Eczema is a disease characterized by inflammation of the upper layers of skin.
It features an itchy, scaly and swollen rash and is a recurring skin condition where the skin turns red and inflamed and then forms dry, greasy scales.
It is mainly found on the face, chest and areas like the elbows, behind the knees, and sometimes the scalp.
It is difficult to diagnose because of the variety of areas affected and the triggers that cause it.
There are a number of types of eczema including: oContact dermatitis oSeborrheic dermatitis oDermatitis herpetiformis oNeurodermatitis oAtopic eczema oXerotic eczema oDiscoid eczema oVenous eczema oDyshidrosis Contact dermatitis is generally caused by contact with or exposure to something that the skin is sensitive to.
If it can be determined what the agent is that the person reacts to, avoidance of such an agent is normally successful in controlling the symptoms.
There are tests available which can identify the causes.
Seborrheic dermatitis is known more commonly as cradle cap in infants and as dandruff in adults.
Symptoms range from dry patches on the scalp to, in more severe cases, red pimply patches.
Dermatitis herpetiformis is characterized by a rash on the arms, knees, thighs, and back.
As it is directly linked to celiac disease, it can often be controlled with a gluten free diet.
Neurodermatitis is caused by a behavioral problem such as habitual scratching or rubbing of an area, causing a thickened, reddened patch of eczema.
It can often be controlled by anti inflammatory treatments and a change in the behaviors.
Atopic eczema is often found in families who suffer from asthma and is believed to be hereditary.
It is an itchy rash usually found on the face, scalp, buttocks, and the inside of the elbows and back of the knees.
Xerotic eczema usually occurs in cold, dry weather and is characterized by itchiness on the limbs and trunk.
It affects people of any age but is more common in older people.
Discoid eczema is found on the legs and shows up as either a dry or oozing rash that is clearly defined.
It is intermittent but shows up more often in the winter months.
Venous eczema, as the name suggests, is linked to circulation.
It normally affects people who suffer from varicose veins and bad circulation.
It generally affects people over fifty and is characterized by itching, red scales and darkening of the skin.
It also often triggers leg ulcers.
Dyshidrosis shows up as little bumps on the skin of the hands and feet and is normally itchier at night and in the heat.
To have your condition diagnosed, a doctor will consider the following: oMedication oDiet oLifestyle oFamily history oAllergies oChemical exposure These factors may help narrow down the triggers but a blood test may be required to make a definite diagnosis.
There are many treatments available for this condition, both pharmaceutical and natural.
Sometimes it is a case of trial and error to find the right treatment to give you relief from your condition