Eczema is a general term for many types of skin inflammation (dermatitis).
Eczema can present as an:
Acute-rapidly evolving red rash which may be blistered and swollen.
Chronic– longstanding irritable area that gets darker,thickened (lichenified) and is being scratched repeatedly.
Infants and young children. All races can be affected by Eczema.
A condition sometimes classified as a form of eczema that is closely related to dandruff. It causes dry or greasy peeling of the scalp, eyebrows and face, and sometimes of the chest.
Commonly seen in the older age group. It is also known as “winter itch” and is seen in extremely dry skin. It worsens in dry winter weather; hands, legs and trunk are mostly affected
Stasis dermatitis can occur when fluid accumulates in the tissues just beneath the skin — typically on your lower legs — due to a sluggish circulation. This condition typically occurs around the ankle area. Possible underlying factors include: Varicose veins, Obesity, conditions that affect circulation in your legs, such as pregnancy or deep vein thrombosis. The disorder can make the individual prone to develop leg ulcers later on.
Causes of Eczema: defect in skins protective barrier function against outside agents, abnormal bodies defence mechanism, and presence of triggering factors.
An important aspect of treatment is to identify and tackle any contributing or aggravating factors.
Treatment is always based on:age, type and severity of condition
Bathing: use lukewarm water and avoid hot long water baths. Replace standard soap with a substitute such as a mild soap-free moisturizing cleanser.
Clothing: Wear soft cotton clothes; while, wool, nylon is best avoided.
Irritants: Protect your skin from dust, water, solvents and detergents. Gloves can be worn while handling irritants.
Moisturizers (emollients): Use liberally minimum twice a day on damp skin.
Topical corticosteroids:Itis prescribed to decrease the inflammatory reaction in the skin. Depending of severity duration of application is determined by dermatologist.
Oral corticosteroids: For severe, wide spread and non-responsive cases, a short course of oral steroids may be used. It should be used only under the guidance of a medical practitioner.
Anti-itch medicines: oral anti-histamines may be required, for serious itching.
Topical immunosuppressant: Both Tacrolimus and Pimecrolimus are topically appliedin combination with steroids and moisturisers or separately to reduce itching and inflammation.
We, at Skin and you, assess, examine and treat all dermatological conditions with utmost care.