What is Eczema?
Eczema represents a series of skin conditions that are brought on by several allergic reactions or sometimes from the human body's reaction to an immune system deficiency. The outcome can lead to redness of the skin, discoloration, and itchy spots very similar to dermatitis. In many cases, the redness itself is dermatitis. This may happen anywhere on your body, such as the hands, face, neck, or other areas. Atopic dermatitis is the most prevalent type of eczema and is normally the result of an allergic reaction. This condition generally starts in youth. At Dermatology Center of Dallas in Dallas, TX, our dermatologists will help you diagnose what is causing the outbreak so a true treatment plan can be created and completed.
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What Are Eczema Symptoms
Eczema is frequently characterized by dry, itchy, or red skin in addition to persistent rashes. Typically, your skin will start to feel itchy before a rash shows up. Most patients experience patches of skin that are continuously itchy, dry, or cracked. These patches can appear anywhere but primarily happen on the face, neck, hands, or legs. With children, patches can appear on the inner creases of their elbows and knees. Once the skin is scratched, dry patches and open sores with crust can develop and could become infected. Severe symptoms could include pus-filled blisters or a yellowish to light brown crust growing over eczema spots, which could be a sign of a bacterial infection.
What Are the Benefits of Eczema Treatment?
Eczema, whether mild or severe, can be an extremely frustrating condition to manage. Our team of experienced and skilled dermatologists at Dermatology Center of Dallas can help you find relief with various remedies. Benefits of eczema treatment include:
- Relief from pain and itchiness
- Potentially finding long-term solutions
- A variety of noninvasive treatments are available
- Improved self-confidence
- Ability to wear more clothing without flare-ups being visible
- Finding out triggers that may make outbreaks more likely
What to Expect from Eczema Treatment
Specialists are not entirely sure what triggers eczema, but it's believed to be caused by numerous things, including immune system abnormalities, genetics, the environment, skin irritants, and skin barrier defects to name a few. Family genetics play a part because particular genes may cause you to have extremely sensitive skin. A patient with relatives who suffer from asthma or allergies is at a greater risk of developing eczema. Eczema may be treated with a variety of over-the-counter or prescribed drugs and lotions. Hydrocortisone ointments and creams can be used in addition to antihistamines, such as Benadryl, to help alleviate symptoms. Prescription drugs, like immunomodulators or steroid creams, can help if you have severe eczema. An oral or corticosteroid might also be prescribed. In extreme conditions, ultraviolet light treatment or laser treatment may also be used on the affected areas. When other alternatives have failed, immunosuppressants could be prescribed since these medications suppress the immune system.
Eczema FAQ
What causes eczema?
Eczema can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, immune system overreaction, an allergy, environmental irritants, and stress.
Can eczema be permanently cured?
There is currently no cure for atopic dermatitis or eczema. Typically a chronic condition, people with eczema will usually have flare-ups throughout their life. However, there are effective treatments and lifestyle changes that soothe the pain, irritation, and itching and can significantly reduce eczema flare-ups.
How do I get rid of my eczema?
There are a number of ways to soothe eczema and reduce flare-ups, like:
- Use moisturizing cream often (two times/day)
- Buy mild soaps and detergents without dye or perfume
- Put anti-itch creams on the affected areas
- Avoid scratching
- Try a warm bath
- Take an OTC allergy or anti-itch medication (always consult your doctor)
- Reduce stress and anxiety levels
When should I see the doctor for my dermatitis?
At Dermatology Center of Dallas, we often recommend that patients schedule a visit with our experienced team of doctors when their eczema is causing pain and itching that affects sleep or daily activities, has caused a skin infection or is resistant to over-the-counter treatments and/or medications.
Can children outgrow eczema?
Eczema is the most common skin condition for children under 10, affecting about 10 – 15% of them. Some studies have shown that around 75% of children will outgrow eczema, although they may experience dry skin in adulthood.
Relieve Eczema Symptoms
If you or a loved one suffer from eczema or have noticed an itchy rash and a difference in your skin, there are a lot of treatment solutions available. Our experienced team of dermatologists can help you employ a multilevel treatment approach that includes detection, prevention, and therapy to manage your eczema but also see a significant improvement in symptoms. Seek help from your eczema-related symptoms now at Dermatology Center of Dallas in Dallas, TX.