Eczema is a skin condition that leaves red blotches on your skin and makes them itch, usually on the face, arms, and legs. It mostly affects children, but an estimated 18 million adults suffer from this condition too. The rashes tend to go away for some time but come back over a period of time. This condition triggers inflammation in your skin, leaving it dry and prone to itching.
If you notice changes in the appearance of your skin or if you develop skin rashes and/or irritation, you can consult the best dermatologist in East New York. Please contact Doral Health and Wellness Dermatology Center to schedule an appointment.
Eczema is a common condition but not contagious although it can be severe and long-lasting. It may improve at times but more often than not, it could get worse.
Symptoms of Eczema
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that can affect people of all ages. It causes the skin to become inflamed, itchy, dry, and irritated. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and often flare up periodically.
Common symptoms of eczema include:
Dry, sensitive skin: One of the earliest and most persistent signs. The skin may feel rough or scaly to the touch.
Itching: Often intense and worse at night. Constant scratching can worsen the condition and lead to skin damage.
Red or brownish-gray patches: These can appear anywhere, but are most commonly found on the hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, and in the bends of the elbows and knees.
Thickened, cracked, or scaly skin: Long-term eczema can cause areas of the skin to become thicker or develop a leathery texture.
Small, raised bumps: These may leak fluid when scratched and form crusts.
Swelling and inflammation: Especially during flare-ups, the affected areas may become swollen or warm to the touch.
Skin infections: Repeated scratching can break the skin, leading to open sores and increasing the risk of bacterial infections.
In infants, eczema often appears on the face and scalp, while in older children and adults, it is more common in the folds of the arms and legs.
If you or your child is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to consult a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Early intervention can help manage symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening.
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Treatments and Home Remedies
Although it is hard to cure eczema, there might be some prescriptions your doctors might suggest to manage your symptoms. These might include creams and ointments. Some other times, antihistamines are used to control itching, antibiotics for any bacterial infection, and injectable biologics.
After a flare-up, there are some things you can do to prevent another one from recurring. Treatments are also unique depending on what causes your symptoms.
- Avoid triggers – You should figure out and observe what triggers your eczema so you could avoid it and prevent another episode of an eczema flare-up.
- Take care of your skin – Keeping your skin moisturized is one of the best ways in taking good care of your skin. Use gentle moisturizers throughout the day to prevent your skin from drying. Apply moisturizers while your skin is damp, preferably after a bath or after your shower.
- Use gentle soaps – Use only mild soaps on your skin. Avoid soaps that have too much perfume and chemicals on it as it can irritate your skin.
- Apply topical medications – only use medications that are prescribed by your medical provider to avoid further irritation.
- Oral medications – take oral medications such as anti-inflammatory medicines and antihistamines to lessen the itchiness and swelling.
- Light therapy – these are known to help improve the appearance of your skin and remove blemishes that are left behind after your flare-ups.
- Immunosuppressants – these types of drugs can help regulate and strengthen your immune system to fight off flare-ups.
Eczema is not contagious. You can’t catch it or infect someone by touching them. Although suffering from this condition can have a huge impact on your quality of life. The itch can make it harder for you to concentrate, it can also cost you your sleep and makes you irritable.
While there is no definite cure yet, it is best to consult a dermatologist to help you manage the symptoms and avoid further flare-ups. At Doral Health and Wellness Dermatology Center, we have the best dermatologists that can help you take care of your skin. As dermatology experts in East New York, we are dedicated in providing the best services. You can visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, 11212, to schedule an appointment. You can also call us at 1-347-384-5690 or visit our website at https://www.bestbrooklyndermatologist.com.
