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Did you know that approximately 35 million Americans suffer from eczema? If you are one of the millions who experience dry, itchy, rashy skin, it is important to consult a medical specialist, like Internal Medicine Group or another qualified provider, to properly diagnose and treat your condition. Read on to learn the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about eczema. What Is Eczema? Eczema is a medical term used to describe a group of inflammatory skin conditions. This medical condition produces a weak outer skin barrier that is easily irritated, does not retain moisture well, and causes the skin to appear dry, red, and rashy. Eczema is most commonly found in infants and children, but symptoms can also extend into adulthood. The most common form of eczema is atopic dermatitis. What Are the Causes of Eczema? Researchers do not know the exact cause of eczema, but have identified a number of factors that may contribute to the development of the condition. Some of the most common factors that may cause eczema include the following: • A family history of the condition • Abnormal function of the immune system • Environmental irritants • Defects in the skin barrier • Certain activities that cause the skin to become more sensitive What Are the Symptoms of Eczema? Some of the most common symptoms of eczema include the following: • Intense itching • Red, bumpy rashes • Patches of chronically dry, itchy, thickened skin usually found on the neck, hands, face, legs, and inner creases of the elbows and knees • Painful cracks in the skin • Red, puffy, itchy eyelids What Are the Common Triggers of Eczema? Eczema is a cyclic condition. Flare-ups often follow exposure to certain triggers, or conditions or substances that aggravate eczema. Some of the most common triggers of eczema include the following: • Dry skin • Extreme cold weather • Wool or other rough fabrics • Dust mites • Harsh household detergents and cleaners • Emotional stress • Heat, humidity, and sweating • Food allergies • Pollen • Certain cosmetics • Pet dander • Hot baths and showers • Smoking What Are the Treatment Options for Eczema? Although there is no cure for eczema, there are several different treatment options that can help control the symptoms. Individuals with mild eczema may be able to treat their condition with certain home remedies and lifestyle changes, while individuals with severe eczema may require prescription medications in order to treat their symptoms. Some of the most common treatment options for eczema include the following: • Using good skin moisturizers • Avoiding long, hot baths or showers • Using a humidifier • Reducing stress • Using over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams and antihistamines • Using prescription strength moisturizers • Using Prescription strength oral and topical corticosteroid medication • Ultraviolet light therapy • Immunosuppressant and immunomodulator medications How Do You Prevent Eczema? Because eczema symptoms tend to come and go, identifying and avoiding known triggers is one of the best ways to prevent flare-ups. Some of the best ways to prevent eczema include the following: • Use mild, nonirritating soaps sparingly • Apply liberal amounts of moisturizer while the skin is still damp • Use mild laundry detergents and rinse your clothes twice • Bathe and shower in lukewarm water • Use hydrocortisone cream to soothe itchy skin When Should You Seek Medical Care for Eczema? When dealing with eczema, it is important to consult a medical specialist, like Internal Medicine Group or another qualified provider, for any of the following conditions: • When eczema does not respond to one week of over-the-counter hydrocortisone treatment • When the itch is so severe that you cannot sleep • Development of crust or pus-filled blisters over existing patches of eczema • Exposure to anyone with a viral skin disease such as genital herpes or cold sores during an eczema flare-up • Development of small, painful, fluid-filled blisters in areas of existing eczema.
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