Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that causes red, dry and itchy skin. While there is no known cure, Wollongong Dermatology can help provide a variety of treatments and ways to manage it.
Atopic dermatitis usually develops in early childhood and is more common in people who have a family history of the condition. The main symptom is a rash that typically appears on the arms and behind the knees, but can also appear anywhere.
There are a number of different types of dermatitis, some of which are caused by factors within the body and others caused by triggers from outside the body. There are a range of dermatitis types that affect the skin in a variety of different ways.
Atopic Eczema is the most common form of eczema and can usually be linked with other medical conditions such as hay fever and asthma. Usually inherited genetically, atopic eczema relates to the individual losing their skin barrier, which can lead to the skin losing moisture. This also means that microbes and other immune system stimulants can get in, creating inflammation, dryness, redness and itchiness. Individuals often find that their skin is very sensitive to materials such as wool, soaps and perfumes and avoiding these products can improve symptoms.
Contact Eczema (irritant and allergic contact eczema) occurs when a stimulus from outside the body causes the skin to become irritated and inflamed. A common cause of contact eczema is occupational exposure, for example, healthcare workers washing their hands frequently with soaps or beauticians and hairdressers working with chemicals in products such as nail polish and hair dyes. Contact dermatitis can affect any part of the body, but the hands and face are the most commonly affected areas.
As there is no cure for atopic dermatitis, treatment focuses on reducing symptoms and preventing flare-ups. Treatment can include:
Eczema Treatments
- Reducing Trigger
Exposure - Regular
Moisturising - Immuno-
suppressive Drugs - Oral
Corticosteroids - Antihistamines
- Phototherapy
- Antibiotics
- Topical
Steroids
Frequently asked questions
How common is eczema?
The most common type of eczema is known as atopic dermatitis. Eczema affects about 10% to 20% of infants and about 3% of adults and children. Most infants who develop the condition outgrow it by their tenth birthday, while some people continue to have symptoms on and off throughout life.
Is eczema contagious?
The most common form of eczema is not contagious. However, if the raw, irritated skin of eczema becomes infected, the infecting agent may be contagious.
What are some common eczema triggers?
When trying to identify potential triggers, keep in mind that an eczema flare can appear some time after exposure. This lag time can make some triggers challenging to detect. Some common triggers include dry skin, irritants (soaps, dyes, certain fabrics, etc.), stress, climate, sweat, infection, allergens and hormones.
What are the first symptoms of eczema?
Usually, the first symptom of eczema is intense itching, the rash then appears later and is red with bumps of differing sizes. This rash itches and may burn, especially in thin skin like the eyelids. Eyelids themselves are often puffy, red and itchy.
What are my treatment options? Which treatment do you recommend and why?
Creams or ointments containing corticosteroid are the main treatment for flare-ups. They relieve itching by reducing inflammation in your skin, and are very effective and safe when used correctly. During an eczema flare-up, corticosteroids should be applied to the entire area of skin that is inflamed. The dermatologist will help select the appropriate strength of cream to use on different parts of the skin.
What are the possible side effects of treatment?
The common side effects for eczema treatment are redness and stinging on the skin.
How is eczema diagnosed?
No lab test is needed to identify atopic dermatitis (eczema). Your dermatologist will likely make a diagnosis by examining your skin and reviewing your medical history. They may also use patch testing or other tests to rule out other skin diseases or identify conditions that accompany your eczema.
Further Information
Understanding Dermatitis
Guides and fact sheets for people with dermatitis, and treatment options.
Questions for your Dermatologist
A practical checklist of questions for your dermatologist during and after treatment.