Eczema is a very common skin condition. Eczema may often appear as a red, scaling, itchy rash. Although the true cause of eczema is unknown, there are several factors that are known to trigger it. Causes of eczema include: genetics (a family history of the condition), a weakened skin barrier, and immune dysfunction. With multiple locations around the Austin area, Sanova Dermatology can help diagnose and treat Eczema and skin related issues.
Known Eczema Triggers
There are many environmental triggers for eczema, including living in dry environments, living in cities (pollution), chemicals in soaps and makeup, food allergies, dust, and cigarette smoke. Seasonal allergies have also been associated with eczema flares.
Symptoms of Eczema
The symptoms of eczema most often appear in children, especially those who have a history of allergies. The condition is often outgrown as the child matures. Symptoms of eczema can include:
- Itchy and dry skin
- Red skin
- Cracked skin
- Flaking skin
- Burning patches of skin
Symptoms of eczema commonly develop on the hands, feet, face, insides of elbows and knees, and behind the ears.
Types of Eczema
There are several different types of eczema.
Atopic Dermatitis
This is the most common form of eczema, affecting over 18 million adults, children, and babies in the United States alone. It often affects people with allergies like asthma, hay fever, or other seasonal allergies. Symptoms of this type of eczema include red, scaly, itchy, and fissured skin.
Asteatotic Eczema
This type of eczema causes dry, itchy, red patches of flaky skin. Because of this it can sometimes be confused with psoriasis. It commonly occurs in the elderly and is found on the chest, arms, and legs. Asteatotic eczema is also known as eczema craquele or xerotic eczema.
Varicose Eczema
Varicose, gravitational, or stasis dermatitis, as it is also known, affects the feet and lower legs. It can be associated with venous diseases, so if there are any symptoms of this type of eczema, you should be seen by a dermatologist immediately. Symptoms include swelling of the ankles, discoloration of the skin around the feet and lower legs, redness in the lower extremities, and scaling.
Dyshidrotic Eczema
This type of eczema is a more chronic and a painful form of the condition. It presents as red blisters and scaly patches on the hands and feet that are very itchy. It usually occurs in people between the ages of 20 and 40. Many times these people have pre existing contact or atopic dermatitis. Dyshidrotic eczema also goes by the names dyshidrotic dermatitis, or pompholyx.
Treatments for Eczema
The treatment for eczema is two-fold. First, you should make lifestyle changes to limit exposure to any irritants or allergens. Second, you can use either topical or systemic medications, both prescribed by your dermatologist.
Topical Treatments for Eczema
There are many topical treatments available for eczema. These are applied directly to the skin, and can the right topical therapies can go a long way to relieve the symptoms and resolve the rash. Common eczema topical treatments include:
- Corticosteriods
- Topical antibiotics (as there are sometimes secondary infections affecting the disease)
- Calcineurin inhibitors
- PDE4 inhibitors
Topical treatments work best when combined with some of the lifestyle changes described below, and can be combined with other forms of treatment as well.
Systemic Treatments for Eczema
Systemic treatments, also sometimes referred to as biologics, are treatments that are either taken orally or via an injection. Patients can do the injections themselves at home, or opt for in-office treatments at their Austin area dermatologist’s office. There are always new innovations in systemic treatments for skin conditions like eczema, and our dermatologists are always on the cutting edge of the latest medical technology.
Phototherapy
Your eczema dermatologist in Austin may recommend light therapy, or phototherapy, as a treatment for your eczema. It uses ultraviolet light that is machine manufactured in a controlled environment. Light therapy for eczema can offer relief from itching, reduce inflammation, help heal the skin’s barrier, and increase the body’s natural vitamin D levels.
Lifestyle Changes That Help with Eczema
Sometimes little things can make a big difference. If you suffer from eczema, consider making these changes to your lifestyle to see if you notice any results.
- Stay hydrated
- Use mild or chemical-free soaps
- Use fragrance-free detergents
- Moisturize your skin regularly
- Take cool showers
- Wear breathable clothing
- Look for hypoallergenic skin products
- Avoid scratching affected areas
- Avoid contact with irritants
- Avoid hot water
- Don’t eat triggering foods
- Reduce sweating
- Use a humidifier in the home
- Manage stress wisely
Though it can be difficult to deal with a chronic skin condition, don’t be discouraged. There are many forms of treatments and therapies that can offer relief. If you are looking for relief from eczema, or are just looking for more information, don’t hesitate to contact one of our Austin dermatology locations. Our experienced staff of dermatologists are waiting to help you with the latest advice and treatments.
