Eczema

What is eczema?

Eczema is a type of dermatitis that causes red, dry, itchy skin. This inflammatory condition can appear nearly anywhere on the body, but it’s most common on the elbows, neck, hands, ankles, knees, and feet. While eczema typically isn’t painful, scratching your lesions can irritate your skin. Pinpointing the right treatment plan can help reduce your eczema flare-ups.

What are the symptoms of eczema?

Eczema can be hard to differentiate from other chronic skin conditions, like psoriasis. However, there are key signs of this inflammatory disorder, including:

• Dry, itchy skin
• Crusty, red patches of skin
• Flaky skin
• Small, fluid-filled bumps
• Scaly skin
• Raw, sensitive skin

While eczema symptoms can affect you at any time during the day, it’s often itchier and more inflamed at night.

What causes eczema?

An overactive immune system is the most common cause of eczema, but stress, environmental factors, and gene variations also play a role in its development. A combination of these factors can also cause the skin to become dry and brittle, aggravating existing eczema. You’re at an increased risk of eczema if you have anxiety, allergies, asthma, or depression.

The weather may also worsen your condition. The skin can become dry during cold, arid weather but itchy when the weather is warm and humid.

What are the treatments for eczema?

Dr. Robare and the team provide custom-tailored solutions for eczema. They address the underlying causes of eczema if possible and treat its symptoms. While eczema isn’t curable, it is manageable. The first step in treating eczema is identifying your triggers.

The type of eczema you have, and the severity of your condition, help determine the right treatment for you. After a comprehensive skin evaluation, Dr. Robare may recommend one or more of the following eczema treatments:

• Topical or oral antibiotics to fight infection
• Corticosteroid ointments to reduce inflammation
• Calcineurin inhibitors to minimize itching
• Light therapy

Dr. Robare may also recommend avoiding certain irritants, such as fragrances, scented soaps, and detergents to help reduce your outbreaks. Minimizing your exposure to extreme temperatures can also help you control your flare-ups.

To learn more about eczema, call Magnolia Dermatology today or schedule an appointment online.