More than 30 million people in the United States suffer from a skin condition known as eczema. Rao Dermatology treats a number of skin conditions and skin issues including eczema. What exactly is this condition?
First, eczema comes in many different forms. Included in this group are atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis and dyshidrotic and nummular eczema. Although it is a different condition, these conditions can look very much like rosacea and psoriasis.
It can be very frustrating trying to find one treatment that will effectively soothe all of the symptoms that come with the condition. While the initial onset typically occurs in children under three years of age, it can be a lifelong battle finding something that will ease the symptoms, especially during flare-ups.
Even the medical community is at a loss to find a definite answer to the cause of this condition. Some instances may develop due to exposure to an irritant or allergen, but others are suspected to be caused by a nutritional deficiency.
Some Widely Accepted Causes
– Dysfunction of the immune system
– Sensitive or dry skin susceptible to cracking
– Conditions in the environment
– Gene variations affecting the skin
– Ongoing stress
– Changes in temperatures
– Allergic response to beauty products, foods, laundry detergents or other chemicals
Common Symptoms
– Cracking, scaly, dry and thick skin
– Small, raised bumps that appear on the skin can ooze fluid and become crusty.
– Color varies, but the skin on the face, neck, upper chest, eyelids, skin folds, wrists, ankles, feet, and hands can develop brown, red or gray patches.
– Sensitive skin can become raw and swollen due to scratching.
– Sleep can be disrupted because of recurring itchy rash.
Home Remedies
Always consult with your physician or a healthcare professional before trying home remedies.
Moisture
Because dry skin is not only a symptom of eczema but also a cause, it is vital to moisturize the affected areas at least twice a day. Coconut oil is a great moisturizer for sufferers of this condition. Coconut oil is both an antibacterial and antifungal with antimicrobial properties that provide relief and may speed up the healing process.
Light Therapy
According to the National Eczema Association, light therapy helps to calm inflammation, can reduce itching, increases vitamin D production and helps fight bacteria on the skin. 10-15 minutes a day of sun exposure, especially during a flare-up, can provide relief and potentially speed up the healing process.
Regardless of the causes, most people suffering from this condition are desperate for a cure or at least some way to soothe the irritation. Typical treatment involves the use of steroidal and nonsteroidal topical ointments or creams. Moisturizers and emollients are also used to manage dry skin.
It may seem to be the right thing to do with the appearance of flaky dry skin, but exfoliation might make this skin condition worse. It is also not recommended that sufferers use harsh skin products like retinoids. UVB light therapy is often beneficial for the relief of symptoms.
At Rao Dermatology, we treat eczema and many other skin conditions. Because of the nuances of each individual case, effective treatment is often dependent upon a multi-faceted treatment plan created by our professional. That plan may focus on medication, proper skin care and trigger avoidance. If you suffer from eczema or dermatitis of any type, contact the experts at Rao Dermatology in Manhattan, NY to schedule your initial consultation!
