Eczema
Introduction/Overview
Eczema is also known as atopic dermatitis or atopic eczemia. It is a skin condition where skin becomes inflamed and itches. It may crack and become scaly and very sensitive.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
Eczema symptoms can include skin that is cracked, thick, or raw. It itches incessantly and may appear as bumpy patches which ooze fluid when scratched. Eczema is most commonly seen behind the knees, on arms and legs, in front of the elbow, on the face, neck or chest. Many types of eczema have a rash and the skin patches can appear as grey or reddish in color. Eczema can begin in childhood and continue throughout adult life. If you have pain or suspect an infection, it is time to see your doctor about eczema.
Known Causes
No one knows for sure what causes eczema and there is no eczema cure. It is believed that the immune system is involved and people who have allergies often have eczema as well. Stress can be a trigger for eczema as can hay fever and pollens.
Treatments/Procedures
While eczema causes are somewhat of a mystery, eczema treatment can provide some relief. Eczema treatments can include over-the-counter topical medications and prescription eczema cream. Most eczema cream contains corticosteroids and can relieve some of the itching, giving skin time to heal. Oral antihistamines can also help with itching and if you develop open sores or an infection, prescription antibiotics might need to be used. Oral corticosteroids may be used short-term on severe cases, and meds known as immunomodulators can help stabilize the immune system. Exposure of eczema to light, such as UV rays, can be beneficial but you and your doctor have to weigh the results against the damage UV exposure can do to your body.
Prevention / Vaccination
There are a few things you can do to prevent eczema. One is not to take too many showers or baths because they can cause dry skin. Use mild soaps. Moisturizers can also help you to avoid dry skin.
Prognosis / Management
Because eczema is recurring, a management plan needs to be developed. Try to figure out what causes your particular eczema or makes it worse. Keep bedding and clothes clean and avoid accumulating dust. If eczema is minor, an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream might help your skin to stop itching. Antihistamines, such as Benadryl ™ also are beneficial. Don’t scratch patches of skin which have eczema. Moisturizers can help keep skin moist as can using a humidifier in the home. This is particularly important in winter as furnaces can dry out the air and your skin.
Alternative Treatments & Products
There are numerous alternative treatments used with eczema. Probiotics, such as those found in yogurt, are thought to help treat eczema. Sometimes Chinese herbal medicines are used. Consult an herbalist and your doctor to see if these might be good for you to try or not. There are also home remedies, such as using oatmeal or sulfur as topical treatments to relieve itching and swelling. Sea water as a topical treatment might be effective with some people, but for others it causes pain and burning.