Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a general term for a group of lifelong conditions that affect 1 in 18 people and cause the skin to become inflamed, red, dry and itchy. In some cases of eczema, a rash might develop in one area or over the entire body.
Eczema’s exact cause is unknown, but evidence suggests it may be genetic because it often affects people who have a personal or family history of asthma, hay fever or other allergies. Eczema symptoms typically flare up when a person is exposed to certain triggers, which may include skin irritants, allergens, climate factors, the environment and stress.
What is Eczema?
Atopic eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is the most common form of eczema and usually occurs in people with “atopic tendencies.” This means they have developed any or all of three of the following closely linked conditions: atopic dermatitis, asthma and hay fever.
Adult eczema most often develops on hands, elbows and “bending” areas, such as the inside of an elbow or back of a knee. Children with eczema often experience an itchy rash that appears on the forehead, cheeks, arms and legs for a short amount of time and affect 10 to 20 percent of all infants after exposure to a trigger such as harsh soaps, dust mites, food allergies and certain clothing materials.
How to Treat Eczema
Although there are no cures currently available for eczema, there are several treatments available to help relieve symptoms, including topical steroids, antihistamines, immunomodulators, cold compresses and other home remedies. Treatment varies depending on symptoms and triggers.
No one treatment is best for everyone. The objective for our office is to make the patient as comfortable as possible while working with them on a treatment plan. This may be to prescribe medicine that reduces itching and discomfort, clears infections and prevents additional flare-ups. These treatment options may also consist of prevention, skin care, medication and phototherapy treatments.