Written by: Nisha Liana Evangelista
Eczema Overview:
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes the skin to become dry, itchy, and bumpy. This weakens the skin’s barrier function that is responsible for retaining moisture and protecting the body from external elements. In the United States alone, an estimated 35 million people suffer from this condition. Unfortunately, there is no known cure, but various treatments are available to help manage the symptoms and mitigate its effects. One of the first ways to find a treatment plan is to identify the patient's type of eczema.
Eight Main Types:
Atopic Dermatitis: This is the most common type of eczema, affecting around 9% of children and 3% of adults. It is characterized by dry, itchy, and red patches forming on the cheeks, arms, and legs.
Contact Dermatitis: This occurs when skin comes into contact with an irritating substance or allergen. Contact dermatitis is characterized by redness, itching, and swelling that can form anywhere on the body.
Dyshidrotic Eczema: This is also commonly referred to as foot-and-hand eczema, characterized by small, but deep and itchy blisters on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
Seborrheic Dermatitis: Usually, this kind of dermatitis occurs on the scalp, face, and chest and is characterized by red, itchy, and scaly patches.
Neurodermatitis: This kind of dermatitis causes intense itching, redness, and even thickening of the skin. Typically, this is triggered by stress and is found in the arms, legs, and scalp regions.
Nummular eczema: This can be identified by coin shaped patches of dry and irritated skin and most commonly caused by allergic reactions. This targets and affects the arms and legs.
Stasis Dermatitis: This type of eczema affects the lower legs and can be identified by red itchy and scaly patches. Poor circulation in the legs is its primary cause
Hand Eczema: Hence its name, hand eczema affects the hands with red, itchy, and scaly patches. This is often caused by frequent contact with irritants or allergens.
Eczema Symptoms:
Dry, itchy skin
Redness and swelling
Flaking, scaling, or crusting
Small, fluid-filled blisters
Thickened, leathery skin
Dark colored patches
Increased skin sensitivity
Rough, scaly texture
Eczema Causes:
Genetic factors
Immune system dysfunction
Environmental triggers (e.g., irritants, allergens)
Stress and emotional factors
Dry skin
Eczema Complications:
Skin infections
Sleep disturbances
Depression and anxiety
Scarring and discoloration
Reduced quality of life
Eczema Treatments:
Here are some treatments available to help manage eczema effects.
For Atopic Dermatitis: Some options include topical medications, examples including corticosteroids and moisturizers.
For Contact Dermatitis: The main treatment usually involves avoiding any irritants and using hydrocortisone cream.
For Dyshidrotic Eczema: One of the more natural remedies for dyshidrotic eczema is to try avoiding excessive sweating. Additionally, a corticosteroid or calcineurin cream may help with relief.
For Seborrheic Dermatitis: Since it is often caused by an overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus, treatments will include anti-fungal creams such as ketoconazole and miconazole.
For Neurodermatitis: Some treatments include topical steroids, moisturizers, and light therapy.
For Nummular Eczema: Since this is often caused by an allergic reaction, the best way to reduce its effects is by avoiding the allergen(s) entirely. Topical treatments like corticosteroids as seen above may also help with relief.
For Stasis Dermatitis: An active way to treat stasis dermatitis includes elevating of the legs, wearing compression stockings, reducing high salt in diet, and topical treatments seen above.
For Hand Eczema: It is crucial to avoid any allergens and triggers such as certain hand and dish soaps.
Disclaimer: Everything posted on our website and Instagram is intended for basic educational purposes only. If you suspect you have symptoms of any condition, it is essential to consult a dermatologist or your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Our content is not a substitute for professional medical care.
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