Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a general term that is used to describe inflammation of the skin. Eczema has become a very well-known skin condition, with an estimated 35 million Americans suffering from some form of eczema. The condition tends to affect children more so than adults, with 70% of cases beginning in children under the age of 5 years old. Although eczema does tend to clear up in children, it does affect adults as well, with around 1-3% of the adult population living with the skin condition.

Eczema is most recognizable by red, scaly patches on the skin. You may have noticed it on yourself or on the face of your child, specifically cheeks and chin. However, there are many different types of eczema that come with their own signs and symptoms. The most common types of eczema are contact dermatitis, nummular dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, stasis dermatitis, and in children, atopic dermatitis.

If you are one of the many suffering from Eczema, there is good news: eczema is usually easily cured. The key to treating and curing your eczema is understanding the symptoms, type, and cause of your eczema. Below you will find helpful information for kicking your eczema to the curb.

Eczema Symptoms

Eczema can come in many shapes and sizes. Below are a few of the most common eczema symptoms:

  • Inflammation of the skin
  • Red or dark colored patches on the skin
  • Dry skin
  • Sensitive skin
  • Severe itching
  • Scaly, rough, or leathery patches of skin
  • Swelling of the skin
  • Oozing or crusting

Eczema can affect everyone differently. If you have been battling a few or all of the symptoms above, you may be suffering from eczema. In order to confirm this, it is recommended to make an appointment with a skin specialist, such as Blue Ridge Dermatology.

Common Types of Eczema

There are many different types of eczema. Below you will find information on the most common varieties

Contact Dermatitis

When you come into contact with an allergen that causes a skin reaction, this is known as contact dermatitis. The three main types of contact dermatitis are irritant contact dermatitis, caused by the skin touching a substance such as a chemical, allergic contact dermatitis, which may take a few days for symptoms to develop, and contact urticaria, also known as hives.

Nummular Dermatitis

Nummular Dermatitis tends to appear on the skin in a reddened round or oval shape. It is most commonly caused by an abrasion to the skin, a bite, or a burn. This type of eczema is most common in men ages 55-65.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic Dermatitis is a chronic form of eczema with no known cause. If you are suffering from seborrheic dermatitis, hormones and genetics may be to blame. Seborrheic dermatitis may be triggered by stress, hormonal changes, weather changes (cold, dry temperatures), and certain detergents or chemicals. Most often, this type of eczema appears around high oil-producing areas such as the scalp, face, and back.

Stasis Dermatitis

This type of eczema tends to occur around veins on the lower extremities, such as legs and feet. It is caused by the veins causing pressure under the skin which results in swelling, itching, redness, and scaling of the skin.

Infant and Toddler Eczema

Eczema is a common skin condition in babies and toddlers, with the most common strand being atopic dermatitis. It tends to appear between age 6 months and 5 years. In babies, eczema normally appears on their face. As they age, it can occur around other areas such as elbows, knees, wrists, ankles, and hands. If you suspect your child is suffering from eczema, please contact a dermatologist for further diagnosis.

Eczema Treatments

Just as there are many different varieties of eczema, there are many different treatment methods available. If you are experiencing eczema due to an allergen, such as a chemical, avoiding the allergen should be your first step.

Some eczema sufferers find relief in over-the-counter lotions and creams, while others need professional treatment. Below are a few ways that eczema can be dealt with:

  • Immunosuppressants
  • Moisturizing
  • Phototherapy
  • Topical Calcineurin
  • Inhibitors
  • Topical Corticosteroids
  • Bathing
  • Natural Remedies

Don’t Suffer Any Longer

If you believe you are experiencing eczema, contact our office today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced team of dermatologists will examine your skin and determine what type of skin condition you are suffering from and recommend a treatment plan. You don’t have to endure the discomfort of eczema, Blue Ridge Dermatology Associates is here to help.