Symptoms and Treatment of Eczema

Eczema is a skin disease scientifically called atopic dermatitis, which although chronic is not contagious. Characterized by itchy inflamed patches of skin, this disease affects different parts of the body, most notably the arms and behind the knees. Eczema presents in babies and can last long into adulthood. However, adults can contract eczema later in life after never having had any signs of the disease beforehand.

What are the Causes of Eczema?

There is much speculation about what causes eczema however, an exact cause remains elusive.  Research shows that three out of every four children who have eczema eventually develop asthma and/or allergies. Eczema is most prevalent in families of those who suffer from allergies and/or asthma. Likely causes for this skin disease are a combination of an improperly working immune system, asthma, allergies, and dry irritated skin.

How is Eczema Diagnosed?

Because there are not any formal lab tests or skin sampling tests used when diagnosing eczema, your doctor will give both a thorough visual examination and a consultation. Symptoms of eczema can be persistent and long lasting or they can be sporadic coming and going at different times and lasting for different durations. It is important to remember all of your past symptoms and discuss them with your doctor. During the consultation, you should also be prepared to discuss your medical history and anyone who has allergies or asthma in your family and know their direct relation to you. 

Symptoms of Eczema

Symptoms of eczema can be different depending on the individual and may include:

* Dry scaly patches on the skin

* Rough bumps on the thighs, upper arms, and face

* Hives brought on by exposure to allergens

* Thick skin with a leathery feel to it from excessive scratching

* Inflammation of skin around the lips and eyes

* Severe itching, especially at night

* Small bumps that when scratched crack open and ooze forming scabs

* Skin is painful to the touch

* Skin infections from excessive scratching and broken skin

* Unable to sleep from discomfort of itchiness

 Things that Aggravate Eczema

If your doctor has diagnosed you with eczema, you will need to know common things that aggravate the disease and can potentially make your outbreaks more severe. There again eczema affects each person a bit differently with a unique blending of symptoms so it may be trial and error determining what things worsen the condition for you and what things have no effect at all. Some of the common irritants include:

* Soaps

* Washing detergents

* Stress

* Perfume

* Makeup

* Synthetic materials

* Climate

* Certain foods

* Pollen

* Mold

* Certain animals

* Various types of smoke, cigar, cigarette, wood burning

Treatment and Prevention of Eczema Breakouts

There is not a cure for eczema so your only relief will be treating the symptoms that cause your discomfort and avoiding those things that aggravate or bring about your symptoms. Some treatments and preventive measures your doctor may suggest and prescribe include:

* Rid yourself of as many allergen retaining agents as possible, for example,

* Carpets hold in dust, pollen and mold, etc so it may be wise to consider hardwood flooring.

* Regularly wash all bedding including comforters and dust ruffles.

* Avoid using items containing feathers such as down comforters and pillows.

*  Use full coverage zip closure mattress covers to reduce the possibility of allergens or other irritants contaminating your bed.

* Use over –the-counter anti-itch medications to help control scratching.

* Take proper care of your skin taking lukewarm baths and patting yourself dry with a towel avoiding any rubbing, which may cause a severe itchy reaction.

* Prescription medications may include:

* Oral antihistamines for severe itching

* Prednisone and other corticosteroid creams for reduction of inflammation

* Immune-modulating drugs to help control the immune system 

* Antibiotics for skin infections

* Light therapy using ultra violet light waves

* Treatments and preventive measures specific to infants include:

* Regular clipping of nails to prevent scratching

* Lukewarm baths followed by immediate skin lubrication

* Keep the child cool as heat will aggravate eczema

* Dress the child in soft cotton fabrics for less itch and irritation

Although eczema is a very uncomfortable and aggravating skin disease by consulting with your doctor, together you can devise a treatment and preventive measures plan that will make living with eczema manageable.

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DISCLAIMER: All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a guarantee of any success. This information has been previously researched but you should do your own research to expand your knowledge. This should not be consider as medical advice.