Eczema: Types, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnose, Treatment & Prevention

Eczema is a common, non-contagious skin disorder characterized by dry, itchy patches. Contact with an allergy or irritant can exacerbate eczema symptoms. There isn't a cure, but there are treatments to assist you in managing your symptoms.

 

Also Read: Tinea Capatis: Symptoms, Cause, Diagnoses & Treatment

What is eczema?

Your skin will become dry, itchy, and bumpy if you have eczema. The barrier function of your skin, which helps it retain moisture and protects your body from the elements, is weakened by this condition.

Dermatitis includes eczema—a class of diseases known as dermatitis that results in inflammation of the skin.

What types of eczema are there?

Eczema types

Eczema comes in seven different types. Despite their differences, certain types have similar causes, signs, and treatments. An outline of each type of eczema is provided below:

1. Atopic dermatitis: The most prevalent kind of eczema, atopic dermatitis, is characterized by dryness, itching, and inflammation of the skin. Itching is the most prevalent symptom, and it can result in rashes, pain, and restless nights. Eczema is frequently used interchangeably with atopic dermatitis.
2. Contact dermatitis: An allergic response to an environmental stimulus causes contact dermatitis. When an allergy or irritant comes into contact with the skin, it causes inflammation and itching.
3. Dyshidrotic eczema Stress, exposure to certain allergens or irritants, seasonal allergies, or excessive moisture on the hands and feet due to an improper immune response and improper sweating mechanisms are some of the triggers for this condition, this condition causes small, itchy blisters to form on the edges of the fingers, toes, palms, and soles of the feet. These blisters can be painful and frequently result in cracked, scaly skin as they heal.
4. Nummular eczema — Also referred to as discoid eczema or nummular dermatitis, nummular eczema manifests as circular, coin-shaped spots of irritated skin that are frequently seeping, itchy, or inflammatory. These lesions can eventually become crusty or scaly and are most frequently observed on the arms, legs, or torso. Teenagers and adults are more likely to experience them. Extremely dry skin, especially in the winter or after an injury like a cut, bug bite, or burn, is frequently associated with this condition.
5. Seborrheic dermatitis: Oily parts of the body, including the scalp, face (around the nose and eyebrows), and/or upper chest, are affected by seborrheic dermatitis, a chronic form of eczema that is also referred to as "cradle cap" in babies. It results in inflammatory, oily, and red skin with white or yellowish scales.
6. Stasis dermatitis: This condition is brought on by inadequate circulation in the legs. The skin becomes dry, scaly, and discolored over time, and the ailment usually manifests as swelling, redness, and itching. In extreme situations, ulcers or open sores may develop, raising the possibility of infection.
7. Neurodermatitis: In contrast to atopic dermatitis, which can be widespread, neurodermatitis is typically limited to one or two patches of skin. It begins with a patch of itchy skin that gets worse when scratched, which starts a cycle of itching and scratching. Neurodermatitis can be triggered by stress or localized irritation and frequently results in thick, leathery patches of skin.

Symptoms:

Eczema symptoms include:

•  Dry skin

• Skin that itches

• Skin rash

• Your skin is bumpy

• Regions of skin that are thick and leathery

• Skin that is crusty, scaly, or flaky

• Swelling

Where on my body do eczema symptoms appear?

Eczema symptoms might appear anywhere on your skin. The following are the most typical locations to observe eczema symptoms:

• Hands

• Neck

• Elbows

• Ankles

• Knees and feet

• Cheeks in particular

• In the vicinity of the ears

•  Lips

Causes:

Eczema is caused by many reasons, such as:

• Your immune system: When you have eczema, your body overreacts to minor allergens or irritants in your surroundings. When you come into contact with a trigger, your immune system interprets these little irritations as potentially harmful foreign invaders, such as bacteria or viruses. Consequently, the triggers set off your body's defense mechanisms. Inflammation is the protective mechanism of your immune system. Eczema symptoms are brought on by inflammation.

• Your genes: If there is a family history of dermatitis or eczema, you are at a higher risk of developing eczema. Additionally, if you have a history of allergies, hay fever, or asthma, you are more vulnerable. Pollen, pet hair, and foods that cause an allergic reaction are examples of common allergies. Another possibility is that you have a genetic mutation that impairs the proper operation of your skin's barrier.

• Your environment: A variety of things in your surroundings can cause skin irritation. Exposure to smoke, air pollution, harsh soaps, woolen textiles, and some skin care products are a few examples. Dry air, or low humidity, can make your skin feel dry and irritated. Sweating brought on by heat and high humidity can exacerbate your itching.

• Emotional triggers: Your skin's condition may be impacted by your emotional state, which may result in an exacerbation of eczema symptoms. Eczema flare-ups may occur more frequently if you suffer from excessive levels of stress, worry, or despair.

What triggers an outbreak of eczema?

Each person with eczema has a unique experience with the ailment. Someone else with the illness might not be triggered by the same things that make your symptoms worse. The following are typical causes of eczema:

• Low humidity and dry weather

• Textiles or apparel materials

• Cosmetics or skincare items

• Pollution and smoke

• Cleaners and soaps

• Stress or your mental health

• Coming into contact with an allergen

How is a diagnosis of eczema made?

After examining your skin closely during a physical examination, a medical professional will make the diagnosis of eczema. Since eczema is common in children, people are typically diagnosed with it when they are young, but symptoms can appear at any age.

Eczema symptoms can mimic those of other illnesses. To confirm your diagnosis and rule out other diseases, your provider may recommend tests. Tests might consist of:

• A test for allergies.

• Blood tests to look for potential non-dermatitis-related causes of the rash.

• A skin sample to differentiate between various types of dermatitis.

Who confirms eczema diagnoses?

For the diagnosis and treatment of your eczema, your primary care physician could advise you to see a dermatologist. Skin disorders are the specialty of a dermatologist.

Treatment:

How can eczema be eliminated?

Your eczema treatment is specific to you and the factors that led to the flare-up of your symptoms. Eczema treatment options include:

• When you have dry skin, use moisturizers that are mild or sensitive throughout the day. After a shower or bath, apply a moisturizer while your skin is still damp.

• As directed by your healthcare provider, apply topical medications, such as topical steroids, to your skin.

• To lessen itching and swelling, take oral treatments such as corticosteroids, antihistamines, or anti-inflammatory medications.

• Immunosuppressive drugs aid in controlling the activity of your immune system.

• Light treatment can help you get rid of imperfections and make your skin seem better.

• Steer clear of things that make eczema symptoms worse.

Which medications are commonly prescribed for eczema?

Basic eczema care, regardless of severity, consists of:

• Taking a bath with a gentle cleanser

• Regular moisturizing helps restore the skin barrier by retaining moisture in the skin.

In addition to these basics, there are various treatment options available, including:

• OTC medications such as hydrocortisone

• Prescription medications that are administered topically to the skin

• Prescription biologic medications administered by injection

• Orally administered prescription medications that are swallowed as pills

• Phototherapy is a type of UV light treatment that is prescribed

• Complementary and alternative therapies, such as herbal supplements and acupuncture in traditional Chinese medicine.

Prevention:

You can take the following actions to help stop outbreaks and flare-ups of eczema:

• When you have dry skin, use moisturizers that are mild or sensitive throughout the day. After a shower or bath, apply a moisturizer while your skin is still damp.

• Use warm, not hot, water for showers or baths.

• Stay hydrated and drink at least eight glasses of water each day. Water helps keep your skin hydrated.

• Wear loose garments made of cotton and other natural fabrics. Before putting on new clothes, wash them. Steer clear of synthetic or wool fibers.

• Control your emotional and stress triggers. If you're experiencing symptoms of poor mental or emotional health, see a therapist for counseling and a psychiatrist for medication.

• If the dry air causes your skin to become dry, use a humidifier.

• Avoid irritants and allergens.

References:

• National Eczema Association. What Is Eczema (https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/)? Accessed 10/25/2022.

• American Academy of Dermatology. What is Eczema (https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema)? Accessed 10/25/2022.

• Eichenfield LF, Wynnis LT, Chamlin SL, et al. Guidelines of Care for the Management of Atopic Dermatitis: Section 1. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2014;70:388.

• National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Skin Care at Home (https://www.niaid.nih.gov/diseases-conditions/eczema-treatment). Accessed 10/25/2022.

• Katta R, Schlichte M. Diet and Dermatitis: Food Triggers. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. 2014;7(3)-30-36.

• Hanifin JM, Reed ML; Eczema Prevalence and Impact Working Group. A population-based survey of eczema prevalence in the United States. Dermatitis. 2007;18(2):82-91. doi:10.2310/6620.2007.06034