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Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) |
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 Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is an allergic skin reaction, which although common in all age groups, mainly affects young children under the age of five. Although the exact cause of eczema is unknown, it is considered a hereditary condition and is associated with food allergies, asthma and/or allergic rhinitis (hay fever).
Eczema can be very uncomfortable and look unpleasant, with patches of skin which are very dry or patches which express clear fluid. Despite its appearance eczema is not contagious, even when touched.
Appearance of Eczema
The severity of eczema can vary with mild forms showing dry skin and itchiness, and severe eczema showing cracked skin which can become raw and bleed.
In infants and babies eczema appears as a scaly rash on the cheeks, scalp, neck, backs of the arms, front of the legs or body. Babies may try to rub or scratch their eczema in order to find relief which will aggravate the eczema and cause further symptoms.
When a young child or toddler suffers from eczema they can experience dry, scaly patches of skin usually found in creases of skin, behind the knees, inside the elbows, at the wrists and ankles and on the neck.
Teenagers and adults suffering from eczema can be limited to a few areas of the body, such as hands and feet.
Common triggers of Eczema
Eczema can be triggered by a number of different factors such as irritants, allergens or certain foods. Excessive moisture from sweating and changes in the weather can cause eczema, whether cold, dry air or hot, humid weather.
Dust mites, which are found in bedding and carpets can cause eczema. Irritants, such as wool or fabrics which rub the skin, or soaps, detergents and chemicals can all cause and aggravate eczema.
In some cases food allergies can cause eczema, however it is not a common cause even when the sufferer does genuinely have a food allergy.
Eczema Treatment
Treating eczema consists of reducing the symptoms that accompany the skin condition, especially reducing the itching which is so problematic with the eczema. Lubricants, such as bath oils or emollients used after washing or baths, can help to relieve dry skin but care should be taken to ensure they are mild and do not aggravate the symptoms further.
To control itching and reduce skin inflammation topical corticosteroid creams or ointments can be applied to the skin. Hydrocortisone cream can be used for mild eczema and is usually prescribed by a doctor. Stronger creams can be used is the eczema symptoms are more server. Care should be taken to use mild creams if the eczema is found on the face or other sensitive areas of the body. The eczema creams should also not be overused and supervision by a doctor is recommended.
To block the histamine effect of eczema an Oral antihistamine can be used. Histamine causes the itching found with eczema and a side effect of the antihistamine is a mild sedative effect which can be useful in calming children who suffer from eczema.
If scratching eczema rashes causes a skin infection oral or local antibitotics may need to be taken to treat the infection. All antibiotics should be taken under the supervision of a doctor.
Managing Eczema
As there is no cure for eczema, it is important that it be controlled with medication and environmental / behaviour changes.
Control temperature and humidity; by keeping the temperature indoors to 18-20 C / 64-68 F as this will avoid excessive sweating and humidity associated with dry skin.
Protect and moisturise the skin; even when a rash is not visible by using creams and emollients before going outside and at bedtimes.
Wear loose-fitting clothes; as these are less likely to irritate the skin and prevent scratching.
Keep fingernails short and clean; if a young child or baby suffers from eczema to prevent scratching and infecting the skin.
Use mild soaps and cleaning products; when washing the body or cleaning around the house. Avoid fabric softeners and bleaches, use soaps and detergents free of perfume and fragrances.
Wash off foods which irritate the skin; such as strawberries, oranges and tomatoes as these may cause a rash when they come into contact with the skin.
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