Eczema is a noncontagious skin condition, also known as dermatitis, that causes dry, scaly, sometimes blistery and often itchy rashes. There are several types of eczema, each affecting different parts of the body. Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema and can be the most severe. The causes of different types of eczema vary, but treatment is similar in most cases and the goal in all cases is to improve skin condition and decrease the number of flare-ups.
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis appears as a rough, raised, itchy rash and inflamed skin, typically on the backs of the knees, inside of the elbows and on the face, but it may appear anywhere on the body. People with atopic dermatitis have high levels of Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria on their skin but the condition is not contagious.
Other Types
Contact dermatitis causes itchy, burning skin on the hands or any other part of the body that comes in contact with an irritating substance. Dyshidrotic dermatitis appears as a blistery rash on the fingers, palms of the hand or soles of the feet. Nummular dermatitis appears as a dry, circular rash, often on the lower part of the leg. This type of eczema, which affects more men than women, is distinctive in that the resulting rash is rarely itchy. Seborrheic dermatitis appears as a scaly, itchy, red rash, most typically on the scalp, nose, eyelids, behind the ears and on the chest.
Causes
Eczema flare-ups may be caused by bacterial, fungal or viral infections, allergies including food allergies, and extremes in air temperature, dryness and humidity. Emotional stress, though not a cause of eczema, can trigger or worsen flare-ups.
Atopic dermatitis is genetically linked to both asthma and hay fever and often occurs in people who have these conditions or who have a family history of these conditions.
Contact dermatitis is a reactive form of eczema caused by contact with certain irritants. People with contact dermatitis may react to chemicals, detergents, paints, wool and cosmetic products that contain alcohol.
Management
Develop a consistent skin care routine to help prevent flare-ups and reduce the severity of outbreaks when they occur. Use ointments and skin creams (not lotions) specifically developed for eczema or sensitive skin to keep skin well moisturized at all times. Apply moisturizer within a few minutes of taking a bath or shower.
Avoid clothing and bedding made from rough, scratchy or synthetic fabrics such as wool, nylon and polyester. Choose natural and organic fabrics to avoid contact with chemically treated fibers. Use unscented and hypoallergenic laundry detergents. Avoid household chemicals and if you must use them, wear rubber or plastic gloves over cotton gloves to protect your hands.
Use a humidifier in the home every day to help keep skin hydrated in dry climates and during dry seasons. Managing stress and negative emotions, like anger, can also help lessen the severity of flare-ups.
Medications
Over-the-counter and prescription topical steroid medications help keep skin hydrated and relieve itching and inflammation. Antihistamines and anti-anxiety medications taken in the evening can help relieve itching and act as sleep aids. Topical and oral antibiotics may be prescribed in severe cases when scratching leads to skin infection.
