Eczema
Eczema (dermatitis) is a chronic, relapsing skin condition marked by inflammation.
It usually starts with itching, followed by redness, dryness, scaling, and sometimes oozing or crusting.
Overview
Causes
Eczema develops due to a combination of factors, not a single cause:
01
Skin barrier dysfunction
Skin loses moisture easily, becoming dry and sensitive
02
Immune overactivity
Exaggerated response to minor irritants
03
Genetic predisposition
Often seen with asthma, allergic rhinitis, or family history of eczema
04
Environmental triggers
Soaps, detergents, fragrances,Dust, pollen,Sweat and heat,Cold, dry weather,Stress
Types
Types of Eczema
Eczema has different forms, including atopic, contact, seborrheic, nummular, and dyshidrotic eczema—each with unique triggers, symptoms, and affected areas.
Atopic dermatitis
most common, often starts in childhood
Contact dermatitis
Irritant (soaps, chemicals),Allergic (nickel, cosmetics, hair dye)
Seborrheic dermatitis
scalp, face; linked to oil and yeast
Nummular eczema
coin-shaped itchy patches
Dyshidrotic eczema
small, itchy blisters on palms/soles
WHAT TO EXPECT
Your Treatment Journey
Medical
Moisturizers (cornerstone)
Daily use helps repair the barrier and prevent flares
Topical corticosteroids
First-line for active inflammation
Calcineurin inhibitors (Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus)
Useful for sensitive areas and long-term control
Antihistamines
Help reduce itching, especially at night
Antibiotics
For secondary infection due to scratching
Systemic therapy (moderate–severe cases)
Includes cyclosporine, methotrexate, azathioprine, and biologics like dupilumab
Procedural
Phototherapy (NB-UVB)
Effective for chronic, widespread eczema
Patch testing
Helps identify allergens in suspected contact dermatitis
FAQS
Common Questions
Can eczema be cured?
Eczema cannot be permanently cured, but it can be very well controlled, with long symptom-free periods.
Are steroid creams safe for long-term use?
They are safe when used correctly under supervision, but misuse can lead to side effects like skin thinning
What triggers eczema flares?
Triggers include soaps, detergents, sweat, stress, weather changes, and allergens, and vary from person to person.
Do I need regular follow-ups for chronic conditions?
Yes, follow-ups help adjust treatment, prevent flares, and monitor side effects over time
Explore Your Options
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