Eczema is very common. In fact, over 31 million Americans have some form of eczema. Eczema can begin during childhood, adolescence, or adulthood and it can range from mild to severe.
Young children are more likely to have severe eczema and may outgrow it by later childhood. Eczema is often the first sign of an allergic child and can even develop in the first months after birth.
Eczema is the name for a group of conditions that cause the skin to become itchy, inflamed, or have a rash-like appearance. There are seven types of eczema: atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, Neurodermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and stasis dermatitis.
Eczema is not contagious. You can’t “catch it” from someone else. While the exact cause of eczema is unknown, researchers do know that people who develop eczema do so because of a combination of genes and environmental triggers.
It is possible to have more than one type of eczema on your body at the same time. Each form of eczema has its own set of triggers and treatment requirements, which is why it’s so important to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in treating eczema.
There is no cure for eczema, but many treatments are available. Eczema symptoms can be different for everyone. Not everyone will respond to a treatment in the same way, so it’s best to familiarize yourself with all of the options and consult with your healthcare provider to find a treatment regimen that works for you or your child.
For most types of eczema, managing the condition and its symptoms comes down to these basics:
- Know the triggers.
- Implement a regular bathing and moisturizing routine.
- Use OTC and/or prescription medications consistently and as prescribed.
- Watch for signs of skin infection — pus-filled bumps, pain, redness or heat.
- Try not to scratch and rub the affected skin — and limit contact with materials or substances that may irritate your skin. Dress in soft, breathable clothing and avoid itchy fabrics like wool that can further irritate your eczema.
Work with an ENTA Allergist/Immunologist:
Allergist/Immunologists are experts who understand and treat environmental allergies, food allergies and who also specialize in understanding the function of the allergic immune system. Because of this, our Allergists are uniquely able to diagnose and treat eczema with a broad treatment plan.
Evaluation of a patient with eczema usual consists of a physical exam (with a focused skin exam), allergy testing to environmental allergens (such as dust, animal dander and pollens) and in some cases (especially in children) food allergy testing.
To Schedule an Appointment with one of our Allergy/Immunology or ENT Specialists, call 1-855-ENTA-DOC or Book Online, Anytime!
Find an ENT & Allergy Associates Doctor Near You, or Explore More Blog Topics