Eczema

Eczema is the term used to refer to a variety of persistent skin conditions that may be characterized by rashes, redness, itching and irritation. Eczema is a form of dermatitis, a skin disease that affects the dermis. There is no specific classification system for this condition. In some cases eczema may be classified according to location, according to cause or according to appearance. Eczema has similar symptoms to psoriasis, but unlike psoriasis, it is often found on the flexor aspect of the joints. Eczema may also be worsened by food allergies and allergies to animal dander.

Types of Eczema

Common types of eczema include atopic eczema, xerotic eczema, contact dermatitis and seborrhoeic dermatitis. Atopic eczema is a condition found among those suffering from hay fever and asthma. There is no specific known cause for atopic eczema, although it is believed that it has a hereditary component.

Contact dermatitis is another form of eczema that may be cause by allergens like animal dancer, pollen, or dust, or by irritants such as caustic chemicals. Symptoms of contact dermatitis can be prevented by avoiding the offending substance.

Xerotic eczema is a condition that often occurs in winter and affects the limbs and the truck. Seborrhoiec dermatitis, also known as 'cradle cap in infants is loosely related to dandruff and is characterized by a greasy peeling on the scalp, eyebrows and face.

Diagnosis and Treatment

A medical consultation with a dermatologist is the only way to diagnose the condition according to its accompanying symptoms. Diagnosis is usually made through a physical check up and by looking at the patient's medical history which can reveal a history of allergies and recent stressful encounters. Stress is often one of the triggers of eczema flare-ups and recurrences.

Individuals diagnosed with eczema may be prescribed with medications that help control itching, reduce inflammation, help avoid infection, removes scaly lesions and reduces the appearance of new lesions. Corticosteroid creams are the mainstays in the eczema treatment and work to reduce the inflammation that occurs during flare ups. Other drugs used in the treatment of this condition include immunomodulators and oral antihistamines.