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Eczema: Frequently Asked Questions
Types of eczema and the stress caused by living with eczema.
WHAT IS ECZEMA?
WHAT CAUSES ECZEMA?
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF ECZEMA?
WILL MY CHILD GROW OUT OF THEIR ECZEMA?
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE THAT I CAN DO?
CAN CHANGING MY DIET HELP?
ARE THERE ANY OTHER TREATMENTS?
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
WHAT IS ECZEMA?
Eczema, or dermatitis as it is sometimes called, is a group of skin conditions which can affect all age groups. The severity of the disease can vary. In mild forms the skin is dry, hot and itchy, whilst in more severe forms the skin can become broken, raw and bleeding. Although it can sometimes look unpleasant, eczema is not contagious. With treatment the inflammation of eczema can be reduced, though the skin will always be sensitive to flare-ups and need extra care.
WHAT CAUSES ECZEMA?
The causes of eczema are many and varied. Atopic eczema is thought to be a hereditary condition, being genetically linked. It is proposed that people with atopic eczema are sensitive to allergens in the environment which are harmless to others. In atopy there is an excessive reaction by the immune system producing inflamed, irritated and sore skin. Associated atopic conditions include asthma and hayfever. Other types of eczema are caused by irritants such as chemicals and detergents, allergens such as nickel, and yeast growths. In later years eczema can be caused by a blood circulatory problems in the legs. The causes of certain types of eczema remain to be explained, though links with environmental factors and stress are being explored.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF ECZEMA?
Atopic eczema
Atopic eczema is the most common form of eczema and is closely linked with asthma and hayfever. It can affect both children and adults, usually running in families. One of the most common symptoms of atopic eczema is its itchiness (or pruritis), which can be almost unbearable. Other symptoms include overall dryness of the skin, redness and inflammation. Constant scratching can also cause the skin to split, leaving it prone to infection. In infected eczema the skin may crack and weep (‘wet’ eczema). Treatments include emollients to maintain skin hydration and steroids to reduce inflammation.
Allergic contact dermatitis
Develops when the body’s immune system reacts against a substance in contact with the skin. The allergic reaction often develops over a period of time through repeated contact with the substance. For example, an allergic reaction may occur to nickel, which is often found in earrings, belt buckles and jeans buttons. Reactions can also occur after contact with other substances such as perfumes and rubber. In order to prevent repeated reactions it is best to prevent contact with anything that you know causes a rash.
Irritant contact dermatitis
This is a type of eczema caused by frequent contact with everyday substances, such as detergents and chemicals, which are irritating to the skin. It most commonly occurs on the hands of adults and can be prevented by avoiding the irritants and keeping the skin moisturised.
Infantile seborrhoeic eczema
A common condition affecting babies under one year old, the exact cause of which is unknown. Also referred to as cradle cap, it usually starts on the scalp or the nappy area and quickly spreads. Although this type of eczema looks unpleasant, it is not sore or itchy and does not cause the baby to feel uncomfortable or unwell. Normally this type of eczema will clear in just a few months, though the use of moisturising creams and bath oils can help to speed this along.
Adult seborrheic eczema
Characteristically affects adults between the ages of 20 and 40. It is usually seen on the scalp as mild dandruff, but can spread to the face, ears and chest. The skin becomes red, inflamed and starts to flake. The condition is believed to be caused by a yeast growth.
Varicose eczema
Varicose eczema affects the lower legs of those in their middle to late years, being caused by poor circulation. Commonly the skin around the ankles is affected, becoming speckled, itchy and inflamed. Treatment is with emollients and steroid creams.
Discoid eczema
Is usually found in adults and appears suddenly as a few coin shaped areas of red skin, normally on the trunk or lower legs. They become itchy and can weep fluid. Usually discoid eczema is treated with emollients (and steroid creams if necessary).
WILL MY CHILD GROW OUT OF THEIR ECZEMA?
There are a number of ways to manage eczema, all of which begin with an effective skin care routine. Having access to accurate information is important as this allows the person with eczema, or their carer, to make informed choices when managing the condition.
Emollients
Topical steroids
Oral steroids
Topical Immunomodulators
Other treatments -- Your doctor may discuss are anti-histamines to reduce inflammation and wet wrap bandaging to soothe dry itchy skin. Ultra Violet light treatment and stronger medication may be considered for very severe eczema.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE THAT I CAN DO?
As well as using emollients and steroids there are several other ways which may help to reduce the severity of atopic eczema. It should be stressed, however, that what works for one person, will not always work for another. Eczema is a highly individual condition, which is why it is so difficult to find a "cure-all".
Reducing the itch
For children in particular, the itchiness of eczema can be very distressing. There are many methods of reducing the itchiness of the skin and minimizing the damage from scratching. Cotton clothing and bedding keep the skin cool and allow it to breathe, whereas synthetic fabrics and wool can irritate. The use of a non-biological washing powder and avoidance of fabric softeners, can also help to reduce the itchiness of the skin. Children’s nails should be kept short. During the day, distraction is often the best way of reducing the amount of scratching. At night-time, cotton mittens over children’s hands can be helpful in reducing damage to the skin occurring during sleep.
Reducing the effect of the house dust mite
It is thought that people who have atopic eczema may be affected by allergens in the droppings of the house dust mite. This mite thrives in warm and moist environments and unfortunately likes to live in bedding, mattresses, curtains and carpets. It is believed that reducing the amount of house dust mites in the home may improve the condition of the skin. This can be achieved in a number of ways, from effective and regular vacuuming, to damp dusting and airing of bedding.
CAN CHANGING MY DIET HELP?
The role of diet in the management of eczema has not been ascertained. Generally changes in diet are only considered in severe cases, when conventional treatments are failing.
ARE THERE ANY OTHER TREATMENTS?
Many people prefer to explore the use of complementary therapies in addition, or as an alternative, to conventional treatments. Complementary therapists offer a holistic approach which is usually based upon the individual’s needs.
It is essential to let your doctor know if you are starting another course of treatment, since interactions can occur between certain medications.
If you would like to see our products that treat eczema try reading our information about Dermazinc and Proteque, both safe for children.
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