Eczema

Eczema is a common skin condition affecting both children and adults. If you’d like to learn how to minimize the symptoms of eczema, reach out to the team at Northshore Dermatology in Slidell, Madisonville, Hammond, Louisiana, and Picayune, Mississippi. Book a visit today with their fast and easy online and phone scheduling options.

What is eczema?

Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition. It’s common among children, but you can develop eczema at any age. According to the National Eczema Association, more than 31 million Americans have the condition.

Atopic dermatitis is widely known as the most common form of eczema. While researchers are uncertain of the exact cause of eczema, it appears that a combination of genetic and environmental factors are to blame. 

People with eczema tend to experience eczema flare-ups when exposed to certain triggers, including:

• Dry air
• Extreme heat or cold
• Certain household cleaners
• Certain metals, including nickel
• Ingredients in certain skin and hair products
• Chemical additives in laundry detergent and fabric softeners

When you understand what prompts your body to experience eczema flare-ups, you can take the right steps to avoid exposure. 

How do I know if I have eczema?

The most common sign of eczema is itchy skin. You might also develop a rash, which can be limited to one small area of your skin, or it can spread over larger areas. 

Some additional signs of eczema include:

• Dry, cracked skin
• Skin that oozes or becomes crusty
• Darkened areas of skin around your eyes
• Thickened patches of skin
• Small raised bumps, usually on people of color
• Raw or sensitive skin due to increased scratching

If you experience these symptoms, schedule a diagnostic exam right away. Many people mistake eczema symptoms for signs of psoriasis. 

What are some treatment options for eczema?

Your practitioner examines your skin and asks about your experience with symptoms. If you have eczema, there are treatments that can help. 

The first step is taking action to prevent flare-ups. Moisturize your skin to help prevent it from drying and cracking. You should also take daily baths or showers, but without using excessively hot water.

Use a gentle, unscented soap and other products to reduce skin irritation. You should also use a gentle patting motion to dry your skin with a towel rather than rubbing your skin. 

Topical medications can help reduce itching and help repair damaged skin. If you have severe eczema, you might need to take oral antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection. 

Severe eczema may respond best to oral medications that control inflammation. However, these drugs can cause harm if used for long periods of time. There are also injectable medications that can help ease symptoms. 

If you have eczema, book a visit at Northshore Dermatology online or over the phone today.