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What is Eczema?
It is a condition where your skin is irritated or inflamed due to various factors. That of course is the most general term to describe eczema. The most commonly occurring type of eczema would be known as Atopic Dermatitis or simply Atopic Eczema
Do You Have Eczema?
It could be a relatively small issue now but that almost always opens the door to more serious problems down the road. Hence, you should always prioritize the identification of a potential problem as early as possible to get the best outcome. Some signs and symptoms can easily aid you in identifying whether or not you have eczema. They are as follows:
- Dry, sensitive skin
- Intense itching
- Red, inflamed skin
- Recurring rash
- Scaly areas
- Rough, leathery patches
- Oozing or crusting
The above mentioned symptoms of eczema can in fact be present on any part of the human body. We can’t stress enough the importance of finding out early as eczema left undetected and untreated can cause uncontrolled itching and scratching; leading to bleeding that causes even more itching and scratching.
Although eczema can occur randomly and may not obstruct you from your daily performance now, it is still crucial to see a doctor to diagnose it so further corrective measures can be taken as early as possible.
How Common is Eczema?
It is very very common. In fact, at least 10% of the human population suffer from all types of eczema ranging from the mildest to the most severe. Fret not though! You are most certainly not alone in this! Eczema is nothing to be embarrassed about and it can most certainly be kept under control fairly easily in most cases.
My Friend Has Eczema. I Think I Have it Too But Our Symptoms are Different.
Please do be reminded that this is a highly common misconception among many. Do remember that most cases of eczema can have varying symptoms and may not all look alike. As diverse as the sources of eczema that exist, different people are affected differently as well. Hence, it is always advisable that you consult your nearest dermatologist – skin specialist regarding this.
What Causes Your Eczema?
Once again, it varies depending on the person and their level of skin sensitivity. Heritance plays an important role in your ability to contract eczema and the also in the list of factors that could likely be the cause of your skin problems. Some of them are as follows:
- Allergens
- Microbes
- Stress
- Food
- Hormonal imbalance
What Can You Do To Avoid Eczema?
It’s simple. Cleanliness is of the utmost importance and you will have to pay attention to the things your hands come in contact with alongside the food you consume. Other than that, you could practice these:
- Moisturize every day.
- Wear cotton or soft fabrics. Avoid rough, scratchy fibers and tight clothing.
- Take lukewarm baths and showers, using mild soap or non-soap cleanser
- Gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel – do not rub.
- Apply a moisturizer within 3 minutes after bathing to “lock in” moisture.
- When possible, avoid rapid changes of temperature and activities that make you sweat.
- Learn your eczema triggers and avoid them.
- Use a humidifier in dry or cold weather.
- Keep your fingernails short to help keep scratching from breaking the skin.
- Some people with allergies find it helps to remove carpets from their house and give pets dander treatments.
I Have Eczema. What Should I Do?
First off, if you indefinitely do have eczema, you must have consulted a dermatologist. Hence, he would have given some advice and I suggest you follow that advice. Likely, he would suggest certain medication, mostly in the form of moisturizing cream. Unfortunately, as with most other cases sensitive issues, there is no one-fits-all approach to this matter. As a result, it is highly unlikely that your first visit to a dermatologist would solve all your eczema related problems. The doctors would need your cooperation in following the instructions to be able to identify the problem. This is why it is crucial to adhere to the doctor’s advice. Keeping eczema under control shouldn’t be too big a hassle so long as you do so.
Since eczema is such a common occurrence among many of us, I’m pretty sure many of our beloved readers would have some tips and tricks up their sleeves to keep eczema at bay! What’s that? You do? In that case you are more than welcome to share your “ways” in our discussion forum! Don’t be shy to post up queries on skin related issues as well! An interactive community is a healthy and empowered community!
by Thiiban
Ambiverted thinker with a big heart and big dreams. Chronically clumsy but always emotionally aware. I truly believe that with every great opportunity comes great responsibility to do great things. View all articles by Thiiban.
