Eczema - Causes, Symptoms and Remedies

What is Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and bumpy skin, weakening the skin's barrier function responsible for retaining moisture and protecting against external elements. It falls under the umbrella of dermatitis, a group of conditions causing skin inflammation.

Various types of eczema exist, each with distinct triggers impacting the skin's barrier function. It's possible to experience multiple types simultaneously. These include:

1. Atopic Dermatitis: Initiated in childhood, atopic dermatitis causes discoloration and itchy rashes persisting into adulthood. Although incurable, proper care, including corticosteroid creams, antihistamines, and prescription medications, can manage the condition.
2. Contact Dermatitis: This rash develops upon contact with allergens or skin irritants, resulting in swelling, itchiness, and discomfort. Avoiding the triggering factors helps prevent recurrence.
3. Dyshidrotic Eczema: Characterized by blisters and itching, the causes of dyshidrotic eczema, including allergies, stress, and moist hands and feet, remain uncertain. Treatments encompass at-home care, therapies, and prescribed medications.
4. Neurodermatitis: This non-life-threatening but bothersome condition, affecting about 12% of the US population, involves persistent itching, dryness, and discoloration requiring medical intervention.
5. Nummular Eczema: A chronic condition leading to raised, round spots on the skin, often itchy and oozing clear fluid. While responsive to treatment, flare-ups may recur, with skincare strategies playing a vital role in prevention.
6. Seborrheic Dermatitis: Though not harmful, this condition appears as red, dry, flaky, and itchy skin on the scalp and other body parts. It is managed with medications and is neither indicative of uncleanliness nor contagious.

Symptoms of Eczema

• Dry skin.
• Itchy skin.
• Skin rash.
• Bumps on the skin.
• Thick, leathery patches of skin.
• Flaky, scaly, or crusty skin.
• Swelling.

Location of Eczema Symptoms

Symptoms can manifest anywhere on the skin, but commonly occur on:

• Hands.
• Neck.
• Elbows.
• Ankles.
• Knees.
• Feet.
• Face, particularly the cheeks.
• In and around the ears.
• Lips.
• Nipples.
• Breasts.
• Folds of skin near the vagina (vulva).
• Penis.

Does eczema cause pain

Eczema typically does not induce pain. However, scratching the skin may lead to surface breaks, resulting in sores that can be painful. Certain types of eczema, such as contact dermatitis, may cause a burning sensation and discomfort.

Causes of Eczema

1. Immune System: In individuals with eczema, the immune system reacts excessively to minor irritants or allergens in the environment, treating them as potential threats. This triggers the body's natural defense mechanism, resulting in inflammation and the manifestation of eczema symptoms on the skin.
2. Genetics: A family history of eczema or dermatitis increases the likelihood of developing eczema. The risk is also higher if there's a familial background of asthma, hay fever, or allergies. Common allergens such as pollen, pet dander, or certain foods can contribute to eczema. Additionally, genetic mutations may affect the proper functioning of the skin's barrier.
3. Environment: Various environmental factors can irritate the skin, including exposure to smoke, air pollutants, harsh soaps, wool fabrics, and certain skincare products. Low humidity leads to dry and itchy skin, while heat and high humidity can exacerbate itchiness through increased sweating.
4. Emotional Triggers: Mental health plays a role in eczema, and high levels of stress, anxiety, or depression can contribute to more frequent flare-ups of eczema symptoms.

What triggers eczema flare-ups

Eczema triggers vary from person to person, and what causes one individual's symptoms to flare up may not affect another. Common triggers for eczema flare-ups include:

• Dry Weather (Low Humidity): Low humidity can lead to dry skin, exacerbating eczema symptoms.
• Fabrics or Clothing Material: Certain fabrics may irritate the skin and trigger eczema flare-ups.
• Makeup or Skincare Products: Some cosmetics and skincare items can worsen eczema symptoms.
• Smoke and Pollutants: Exposure to smoke and environmental pollutants may aggravate eczema.
• Soaps and Detergents: Certain soaps and detergents can be harsh on the skin and contribute to eczema.
• Stress or Emotional Well-being: Emotional factors, such as stress, can play a role in the onset or exacerbation of eczema symptoms.
• Contact with Allergens: Touching substances that one is allergic to can trigger eczema flare-ups.

Foods that can cause Eczema

The relationship between eczema and food allergies remains uncertain. If you have food allergies, avoiding specific foods is crucial as they may potentially induce or exacerbate eczema symptoms. Common allergens include peanuts, dairy, and eggs. Observing your diet is essential; if eczema flares up after consuming certain foods, it may indicate an allergy. However, without a food allergy, there is no direct link between specific foods and the onset or worsening of eczema.

How to manage an eczema breakout

Eczema is a persistent condition, but proactive measures can help avoid triggers and mitigate symptoms. Consider the following strategies to prevent eczema flare-ups:

• Apply cool compresses to soothe the skin or indulge in a colloidal oatmeal or baking soda bath to alleviate itching.
• Daily moisturization with a rich, oil-based cream or ointment forms a protective barrier against environmental elements. Apply immediately after bathing to seal in moisture.
• Ensure adequate hydration by drinking at least eight glasses of water daily to keep the skin moist.
• Manage stress and emotional triggers through psychiatric intervention for medication and counseling with a therapist for emotional well-being.
• Use a humidifier to combat dry air and maintain skin hydration.
• Pat the skin gently with a soft towel after bathing, avoiding rubbing to prevent irritation.
• Resist the urge to scratch, as it may lead to infections.
• Opt for fragrance-free detergents, cleansers, makeup, and skincare products.
• When handling chemicals, wear gloves and protective clothing.
• Choose loose-fitting garments made from natural materials like cotton, washing new clothes before wearing them, and steer clear of wool or synthetic fibers.

Conclusion - Eczema and various forms of dermatitis do not pose harm to the overall health of your body. The condition is not life-threatening. Nearly half of children with eczema either outgrow the condition or witness significant improvement by the time they reach puberty. Some individuals may continue to experience some manifestation of the condition throughout their lives. However, for adults living with eczema, effective management is achievable through a diligent and well-structured skincare routine.