Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. There is no cure for eczema, but there are several ways to manage the symptoms and keep the condition under control.
If you want to learn more about how to treat eczema, stick to this article and we will take a closer look at how you can get rid of it the right way.
What Is Eczema?
Eczema is a skin condition where patches of skin become dry, red, itchy, and inflamed. It typically affects areas of the body such as the hands, feet, elbows, and knees. Eczema can be a nuisance because it can cause itchiness and discomfort. In some cases, it can also lead to infections if the skin becomes cracked or open.
There is no cure for eczema, but there are several ways to manage the symptoms and keep the condition under control. The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation and relieve itching. This can be done with topical, oral, or light therapy.
How common is eczema?
hands with eczema
According to the World Health Organization, people who live in developed countries are more likely to develop eczema than those who live in developing countries. In the United States, about 10%-20% of children and 1%-3% of adults have eczema.
Who is at risk of getting eczema?
There are several factors that can increase your risk of developing eczema.
These include:
- Having a family history of eczema or other allergies
- Having dry skin
- Being exposed to irritants such as harsh soaps or detergents
- Having certain medical conditions such as asthma or hay fever
What are the symptoms of eczema?
The most common symptom of eczema is itchiness.
Other symptoms include:
- Dry and scaly skin. When your skin is dry, it can lead to cracking, which can be painful.
- Red and inflamed skin. This is caused by the body’s immune response to itchiness. The inflammation can make the itching worse.
- Blisters. In some cases, blisters may form on the skin. These are usually filled with clear fluid.
What causes eczema?
The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it is thought to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Other causes can be:
- Dry skin. When your skin is dry, it can lead to cracking, which can be painful.
- Exposure to irritants. Exposure to things like harsh soaps or detergents can trigger an eczema flare-up.
- Certain medical conditions. Conditions such as asthma or hay fever can increase your risk of developing eczema.
- Genetics. As mentioned, eczema can run in families. If you have a family member with eczema, you are more likely to develop the condition yourself.
How is eczema diagnosed?
When you visit the doctor, they will ask about your medical history and symptoms. They may also perform a physical exam of your skin. Sometimes, they may order a skin biopsy to rule out other conditions.
Eczema Treatments
There is no cure for eczema, but there are several ways to manage the symptoms and keep the condition under control. The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation and relieve itching. This can be done with topical, oral, or light therapy.
Topical treatments
These are applied directly to the skin and include corticosteroids, antihistamines, moisturizers, and calcineurin inhibitors.
Medications
Medications are usually only used for severe eczema. They can be taken orally or injected. These include corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and biologics.
Therapies
This treatment uses ultraviolet light to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms. It is usually only used for severe eczema that has not responded to other treatments.
Home remedies
There are several home remedies that can help relieve the symptoms of eczema.
These include:
- Using a humidifier to keep the air moist
- Keeping your nails short to prevent scratching
- Wearing loose-fitting clothing made of soft fabrics
- Avoiding triggers such as harsh soaps or detergents
- Applying a cool compress to the affected area
Eczema can be a frustrating condition, but there are ways to manage it. With the right treatment, you can keep your symptoms under control and live a normal life.
Eczema Flare-Up Prevention
There are several things you can do to prevent an eczema flare-up.
These include:
- Using a humidifier to keep the air moist
- Keeping your nails short to prevent scratching
- Wearing loose-fitting clothing made of soft fabrics
- Avoiding triggers such as harsh soaps or detergents
- Applying a cool compress to the affected area
Have Your Eczema Treated Today!
If you have eczema, it is important to see a doctor so they can develop a treatment plan that is right for you. With the right treatment, you can manage your symptoms and live a normal life.
We at RapidCare Emergency Room are here to help. We offer a variety of services to treat eczema and other skin conditions. Visit us today to get the care you need.