Eczema can affect people of all ages. It is a chronic problem that causes skin inflammation. The symptoms can come and go. One day, your skin is fine and the next, you may experience a flare-up. Here is everything you need to know about eczema. Keep reading to know how to get rid of eczema.
What is Eczema & Dyshidrotic Eczema?
Eczema is a term used synonymously with atopic dermatitis. It is characterized by dry, itchy, scaly and red skin. Eczema has been found to be closely linked to the development of asthma and allergic rhinitis (nose allergy) in individuals with genetic predisposition towards allergy conditions.
Dyshidrotic Eczema is a skin condition that blisters develop on the palms of the hands or the soles of the feet. The blisters are itchy and may be filled with fluid.
What is the cause of Eczema & Dyshidrotic Eczema?
The exact cause of Eczema & Dyshidrotic Eczema is still unknown. It may be a result of an interplay between genetic (hereditary), seasonal allergies and environmental factors.
How are Eczema & Dyshidrotic Eczema diagnosed?
Eczema and Dyshidrotic Eczema are usually based on personal medical history and physical examination of the skin to help support and confirm the diagnosis.
What are the symptoms?
Eczema: Intense skin itching, redness, skin flaking, and small bumps are typical symptoms of eczema. In babies, rashes tend to form at the front of the legs, outer part of the elbows, cheeks, and scalp. In older children and adults, the rash is usually located at the side of the neck, elbow creases and the back of knees. With time, the inflamed skin may darken and become thick.
Dyshidrotic Eczema: The symptoms of dyshidrotic eczema are forming blisters on the edges of the fingers, toes, hands, or feet, which are full of fluid.
Treatment and Management Tips
Eczema: Eczema cannot be cured, but symptoms can be controlled with moisturizers, self-care measures, and medications.
(1) Identifying and avoiding trigger factors
– Extreme temperatures such as very hot or cold weather
– Dry or low humidity environment
– Emotional stress
– Exposure to certain chemicals (e.g. soaps, detergents, perfumes, or makeup), materials (e.g. wool or synthetic fibers), dust, sand and smoke
– Foods (e.g. eggs, peanuts, soymilk)
(2) Keeping the skin moisturized and hydrated regularly
Moisturizer helps to prevent dryness and repair the skin barrier and acts as a barrier to external irritants.
(3) Topical and Oral medications
During an eczema flare-up, topical and oral medications may be used to reduce the inflammation and itch as directed by your pharmacist or doctor to avoid side effects such as skin thinning.
Dyshidrotic Eczema: For mild outbreaks, you can apply corticosteroid cream or ointment directly to your skin. For severe outbreaks, you may consult your doctor to prescribe a topical steroid, steroid injection, or pill.
