Eczema and Dermatitis are similar terms used to describe group of inflamed skin conditions having inflamed skin that result in chronic, relapsing and very itchy rashes. Adultsas well as infants can suffer from some form of eczema. There is no known cause for the condition, but it appears to involve an overactive immune system in the presence of certain materials and often occurs in people susceptible to allergies. Symptoms vary from person to person, mostly include dry, red, itchy patches on the skin which, when scratched, tend to break out in rashes. Sometimes rashes develop blisters and ooze; other times they may be more scaly. Lichenification can occur due to excessive scratching, that is defined as a leathery texture caused due to skin thickening.
Objects and conditions that trigger itchy eczema outbreaks may include excessive heat or sweating,rough or coarse materials touching the skin,disinfectants, fruit and meat juices, soaps, detergents, dust mites, animal saliva, upper respiratory infections and physical or emotional stress. Flare-ups can be minimized by avoidance of these triggers.
Oral antihistamines, such as Benadryl, are used to treat severe allergic itching associated with eczema, and oral corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may be prescribed to treat acute eczema outbreaks.
Minimizing exposure to soaps and detergents, using gentle, soothing skin care products and keeping skin moisturized may also be an important part of treating your eczema.
