Eczema

What is eczema?

Eczema is frequently called atopic dermatitis. However, eczema is a general term referring to several chronic inflammatory skin conditions, including:

• Atopic dermatitis
• Contact dermatitis
• Dyshidrotic eczema
• Neurodermatitis
• Nummular eczema
• Seborrheic dermatitis

Though the underlying cause varies in each type, all types of eczema result in damage to the skin's natural barrier. As a result, inflammation, dry skin, and rashes develop.

What symptoms occur due to eczema?

Atopic dermatitis, the most common type of eczema, begins during childhood, usually in the first six months after birth. The condition may improve with age, but many have chronic eczema that comes and goes throughout adulthood.

Eczema often causes intense itching. In addition to the itching, you may have one or more of the following symptoms:

• Red, inflamed skin
• Small red bumps
• Blisters that ooze and crust over
• Raw, sensitive skin
• Scaly, dry skin
• Thickened, discolored skin

The severe itching causes scratching, and repeated scratching leads to more skin damage and inflammation. Without treatment, this creates an ongoing cycle of skin problems.

What triggers eczema?

Eczema flares up in response to many possible triggers. A few examples include:

• Stress
• Fatigue
• Certain foods
• Soap
• Hot water
• Skincare products
• Antibacterial ointments

Dry skin often causes an eczema flare-up. Eczema is sometimes related to foods, which can be tested by prick testing.

How is eczema treated?

Though your Allergy Asthma & Sinus Center provider personalizes your eczema treatment to meet your unique needs, certain therapies are important for everyone with this skin condition. Your treatment may include:

Skincare

Protecting the skin barrier is absolutely essential. The skin barrier, the outermost layer of your skin, forms a watertight seal that holds moisture in and keeps bacteria and other irritants out.

Once the barrier is damaged, eczema flares up. Your provider teaches you how to care for your skin and recommends gentle skincare products that won't irritate the barrier.

Allergy treatment

If your eczema flares up in response to allergies, your provider does allergy testing and treatment. Sometimes, immunotherapy (allergy shots) can help improve eczema.

Medications

You may need medications such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants to relieve symptoms and prevent eczema outbreaks. In severe cases, your provider may prescribe monoclonal antibodies, such as Dupixent® or Adbry™. These innovative medications prevent inflammation and cellular reactions leading to eczema.

If your itchy rash doesn't improve, call Allergy Asthma & Sinus Center or book an appointment online today.