Eczema

There are several different types of eczema. They are inflammations of the skin and are marked by patches of itchy, reddened skin that look flaky or scaly.

Atopic Dermatitis

This usually chronic condition most often develops in childhood and may last into adulthood, however, an adult can develop eczema without having a history of it.  Atopic dermatitis is a type of eczema that is caused by a reaction of the immune system. The reaction is triggered or worsened by exposure to substances that cause an allergic reaction. The skin is extremely itchy and usually dry. Usually only specific areas of the body are affected, but it can be widespread. People who have atopic dermatitis have a greater chance of developing asthma or allergies such as hay fever.  In fact, about 80% of people with atopic dermatitis either have an allergic conditions such as hay fever or asthma or have a family history of allergic disease.  Learning what causes allergies and avoiding these substances can help control symptoms.   If the skin is broken by scratching, it can be infected by bacteria.

In babies, eczema takes the form of a rash around the mouth and cheeks. When older children have eczema, rashes may appear behind the knees, in the creases of the elbows, and on the neck.

Atopic dermatitis can be treated by self-care measures, over-the-counter steroid creams, and if needed prescribed creams can be used for a short time. If over-the-counter steroid creams are not effective, stronger steroid creams or a newer type of cream called immunomodulators, can be prescribed by your health care provider. Both steroids and immunomodulators work by blocking part of the immune system. Oral steroids may be necessary in severe cases.

Contact Dermatitis

This condition results from an allergy or a reaction to an irritant that touches the skin. Symptoms include red swollen patches, raised red dots, itching, burning, and blisters that may weep or ooze. Poison ivy, cosmetics, deodorants, soaps, metals, and dozens of other natural and artificial substances can cause contact dermatitis. Diaper rash is a common type of contact dermatitis ( However, some diaper rashes are caused by infection with Candida and are not dermatitis.)  Allergic reactions can be caused by hair dyes, jewelry containing nickel, and some rubber compounds. Irritant contact dermatitis may be caused by repeated use of soaps, solvents, and detergents. Removing the substance or item causing the reaction and using calamine lotion, wet-to-dry compresses, steroid or antihistime creams may be helpful. 

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is the overproduction of skin cells and the skin's oil (sebum). It causes red, flaky, slightly itchy skin in areas that have many oil-producing glands such as on an adult's scalp, face chest and back. The area from the side of the nose to the corner of the mouth may be affected, as well as the scalp and eyebrows. Dandruff is a type of dry seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp while cradle cap is a form of seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp of infants. Seborrhea is frequently seen in conjunction with HIV infection , Parkinson disease and several other conditions. This condition can be treated by low-dose steroid creams. In some cases, an antifungal cream may be prescribed.

Self-Care Steps for Eczema

Wash the skin gently in cool or warm, not hot, water. Don't bathe too often or for too long if you tend to have dry skin.

• Use mild soaps or cleansers and use a moisturizer, a cream or ointment designed to retain moisture to the skin after each bath or shower.

• Keep nails short to reduce damage to the skin from scratching.

• Dress lightly and wear soft clothes that are not scratchy.

• For temporary relief of itching, apply a cold compress to affected areas.

• Apply over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams to relieve itching. Do not apply for more than two weeks without consulting your doctor.

• Oral antihistamines may be helpful. Some older anthistimines can cause drowsiness but this is less of a problem with newer anthistimines.

• Protect the skin from contact with harsh chemicals and substances to which you are allergic; use rubber gloves and wear protective clothing if possible.