What is eczema? Simply put, eczema refers to several different conditions that cause the skin to become irritating, scaley, rough and itchy. There are several types of eczema, but the most common is allergic eczema, which is closely related to allergies.
The most common symptoms of eczema are scaly, dry, itchy skin patches. Depending on the patient's normal skin tone, the affected area may appear red, brown, or brighter or darker than usual. Skin affected by eczema usually looks thicker than unaffected skin and any area may be affected. By visual inspection, doctors can often diagnose eczema. Since this condition is usually associated with allergies, many doctors review family history and usually require patients to undergo an allergy test. Blood tests and scratch tests are also used to diagnose eczema.
The most common type of eczema is caused by the body's excessive reaction to certain irritants. A reaction similar to an allergic reaction occurs, and the body's immune system responds by countering irritants. Eczema occurs when the immune system overreacts, causing irritation and itchy skin. Eczema also brings the skin's ability to retain moisture.
Itching has a risk of infection, so antihistamines are often used to control itching and prevent infection. It is recommended to use lotions and creams topically to keep the skin moist and use hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation. Other treatments for more severe cases of eczema include tar treatment, oral steroids and light therapy. Although new prescription drugs for the treatment of eczema have been developed, they are associated with an increased risk of cancer, and doctors have been warned to be careful to prescribe.
Although it may seem like this, eczema is not contagious. There is no cure for this disease, but it can be effectively treated with prescription drugs and topical lotions and creams.
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