It is also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that causes itching, redness, and inflammation. It is a non-contagious condition that affects people of all ages, but it is most common in infants and children. Eczema can be triggered by a variety of factors, including genetics, allergens, irritants, and stress. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and management of eczema.
Presentation of Eczema:
Chief complaint: “I have itchy, dry, and inflamed skin.”
History of present illness: The patient reports a history of eczema with symptoms of dry, itchy, and inflamed skin for several weeks. The symptoms may have started as small patches of dry skin that became progressively more inflamed and itchy. The patient may have tried over-the-counter creams or lotions, but these have not provided relief.
Causes of Eczema:
The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People with eczema have a weakened skin barrier, which allows irritants, allergens, and bacteria to penetrate the skin and cause inflammation. Some of the common triggers of eczema include:
Dry skin: People with eczema often have dry skin, which can lead to cracking and itching.
Irritants: Certain chemicals, soaps, and detergents can irritate the skin and trigger eczema.
Allergens: Allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander can trigger eczema in some people.
Stress: Emotional stress can trigger eczema in some people.
Hormonal changes: Eczema may worsen during pregnancy or during menstruation.
Symptoms of Eczema:
Eczema can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Dry skin
- Itching
- Redness
- Swelling
- Cracking
- Flaking
- Oozing
- Bleeding
- Thickened, scaly skin
The symptoms of eczema can be mild or severe and can come and go over time. In infants, eczema often appears on the face and scalp, while in adults, it is most commonly found on the hands, feet, and ankles.
Management of Eczema:
While there is no cure for eczema, there are several ways to manage the condition and reduce the severity of symptoms. Here are some of the most effective ways to manage eczema:
- Moisturize: Keeping the skin moisturized is one of the most important things you can do to manage eczema. Apply a thick, emollient moisturizer to your skin at least twice a day to help prevent dryness and itching.
- Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid the things that trigger your eczema. Common triggers include harsh soaps and detergents, certain fabrics, and allergens like dust mites and pet dander.
- Topical Treatments: Topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and other prescription creams can be effective in reducing inflammation and itching. Calcineurin inhibitors are a newer class of anti-inflammatory medications that are used to treat eczema. They work by inhibiting the immune response that causes inflammation in the skin.
- Light Therapy: Phototherapy or light therapy may be used in severe cases of eczema. This treatment involves exposing the skin to controlled amounts of ultraviolet light.
- Systemic Treatments: In severe cases, oral or injectable medications may be prescribed to control eczema. These medications include immunosuppressants, corticosteroids, Antibiotics such as cephalexin, mupirocin and biological medicines and anti-histamines like cetirizine, loratadine etc.(these are medications that can help reduce itching, which is a common symptom of eczema. They are available in different forms, including oral tablets and topical creams).
- Stress Management: Stress can trigger eczema in some people, so it is important to manage stress through relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
- Diet and Nutrition: While there is no specific diet for eczema, eating a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce inflammation and improve skin health.
Conclusion
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that can be managed with proper treatment and self-care. If you have eczema, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a management plan that is tailored to your individual needs.