Is it Eczema?

Are you inquisitive of those itchy patches of dry, swollen, scaly, rough, cracked, or reddened skin? Have you observed these features in your children, parents, and grandparents, because I'm living proof that this condition is family related. If yes, you're probably suffering from eczema an inflammatory skin condition characterized by raised, oozing lesions. There are two phases, acute and chronic stage, which is brought on by scratching and rubbing, and in severe cases, infections may develop. Eczema strikes in various types that are serious though not a health risk. Atopic, contact, stasis, and seborrheic are all dermatitis related. The causes stir from poison ivy, dyes, metals, rubber, cosmetics, latex, fragrances, topical medications, or cleaning agents. Some people may have an allergy to penicillin causing eczema. Poor leg circulation may lead to stasis eczema, yet in some cases, the cause of eczema is unknown, so one needs to be attentive when exploring new fragrances, household products, and beyond.

Doctors will interrogate you about new foods or products you've tried to determine your allergies to avoid flare ups. Eczema has many controllable resolutions from a cool mist humidifier to moisten the air, wearing cotton gloves to prevent irritation while doing laundry, dishes, and handling household or job related chemicals. Try using unscented moisturizers when bathing. Avoid soaps with perfumes and deodorants. This may seem extreme, but you'll reap benefits if you are careful with your sensitive skin. Scratching makes eczema worst and should be avoided. Try patting or tapping if itching, and consider over the counter corticosteroid creams, ointments, and calamine lotion. Your doctor may prescribe medications such as hydrocortisone cream, or antibiotics may be needed to treat a secondary bacterial infection. Wear cotton clothes which are less irritating than other fabrics. Support stockings may improve circulation in the legs. In cases of poison ivy, sumac or oak contact, wash the affected area with soap and water immediately. Did you just diagnose yourself upon visual inspection? Sorry, you need an allergy patch, blood test, or a skin biopsy for proper diagnosis. So call your doctor if you suspect eczema.

Tips taken from Maureen O'Sullivan, Senior Writer, of The Johns Hopkins Complete Home Guide to Symptoms & Remedies