Eczema

What is eczema?

Eczema is a group of skin conditions that cause highly irritating skin rashes. There are many types of eczema, but generally the term eczema is synonymous with atopic dermatitis. 

With atopic dermatitis, the rash can be quite uncomfortable and difficult to cope with. 

Eczema is especially common in small children but also affects a significant amount of adults. 

Other types of eczema may have different characteristics, for example, being confined to the scalp or featuring many small round lesions.

What are the symptoms of eczema? 

Eczema commonly causes:

• Redness
• Itchiness
• Bumps
• Scaly skin
• Patchy skin
• Skin cracking
• Bleeding
• Weeping clear fluid

Eczema rashes come and go. If you scratch or rub the skin, the risk of cracking and bleeding is far higher.

How is eczema diagnosed?

Eczema diagnosis involves a complete review of symptoms and a skin exam. Often, diagnosis also includes lab testing to rule out allergies or other problems as the cause of your symptoms. 

What causes eczema?

The American Academy of Dermatology states that genetics and immune system malfunction are the most likely root causes of eczema. In people who are predisposed to eczema, the disease can first start after exposure to environmental factors like tobacco smoke, stress, and climate features. 

Many other triggers can cause eczema flare-ups as well, including soaps, detergents, shampoos, bubble baths, and dry skin, to name a few. 

Eczema isn’t contagious. You can’t “catch” it from someone else, nor can you spread it to another person. 

How is eczema treated?

Eczema treatment depends on the situation. Central Utah Dermatology focuses on relieving your symptoms and reducing the risk of flare-ups. Some of the different ways to do so include:

• Tracking and avoiding triggers
• Moisturizing skin to lock in moisture and prevent dryness
• Bathing with warm (not hot) water
• Switching to dye-, alcohol-, and fragrance-free cleansers
• Patting skin dry when damp 
• Topical medicated creams
• Light therapy
• Oral medications
• Injectable medications

Eczema is a complicated condition with many contributing factors, so treatment is usually somewhat complex. It’s important to maintain a lifestyle that discourages flare-ups while following your treatment plan. 

The Central Utah Dermatology team understands the challenges of eczema, and they’re using the most innovative treatments to relieve the itching, discomfort, and frustration of this common skin condition. Call the nearest office or book a visit online today.