What is Atopic Eczema?

Eczema refers to a red, scaly, itchy, sometimes weeping skin condition. Atopy refers to an allergic condition that tends to run in families and includes problems such as asthma, hay fever, atopic eczema and skin sensitivities. However, anyone can become allergic.

Atopic eczema is common and effects about 5% of the population. It is not contagious. No particular cause have been found.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ECZEMA?

In mild cases the skin is slightly red, scaly, and itchy and covers small areas. In infants, it usually starts on the face and scalp; in severe cases it can cover large areas, is very itchy and starts to weep and become crusted. The children may be very irritable, and uncomfortable.

WHAT AGES ARE AFFECTED?

Eczema usually starts in infants from any age. It tends to improve from 1- 2 years old, but the rash may persist in certain areas, such as the flexures of the elbows and knees, the face and neck, and the fingers and toes. It tends to be coarse, dry and itchy at this stage. Many children have outgrown it by late childhood, most by puberty, but a few have it all their lives.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF ECZEMA?

It is not a dangerous disease, but infection can occur from scratching, especially if the skin is raw. Contact with herpes simplex (cold sores) can produce nasty reactions. Patients have a tendency to develop asthma and other atopies later.

WHAT THINGS APPEAR TO AGGRAVATE OR CAUSE ECZEMA?

·       Sand, especially sandpits

·       Dust

·       Soaps and detergents

·       Rough and woollen clothes

·       Scratching and rubbing

·       Frequent washing with soap, especially in winter

·       Drying preparations such as calamine lotion

·       Extremes of temperature, especially cold weather with low humidity

·       Stress and emotional upsets

·       Teething

·       Certain foods which parents may identify

Note: The relationship of diet to eczema is controversial and uncertain. It may be worthwhile avoiding certain suspect foods for a 3-4 week trial - these include cows' milk, fish, eggs, wheat, oranges and peanuts.

WHAT ABOUT SKIN TESTS AND INJECTIONS?

The value of allergy testing is doubtful, and desensitisation injections may make the eczema worse.

WHAT IS THE TREATMENT FOR ECZEMA?

SELF HELP

• Avoid soap and perfumed products- use a bland bath oil in the bath and aqueous cream for the skin to keep it moisturised
  
• Older children and adults should have short tepid showers
• Avoid rubbing and scratching- use gauze bandages with hand splints for infants
• Avoid sudden changes of temperatures, especially those that can cause sweating
• Wear light, soft, loose clothes such as cotton clothing, which should always be worn next to the skin
• Avoid dusty conditions and sand, especially sandpits

A Comprehensive Allergy Test can be done at a medical clinic.

Comprehensive Allergies Test for up to 101 allergens:
* Food Allergy eg Seafood, Nuts, Eggs, Fish, Meat, Fruits, Seeds or Vegetables
* Dust/Mold Allergy
* Insect Sting Allergy
* Pet/Cockroach Allergy
* Eye or Skin Allergy
* Sinus Infection/Allergic Rhinitis
* Drug/Latex Allergy

Contact Dermatitis Common Allergens

Dermatology Problems - Treatment of Acne, Dry Skin, Warts, Corns & Calluses on Feet

Skin Problems - Treatment for Allergies, Dermatitis, Eczema & Urticaria/Hives

The information provided in this website is for knowledge purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice.

Should you encounter any medical problem that you are unsure of, always consult your doctor or health care provider for assistance and medical advice.

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