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Atopic Eczema
What is atopic eczema?
Atopic eczema is a very common skin condition which causes a dry, itchy and red rash. The term ‘eczema’ is used interchangeably with ‘dermatitis’ and refers to inflammation of the skin. It is common in babies and children but can occur at any age.
Causes of atopic eczema?
While the cause of atopic eczema is not fully known, we do know that a few major factors play a contributory role. Genes play an important role as atopic eczema often runs in families. The immune system is different in atopic eczema and tends to overreact to things that are normally harmless. Some common examples include fragrances, detergents and house dust mites. In addition, the skin barrier in atopic eczema is also impaired. Skin is easily dry and can more easily allow the penetration of allergens, bacteria and viruses.
Is atopic eczema contagious? Can it spread?
Atopic eczema is not infectious and you cannot spread it to other people
What are the signs and symptoms of atopic eczema?
Patients with atopic eczema may have different types of rashes depending on the severity. All, however, will experience itch. Sometimes, the rashes may appear as red scaly patches on the neck and skin at joints on the limbs. In others, it may appear on the face. For patients with severe atopic eczema, the entire body can be covered with red rashes.
How is atopic eczema treated?
Some useful tips include
- Avoid scratching, rubbing and picking the skin. This aggravates eczema and may also lead to unsightly pigmentation, open wounds and scars.
- Avoid irritant soaps and detergents. Use gentle soaps or soap substitutes instead.
- Moisturise the skin frequently. Moisturisers are safe and should be applied liberally and frequently throughout the day.
- Certain clothing materials such as wool and linen tend to irritate the skin while materials like cotton are more comfortable for atopic skin.
- When in a dry and cold environment, it is important to keep the skin well moisturised to prevent flaring of the eczema
Topical medications like topical steroids and topical calcineurin inhibitors are commonly used for treating atopic eczema. Patients with atopic eczema are more prone to bacterial and viral skin infections. These need treatment with oral antibiotics or antiviral medication. For patients with severe atopic eczema, phototherapy, oral or injection medication may be needed.
DISCLAIMER:
The information written and published on this website is not intended to substitute the recommendations of a trained professional and does not replace a professional consultation.
It is advisable to undergo a formal consultation to help establish a relationship between the doctor and yourself, accurately determine your concerns/problems, and get the appropriate treatments for them.
It is also imperative to note that the contents of the website with respect to treatments, results and pricing can vary from individual to individual, and can only be accurately determined by the doctor upon diagnosis.
Do note that all medical treatments will only be administered upon proper consultation, with the requirement that patients be above 21 years of age to provide legal consent.
