Controlling Eczema And Itching Bouts
Eczema is a medical condition characterised by itchy patches around one’s neck, cheeks, chin, chest or waist. Though it is hard to determine, it first usually appears behind the knees, neck or inner elbows. If the irritation lasts longer than a couple of days, it is advised to visit a dermatologist.
However, a dermatologist can only determine the problem, after noting details about your family’s medical background and your medical history and allergies. Also, the symptoms of eczema can vary from person to person. The itch or irritation is usually mild or moderate but it can become worse to develop extremely inflamed skin. Some of the major symptoms of eczema is dry and sensitive skin, red inflamed skin, bad itching, dark coloured skin patches, crusting, rough, leathery skin, swelling in the skin patches, etc.
There are various types of eczema and it is possible to get afflicted with more than one type at a time. Here are the different types of eczema.
- Atopic dermatitis
- dyshidrotic eczema
- Contact dermatitis
- Neurodermatitis
- Nummular eczema
- Hand eczema
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Psoriasiform eczema
- Stasis dermatitis
Though it is still unknown what exactly causes eczema, it is mostly due to genetic reasons. However, it is not contagious, so you cannot catch eczema just by coming in contact with someone who already has it. But if you have a weak immune system, you have a higher chance of getting eczema.
Self-Care For Eczema
Since eczema causes a lot of itchiness, an individual afflicted with this skin problem is tempted to scratch the affected skin area. However, this could cause damage to the affected spot and make the situation worse, by leading to a skin infection.
- Keep your nails short and clean to avoid any damage and to avoid any skin infection due to the itching
- Try to keep a control on the itching, whenever possible; try gently rubbing the affected area instead
- Avoid using soap on the affected parts of the skin, as the chemicals in the soap can further aggravate it
- Opt for mild cleansers while bathing
- Avoid long showers and avoid hot water Always use a good moisturizer right after every bath to keep the moisture locked in
Medical Care
Dealing with eczema can be very difficult for patients. Hence, it’s best to consult a dermatologist at the earliest to heal skin issues and to prevent sudden flare-ups, which are common in eczema. The doctor will prescribe the appropriate medication, depending on the patient’s age, areas involved and severity of the problem.