Eczema often develops in childhood, causing distressing and infuriatingly itchy, dry, red skin. If you or your child need help managing eczema, visit Associates in Dermatology. At offices in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and Punta Gorda, Florida, board-certified dermatologists use the most advanced treatments to prevent and control eczema flare-ups. Call the nearest Associates in Dermatology office to schedule an eczema evaluation, or book a consultation online today.
Eczema is a long-term skin condition that typically starts as a red rash but worsens to cause:
Eczema is often maddeningly itchy, so it’s hard to resist scratching the affected areas. However, doing so makes the problem worse and increases your risk of infection.
Eczema can develop anywhere on your body, but it’s more likely to affect your face, hands, feet, inside your arms, and behind your knees. Infants with eczema tend to develop it on their scalps.
The most common eczema is atopic dermatitis, which develops in infants and young children. Atopic dermatitis frequently affects people with other allergic conditions, such as hay fever and asthma, and those with a family history of allergies and eczema.
Other reasons for developing eczema or dermatitis include overly dry skin, sensitivities to certain substances, chemical irritation, and adverse reactions to certain medications. Eczema isn’t contagious, so you can’t spread it to others, even during skin-to-skin contact.
There’s no definitive eczema test, so dermatologists diagnose it by examining your skin and discussing your medical history and your family’s.
The Associates in Dermatology team might recommend allergy tests to identify eczema’s triggers — substances or environments that set off or worsen an eczema flare. Common triggers include:
Identifying your eczema triggers is vital for effectively managing your symptoms.
Associates in Dermatology offers several treatments to ease eczema symptoms. Options include:
Antihistamines reduce allergic reactions, while topical corticosteroids soothe inflammation and itching. You might need antibiotics if you have an infection. Some medications target the immune system overreaction that is responsible for atopic dermatitis.
Consistent skin care and keeping the skin moisturized is vital for effective eczema management. Associates in Dermatology uses leading dermatologist-approved products such as Obagi® Medical, skinbetter science®, EltaMD®, and SkinCeuticals.
Making simple day-to-day changes can help you avoid eczema triggers that may lead to eczema flare-ups. You might need to change your bathing habits, such as avoiding hot water, and use an eczema-friendly laundry detergent.
Call Associates in Dermatology or book an appointment online today to benefit from expert eczema treatment.