Eczema: Overview, Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

What is Eczema?

• Eczema is a skin condition causing dry, itchy, and bumpy skin.
• It weakens the skin's barrier function, affecting moisture retention and protection.
• Classified under dermatitis, a group of conditions leading to skin inflammation.

Types of Eczema

• Atopic Dermatitis
• Contact Dermatitis
• Dyshidrotic Eczema
• Neurodermatitis
• Nummular Eczema
• Seborrheic Dermatitis
• Possible to have multiple types simultaneously.

Who is Affected by Eczema?

• Affects individuals of all ages.
• Symptoms often start in childhood and persist into adulthood.
• Higher risk with family history of dermatitis, allergies, hay fever, or asthma.
• Over 31 million Americans affected.

Causes of Eczema

• Immune System: Overreaction to small irritants or allergens, leading to inflammation.
• Genetics: Family history of eczema, dermatitis, asthma, hay fever, or allergies.
• Environment: Irritation from smoke, pollutants, harsh soaps, low humidity.
• Emotional Triggers: Stress, anxiety, or depression can exacerbate symptoms.

Symptoms of Eczema

• Dry, itchy skin
• Rash and bumps
• Thick, leathery patches
• Flaky or crusty skin
• Swelling
• Varies by skin tone (purple, brown, gray for dark; pink, red, purple for light)

Diagnosis and Tests

• Diagnosed through physical examination.
• Additional tests may include allergy tests, blood tests, or skin biopsy to rule out other conditions.

Management and Treatment

• Moisturizers: Regular application, especially after bathing, to maintain skin moisture.
• Medications: Topical steroids, oral anti-inflammatories, antihistamines, or immunosuppressants.
• Light Therapy: Used for skin appearance improvement.
• Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid environmental and emotional triggers.

Prevention Strategies

• Regularly moisturize, especially after bathing.
• Hydrate by drinking at least eight glasses of water daily.
• Wear cotton or natural materials; avoid wool and synthetic fabrics.
• Use a humidifier to combat dry air.

Outlook and Prognosis

• Eczema is a chronic condition and can be lifelong.
• Symptoms can be managed with treatments and lifestyle adjustments.
• No cure, but treatments effectively reduce symptom severity.

Living with Eczema

• Avoid known triggers and maintain a regimen of moisturizing and medication use.
• Seek healthcare provider assistance for persistent or worsening symptoms.

Additional Considerations

• Eczema is non-contagious.
• Can lead to complications like weeping eczema and infections.
• Weather can influence symptom severity; low humidity or high heat might exacerbate symptoms.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

• If experiencing symptoms of eczema or if symptoms worsen.
• If symptoms persist despite treatment.
• In case of infection or severe discomfort.