Eczema

What is eczema?

Eczema occurs when your immune system overreacts to stimuli that is not normally harmful to skin. This overreaction creates inflammation that makes your skin red, inflamed, and itchy. 

The medical term for eczema is atopic dermatitis. The exact cause of eczema is unclear; doctors aren't exactly sure why some individuals develop eczema, and others don't. However, eczema tends to run in families, and your risk level rises if you have allergies or asthma.

Eczema is particularly common in infants. By one estimate, up to 20% of children have the condition, although most will outgrow it. Eczema can be a serious condition in adults. However, with the right treatment, the team at Complete Allergy and Asthma can reduce flare-ups, giving you or a loved one lasting relief.

What are the symptoms of eczema?

With eczema, you may experience:

• Itching
• Dry areas that may crack or bleed
• Skin rash
• Red patches of skin
• Skin color changes
• Blisters that can ooze or crust

Eczema symptoms tend to come and go. The location of eczema also varies, depending on your age. In infants and children, eczema usually appears on:

• Cheeks
• Knees
• Elbows
• Scalp

In adolescents and adults, it's more commonly found on the hands, arms, feet, and the back of their knees.

What are some diagnostic tools for eczema?

Your specialist begins by taking a comprehensive medical history. You’ll discuss exposure to allergens or irritants. A skin assessment follows. 

Allergy testing can help determine which substances trigger changes in your skin. Your provider may perform a skin prick test by making a tiny puncture in your skin before applying a diluted allergen. 

Then they watch the test area for 15 minutes to see if bumps or redness develop. A reaction suggests that you're allergic to the test substance. 

What are some eczema treatment options?

Your provider at Complete Allergy and Asthma works with you to determine the underlying cause of your outbreaks so you can avoid your triggers. Common eczema triggers include:

• Certain foods
• Pet dander
• Mold
• Pollen
• Dust mites
• Detergents
• Cosmetics

If your eczema is severe, your provider might recommend medications like  antihistamine creams or steroids to minimize symptoms like redness and itching. You also might benefit from allergy drops or shots to treat an underlying allergy.  We also offer treatment with systemic medications such as biologics if needed.

If you’re ready to learn more, call the office to book a visit, or request a consultation online today.