Eczema is "a general term for any superficial inflammatory process involving the epidermis primarily, marked early by redness, itching, minute papules and vesicles, weeping, oozing and crusting, and later by scaling, lichenification and often pigmentation."1 It is also used specifically to refer to the condition atopic dermatitis. The term 'eczema' is used in two different ways. It can be used widely to describe any rash-like skin conditions. It is usually used specifically to refer to the most common type of these skin conditions: atopic dermatitis. There are many different types of eczema. This article will predominantly focus on atopic dermatitis. Other variants include:
What causes eczema? It is unknown for certain what specifically causes eczema, but it is believed to result due to a combination of hereditary and environmental factors. Children are more likely to develop eczema if a parent has had it or another atopic disease. If both parents have an atopic disease, the chances increase further. Environmental factors are also known to bring out the symptoms of eczema
Rashes can lighten or darken in colorSigns and symptoms of eczema Atopic dermatitis commonly manifests itself in infants with dry and scaly patches appearing on the skin. These patches are often intensely itchy.6 The symptoms of atopic dermatitis can vary, depending on the age of the person with the condition. Most people develop atopic dermatitis before the age of 5.6 Half of people who develop the condition in childhood continue to have symptoms of it as an adult, though these symptoms are often different to those experienced by children. People with the condition will often experience periods of time where their symptoms will flare up or worsen, followed by periods of time where their symptoms will improve or clear up. Infants:
Children, from 2 years old to puberty:
A doctor may refer a patient onto either an allergist or dermatologist for further evaluation.
The word eczema comes from the Greek word ekzein meaning "to boil out"; the Greek word ek means "out," while the Greek word zema means "boiling." You will also see introductions at the end of some sections to any recent developments that have been covered by MNT's news stories. Also look out for links to information about related conditions. Fast facts on eczema
Common symptoms of eczema include areas of thickened, red, itchy skin. The term 'eczema' is used in two different ways. It can be used widely to describe any rash-like skin conditions. It is usually used specifically to refer to the most common type of these skin conditions: atopic dermatitis. The word 'atopic' refers to a collection of diseases for which there is an inherited tendency to develop, including dermatitis, asthma and hay fever. 'Dermatitis' means inflammation of the skin. There are many different types of eczema. This article will predominantly focus on atopic dermatitis. Other variants include:
Environmental factors are also known to bring out the symptoms of eczema
Signs and symptoms of eczema Atopic dermatitis commonly manifests itself in infants with dry and scaly patches appearing on the skin. These patches are often intensely itchy.6 The symptoms of atopic dermatitis can vary, depending on the age of the person with the condition. Most people develop atopic dermatitis before the age of 5.6 Half of people who develop the condition in childhood continue to have symptoms of it as an adult, though these symptoms are often different to those experienced by children. People with the condition will often experience periods of time where their symptoms will flare up or worsen, followed by periods of time where their symptoms will improve or clear up.2 Infants:
How the skin affected by atopic dermatitis will appear is dependent on how much it has is scratched and the presence of any skin infections. Scratching and rubbing irritates the skin further, increases inflammation and make itchiness worse.2 Skin features associated with atopic dermatitis:2
Diagnosis is based primarily on the patient's symptoms, but medical history is also important. A doctor will often ask about a patient's family history, other atopic diseases such as asthma and hay fever, possible exposure to irritants, whether any foods are related to flare-ups, sleep disturbances, past treatment for skin symptoms and the use of steroids or other medications. A doctor may refer a patient onto either an allergist or dermatologist for further evaluation.
Treatment and prevention of eczema There is no overall cure for eczema. Treatment for the condition aims to heal the affected skin and prevent flaring of the symptoms. Doctors will suggest a plan of treatment based around a patient's age, symptoms and current state of health. Home Remedy For Eczema
1 Comment
1/19/2021 02:28:30 am
I find it alarming that an eczema attack makes parts of your skin itchy and flare up when left unattended. My friend is experiencing this a lot lately, and it's starting to affect his sleep cycle as a result. We should visit a dermatologist that can properly diagnose this for him and provide him treatment when needed. Leave a Reply. |