Understanding Eczema: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Eczema: Causes, Indicators, and Ways to Manage

Eczema – Overview of Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is an inflammatory skin condition impacting millions globally. It commonly appears as itchy, red patches on the cheeks, arms, and legs, and is often linked with hay fever and asthma. While frequently seen in children, it can affect individuals of any age. Importantly, eczema is not contagious. In the U.S., approximately 17.8 million people live with this condition.

What triggers eczema?

Healthy skin acts as a barrier against irritants, allergens, and microbes, retaining moisture. In eczema, genetic variations weaken this barrier, making skin more vulnerable to environmental factors and allergens. Certain food allergies in children can trigger eczema outbreaks. Additional factors include genetics, harsh environmental conditions, immune system issues, or increased skin permeability. Excessive hand washing and residing in dry climates may also contribute.

Recognizing symptoms of eczema

Typically, eczema begins before age 5, persisting into adolescence and adulthood, with symptoms fluctuating over time. Each person may experience different signs, including:

Small itchy bumps that may leak fluid when scratched

Intense itching, especially during nighttime

Dry, flaky skin

Red or brownish-gray patches, mainly in infants on the face and scalp; in adults, it often affects hands, feet, neck, eyelids, inside elbows, and knees

Thickened, cracked, and scaly skin

Increased skin sensitivity due to scratching

For visual reference, viewing eczema images can help in identification.

Potential complications of eczema

Persistent scratching may cause skin infections from bacteria, viruses, or herpes simplex. Hand dermatitis can develop from prolonged exposure to harsh cleaning agents. Eczema in children increases risk for asthma and hay fever later in life. Chronic skin irritation can lead to thickened, discolored, and rough skin, as well as sleep disturbances. Allergic contact dermatitis may also occur alongside eczema.

Preventive measures for eczema

Implementing certain strategies can help reduce flare-ups and skin dryness, such as:

Applying moisturizers like lotions or ointments twice daily to retain moisture. Petroleum jelly can be beneficial for infants, ensuring suitability for skin type.

Identifying and avoiding triggers like stress, certain soaps, allergens, dust, and climatic factors.

Monitoring diet to minimize intake of foods like milk, eggs, wheat, or soy that may worsen eczema in children, based on medical advice.

Taking lukewarm baths, limiting time in water to prevent excessive dryness.

Using mild, fragrance-free soaps to avoid stripping natural oils.

Patting the skin dry gently after bathing and moisturizing while still damp.

Considering bleach baths, using diluted household bleach in warm water for about 10 minutes twice weekly, to reduce skin bacteria and prevent infections.

Since eczema's exact cause can be elusive, consulting healthcare professionals for proper diagnosis and management is essential for effective control.