To begin with, it is important for you to remember that eczema is basically an umbrella term used for a group of skin conditions, which typically causes the skin to become red, irritated and itchy. It is usually identified by the presence of symptoms like skin oedema, crusting, flaking, blistering, cracking, oozing or bleeding.

Experts indicate that in families where there has been a history of eczema, the present and future generations are more likely to develop the disease. The second most prominent cause of eczema is allergy to specific substances. These usually include the likes of poison ivy, nickel or various solvents.

In addition, individuals who have dry skin are more likely to get eczema, especially when the dryness goes beyond a specific level. Though eczema can occur very often in small babies without any such cause, yet when it occurs in adults, it usually has a concrete logic and cause behind it.

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Infection is the most serious risk associated with eczema. Because eczema is so itchy, it is common for those affected to scratch the area until the top layer of skin has been broken.  Our skin protects us externally through the dermis and if this is damaged, bacteria can easily make its way and cause an infection.

It is recommended to keep fingernails short to minimize the damage of continuous scratching.  When children have eczema, it is also recommended to use mittens to decrease the damage caused by scratching.

Types of Treatment for Eczema:

Treatment will depend on the type of eczema that was diagnosed.  Here are the common treatments.

1. Medication – non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, commonly known as NSAIDS, such as ibuprofen, naproxen and others are often prescribed to reduce the inflammation.  Corticosteroids, which are drugs that imitate the hormones produced by adrenal glands, are also given for inflammation.  Benzocaine is also given for inflammation, but it is applied topically. Antihistamines are also prescribed at times.
2. Lotion – Calamine lotion soothes the affected area and gives extra protection as well.
3. Wet wrap bandage – Wet wrap bandages also soothes dry and itchy skin.  Cotton clothing and bedding is recommended as cotton allows skin to breathe, thus keeping skin cool.
4. Shampoos and ointments – Products containing coal tar additives can help patches of red, itchy skin decrease in size.
5. Ultraviolet light treatments – These treatments are usually considered for severe eczema.When considering treatments, it is best to consult a professional.

Remember that a treatment which is described as natural or herbal is not guaranteed to be safe.  Also, keep in mind that what works for one person might not work for everyone.  

Here are the most common types of eczema.

Atopic eczema – This is the most common form of eczema and is closely linked with asthma and hay fever. 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 intolerable. 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.  Atopic eczema commonly appears during infancy.  It then acts up and subsides regularly throughout life.

Adult Seborrheic Eczema – Seborrheic eczema is frequently misdiagnosed as dry skin.  In fact, seborrheic eczema is not at all linked with dry skin.  Research signifies that it is related to genetics; however the exact relation has not yet been established.  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.  It is interesting to note that this type of eczema occurs in patients with some forms of mental or neurological issues (such as Parkinson’s disease).    

For the treatment of adult seborrheic eczema on the head, it is recommended to wash daily with a shampoo that has tar, salicylic acid, sulfur or selenium.  For seborrheic eczema on the skin, hydrocortisone cream is very effective.  Systemic antibiotics are sometimes prescribed.  Remember to consult your physician before you begin any kind of treatment.

Infantile Seborrheic Eczema – This is 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.  It is easy to diagnose by the appearance of thick, yellowish scales on the infant’s head.  But it also appears in other areas like the neck, face and behind the ears. Although this type of eczema looks unpleasant, it is not sore or itchy and does not cause the baby to feel uncomfortable. This type of eczema usually clears in just a few months. 

The use of moisturizing creams and bath oils can help to speed this along.  There are also products formulated for infants with cradle cap.  It is important to follow the instructions carefully as baby skin is very sensitive. As always, consult with your physician or pediatrician before starting any kind of treatment.

Varicose eczema -  This type of eczema is caused by poor circulation.  It usually affects the lower legs of those in their middle to late years.  It is also seen in people who are obese, going through menopause and pregnancy.  The skin around the ankles is commonly affected.  The affected area becomes spotted, itchy and inflamed. Treatment is usually with emollients and steroid creams.  If varicose eczema is not treated, there is a possibility that the skin breaks down and forms ulcers.

Discoid Eczema – This type of eczema is easily identified as it appears as round patches about the size of coins.  Discoid eczema commonly occurs on the lower part of the legs, arms and the trunk.  There seems to be no apparent trigger for discoid eczema.  It suddenly develops and typically affects older men.
 
Allergic Contact Eczema  – This type of eczema develops when our immune system reacts against something that came in contact with the skin. The allergic reaction frequently develops over a period of time through the repeated contact with the substance.  For example, you may develop an allergic reaction to nickel, which is commonly found in earrings, jeans buttons and buckles.  To prevent repeated reactions, it is best to prevent contact with anything that you are aware of that causes a rash or irritation.   

Irritant Contact Eczema – This is a very common type of eczema.  It is caused by the recurrent contact with substances we use daily.  These include detergents and chemicals.  As such, it usually occurs on the hands of adults and can be prevented by avoiding the irritants.

Eczema, or dermatitis as it is sometimes called, is a group of skin conditions which can affect all age groups. It affects the epidermis and it can affect any individual, regardless of genetics, racial background or age.  It is commonly described as persistent, painful and itchy.  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.  This can cause eczema to look unpleasant, but it is not contagious.

What Causes Eczema?

There are several and various causes of eczema.  It is also dependent on the particular type of eczema that a person has.  For instance, atopic eczema is said to be hereditary, being linked genetically.  It has been observed that people with atopic eczema are sensitive to allergens in the environment which are harmless to others.  Associated atopic conditions include asthma and hay fever.

Other types of eczema are caused by irritants such as chemicals and detergents, and allergens (such as nickel, and yeast growths).  The causes of certain types of eczema remain to be explained, but connections with environmental factors and stress are being

Categories of Eczema

There are two categories of eczema:

1. Endogenous eczema – No apparent trigger or cause is considered.
2. Eczematous dermatitis – External triggers such as allergens are considered.

The primary symptoms of eczema include the appearance of itchy red rashes.  Other symptoms include scaly and thick skin and sometimes there’s even discoloration. Eczema can develop on any part of the body.  There is also no consistency in the length of time each flare-up will last. Eczema that develops in the folds of skin tends to be more irritating because of the continuous rubbing.