How to identify and treat eczema
Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is inflammation of the skin. It is typically characterised by itchiness, redness, rash, and sometimes small blisters.
Eczema or dermatitis can be of many kinds, like atopic dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, irritant contact dermatitis, seborrhoeic dermatitis and stasis dermatitis.
Atopic dermatitis is the most common kind of the condition.
The cause of eczema is yet to be known. However, it is presumed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Type of eczema is generally determined by the person's history and location of rash.
For example, irritant dermatitis often occurs on people's hands who frequently get them wet. Allergic contact dermatitis occurs upon exposure to allergen, causing a hypersensitivity reaction in the skin.
SYMPTOMS
Eczema symptoms are usually mild. The most common ones include dry, scaly skin; skin flushing; itching; open, crusted, or weeping sores.
TREATMENTS
Atopic dermatitis is typically treated with moisturisers and steroid creams.
Antibiotics may be required if there are signs of skin infection.
Contact dermatitis is typically treated by avoiding the allergen or irritant.
Antihistamines may help with sleep and decrease nighttime scratching.
Make sure to visit a doctor if the condition affects sleep or daily activities. You should also seek expert opinion if the affected part looks infected.
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