Eczema"Eczema" or "dermatitis" is an inflammatory condition of the skin which affects both children and adults. Eczema causes dry, red patches on the skin which can scale, blister, or ooze. Eczema commonly itches and can cause significant discomfort for patients. Some people have mild cases of eczema which can be exacerbated in winter months with the colder, drier air. Other people have more severe involvement of eczema and this can commonly be seen in people with a personal or family history of asthma or seasonal allergies. Eczema can never be cured, but outbreaks can be controlled with good moisturization of the skin. Using a mild soap and moisturizers on a daily basis can help keep the skin barrier intact and lead to less out breaks of eczema. When eczema flares, topical steroids are most commonly used to help calm the inflammation of the skin. Early and regular treatment of eczema may help decrease the severity and duration of outbreaks. (AAD phamplet) |
