Eczema is a common medical condition that causes visible irritation to skin. Most commonly, eczema results in the appearance of dry, itchy, red patches on skin. Areas of the body impacted by this condition appear very dry, or even scaly. Eczema often flares up suddenly, and then diminishes quickly. It can impact anyone, though it is far more visible on fair-skinned people.
So, what are some of the most important things to know about eczema? Let’s answer some common questions about this condition.
- What causes eczema? While the exact cause of eczema is still unknown, it is commonly linked to the body’s response to irritants in the environment. Eczema also sometimes runs in families, and may be found in patients who have a history of asthma or allergies. Eczema flares are also often linked to extreme changes in weather conditions, as well as stress.
- Where does eczema appear? Eczema most commonly appears on the face, knees, wrists, hands, or feet. However, it can appear on almost any area of the body.
- How is eczema diagnosed? There are no exact tests for diagnosing eczema. However, a dermatologist is usually able to tell whether or not you have the condition by evaluating your symptoms and the condition of your skin. Since many people with eczema also have allergies, the doctor may also perform allergy tests to determine the source of irritation for the skin.
- How can eczema be treated? Since eczema causes skin to be very dry and itchy, it is important to use over-the-counter creams and lotions to keep the skin moist. Antihistamines may also prove helpful. However, the best way to prevent eczema flare-ups is to take the proper preventative measures. Patients with eczema are advised to keep their skin well-moisturized, and avoid stressful situations. Additionally, wearing scratchy materials (like wool) and using soaps or lotions that contain fragrances or dyes can cause further irritation to skin.
Medical Dermatologist in Grosse Pointe
If you are looking to receive treatment for a condition like eczema, there is no time to waste. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our offices are located in Grosse Pointe, and we can be reached directly at (313) 886-2000. We look forward to hearing from you!
This entry was posted on Friday, January 31st, 2014 at 9:58 pm and is filed under Eczema, Skin Care. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.
Comments are closed.