ECZEMA

Eczema is also known as “Atopic dermatitis.” It is a common allergic skin condition that results in red and itchy skin. This condition is prevalent in infants and children, but it can occur at any age. For most individuals, it is a chronic problem that tends to flare periodically.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of eczema are different for everyone. The symptoms any one patient experiences can be completely different from the symptoms of others. It can appear in different areas of the body. The symptoms can even have a phase of flare-up where the symptoms become worse.

• Complains of itching
• Plaques that appear red and bumpy. They are elevated from the skin
• Itching of the blisters can lead to bleeding and worsening of the symptoms
• The patient will have dry or sensitive skin
• Skin that looks red or inflamed
• A very bad case of irritation
• Patches on the skin that look rough or scaly
• Oozing from the scales
• Crusting of the skin
• Swelling of the crusts

CAUSES

Eczema can be due to several triggering factors. These can be genetic as well as environmental. Yet, the leading cause of eczema remains unknown. The following are a few probable causes

• Irritants

These can be any chemicals that the body had exposure to. It includes soaps, shampoos, detergents, disinfectants, and much more.

• Allergens

Allergens initiate an allergic reaction in the body. These include pollen, dust, dandruff, and mites.

• Extreme temperatures

Extreme up and down of the temperature can flare up this condition. It is due to either very high or very low humidity. Another reason may be due to the perspiration of the body.

• Microbial Organisms

Certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi are also the causative agents of eczema. An example of a bacterial organism is Staphylococcus aureus.

• Hormones

Eczema can occur in women when they are at a certain level of hormonal change. These can be during pregnancy or menopause.

• Foods

Certain food products can also cause eczema. These include dairy products such as Egg and milk. Other than these nuts, wheat, and product of soy can also cause worsening of the symptoms.

TREATMENT

The focus of the treatment is to prevent itching, which has a chance of progressing towards infection. Eczema makes the skin dry. Certain creams and ointments help to keep the skin moist.

• Emollients or Moisturizers

Helps prevent the skin from drying

• Corticosteroids

A topical form of a corticosteroid will help in the reduction of symptoms. These primarily include redness and swelling.

• NSAID

NSAID ointments such as crisaborole help in the treatment of milder forms of eczema. It is also useful in reducing the inflammation of the skin.

• Immunosuppressant

In severe cases of eczema, the doctor may turn down the patient’s immune system. These include cyclosporine or methotrexate. However, there are serious side effects associated with these medicines.

Book an appointment with MyDoc Urgent Care for quality care and treatment. Our dermatologists will discuss various treatment options according to the patient’s condition.

Please book your appointment online or visit us at our clinic’s forest hills, East meadow, Bronx, Brooklyn, Jackson height and little neck.