What is Eczema? Eczema Treatment | Dr. Weil

What is eczema?

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic allergic condition in which the skin develops areas of itchy, scaly rashes.

Eczema can occur on almost any part of the body but eczema on face areas is common, as is eczema on the scalp, inside of elbows, knees, ankles, and hands. It typically appears as extremely itchy patches on the skin. Eczema can get worse when scratched; in fact, itchy skin may appear normal until scratched; the irritating action may then cause the characteristic rash and scales to develop.

Other eczema symptoms include:

Scratching can introduce infectious agents into the skin, leading to secondary complications including bacterial infection and permanent scars.

Eczema is caused by a reaction similar to that of an allergy and can promote chronic inflammation. The condition will often wax and wane and accompany other allergic conditions such as asthma. In some cases, a specific substance, such as certain soaps, detergents, or metals, dust mites, and animal dander, can trigger eczema. For many people, however, there is no known allergen that causes this reaction. Eczema can be worsened by dry climates, exposure to water, temperature changes, and stress.

Eczema is particularly common in infants and children. A persons risk of developing the problem also increases if he or she has a family history of eczema or allergic conditions such as asthma and hay fever.

Physicians usually diagnose eczema by conducting a physical exam and asking questions about the patients symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and habits.

Conventional doctors often recommend a combination of self-care techniques and medical therapies in the treatment of eczema. First, people with eczema should avoid any potential triggers that appear to make symptoms worse. Take warm, not hot, showers or baths if you have eczema. Use soap as sparingly as possible, and apply a soothing, hypoallergenic moisturizer immediately after bathing. Physicians may also suggest using over-the-counter anti-itch lotions or low-potency steroid creams.

When these measures dont alleviate eczema, the doctor may prescribe one or more of the following treatments:

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What is Eczema? Eczema Treatment | Dr. Weil