Eczema - Info on Eczema Symptom, Causes & Treatment

Eczema is a rough red oozy rash that comes in patches. The fluid which has oozed then dries up to form a hard scab. Because the area is itchy, it often gets scratched and may become infected. Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a chronic skin disorder that causes an itchy, red, raised rash that may weep or ooze clear fluid. Eczema is not contagious. Eczema is often worse during infancy and typically improves by early adulthood.

Eczema can develop in a number of ways:

1. Irritation of the skin can lead to eczema; the common causes are over exposure to water, soaps and detergents. Just about anyone can develop an irritant eczema, but the problem is much more common in people with dry skins. "
2. Allergic reactions to substances which come in contact with the skin can also result in eczemas. This could result from contact with metals, (jewellery) vegetables, plants, and medicines.
3. Eczemas can also result from eating certain foods or taking certain medicines. Almost any food stuff can cause eczemas, but the ones that most commonly cause problems are eggs and dairy products.
4. Inherited eczema or what the doctor would call 'atopic eczema' is a problem seen most commonly in small children. The eczema tends to improveas the child grows up. It is less frequently seen in children who are breast-fed. Close relatives of children"suffering from atopic eczema may have asthma or skin problems. A few of these children may also develop asthma when they grow up.

Afew points to remember:

1. Eczemas are not contagious-don't shun a person with eczema; you are unlikely to contract it by touching such a person.
2. Some eczemas may recur - but most can be controlled with appropriate treatment with steroid ointments and anti-allergic medicines.
3. Keep your skin well hydrated; dry skin aggravates the problem.
4. Sweating makes eczema worse-so stay in a cool environment.
5. Direct contact with woollens and synthetics should be avoided as this aggravates the problems.

What are the causes of Eczema ?

Many things cause eczema.

1)General allergic over sensitivity ( atopy )

2)Family history

The other possible causes include:

• Infantile eczema which often affects young babies . This may lead to a patch below their chins, which gets wettest from dribbling, and may be associated with cradle cap.

• Contact with substances which irritate the skin chemically . This is caused by direct contact between the skin and the substance, which might be such things as detergents, soaps, diesel or engine oils, strong chemicals, cleaners etc.

• Contact with substances which the body has become allergic to . Commonly this involves nickel, rubbers etc. If a woman was sensitive to nickel in the past it would cause a reaction where the bra hooks and suspenders came near her skin, as these typically contained nickel. Plastics have helped to overcome this risk, but jewellery and watches are still a common cause. Suddenly people need to spend a bit more on their presents to you!

• Varicose veins can lead to a form of eczema affecting the lower legs. This is known as varicose or gravitational eczema. As well as treatment of the skin, it is important to improve the blood circulation in the legs, and for most people this includes wearing support stockings and staying active on your feet. Your doctor will discuss the options.

• Contact with the external trigger (allergen) causes the skin to become inflamed. The duration of the contact is not important. Eczema can develop on first contact (in days to weeks) or over time with repeated contact (in months to years).

• Common triggers of eczema include the following:
  • Weather (hot, cold, humid, or dry)
  • Environmental allergens
  • Creams
  • Food handling
  • Clothing
  • Sweating
  • Gloves
  • Rubbing
  • Bacteria
  • Emotional or mental stress

• Severe forms of eczema are caused by powerful allergic responses to external agents that cannot be eliminated from the environment.

What are the symptoms of Eczema ?

Signs and symptoms of eczema can vary widely during the early phases.Follwoing are some common symptoms:

1)children with eczema usually develop itchy, dry, red skin and small bumps on their cheeks, forehead, or scalp.

2)The rash may spread to the extremities (the arms and legs) and the trunk, and red, crusted, or open lesions may appear on any area affected.

3)As children get older, the rash is usually less oozy and scalier than it was when the eczema first began, and the skin is extremely itchy and dry. These symptoms also tend to worsen and improve over time, with flare-ups occurring periodically.

4)Itching and redness, and may make the skin dry and flaky. Sometimes, itchy blisters form. When these burst, or when scratching damages the skin, the surface may be left moist and crusty.

Medications

• Antihistamines - Prescription strength antihistamines relieve symptoms without drowsiness, allowing you to carry on with your normal activities.
• Corticosteroids - A short course of an oral steroid is sometimes given if the rash is severe. A long course is rarely prescribed because of the many side effects.
• Antibiotic pills or an antifungal cream may be prescribed if your health care provider is concerned about infection.

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