Eczema
Eczema (dermatitis) is a chronic skin condition that causes the skin to redden, swell and become itchy. It is most common in babies and young children.There are different types of eczema, the most common type being atopic eczema. The exact cause of atopic eczema is unknown, but it often occurs in people who are prone to allergies. People with a family history of rhinitis and/or asthma are more prone to developing eczema.
Although the precise cause of eczema is unknown, the condition appears to be an abnormal response of the body’s immune system when exposed to an allergen, causing it to elicit symptoms such as itchiness, redness etc in those affected.
Symptoms
Common atopic eczema symptoms include:
- itching
- redness
- dry, flakey skin
- oozing
The symptoms of atopic eczema will vary according to the severity of your condition.
Causes
Studies show that eczema is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Many people who have eczema also suffer from asthma and allergic rhinitis, or have family members who do.
Eczema occurs in both children and adults, but usually appears early in life.Several allergens that aggravate the body’s immune response resulting in eczema symptoms have been identified, these include:
- house dust mites
- animal saliva, hair/fur and skin scales (dander)
- food intolerance (cow’s milk, eggs, soya, wheat, fish and nuts)
Other factors that could promote excessive itching in those with eczema include:
- rough or coarse materials rubbing against the skin
- certain soaps, detergents or disinfectants
- contact with juices from fresh fruits and meats
- stress
Diagnosis
Speak to your GP if you think you may have atopic eczema. Most cases of eczema can be controlled with simple, safe and effective medications, but those with difficult eczema may need to be referred to a dermatologist (a skin specialist).
Treatment
While there is no cures for eczema, there are a variety of medications and therapies available that can help to:
- control the itching,
- reduce the skin inflammation,
- clear any infection,
- loosen and remove scaly lesions and,
- reduce new lesions
A combination of therapies and trigger avoidance tends to be the most effective treatment for eczema. Dermatologist will often work with patients with eczema to produce treatment plans suited to their needs.
Trigger avoidance is an important element of reducing the severity, and risk of worsening, eczema symptoms. If you have eczema, make sure you avoid contact with anything that you know you are sensitive to.
Emollients are substances that help to soften and smooth your skin in order to keep it supple and moist. A key part of any eczema treatment routine is moisturising. Eczema is usually dry and itchy, so applying emollients (especially straight after a bath or shower) will help to keep the skin moist and reduce the itching.
Topical corticosteroids are applied directly to the skin and help ease symptoms such as itching, redness etc. Corticosteroids work by quickly reducing inflammation.
Antihistamines are also sometimes prescribed as they help to minimise itching.
Other treatment options include:
- cold compresses applied directly to itchy skin to reduce itching
- phototherapy – using special light equipment
Please seek further advice on how to manage your condition from your GP/Practice nurse.