1. A Most Common Rash
Atopic eczema, or dermatitis (meaning "skin inflammation"), is a common red itchy skin condition that usually strikes infants and younger children. The condition is marked by dry, red, inflamed skin and itchiness. It can appear anywhere on the body. When present in infants, it is called infantile eczema and the rash usually appears on the face. Atopic eczema has periods of flare-ups between remissions. As children grow into their teens, almost two out of three grow out of atopic eczema. It is rare that this condition develops in adults.
2. Causes of Eczema
The cause of atopic eczema remains a mystery. It is believed that the condition results from an unusual reaction of the immune system against the skin, but the underlying causes of this reaction are not known. Factors such as stress, pollution, infections, allergies, changes in climate and even diet intolerance may combine and play roles in the development of atopic eczema. The condition has become more common in recent years and that, too, remains a mystery.
3. A Laundry List of Irritants and Triggers
Since the word "atopic" refers to an allergic reaction that tends to run in families or be hereditary (about eight in 10 children with both parents having this or any type of allergy, or atopy, including asthma, hay fever or food allergies, will develop atopic eczema), it is thought that possible allergic irritants likely act as triggers. Exposure to dust mites, some soaps or lotions and irritating fabrics might lead to this type of eczema. Stress is not believed to be a trigger, but can exacerbate the condition once it is present.
4. What to Do When Atopic Eczema Gets Under Your Skin
There is no cure for atopic eczema; treatment focuses on easing the symptoms. This requires special care be given to the skin. Use moisturizing creams (lotions are not as effective) to help dry skin. Avoid using hard, harsh soaps and long, hot baths or showers, as hot water dries out the skin. Pat dry with a towel, do not rub dry after washing. Avoid anything believed to be an irritant or trigger (wear softer cotton fabrics, for instance).
5. Calling In the Pros When All Else Fails
In most cases, a treatment plan for atopic eczema will include self-care as well as medical treatment. Topical steroid creams will be prescribed, usually starting with a mild steroid and working up to a more potent one if there is no change in the condition (this is due to potential side effects of stronger steroidal creams, such as thinning of the skin and development of other skin conditions such as acne or other types of dermatitis). In severe cases, other treatments such as antibiotics or newer topical immunomodulators that work to reduce skin inflammation and do not contain steroids may be used.
