Eczema

Eczema is a type of dermatitis, or skin condition, which causes the skin to become irritated and itchy or swollen. The term eczema is actually a catchall term for a number of skin conditions, which can include: atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis (one form of which is dandruff), nummular dermatitis, diaper rash, and even poison ivy-inflicted rashes.http://www.skincarephysicians.com/eczemanet/whatis.html Most commonly though, when people refer to eczema, they are really referring to atopic dermatitis. Causes can range from allergies and reactions to contact irritants, to genetics, stress, and a number of other factors—some of which remain a mystery to the medical community. In all cases, it is not contagious and will not spread to others.http://www.skincarephysicians.com/eczemanet/whatis.html

Eczema can afflict people of any age, though it seems to be most common among infants and children under the age of three. It also is more common among females than males, and affects about 85% of people at some point in their lives.http://www.medicinenet.com/eczema/article.htm

Although eczema symptoms can vary, most cases involve a spot on the hands, feet, legs, face, or torso. The following symptoms are very common with most cases:

• Itching, usually intense
• Scaly patches of skin
• Red spots or blotches
• Oozing blisters

In small children, most will experience red spots on the skin with small bumps that coat parts of the face, forehead, and scalp.http://kidshealth.org/parent/infections/skin/eczema_atopic_dermatitis.html

For most people these symptoms appear as flare-ups, and can be relieved somewhat through medical attention and care to avoid additional irritation of the area. Again, eczema is not contagious.

Anyone experiencing symptoms of eczema should seek medical advice for treatment. Doctors may recommend special lotions and creams to keep areas well-moisturized. In cases of intense itching, doctors may also advise the use of cold compresses, antihistamines, or prescribe corticosteroid creams to offer relief.

In the event that the eczema area becomes infected (usually due to excessive scratching), an antibiotic may be required.http://www.webmd.com/allergies/guide/eczema?page=2

In more severe cases, doctors might recommend an ultraviolet light treatment for older children, which would be conducted by a dermatologist.http://kidshealth.org/parent/infections/skin/eczema_atopic_dermatitis.html#

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact a doctor before using the information presented here.