Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

 Eczema is a condition where in patches of skin become inflammed ,itchy ,cracked and rough .But sometimes can also cause blisters.

SYMPTOMS
The symptoms of atopic dermatitis can vary depending on the age of person who has it.

Atopic Dermatitis is common in infants, with dry and scaly appearing on the skin. These patches are often intensely itchy

 Continuous rubbing and scratching can lead to skin infection.

In most cases, however, eczema is mild. The most common symptoms of atopic dermatitis include;

1. dry,scaly skin

2. skin flushing

3. itching

4. open crusted, or weeping sores

      People with severe eczema will need more  intensive treatment to relieve their symptoms

Most people with this condition develop it before the age of 5 years . However an estimated 60% of children will no longer show symptoms by adolescence .

Symptoms in infants

rashes on scalp and cheeks , rashes on cheeks, rashes that bubble up before leaking fluid, rashes that can cause itchiness

Symptoms in chldren

rashes that appear behind the creases  of elbows and knees, rashes that appear on the neck,wrists ,ankles, and the crease between the buttocks and legs, bumpy rashes, rashes that can become lighter or darker, skin thickening also known as lichenification, which can then develop into a permanent itch

Symptoms in adults

rashes that are more scaly than those occurring  in children ,rashes that commonly appear in the creases of the elbows and knees or the nape of the neck. rashes that are permanently itchy

Causes

irritants( soap, detergents, shampoos, disinfectants)

Allergens ;Dust mites, pets, pollens, and mold can all leads to eczema

Microbes;  They include bacteria such as Staphylococcus Aureus, viruses and certain fungi

Foods; Dairy products, eggs, nuts and seeds

hormones; Females may experience increased eczema symptoms when their hormone levels are changing ,such as during pregnancy and at certain points in the menstrual cycles

Treatments

There is currently no cure for eczema

For some people eczema goes away over time. For others , however it is a lifelong condition

Home Care

they can try,

lukewarm water baths, apply moisturizer with in 3 minutes of bathing to lock in moisture, using humidifier in dry or cold weather, wearing cotton and soft fabrics, moisturizing every day

Medications

topical corticosteroids, systemic corticosteroids, anti biotics, anti viral and anti fungal medications

Summary

Eczema is a common inflammatory skin condition . The most common type is called Atopic dermatitis

Eczema is most common among children, but the majority grow out of it by the time they reach adolescense