Eczema: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
What is Eczema?
Eczema, also known as “atopic dermatitis”, is a type of dermatitis that refers to a group of skin conditions that cause inflammation or irritation of the skin. It is common, not contagious skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin that appears as red, bumpy patches on the face, elbows, hands, and knees. The severity of symptoms often vary from person to person, but is a long-term, chronic condition. Eczema is not a curable condition, but can be managed with proper care and treatment. The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but genetic predispositions and environmental factors are known to be correlated.
Common Symptoms
Itchiness: Severe itchiness is a hallmark of eczema. Unfortunately, scratching the affected areas can exacerbate the discomfort and lead to further skin damage.
Rashes: Eczema causes red, inflamed patches on the skin, which can be quite distressing.
Dry Patches: The skin often becomes dry, scaly, and prone to cracking, increasing the risk of infection.
Swelling: Because of inflammation, eczema can cause the affected areas to become swollen.
Types of Eczema
Atopic Dermatitis: The most common form, affecting over 7% of American adults. It often starts in childhood and is associated with other allergic conditions.
Contact Dermatitis: Caused by skin contact with irritants or allergens, healing after several weeks of treatment.
Dyshidrotic Eczema: Characterized by tiny blisters on the palms, soles, and sides of fingers.
Neurodermatitis: Intensely itchy patches, usually on the neck, arm, or leg that can irritate nerve endings from scratching.
Nummular Eczema: Coin-shaped raised patches that can ooze clear fluid caused by a variety of factors.
Seborrheic Dermatitis: Occurs in oily areas like the scalp, often called dandruff.
Stasis Dermatitis: Affects the lower legs due to poor blood flow, causing skin discoloration, pain, itching, and sores.
Causes and Flare-Ups
The exact cause of eczema remains unclear, but several factors may contribute:
Immune Response: Eczema may result from an immune response triggered by irritants.
Skin Barrier Issues: Problems with the skin’s barrier can lead to moisture loss and germ infiltration.
Family History: A family history of allergies or asthma increases the likelihood of eczema.
Environmental Factors: There are many irritants in the environment that can irritate the skin.
Emotional Triggers: The mind and body are connected, causing eczema flare ups during stress, anxiety, and depression.
Eczema affects each person differently, so different factors may cause flare-ups in some people but not others. Common triggers include: dry weather, fabrics, makeup or skincare, pollutants, soaps and detergents, stress, oily skin, touching allergens, and more.
Managing Eczema
Over 31 million Americans are living with eczema, highlighting its widespread impact. This condition often causes significant discomfort and can affect the quality of life. A healthcare provider can identify eczema from a physical exam, sometimes also using allergy tests, blood tests, or a skin biopsy. Identifying and avoiding skin irritants is crucial to avoiding or lessening flare-ups. Effective management of eczema often involves the use of dermatologist-prescribed ointments or creams. Over-the-counter moisturizers and antihistamines can also be beneficial.
Get Professional Help Today
Understanding the symptoms, types, causes, and risk factors of eczema is essential for effective management. If you suspect you have eczema, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. By identifying personal triggers and adopting preventive measures, individuals can minimize discomfort and maintain healthier skin.
It is important to take all skin conditions seriously and treat them right away. Each individual will have different symptoms to varying degrees, so it is crucial to find what treatment works best for you. If you notice signs of infection, significant changes or worsening of your eczema, or if current treatments are ineffective, seek medical advice promptly.
Preston’s Pharmacy offers a variety of over-the-counter, prescription, and compounded medications to help manage eczema and other skin conditions. Get pharmacist-approved over-the-counter skin care products that can help reduce irritants and hydrate the skin. Popular brands can include iS Clinical, Neocutis, Obaji, RX Therapy, and Preston’s own pharmacist-created skin care line. Preston’s Compounding Pharmacy compounds a variety of medications for skin conditions, including eczema. Learn about some of our popular options and reach out to a pharmacist to find out which medications are right for you. We will work with you to customize your prescription, including medication combinations, strengths, and dosages, to treat your eczema and reduce your symptoms.
For more information or any questions, contact our pharmacists at (571) 341-8787 or email us at wellness@prestonspharmacy.com. To learn more information about Preston’s dermatology products, read some of our blogs.
