What is eczema and its common types?
According to Google, eczema is simply defined as a medical condition in which patches of skin become rough and inflamed with blisters, which cause itching and bleeding. Some of the different types of eczema are: atopic dermatitis, hand eczema, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, among many others.
What are the causes and triggers of eczema?
Unfortunately, there is no exact known cause for eczema. But medical science suspect that it is hereditary, which means a family member may have it and so genes were passed on. It is also linked to allergies such as hay fever and asthma.
Common triggers are: Irritants such as personal care products (e.g. soap, shampoo, dishwashing liquid, detergent soap, etc.)
Allergens like pet dander, pollens, dust mites, molds.
Microbes such as certain bacteria, viruses and certain fungi.
Change of weather - hot or cold temperature, high humidity, perspiration from exercise
Certain foods, the most common culprits being dairy products, eggs, nuts and seeds, soy products, and wheat
Stress, which can worsen the condition of eczema and cause flare ups.
What are the signs and symptoms of eczema?
Each person will experience different levels of symptom and the appearance and location of rashes may also change for each person.. There will be times when it can be mild, moderate or severe. The most common sign that a person has eczema is dry, sensitive skin. This skin can also be intensely itchy, and the person who suffers from this condition may be forced to scratch the affected area, which can then lead to lesions and bleeding. This can worsen the situation and cause more inflammation and itching.
What are the treatment options?
The first step to treating eczema is to take good care of your skin. It is important to manage this condition so it does not get worse and lead to secondary skin infection. Consult a dermatologist to find out the right kind of soap, cleaning agents, medications or moisturisers for your skin.
Tips for managing your eczema
- According to nationaleczema.org the following checklist will help prevent your eczema from worsening:
- Moisturise every day.
- Wear cotton or soft fabrics. Avoid rough, scratchy fibres and tight clothing.
- Take lukewarm baths and showers, using mild soap or non-soap cleanser
- Gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel - do not rub.
- Apply a moisturiser within 3 minutes after bathing to "lock in" moisture.
- When possible, avoid rapid changes of temperature and activities that make you sweat.
- Learn your eczema triggers and avoid them.
- Use a humidifier in dry or cold weather.
- Keep your fingernails short to help keep scratching from breaking the skin.
- Some people with allergies find it helps to remove carpets from their house, and give pets dander treatments.
Page updated 06/04/18 12:47:36 p.m.
