Often also known as atopic dermatitis, eczema is a condition of the skin where small or large patches of skin become dry, itchy or inflamed. While it mostly affects young children and babies, adults may also suffer from the condition. Think you might have eczema? Book an online GP video consultation today and get help managing the symptoms.
Australia is one of the countries with the highest prevalence of eczema, with around 10 to 15% of the total population suffering from various degrees of the condition. If you’re wondering whether the sudden appearance of an inflamed patch of skin is an indication of eczema, read on to find out what the condition is, the common signs of eczema, causes and treatment options.
What is eczema?
As mentioned above, eczema is a skin condition that results in dry, itchy and inflamed patches of skin. Eczema damages the skin barrier function, usually due to allergies, which makes it more sensitive and prone to infection. Healthy skin has the ability to retain moisture and produce a protective barrier to safeguard you against common allergens, irritants and bacteria. In people suffering from eczema, there is usually a gene variation that affects the skin’s ability to produce this barrier. Although there are several types of eczema resulting from different causes, the most common type is atopic dermatitis, which is what eczema is often also referred to as.
Around 1 in 3 infants in Australia suffer from the condition, but most outgrow it by their 10th birthday. However, in at least 10% of cases, people will continue to suffer from it well into adulthood.
Types of eczema:
There are four common types of eczema:
- Atopic dermatitis (AD):
The most common type of eczema, atopic dermatitis is usually a result of allergic reactions and is a chronic condition. While the exact cause of AD is unknown, it is understood that it results from the presence of too many inflammatory cells in the skin. It is also common for people with AD to have drier skin and also suffer from other inflammatory diseases like hay fever and asthma. - Contact dermatitis:
Contact dermatitis is temporary, and usually occurs as an allergic reaction to irritants, including soaps, certain cosmetics, fragrances or even plants. When the irritant is removed from the person’s environment, the inflammation gets better. - Dyshidrotic dermatitis:
More commonly found in women, this type of eczema affects the palms and fingers of the hand and soles of the feet. It often results in dry, peeling skin that is very itchy and painful. - Nummular dermatitis:
This type of eczema is more commonly found in men, and causes round patches of dry, inflamed skin on the legs, and especially during winters.
Symptoms of eczema:
There are a few tell-tale signs of eczema, including:
- Itchy skin which often gets worse with scratching. Young children suffering from eczema may scratch the itch, causing the area to become more inflamed and prone to infection, worsening the situation.
- Redness caused by increased blood flow to the affected area.
- Tiny fluid filled blisters which give the skin a grainy appearance, and that may ooze when scratched or by themselves.
- Skin covered in scabs after the blisters heal.
- Dry, scaly skin as a result of the eczema, or due to genetic factors. Children with dry skin are more at risk of developing eczema.
- Hard, leathery patches of skin as a result of scratching.
- Swelling at the site.
Diagnosing eczema:
Your GP will usually be able to diagnose eczema just by looking at your skin. They may also recommend a few lab tests to determine the type of eczema and causes of the infection, as well as an allergy test.
Treatment of eczema:
Unfortunately, there is no treatment of eczema available yet, especially if the cause is genetic. However, you may be able to manage your symptoms, provide relief to the affected area and avoid flareups. Your doctor may suggest one or more of the following:
- Switching from hot showers and baths to lukewarm ones. Hot water strips away the layer of oil protecting our skin, making it feel dry and taut.
- Moisturising with a thick, hydrating lotion or cream, ideally within 3 minutes of showering and at least twice a day.
- Wearing loose, soft clothing.
- Using soaps, shampoos and skincare products that do not contain fragrance.
- Buying a humidifier to prevent the air around you from getting too dry.
- Once your triggers have been identified, trying to avoid them. These may include foods like eggs, wheat, soy or dairy, fragrance, detergents, dust or pollen.
- Gently patting yourself dry after a shower instead of rubbing the skin.
In the event of a flareup, your doctor may recommend a topical corticosteroid cream or ointment or oral medication that helps sooth the inflammation and itchiness temporarily. Other treatment options include:
- Antibiotics, if the infection is supplemented with a bacterial infection,
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors which work by suppressing the immune system, thus preventing flareups,
- Antihistamines which reduce the risk of nighttime scratching,
- Thick, medicated moisturisers to help your skin lock in moisture,
- Phototherapy, which may be able to treat moderate dermatitis by exposing the affected skin to UVA or UVB waves.
Because eczema is so easily diagnosable by just looking at the skin and flareups can be very physically debilitating, choosing an online GP video consultation may be good for you. By examining your skin through a video call, your online GP can give you a quick plan to help you manage your symptoms, along with a pathology referral (if needed) to help you learn more about the causes behind your eczema.
