Eczema
is a general term for any type of dermatitis (inflammation
of the skin). Skin diseases that are “eczemas”
include atopic dermatitis, nummular eczema, dyshidrotic
eczema, contact dermatitis and hypersensitivity
dermatitis (which may be caused by medications,
infections/infestations and/or allergies).
| • |
When people with atopic
and dyshidrotic dermatitis are exposed to
an irritant or allergen to which they are
sensitive, their immune system is stimulated
to produce inflammatory cells that enter the
skin and release chemicals that cause itching
and redness. |
| • |
All types of eczema
can be itchy and red; some types may weep,
crack, peel or blister. |
| • |
Irritants are substances
that cause burning, itch and redness. Astringents
and toners, alcohol or acid-containing skin
products, acidic foods, detergents, fumes
and industrial chemicals are a few examples
of skin irritants. |
| • |
Scratching dermatitis
can lead to hyperpigmentation (skin darkening),
nodules (raised bumps on the skin) and scars. |
| • |
Atopic dermatitis very
often occurs together with other atopic diseases
like hay fever, seasonal or pet allergies,
asthma and conjunctivitis. It is a chronic
condition that can worsen or disappear over
time. Atopic dermatitis may sometimes be mistaken
for psoriasis. |
| • |
Medical moisturizers
(also known as barrier repair creams or emollients)
are now available to improve skin barrier
function in people with eczema and atopic
dermatitis. A few of these are Biafine, CeraVe
and Mimyx. |
|
