What is Eczema
Eczema is a common skin condition that also goes by the names atopic eczema, dermatitis, and atopic dermatitis. The condition, which is especially common in children, causes red patches to appear on the skin that are scaly, itchy, and dry.
Treatment
Eczema cannot be cured, but needs to be managed chronically. Occasionally, changes to a patient’s skin care routine are all that is needed to maintain clear skin. Flares and poorly controlled eczema can be treated with medicated ointments or creams. Antibiotics may necessary if there is concern for infection. Similarly, bleach baths or vinegar water soaks may be used to prevent infections.
As fragrances, dyes, and other chemicals can exacerbate eczema, it is important to use fragrance free and sensitive skin self-care and laundry products. Avoid alcohol based products, including aerosol sprays and waterless hand sanitizers, as alcohol is very drying for the skin. Antihistamines taken routinely can decrease the itch associated with eczema and are particularly helpful in patients with associated hay fever and seasonal allergies.
FAQs
Who Gets Eczema, and How Long Does It Last?
This skin condition frequently appears in children during their first year of life. The itching caused by eczema can be so intense that some babies and toddlers may not be able to sleep. Since they do not fully understand how to scratch itchy skin to make it feel better, very young children may rub their skin against the nearest surface in an attempt to find relief. Eczema is not contagious.
Skin rashes can make children feel uncomfortable and may require treatment to avoid secondary infection. Parents can also take steps at home to reduce the likelihood of an eczema flare in their child. For example, babies and toddlers with eczema are often sensitive to the dyes used in soaps and laundry detergents. Parents should choose products without these added ingredients. They also need to moisturize their child’s skin regularly.
Some people who develop eczema during childhood continue to deal with the uncomfortable symptoms into their adulthood. They may go several years between flare-ups. Although it is less common, some people never develop eczema during childhood and do not notice their first symptoms until they are adults.
What Causes Eczema?
One of the essential roles of healthy skin is to retain moisture that protects the body from allergens, bacteria, and irritants. People with eczema appear to have variations in their genes that prevent the skin from performing this function effectively. Children who already have food allergies are more prone to developing eczema. Other risk factors include having a family history of eczema, seasonal allergies, asthma, or hay fever.
Common Symptoms of Eczema
Keep in mind that the symptoms of eczema can vary significantly between children and adults and from one person to the next. Here are some typical indications that you or your child might have eczema:
- Cracked, dry, thickened, or scaly skin
- Patches of skin that are brownish-gray or red in color that appear on the upper chest, hands, wrists, neck, feet, ankles, eyelids, and inside the bend of the knees and elbows. Children may also have eczema patches on their cheeks or scalp.
- Raised bumps that can crust over when scratched and leak clear fluid.
- Severe itching.
- Skin that appears swollen, thickened or raw due to intense and chronic scratching.
Visit Chevy Chase Cosmetic & Dermatology Center
Our team provides thoughtful, expert care for all your skin health needs. We are proud to offer the most advanced general and cosmetic dermatology services in the greater Washington D.C. area. Your best skin awaits.