Eczema signs and symptoms

Every individual having this condition will show differences in the symptoms. It varies for infants, children, and adults. The dermatologist will confirm Eczema after looking following symptoms:

Adults:

• Scaly rashes with common areas- neck back, in the folds, knees or elbows.
• Persistent itchy skin with affected areas being dry and sensitive.
• Skin infections are causing inflammation and discoloration of the skin.

Children:

• Rashes are commonly found in ankles, wrists, necks, lining in between legs and buttocks, and creases behind the knees or elbows.
• The redness lightens or darkens based on the severity.
• Raised red bumps containing fluids may also be an identifying sypmtom.
• Skin lichenification (thickening) leading to constant itching.
   

Infants (below 2 years):

• Itchy rashes that cause discomfort while sleeping.
• Cheeks and scalp rashes.
• Bumps filled with fluids.

Types of Eczema:

1. Atopic dermatitis (most common)- It occurs when the skin does not effectively act as a barrier against allergens and irritants.
2. Dyshidrotic eczema -   Blisters (filled with fluids) formation on feet and hands. It can be triggered by stress, allergies, damped body parts, or exposure to certain substances (nickel, cobalt, etc.)
3. Contact dermatitis- Allergic reactions or irritated skin caused when a person’s skin comes in proximity with any irritant.
4. Neurodermatitis- Due to consistent stress or compulsion the patient may keep scratching and result in appearance of scaly, thick patches on the skin.
5. Hand eczema- It occurs only on hands that are under prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals while cleaning and hairdressing.
6. Nummular eczema-Itchy, coined-shaped spots appear on the skin that are caused by either an allergic reaction to metals or chemicals or by an insect bite.
7. Stasis dermatitis- The leakage of fluids from impaired veins causes swelling, itching, redness, and pain. It occurs mostly in people whose lower legs have issues with blood flow.

What causes or triggers Eczema?
The common triggers are:

• A dried skin (especially in a too-cold or dry environment).
• Too much sweating in the skin folds.
• Irritants – Body or home care products such as body wash, shampoo, soap, laundry detergents, surface cleaners, and disinfectants. Even natural products- such as fruit or vegetable juices can make the skin burn, red, and itchy. Others include- the smoke of cigarettes, some metals, wool or polyester fabrics, and fragrances.
• These irritants act as allergens against which our body makes antibodies that lead to inflammation. Some other allergens are-jewelry, ointments, sunlight, latex, pet dander, dust particles, foods (such as eggs, peanuts, and milk), and pollen grains.
• In some cases, genetic factors and hormonal changes can also lead to eczema. People with asthma are more prone to eczema. Stress is another major trigger for eczema, and it may also increase the urge to itch the skin.

Dadu Medical Centre provides the following eczema treatments in Delhi
Eczema symptoms can be alleviated by following treatments-

• Use of suitable mlisturisers - such as ceramide moisturizers- helps prevent water loss and entry of germs in the skin, hence keeping it soft.
• Phototherapy- In resistant cases exposure to the UV (A or B) rays that may be used to help heal the rashes.
• Topical ointments or steroidal creams- An anti-inflammatory medication such as CaN inhibitors that helps minimize immune response, thus calming down the inflammation.
• For infections- Antibiotics, anti-fungal, or anti-viral medicines are prescribed as per the requirement.
• Systemic corticosteroids- Oral drugs (either injections or oral tablets) reduce inflammation and enhance the immune system functioning.
• Antihistamines-That helps in controlling scratching (that can worsen eczema by causing bleeding). It calms the patient and hampers further progression.