Definition

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammation of the outer layers of the skin. This condition is not contagious.

Eczema Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

The exact cause of eczema is unknown. Factors that may contribute to eczema include:

• Genetics
• Environment
• Allergies to certain fabrics, perfumes in soaps, dust mites (common), or foods
• Stress, especially if it leads to scratching
• Frequent washing of affected areas
• Use of rubber gloves in persons sensitive to latex
• Scratching or rubbing of skin

Risk Factors    TOP

Factors that increase your chance of eczema:

• Age: 5 years old or younger—eczema becomes less common after the ages of 5-10
• Asthma or hay fever
• Urban areas or places with low humidity
• Relatives who have eczema or allergic disorders
• Race: Black or Asian

Symptoms    TOP

The symptoms vary from person to person. Scratching and rubbing can cause or worsen some of the symptoms. Symptoms include:

• Dry, itchy skin
• Cracks behind the ears or in other skin creases
• Rashes on the cheeks, arms, and legs
• Red, scaly skin
• Thick, leathery skin
• Small, raised bumps on the skin
• Crusting, oozing, or cracking of the skin
• Symptoms that worsen in the winter when inside air is dry due to central heating

Diagnosis    TOP

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. You may be referred to specialist. A dermatologist focuses on skin disorders. An allergist focuses on allergies.

Treatment    TOP

The main goals of eczema treatments are to:

• Heal the skin and keep it healthy
• Stop scratching or rubbing
• Avoid skin infection
• Prevent flare-ups
• Recognize and avoid triggers, if there are any

Treatment options may vary. Your doctor may recommend more than one depending on your condition. They include:

Prevention    TOP

It is difficult to prevent eczema. This is most true when there is a strong family history.

You may be able to reduce your child's risk of eczema by:

• Breastfeeding
• For bottlefed infants, using a certain kind of formula—Ask the doctor if your baby should have 100% whey protein formula
• Exposing your child to pets at an early age
• Taking probiotics while pregnant and after giving birth if you are breastfeeding

Your doctor may have more information regarding steps for reducing the risk of eczema.

If you already have eczema, there are several things you can do to try to control it:

• Follow guidelines to limit house dust mites in bedding.
• Avoid direct contact with wool to the skin.
• Talk to your doctor about any natural or herbal treatments. Some of these may make eczema worse.
• Apply a moisturizer to your skin often.
• Avoid scratching or rubbing.
• Follow your treatment plan. Improvement may take several weeks or even months after a new medicine is started.
• Maintain a cool, stable environment. Keep humidity levels the same.
• Recognize and limit emotional stress.