If you are wondering what is eczema, you are not alone. This article covers the causes, symptoms, treatments and prevention. If you have this condition, you need to know what to do to get relief. It’s important to find a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis.
Symptoms
There are several different types of eczema. The first is called dyshidrotic eczema and is characterize by small itchy blisters on the body. A second type of eczema is known as neurodermatitis and leads to scaly patches of skin that develop on the body as a result of localized itching. Another type of eczema is called discoid eczema, which causes irritated, crusted, and scaly patches on the chest, face, scalp, and lower arms.
Symptoms of eczema vary from person to person. Some people experience frequent flare-ups, while others experience remission. Patients with eczema should see a dermatologist for proper diagnosis. The symptoms of eczema may resemble those of other types of skin disorders, so it’s important to visit a dermatologist to ensure you’re not suffering from a related condition.
Some people with eczema also suffer from allergies and asthma. These are both atopic conditions, meaning that they involve heightened immune responses to certain triggers. Some people may have allergies to certain foods or products, while others may be allergic to the allergens in their environment. In any case, doctors look for certain signs and symptoms and will often ask if a person’s family has a history of atopic dermatitis.
To treat symptoms of atopic eczema, a dermatologist can prescribe an antihistamine cream that blocks the actions of histamine. Although these medications do not consider to be a cure for eczema, they can help people live more comfortable lives.
Another way to treat eczema is by using a moisturizer. Lotions tend to be too greasy for children during the summer, so ointments are preferred. However, some children may find ointments too greasy, and some ointments are greasy. If you are unsure which type of moisturizer is best for your child, consult the National Eczema Foundation for a list of approved products.
If your child has eczema, it is important to avoid the use of household cleaners, such as detergents and soaps. Also, avoid using perfumed lotions, such as bubble bath. Moreover, be sure to avoid using air conditioners, which dry out the air and irritate the skin.
Causes
Eczema is a common skin condition. Its causes are complex, but dermatologists have several theories. Most revolve around an individual’s skin’s inability to protect itself from allergens. Exposure to these allergens can trigger an outbreak of eczema.
It is also possible that a person has an allergic reaction to certain food or chemicals. Although eczema and allergy are both common, the symptoms can be different. In some cases, a food allergy can cause inflammation. In other cases, bacteria or viruses can infect the skin, leading to a severe flare-up. Common daily living factors can aggravate symptoms, but there are some simple tips that can help reduce the frequency of flare-ups. If you suspect that you have eczema, see a dermatologist as soon as possible.
Another trigger for eczema is exposure to excessive heat and humidity. This can cause the skin to lose moisture, which can aggravate the symptoms. It is also important to avoid hard physical activity, such as gardening, in the afternoon or evening. Excessive heat and humidity will also cause skin to be dry, which can make eczema worse.
Moreover, scratching the skin is a risk factor, as it can leave superficial wounds that can infect. Hence, it is important to avoid scratching the skin, as this may result in more severe complications. To avoid this, a person should keep their nails short. Another risk factor for eczema is allergies, which may lead to hay fever and asthma. A third of children with eczema also suffer from hay fever, so it’s best to avoid allergens whenever possible.
Moreover, it’s important to learn about eczema symptoms and treatments. While the condition tends to clear up within two to three weeks, there is still a risk of reoccurring outbreaks. In such cases, identifying the allergen is critical in preventing the condition from coming back.
Although there are several factors that contribute to eczema, the main culprit is dry skin. Dry skin irritates the immune system and causes inflammation on the skin, which results in the symptoms of eczema. Exposure to irritants, chemicals, and environmental factors also aggravate the condition.
Treatments
There are a variety of treatments for eczema. Systemic corticosteroids are one option. While they can help heal eczema, they are also known to cause a variety of side effects. These drugs can also suppress the immune system and raise the risk of skin cancer. They should be used under the careful supervision of a doctor or dermatologist. Other options include topical medications such as antihistamines. These medications block histamines, which are responsible for the itchiness. Other medications that can help include cyclosporine and methotrexate.
Another option is using a moisturiser to help ease the symptoms. A good moisturizer will add moisture to the skin, and should apply after bathing or after spending time in an air-conditioned environment. You may need to try several different brands before finding one that works for your skin. If none of these methods work, you can try topical steroids. They can be bought over the counter or prescribed by a dermatologist. It is best to choose the lowest strength available.
Some people may also develop eczema if they have an allergy to certain foods. However, food allergies are not a main cause of eczema. The condition causes by a genetic mutation of a protein called filaggrin. This protein is responsible for maintaining a healthy barrier on the skin, and its absence makes it more susceptible to infections by bacteria and viruses. Environmental allergens and skin irritants are another cause. It is important to protect the skin from these substances as much as possible to reduce the frequency of flare-ups.
Aside from topical treatment, there are also lifestyle changes that you can make to reduce your symptoms and minimize your itching. Avoid overheating the skin, and make sure to wear clothing that is soft and breathable. In addition, avoid rubbing or scratching the affected areas.
Prescription ointments for eczema are another option. These ointments are designed to control inflammation and decrease the immune system reactions. These include pimecrolimus (Elidel) and crisaborole (Eucrisa). Systemic treatments for eczema are best reserved for people with immune system disorders or those with compromised immune systems.
Prevention
Prevention of eczema requires understanding the causes, as well as taking precautions against environmental irritants. Eczema is a common skin disorder that trigger by allergens and aggravate by factors such as tobacco smoke, harsh soaps, and wool. It can also aggravate by certain skin care products and extreme temperature changes.
A variety of methods can use to treat eczema. However, not all of them work for everyone and the scientific evidence is not conclusive. It is best to discuss your options with your doctor before trying anything new. For example, a mild soap can help to keep your skin moisturized and protected from the effects of sunlight. Another option is to use a humidifier. Ceramide skincare products may also be helpful for preventing dry skin. Finally, wearing gloves and wearing water-based lotions or creams can help keep your skin moist.
Keeping your skin moisturized is the first step in prevention of eczema. Daily use of emollients can reduce the likelihood of developing eczema by two years of age. However, daily application of emollients can also increase your baby’s risk for allergies and skin infections.
Another way to prevent eczema is to avoid the irritants that trigger flare-ups. It is important to avoid products that contain petroleum-based ingredients, which irritate the skin. Avoid soaps and lotions that contain petroleum-based products or other ingredients that may trigger eczema flare-ups. The right combination of moisturizer and antihistamines can help you control itching and prevent flare-ups.
Allergies to house dust mites associate with eczema in some individuals. Studies have shown that the skin is not as resistant to these allergens as we thought it would be. In addition, there are genetic syndromes that characterize by a loss of tolerance.
Preventing eczema may include vaccinations in infants at high risk for eczema. However, neonatal BCG vaccination is not recommended for every infant. However, it is effective in reducing the incidence of eczema in infants whose parents were atopic.
