Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is an inflammatory skin disorder that causes dry, itchy skin that is also scaly and red. In certain families, it appears to be more common than in others, affecting babies, children, and adults alike. Eczema may be treated with moisturising lotions and prescription ointments.
Eczema’s Original Causes
The specific cause of eczema is still unclear, although genetics seem to play a key role, and people with a family history of the ailment are more likely to get it. Eczema is almost often caused by a genetic flaw in the epidermis, the skin’s outermost layer, which covers the whole surface of the body. The epidermis is the initial line of defence between the inside of a person’s body and the outside world. Maintaining a healthy epidermis keeps the body free of hazardous environmental irritants, allergens, and germs, and it also prevents excessive water loss from the skin. Eczema patients have a skin that is weaker and more permeable than the general population should have.
Eczema in children is seldom linked to food allergies, contrary to popular belief. An allergy specialist should be seen if you feel your child may be suffering from an allergic reaction to a meal. Choosing the eczema creams is essential there.
Symptoms of eczema
Eczema commonly manifests itself in children, with the average age of onset being about five years old. Intense itching of the skin, inflamed areas of skin, small lumps, and peeling of the skin are common symptoms. Scratching might worsen the itching by aggravating the skin’s irritation. At night, the itching may be more noticeable.
It is not uncommon for the symptoms of eczema to change over time for different people. Although eczema generally affects just a few parts of the body, in severe cases it may affect several parts of the body, such as the face, arms, legs, and feet.
Inflamed, scaly, and crusty areas may appear on the front of the arms and legs, cheeks, or scalp of neonates. The diaper area is seldom affected.
Eczema, which often develops on the neck, shoulders, elbow creases, and the backs of the knees of both children and adults, is a common skin condition (picture 2). Wrists and forearms may also be damaged, in addition to the face (see images 3 and 4). Scarring and discoloration may occur as a result of the frequent scratching (picture 5).
- Infections of the skin may result from scratching. Painful red pimples that may or may not contain pus are signs of illness; if you suspect an infection, see your doctor or nurse right away since you may need treatment for your condition.
- Because eczema is not communicable, it cannot be identified using a specialized test. Diagnosis is often based on a patient’s medical history, symptoms, and results of a physical examination.
Conclusion
Many indicators may be used to diagnose eczema, including persistent and recurrent itching, the onset of symptoms at a young age, and a history of certain allergic problems in the patient or their family (including asthma and seasonal allergies as well as eczema). The appearance of symptoms that intensify when exposed to particular triggers should also be investigated.
