If you’re dealing with skin irritation, inflammation, and other woes, you’re living with daily discomfort. But you shouldn’t have to – you should be able to live comfortably in your skin. However, common conditions like eczema can make this a difficult prospect. That’s why it’s important to know the facts about eczema, which you can learn by searching online.
Eczema affects more than 10 percent of people living in the U.S., and it often starts at a young age. Are you one of those people? If you know the facts about eczema, you can recognize its symptoms and know what treatments are available. And you can start searching online for solutions today.
Here’s what you need to know about eczema.
What is Eczema?
Eczema isn’t just one specific skin condition. It’s actually a blanket term for a number of different skin conditions, all of which result in inflammation and irritation. Most people who have eczema have atopic dermatitis, which is the most common variety of eczema.
Different age groups see a higher prevalence of eczema than others. About 10 to 20 percent of infants have eczema, while just 3 percent of adults and children have it. If it’s present in infancy or childhood, there’s a good chance children will outgrow the condition by age 10 – but some people do have eczema symptoms throughout their lives.
Currently, there is no cure for eczema. However, that doesn’t mean you have to live with its effects. There are a number of different ways eczema can be managed and treated, and it’s possible to minimize your symptoms or flare-ups.
Signs and Symptoms of Eczema
Because eczema is actually a group of different kinds of skin irritation and inflammation, it can have symptoms that vary widely from person to person. And symptoms can even vary from age to age.
Commonly, people who are living with eczema – specifically, atopic dermatitis – experience symptoms that include:
- Dry skin.
- Moderate to severe itching.
- Small bumps that leak fluid and crust over.
- Cracked skin.
- Thickened skin,
- Scaly skin.
- Red to brownish-gray patches on the hands, wrists, ankles, feet, neck, upper chest, eyelids, and inside the bend of elbows and knees.
- Raw, sensitive, or swollen skin that results from scratching.
These symptoms can appear and disappear. Eczema can flare up and cause frustrating symptoms for a length of time, then enter remission and resolve your symptoms. Keep an eye on any changes to your skin that cause concern so you can address them with your doctor.
Additionally, you should see a doctor if you or your child experience any of the following:
- You’re so uncomfortable that your sleep and your daily activities are disrupted.
- You have a skin infection or notice pus, yellow scabs, or red streaks.
- You experience symptoms even after trying treatments.
Treating Eczema
Although eczema cannot be cured, there are a number of different treatment options. The goal of most treatments isn’t to stop eczema altogether, but to heal your skin and prevent future flare-ups.
Different treatments work differently for each individual who has eczema. Because the condition and its symptoms can take many forms, it may take a few different kinds of treatments to determine what works best for your unique case. Your doctor will also be able to suggest a treatment plan that’s based on your specific symptoms, age, and health concerns.
Eczema can be treated with home remedies or medications.
Home Remedies for Eczema
You can treat eczema and its symptoms with a number of at-home remedies and treatment options, including:
- Lukewarm baths.
- Applying moisturizer within three minutes of bathing.
- Moisturizing daily.
- Wearing soft cotton fabrics and avoiding rough, scratchy materials.
- Using mild soap.
- Avoiding rapid temperature changes.
- Limiting activities that cause sweating.
- Using a humidifier.
Medications for Eczema
If your eczema symptoms aren’t responding to changes to your routine or home remedies, you can also turn to medication. There are a few different kinds of medications you can try, some of which are available over-the-counter and some of which must be prescribed by a doctor. These include:
- Topical corticosteroid creams and ointments.
- Systemic corticosteroids.
- Antibiotics.
- Antiviral or antifungal medications.
- Antihistamines.
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors.
- Barrier repair moisturizers.
- Phototherapy.
Every individual will respond to different treatments in a unique way. You may see improvement with one kind of treatment, or you may need a few different types to soothe your symptoms. Make sure to discuss any treatments you’re trying with your doctor before making changes.
If you think you might be living with eczema, it’s a good idea to get an official diagnosis. You can research your symptoms online, but make an appointment to see your doctor. With a diagnosis, you’ll be able to begin treating your eczema in ways that work.