The basics of eczema

According to Merriam-Websters: “Eczema: An inflammatory skin condition characterized by red, itchy, and weeping vesicular lesions that become scaly, crusted, or hardened.” The word comes from a Greek word, “ekzein”, which means “to break or boil”. Eczema is also sometimes called “dermatitis,” which comes from another Greek word, “derma,” meaning skin. These two terms are often used interchangeably. The range of conditions covered by these two terms is wide, but focuses on symptoms such as itchy, inflamed skin that can develop into a rash when scratched.

For all that is known about the condition, the exact cause remains unknown. Therefore, the cure also remains a mystery. However, eczema can be controlled with proper treatment. Discovering and avoiding the things that make it worse, as well as treatment recommended by a competent dermatologist, are the key to successfully treating eczema.

A dermatologist should be consulted if the condition is suspected, particularly as not all cases of dry skin are eczema. Exposure to cold, windy weather, as well as prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, can cause dry, itchy skin that has nothing to do with eczema. It’s just that the skin loses moisture quickly under these conditions, so it needs hydration. Try a natural skin care product and see if just caring for dry skin makes the condition go away. It is best to use a healthy skin cream that combines vitamins A, D and E and aloe vera and is lanolin based. If the dryness persists, you should see a dermatologist; because it could be eczema.

Eczema affects men and women equally and affects all races and ages. It is generally divided into two categories: seborrheic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis. Seborrheic dermatitis is caused by contact with irritants, such as chemicals, cleaning agents, or perfumes. Atopic dermatitis is precipitated by allergies to a specific material, such as nickel, chrome, or rubber; it is believed to run in families with a history of allergies. Atopic dermatitis is more common. Only about 3% of the general population suffer from seborrheic dermatitis.

However, there are variations of the disease. Some of the other conditions attributed to the eczema group are: dyshidrotic eczema, nummular eczema and herpticum.

Dyshidrotic eczema, or hand eczema, usually affects the hands, but also sometimes the soles of the feet and the sides of the fingers and toes. People with it have blisters that are small and clear and cause a burning or itching sensation. A rash often develops in a symmetrical pattern. People who live in warmer climates are at higher risk of getting the disease, but contrary to popular belief, the disease is not related to sweat. The exact cause is still unknown, but there has been some evidence linking it to skin contact with nickel-containing metals or jewelry.

Nummular eczema is not hereditary or allergic. It mainly affects the lower leg. It is also known as “discoid” dermatitis due to the circular spots that appear, brown, red or pink in color and with a dry and cracked surface. The patches may be bumpy, blistery, or crusty and very itchy. It can last for weeks or even months and then go away on its own.

Eczema herpeticum can occur when someone who has an eczema condition has skin-to-skin contact with someone who has the herpes simplex virus. The herpes simplex virus usually revolves around cold sores near the mouth, but when it comes into contact with areas of pre-existing eczema, it can spread across the surface of the skin using the eczema as a base. It is characterized by small blisters on the skin filled with yellow pus that appear on top of the usual eczema rash. The person may also experience a high fever and flu-like symptoms. Unlike any other form of eczema, eczema herpticum can be fatal, eventually infecting the eyes, lungs, kidneys, and other organs. Immediate medical assistance should be obtained for early treatment.

Eczema is the most common skin condition in the world and its growth rate has increased in recent decades. Being able to spot it is a crucial first step. Then consult a dermatologist who can recommend an appropriate treatment. Make sure that the recommended treatment does not have perfumes or chemicals that can act as irritants. A lotion for dry skin as a treatment or in combination with it, based on lanolin and with natural ingredients, such as aloe vera and vitamins A, D and E, will help soothe the skin.

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