ATOPIC DERMATITIS AND ECZEMA

ATOPIC DERMATITIS AND ECZEMA

Atopic dermatitis, otherwise known as eczema, is a combination of dry skin plus inflammation in the skin that makes you itchy. Although quite common in young children, it can occur at any age. There is no cure for eczema as it is considered a chronic and recurrent condition. Atopic dermatitis is caused by a genetic defect in the skin barrier. When irritants such as fragrances or bacteria enter that skin barrier defect, immune cells rush into the area causing inflammation,                     which leads to redness, scaly skin, and itching. Patients with atopic dermatitis are often at risk of having seasonal allergies and asthma.

Atopic dermatitis flare-ups usually have triggers. Common lifestyle and environmental triggers may include extreme heat, cold, sweat, allergens, and stress. Regular moisturizing and following a good skincare routine can help relieve itching and prevent new flares.

TYPES OF ECZEMA

There are several manifestations of eczema:

·  Hand eczema: This affects only the hands and is mostly caused by frequent contact with irritating agents such as soap, water, gloves, hand sanitzer. It is commonly seen in chefs, hairdressers, healthcare workers, and homemakers whose hands are frequently wet.

·  Contact dermatitis: In general, contact dermatitis is a skin irritation caused by contact with certain irritants or allergens.

·  Dyshidrotic eczema: This type of eczema develops only on the fingers, palms, and soles of the feet and is characterized by tiny “tapioca-pudding-like” blisters that are very itchy. It is often stress-induced.

·  Lichen simplex chronicus: This is characterized by thickened plaques of skin due to repeated scratching or rubbing.

·  Nummular eczema: Nummular eczema is characterized by round, coin-shaped scaly patches. This type often gets superinfected by bacteria.

·  Stasis dermatitis: Stasis dermatitis is a type of skin irritation that develops with poor circulation. It typically occurs on the lower legs of older patients.

SYMPTOMS

While symptoms of eczema can appear anywhere on the body and may vary widely from person to person, there are a few common ones. They include:

  • Dry/cracked skin

  • Itchiness

  • Rash

  • Small, raised bumps

  • Oozing and crusting skin

  • Thickened skin

  • Darkening of the skin

  • Raw, sensitive skin from scratching

BOOK A CONSULTATION

Because eczema can present in so many different ways, we recommend seeking the expertise of a board-certified dermatologist to correctly diagnose and treat your rash or dermatitis.

At Sweetwater Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Likhari, specializes in the diagnosis and management of atopic dermatitis and eczema in Sugar Land, Texas. She also provides in-depth counselling and patient education to help you achieve your skin goals.

To schedule an appointment, please call 832-615-3201 or book online here.