What is Eczema?

Eczema or atopic dermatitis is a condition in which a person's skin becomes inflamed, scaly, red, and itchy. It is the damage to the skin barrier, mostly starting in early childhood and can persist into adulthood. There is no age limit to this condition. It is common among people who have allergies. It is not a disease, nor is it contagious; hence, it can be treated and prevented. Though it should be kept in mind that eczema cannot be completely cured and it can recur if precautions are not taken.

Types:

A number of different types of eczema have been discovered. They are:

-          Atopic dermatitis is the most common type.

-          Contact dermatitis, which happens due to exposure to a trigger.

-          Dyshidrotic dermatitis, which causes scaly patches on the skin of palms and soles.

-          Nummular dermatitis presents as round and red patches commonly on the lower legs.

-          Stasis dermatitis is caused by poor blood flow, especially in the lower leg area.             

Causes: 

-          Dehydrated skin

-          Irritants and triggers include dust, pollution, cold and dry weather, detergents, pets, etc.

-          Food allergies like peanuts, gluten, or soya

-          Fabric allergies like wool and fur etc

-          Other skin infections can also trigger eczema.

-          Stress

-          Genetics

-          Scented products

-          Respiratory tract infections.

New research has shown that an overactive immune system can cause eczema. Moreover, people suffering from eczema do not make enough filaggrin (filament aggregating protein) responsible for a healthy skin barrier and moisture.

Adult eczema can be a chronic condition that can hinder a good quality of life. It can lead to flare-ups and large patches of inflamed itchy skin if it's serious.

Symptoms:

-          A red rash, especially inside the folds of skin, for example, knees and elbows. Other common sites can be around the eyes, feet, hands, and neck. 

-          Itchiness.

-          Flaring up of skin.

-          Dry skin which can bleed.

-          Pain in the red rashes.

-          Scaly and leathery skin

Diagnosis:

A skin allergy test can diagnose eczema. The doctor will note down typical signs of eczema. Blood tests will be done to rule out any underlying disease. A skin biopsy confirms the diagnosis and differs from other skin conditions, such as Psoriasis. Eczema can be the first sign of any food allergy, especially in children.

Treatment and prevention:

Any triggers would be handled, such as peanut or gluten allergy. Avoiding these trigger foods and carrying Epipen is the treatment of choice in children. In the case of mild and moderate eczema, symptomatic treatment will be administered, like skin gels, lotions, and creams, to prevent itchiness and dryness. On the other hand, severe eczema requires using steroids and antihistamines. Light therapy or phototherapy is also given. People prone to eczema should avoid triggers like wool, harsh cleansers, pets, pollen, dust, dry climate, etc. Reducing stress is also essential to prevent flare-ups. The use of humidifiers, lotions, masks, and mild cleansers is a must for them.