Do you often face the issue of itching and redness on the skin? If yes, then you might have the issue of eczema. It is a common skin condition in children, but adults can also get it. When we think of eczema, the first thing that comes to our mind is red, itchy, inflamed, and dry patches on the skin. But have you ever thought that what leads to such annoying rashes on our skin?
If no, then here is an article with all you need to know about this annoying health issue. We have covered a list of answers related to most common questions about eczema or atopic dermatitis, like what is eczema, what causes eczema, how to cure eczema fast, atopic dermatitis symptoms and eczema treatment.
What is Eczema?
Eczema refers to a skin condition in which skin patches become itchy, red, rough, inflamed, and cracked. Eczema also leads to blisters on the skin. Eczema is also known as atopic dermatitis, which is the most common type of eczema. The word atopic means allergy. People suffering from the issue of atopic dermatitis have asthma or allergy, along with dry, red, and itchy skin. Now, I hope the answer to the question of what is eczema is quite clear to you. If not, then read about eczema for further information.
Symptoms of Eczema
Symptoms of atopic dermatitis can differ on the basis of age and person having the issue. The issue of atopic dermatitis is mostly faced by infants. Atopic dermatitis occurs in infants, with the appearance of scaly and dry patches on the skin. These patches are highly itchy most of the time. Most of the time, atopic dermatitis is developed in people before the age of 5. The symptoms differ depending upon the age of the person. Here are some of the eczema or atopic dermatitis symptoms.
Atopic Dermatitis Symptoms in Children Under 2 years
- Rashes mostly on cheeks and scalp
- Most of the time rashes bubble up
- Extreme itchiness in rashes. Avoid continuous scratching to avoid infection
Symptoms in Children between 2 years until Puberty
- Most of the time rashes appear behind the folds of knees or elbows
- Rashes are also common on wrists, ankles, and the folds between legs and buttocks
- Over time the rashes can also become bumpy and can darken or lighten in color
- After some time rashes thicken in a procedure namely lichenification
Atopic Dermatitis Symptoms in Adults
- Rashes occur in the folds of knees or elbows
- Rashes start covering most of the body
- Rashes can be permanently itchy and can lead to dry skin
- Rashes can also result in skin infection
Adults who have faced the issue of atopic dermatitis in childhood may still have easily-irritated or dry skin.
Eczema Causes and Treatment
Seeking what causes eczema or eczema causes and treatment? Here you go – Specific atopic dermatitis causes are still unknown; nevertheless, it is believed that the issue develops as a result of a combination of environmental and genetic factors. It is not a contagious issue. Children are more likely to have atopic dermatitis if any of the parent or both has or ever had the issue. Environmental factors are also considered responsible for the issue. Some of the common atopic dermatitis causes are as follows.
- Allergens – Pets, mold, dandruff, and pollens can lead to eczema
- Foods – These include eggs, nuts, dairy products, and even wheat in certain cases
- Irritants – The eczema cause include shampoos, soaps, certain fruits or vegetables
- Hormones – Women can have increased symptoms of eczema due to changing hormone levels like during pregnancy or at a specific point of time in the menstrual cycle
- Microbes – Certain bacteria, fungi, and the virus can also lead to eczema
Eczema Treatment
There is no specific cure to atopic dermatitis; nevertheless, eczema treatment intents to prevent the symptoms of flare-ups and heal the prevented skin. Doctors suggest an appropriate treatment on the basis of symptoms, age, and present health state. Here is a list of home care tips that you can undertake for eczema treatment.
- Take baths with lukewarm water
- Apply moisturizer within the first three minutes of bathing in order to lock the moisture
- Applying proper moisturizer to the body every day
- Using non-soap cleanser or mild cleanser for bathing
- Opt for wearing cotton clothes or soft fabrics
- Learn and avoid specific triggers of atopic dermatitis
- Use a humidifier in cold or dry weather
- Try to keep the fingernails short in length in order to prevent scratching
- Gently dry the skin with a towel or opt for air drying after bathing rather than rubbing the skin
Even though atopic dermatitis is a noncurable skin condition, but you can opt for specific remedies or atopic dermatitis treatment in order to heal the affected skin. You can also opt for red light treatment for eczema. it helps to promote bloodflow and repair skin damage caused by eczema.
If you are facing the issue of acne and looking for home remedies to cure acne naturally, then go through our post.
