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itchy skin eczema

Eczema, sometimes called dermatitis, is a name used for several conditions that cause an irritation of the skin. It affects about More than 15 million people in the US, with a rate mush higher among children, it is currently thought that 20% of children experience symptoms. It is more common in adult women than adult males. The disease can vary in severity, from mild forms with typically dry and itchy skin, to more severe forms that cause the skin to bleed and easily crack. The methods employed to treat eczema include: moisturizing the skin to reduce irritation, use of drugs to treat inflammation, and limiting exposure to allergens and other environmental factors that irritate the skin. Eczema is not contagious.

There are several types of eczema, each varies in cause and treatment. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. The inflammation in atopic eczema is believed to be an allergic reaction to environmental factors. Atopic eczema has been associated with asthma and hayfever. Other types of eczema are Allergic contact eczema - caused by allergens, Irritant contact dermatitis - caused by irritating chemicals, Dyshidrotic eczema, Neurodermatitis, Nummular eczema, Seborrheic eczema, Stasis dermatitis - most often from a blood flow problem. The exact causes of certain types of eczema are unknown although scientific research is being conduced on genetic, immunological, and stress factors.

Atopic eczema is the commonest form of eczema. It affects both children and adults, and is sometimes passed on genetically. The most common symptoms of atopic eczema are itchiness, excessively dry skin, and irritation, in severe cases, redness, chaffing and bleeding can occur. Treatment with moisturizers keeps the skin hydrated and intact, anti-inflammatory and steroid creams to reduce itch, irritation, and inflammation. In certain cases a specific substance causes the irritation, some examples are nickel contained in rings, certain body lotions, or perfumes all may cause a reaction. Avoiding the substance that causes a reaction can prevent the problem from occurring.

Irritant Contact eczema is caused by contact with irritating substances, such as acids, chemicals, and cleansers. It commonly occurs on the hands and arms and can be prevented by avoiding the irritant. Symptoms usually disappear with time once exposure is eliminated. Treatment is by keeping the skin clean and moisturized, anti-inflammatory or steroid creams may be helpful.

Seborrhoeic eczema affects the scalp as mild form of dandruff, it has the ability to spread to the face, ears and chest. Untreated the eczema becomes inflamed, starts to flake, and is prone to infection. Anti-fungal treatment may be necessary.

Stasis dermatitis is an irritation of the skin in the lower legs and is caused by poor circulation. Commonly the skin around the ankles is affected, becoming speckled, itchy and inflamed. Stasis eczema is treated with moisturizers and steroid creams. If left untreated, the skin can break down, resulting in an ulcer.

Dyshidrotic eczema is an inflammation of the skin on the palms of hands and soles of the feet it cause clear, deep blisters that itch and burn.

Neurodermatitis. Scaly patches on the head, lower legs, wrists, or forearms are caused by a localized itch (such as an insect bite).

how to relieve itching from eczema
Although there is no cure for eczema, it can be treated to reduce the symptoms. Avoiding substances that trigger a reaction and proper skincare are effective ways to manage the condition. Cleansing and moisturizing routines are used to hydrate the skin, while over-the-counter or prescription drugs such as topical steroids and anti-inflammatories are used to treat inflammation. In severe cases when an allergic reaction is involved, Immunomodulators are sometimes used. Combination therapies are tailored to the individual, depending on the type of eczema and how the skin reacts to each specific treatment. In addition, there are ways of minimizing exposure to common allergens.

An effective skincare routine is the first step to managing eczema, the addition topical drugs, such a hydrocortisone, along with careful record keeping will help develop a program. It is always a good idea to consult a physician.

Moisturizers are necessary to reduce water loss from the skin, preventing the dryness normally associated with eczema. Moisturizing the skin will reduce dryness and itch. Moisturizers can be used as often as is necessary and come in creams, ointments, and lotions. They can also be incorporated into soaps. Although some moisturizers contain ingredients that irritate the skin, there are now many moisturizers available specifically for the treatment of eczema. Skin care programs for eczema are available in "kit” form.

It is possible that eczema can be kept under control by a moisturizer and limiting exposure to reactive substances, if this alone does not work then a steroid cream may be needed when inflammation occurs. Steroids are used in most types of eczema to reduce inflammation. Cortisone and hydrocortisone are two commonly used over-the-counter steroids, the creams vary in strength and more concentrated forms must be obtained with a prescription.

In severe cases, when topical steroids have been found to be ineffective, oral steroids are sometimes prescribed under the supervision of a physician.

It is always important to visit a physician to examine your skin.

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