What is Eczema? It is a rash like skin disease that is normally seen in infants. Eczema is a state where the skin becomes dry, red and itchy. Eczema, which is not infectious, looks different from one person to another.
Eczema is commonly found in waists, the creases of the elbows and behind the knees. Though different people have different types of Eczema, the common characteristic that comes with this disease is dry, red itchy patch on the skin. Eczema develops in the childhood and becomes paler when one grows old. But in some cases, Eczema flares up when they become adult.
One can come across different types of Eczema. Atopic and Contact Eczema are the most common Eczema seen.
Atopic Eczema, which is also known as Atopic dermatitis, is traced to hereditary. This Eczema is commonly seen on the face, neck, scalp, behind the knees and inside the elbows. Contact Eczema is a condition, which occurs when certain substances or chemicals irritate the skin causing allergic reactions.
Apart from these two types, another type that is seen with older people is the Xerotic Eczema. This Eczema is commonly found in the trunk and the limbs. Another Eczema seen among housewives is Dyshidrosis, which is generally seen on the palms, fingers, soles and toes. Venous Eczema , Autoaczematisation and Neurodermatitis are the other types of Eczema.
There is no need for any biopsy or blood tests to detect Eczema. If a person comes across inflamed and itchy skin, then you can make sure that it is Eczema.
What is the exact cause of Eczema? The real cause of this itching disease is not yet known. Some say that Eczema is caused due to an overactive response by the immune system to a bacterium on the skin.
Is there any known cure for Eczema? Well, the medical science is yet to find a way. However, there are several ways to control and manage it. It is better to avoid things that cause irritation of the skin. Some people might have irritation from certain cleansers, harsh soaps, detergents and lotions.
A person having Eczema has a tendency to scratch the skin. It is advised not to scratch the skin as it could lead to wounds. There are several creams and lotions that give relief from itching. A person having Eczema should avoid soaps and harsh detergents and lotions as they can make the skin excessively dry. If no relief is got from itching even after applying lotions and creams, it is better to consult a doctor. A person having Eczema should avoid sudden temperature changes.
Though no proper treatment has been found for Eczema, it can be controlled to some extent using Light Therapy. There are also certain traditional herbal medicines that helps in managing Eczema.