, and this can be one of the first signs that there is a problem. It may present itself as scaly dry skin, or conversely, as oozing lesions. With too much scratching, the skin in the affected area becomes thicker and crusty. In adults, eczema is often found on the back of the neck, inside of the elbows, back of the knees, and ankles. In babies, it may be present on the torso and face. If it is caused by an irritating substance, such as poison ivy or nickel, the symptoms are temporary. However, most forms of eczema are chronic, with symptoms that persist indefinitely.
What causes eczema?
In some cases, a simple environmental irritant is the cause. In the more persistent forms of eczema, doctors are uncertain of the exact causes, although it is believed that there are many factors. A genetic predisposition to the condition is suspected, which contributes to abnormalities in the skin barrier. It also appears that the immune system plays a role, as those with compromised immune systems tend to have the worst cases. The person’s overall health, the climate they live in, and stress levels also play a role.
How do you diagnose eczema?
It can be tricky to self-diagnose eczema, as it can look like a number of other skin conditions. Typically, the easiest way to diagnose eczema is by consulting a dermatologist. These doctors examine the skin, and gather information about the formation of the condition. A biopsy of the skin may be taken in order to rule out other skin diseases. Where it is suspected that there is an allergy, a skin patch test may be administered.
How is eczema treated?
When an irritant causes the eczema, the treatment is to simply remove the source of the irritation. Treatment of chronic eczema involves medication that will reduce inflammation and itchiness. Steroid cream and antihistamine medications are prescribed for this case. Alternative treatments show some promise, including PUVA (psoralen and ultraviolet A light), chemotherapeutic agents, and coal tar. If there is a secondary bacterial infection, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Lifestyle changes can also help eczema patients control their condition.
How can eczema be prevented?
While chronic eczema cannot always be prevented, there are many ways to avoid the worst flare-ups. Overbathing can irritate the skin, so it should be avoided. Moisturizing the skin after washing is also helpful. Certain soaps, detergents, perfumes, and other similar products have an irritating effect for many eczema sufferers, so it’s better to avoid these when possible. Wearing loose-fitting clothing with natural fibers, instead of synthetic materials, can also help. Abrupt changes in humidity or temperature, or excessive sweating can trigger some flare-ups, so these should be avoided. Finally, it is important to consider the role of stress, as this is one of the key contributors to eczema. While this can seem difficult in the modern world, there are plenty of ways to manage stress, including positive thinking methods, exercise, and meditation.