Also known by the name Atopic Dermatitis, Eczema is the term most often used to describe any inflammation or irritation of the skin, although correctly speaking, not every dermatological irritant is eczema.
Eczema is a series of lesions in the skin that are made up of many fluid filled vesicles. The skin becomes red, irritated and swollen, and can be characterised by oozing when the fluid filled vesicles burst. This fluid, when it dries out on the skin, can form a thin layer crust that gives the condition its well-known appearance.
There is most likely a defective genetic reason behind the condition, and while this is generally accepted, it has not been proven beyond doubt. Practitioners think this that the problem lies within the skins inability to repair itself. There is also a high chance that sufferers will exhibit signs of other immunobiological problems.
There are many reported triggers that can bring about an outbreak of Atopic Dermatitis, mostly within the environment of the person concerned, and varying greatly in nature, but centering on processes that dry the skin. These can include drying soaps, rubbing of the area concerned, rubber glove usage, solvents in the area and excessive sweating.
The process of inflammation begins with the area become increasingly itchy, raised and red. The disintegration of the fluid filled vesicles then causes an oozing, and when dried, a crust, which can develop into a cracked surface. Dust and pollen can also exacerbate the situation. The symptoms can actually develop anywhere on the body, the most common sites in which the condition can occur are the neck, and around the elbows and knees.
Treatment is usually via the application of a hydrocortisone cream, generally available without a prescription and applied up to three times a day. For more extreme cases, a stronger medicine may be tried, but this is not undergone lightly as there may be side effects.
It is often pointed out that Eczema is "not a rash that itches" but an "itch that rashes", and as such, if one can control the urge to scratch at the site (easier said than done) then one can control the outbreak of the skin irritation.
The disease is more common in children than it is in adults. In children t it can surprisingly affect up to 20%, with this figure falling down to between one and three percent of the adult population.
Diagnosis revolves around an extremely through examination of the skin by a medical professional, as well as relating, as best is possible, the time of the outbreak with any relevant triggers that might have been present around the patient at the time.
There is no known cure for the condition, but there are ways to prevent unnecessary suffering. Common recommendations include avoidance of over bathing, soaps and known allergy causing foods and substances as well as the wearing of loose clothing. Exercise is recommended, as is the use of a humidifier to avoid spending too much time in dry air.
Find out more about Eczema Causes and ways to Get Rid Of Eczema.
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