Eczema (or atopic dermatitis) is a chronic skin inflammation that can cause red, dry, scaly, and itchy patches. It can affect any part of your body, but it is most common on the elbows, ankles, face, neck, and knees. Eczema affects all ages but is more common in children. Research shows that a combination of genetic and environmental factors can cause eczema. Eczema cannot be transmitted from person to person because it is not contagious. Eczema is not curable, but some treatments can reduce flare-ups and manage symptoms.
Causes Of Eczema Or Factors Contributing To Its Development
Several factors may contribute to the development and progression of eczema.
Genetics:
- Eczema is a condition that tends to run through families. Specific genes can increase the susceptibility of a person to it.
Immune system dysfunction:
- Eczema, also known as an autoimmune disease, is a condition in which the immune system attacks cells and tissues, causing inflammation.
Environmental triggers:
- Eczema can be triggered by exposure to environmental triggers such as allergens and pollutants.
Skin barrier dysfunction:
- Eczema patients often have a weakening of the skin barrier. This makes it easier for allergens and irritants to enter and cause a reaction.
Stress:
- Stress can trigger eczema flare-ups and worsen symptoms.
- Hormonal fluctuations: Women may experience eczema flare-ups during pregnancy or menstruation when hormone levels fluctuate.
Symptoms Of Eczema
Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) can have various symptoms, varying in severity and appearance. Here are some of the most common eczema symptoms:
Itching:
- Itching is the most common symptom, and it can be severe and interfere with sleep and daily activities.
Redness:
- Eczema is characterized by red, inflamed patches that can be flat or raised.
Dress:
- Eczema is characterized by dry, scaly, and rough skin.
Cracks:
- Eczema may cause skin cracks, which are painful and can increase the risk of infection.
- If you see oozing or crusting, that’s a sign.
- Eczema is characterized by oozing and crusting on the skin.
Swelling:
- Eczema can cause swelling around the eyes.
- The skin becomes thick and leathery.
- Eczema, over time, can lead to the skin becoming thickened and leathery.
Eczema is a common skin condition affecting any part of the human body. However, it most commonly occurs on the elbows, ankles, face, and neck. Eczema can be a chronic condition that can flare up and disappear. The severity of the symptoms can also vary. Stress, allergens, and irritations are all factors that can trigger flare-ups.
How To Manage Eczema Better For Your Health?
The only way to treat eczema is by managing the symptoms. This can reduce the severity and frequency of flare-ups. Here are some methods to treat or manage eczema.
Moisturize:
Keep the skin moistened to manage eczema. Use a fragrance-free and hypoallergenic moisturizing cream daily after showering or bathing.
Avoid triggers
Avoid any triggers, such as detergents, soaps, and certain foods. Here are some ways you can identify triggers:
Keep a journal:
- Keep a journal to keep track of your eczema and identify possible triggers. Note the time your eczema flares, what foods you ate, when you went out, what clothes you wore, and other pertinent information.
Consider the following common triggers.
- Stress, dry skin, and harsh detergents are common causes of eczema. Other triggers include extreme temperatures and certain fabrics. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and harsh soaps can cause eczema.
Elimination diets are a great way to lose weight.
- Some people can develop eczema due to food allergies or sensitivities. You can try eliminating one typical allergenic food, like dairy, gluten, nuts, and soy, for a couple of weeks to see if it helps your eczema.
Test your allergies:
- Consider getting an allergy test done if you suspect allergens may be causing your eczema. This will help you identify the specific allergens affecting you.
Other health conditions to consider
- Certain health conditions like asthma or autoimmune disorders can also trigger eczema. Speak to your doctor if other conditions could cause your eczema.
Consult a dermatologist:
- Consult a dermatologist if you have difficulty identifying triggers or severe symptoms. They can help identify triggers and create a treatment plan.
Topical medications
Topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors can reduce inflammation and itching.
Systemic medications
If the eczema is severe, you may need oral or injectable medications.
Wet dressings:
Applying wet dressings to the affected area can reduce inflammation and itching.
Light Therapy
Light therapy or phototherapy involves exposing skin to ultraviolet light. This can reduce inflammation and itching.
Stress management is a way to manage stress.
Meditation or yoga can help you manage stress. Stress can trigger eczema, so managing stress can reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms. Stress management can be used to treat eczema in several ways:
- Reduced stress can reduce inflammation. When stressed, our bodies produce hormones such as cortisol, adrenaline, and other chemicals that can cause inflammation. Eczema is known to be triggered by inflammation. Managing stress can reduce inflammation and improve symptoms.
- Stress management techniques calm both the mind and the body. Deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can calm the body and mind, reducing anxiety and tension. This can break the cycle of stress-induced eczema.
- Stress management improves sleep quality. Stress can disrupt sleep, and lack of sleep may worsen the symptoms of eczema. Meditation and relaxation techniques can improve sleep, which allows the body to heal itself.
- Stress management is beneficial for overall health. Managing stress has a positive effect on health and well-being. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and enough sleep can support the immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve eczema.
Working with a healthcare professional is essential when developing a treatment plan for eczema. It may be necessary in some cases to combine treatments to manage symptoms. It’s also vital to keep your skin clean, to avoid rubbing or scratching the affected area, and to keep it cool and dry.
