What is eczema?
Eczema is a name for several related conditions that cause inflammation to your skin, leading to a changed appearance and uncomfortable sensations. Eczema can appear on any part of your body and often causes the skin to become red and itchy, sometimes even leading to a cracked or leathery appearance.
Not only does it cause discomfort, but eczema can also lead some people to feel self-conscious about the appearance of their skin, reducing their confidence. It occurs most often in infants, with most people overcoming the condition by the time they become adults.
What are the symptoms of eczema?
Being able to recognize the symptoms of eczema can help you seek medical care when necessary. The first symptoms that you might notice are itchy skin, followed by a red rash. Skin can become dry and thicker than normal. Although it can appear on any part of the body, eczema often occurs on the legs, face, neck, and hands. If left untreated, eczema rashes can even progress to appear as brown, crusty skin and pus-filled blisters.
What causes eczema?
The exact cause of eczema is unknown, and different eczema types can be due to different causes. However, the most common form, atopic dermatitis, is thought to be because of a process that is similar to an allergic reaction. In addition, genetics, stress, and the environment all play a role in eczema.
How is eczema treated?
The first step to treating eczema is to get a proper diagnosis. Once it has been diagnosed, lifestyle changes such as managing stress, refraining from taking long and hot showers, and using gentle moisturizers can help to prevent symptoms. In addition, corticosteroid creams, antihistamines, light therapy, and medications that work on the immune system can help to minimize symptoms if they do occur. The team at Allergy and Asthma Consultants will work with you to create a plan of care that fits with your lifestyle, helping you achieve more radiant and clear skin.
To learn more about eczema and what you can do to treat it, call the office nearest to you or book online today to schedule your first appointment with the team at Allergy and Asthma Consultants.
