Eczema

Overview

Eczema refers to a group of inflammatory skin conditions that lead to symptoms such as itchiness, dry skin, rashes, scaly patches, blisters, and skin infections. While there is no single cause of eczema, common contributing factors include a family history of the condition, exposure to specific environmental triggers, and stress. Although eczema cannot be cured, various treatments are available to help manage and reduce its symptoms.

What is Eczema?
Eczema is a broad term that refers to a variety of skin conditions that cause redness, dryness, itching, and rashes. The most common is atopic dermatitis, which is frequently associated with allergies and asthma. Eczema can affect anyone, although it is more common in children. It is not anything you can catch from someone else, but it can be triggered by irritants, allergies, stress, or infections. To manage eczema, you must take good care of your skin, use medicine as needed, and avoid items that aggravate it.

While the exact cause of its occurrence is not quite known to scientists, they believe that it occurs when your immune system becomes overly active, according to Healthline. Eczema frequently flares up when your skin comes into contact with something that irritates it, causing your immune system to overreact. Furthermore, some people with eczema may not create enough filaggrin, a protein that helps keep your skin moist and healthy.

Different types of Eczema
Eczema is classified into several forms, each of which causes itchy, red, dry, or scaly skin. The most important are:

Atopic Dermatitis: This type usually begins in childhood and is associated with allergies or asthma. It commonly appears on the elbows, knees, scalp, or cheeks.

Contact Dermatitis: It occurs when your skin does not tolerate anything touching it, such as latex, metal, or makeup. It can cause skin to become red, puffy, blistering, or rash.

Dyshidrotic Eczema: This form affects the hands and feet, causing tiny, itchy blisters that can be painful.
Neurodermatitis: It affects small areas of the skin, such as the neck, scalp, arms, or legs, and causes the skin to become thick, scaly, or tough, as well as itchy.

Nummular Eczema: Causes round, coin-shaped patches on the arms and legs, as well as dry, itchy, or burning skin.

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis: This type of dermatitis is found on the scalp, face, or chest and causes oily, scaly, or flaky skin that can be yellow or white.

Stasis Dermatitis: This condition affects the lower legs, particularly in those who have inadequate blood flow. It can cause the skin to change colour, swell, itch, and even develop blisters.

Symptoms of Eczema

Eczema is not contagious, although it can be caused by a variety of factors such as allergies, stress, or skin irritation.

Here are some indicators:

• Skin that is cracked, dry, and scaly.
• A rash and redness.
• Extremely irritating skin.
• Blister sores that pain.
• Skin that changes colour or feels unusual.
• Skin that leaks or is crusted.
• Skin that thickens or becomes rough.
• Dark skin around your eyes.
• Scratched skin that is painful and sensitive.

Causes of Eczema

Eczema flares up when your skin comes into contact with substances that irritate it, such as smoke, small bugs in dust, or harsh chemicals. This overburdens your immune system. Some people may be prone to eczema due to genetic factors. It implies individuals are born with certain genes that influence how well their skin protects them. When the skin's defence is weak, it can't retain moisture and protect against bacteria, allergens, and other environmental factors.

Eczema can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:

• Ingredients in cleaners and detergents
• Things that have a strong odour
• Cigarette smoke
• Things from the outside, such as pollen, mould, dust, or tiny creatures in dust
• Wool and other scratchy fabrics
• Fabrics that are not real
• Sweating
• Temperature shifts
• Stress
• Specific food allergies
• Pet hair
• Infections in your upper respiratory system

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), eczema is a prevalent and long-lasting skin disorder, particularly among children. It has the potential to significantly alter people's lives, as well as families, healthcare, and society.

WHO maintains track of health data from its member countries. Recent studies include statistics on over 50 health-related topics, including eczema-related topics such as how many people get sick, risk factors, and healthcare.

In 2022, research examined this data and discovered that 7 out of 1000 individuals have eczema each year, and 4.4% of people have it overall. According to the survey, eczema costs a lot of money - $131.4 billion globally. This includes $39.3 billion in direct expenditures (such as medical bills) and $92.1 billion in indirect costs (such as missed work or education).

Tests and Treatment for Eczema

Diagnoses of eczema can be done through a simple physical exam of the skin. Although eczema is commonly diagnosed in children, it can appear at any age. Since eczema symptoms can resemble those of other conditions, your provider may conduct tests to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other issues. These tests might include allergy tests, blood tests to identify potential rash causes, and a skin biopsy to differentiate between types of dermatitis.

To manage eczema flare-ups effectively, follow these basic steps:

- Identify and avoid your triggers.
- Establish a daily routine of bathing and moisturizing.
- Use over-the-counter creams and prescription medications consistently and according to your doctor’s instructions.

There is no known cure for eczema, but treatments are available to help manage and minimize symptoms. To determine the most effective treatment for your condition, consult with a dermatologist or qualified medical professional. Eczema treatments differ depending on the kind, severity, and causes of the ailment. Here are some popular eczema treatment options:

Moisturisers: Apply moisturisers to your skin frequently to keep it nourished and protected. Use them whenever your skin becomes dry or irritated.
Steroid Creams: Your doctor may prescribe steroid creams to relieve inflammation and irritation. Follow your doctor's recommendations and only use them for brief periods, as they can thin the skin over time.
Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection on your skin is worsening your eczema, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Take them as advised, but only when required, as they may cause nausea.
Phototherapy: To alleviate eczema symptoms, expose your skin to modest sunshine or ultraviolet light under physician supervision. Be cautious, as this treatment can result in sunburn and skin cancer.
Antihistamines: Take antihistamine pills to relieve itching and allergic responses. Some may make you drowsy, so don't take them before driving or operating machinery.
Oral Steroids: Your doctor may give oral steroids in extreme situations. They should only be used for brief periods because they might cause major adverse effects such as weight gain and high blood pressure.
Always listen to your doctor's advice and share any concerns or changes in your condition.
Prevention of Eczema
Here are some preventative measures one needs to take to reduce the risk of eczema:

Use a decent lotion or ointment to keep your skin moist, especially after washing. Avoid using products that have strong odours or contain harsh chemicals.
Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water to avoid dry skin.
Avoid items you're allergic to, such as pollen, dust, or specific foods. You can find out what troubles you by taking an allergy test.
When washing, use a gentle soap and avoid rubbing your skin too hard. Using a soft cloth, pat your skin dry.
Wear cotton clothing that is loose and breathable. Avoid items that may irritate your skin, such as wool or synthetics.
Avoid going from hot to cold or vice versa since this might cause your skin to dry out or overheat.
Find ways to relax and relieve stress, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
Consult a doctor if your eczema is severe or will not go away. They may prescribe antihistamines or corticosteroids to help control your symptoms and prevent problems.