Eczema can vary in severity, with symptoms ranging from mild itching and redness to more severe cases where the skin becomes extremely dry, cracked, and prone to infections. Common triggers for eczema flare-ups include certain fabrics, soaps, detergents, stress, changes in temperature or humidity, certain foods, and allergens like pollen or pet dander.

While there is no cure for eczema, various treatments and strategies can help manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups. These may include moisturizing the skin regularly, avoiding known triggers, using topical corticosteroids or other medications to reduce inflammation, and following a proper skincare routine recommended by Our healthcare professional in Hyderabad at Skinbliss Clinic Dr. Deepali.

What Causes of Eczema?

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a complex condition with various factors contributing to its development. The exact cause of eczema is not completely understood, but several factors are known to play a role:

Genetics: There is a strong genetic component to eczema. Individuals with a family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies are more likely to develop the condition. Specific gene variations related to the skin barrier function and immune responses may increase susceptibility to eczema.

Immune System Dysfunction: People with eczema often have an overactive immune system that responds excessively to triggers, leading to inflammation in the skin. This immune system dysfunction can contribute to the development of eczema symptoms.

Skin Barrier Dysfunction: A defective skin barrier allows irritants, allergens, and bacteria to penetrate the skin more easily. This can lead to dryness, itching, and inflammation, which are hallmark symptoms of eczema.

Environmental Factors: Exposure to certain environmental factors can trigger or exacerbate eczema symptoms. These factors include allergens (such as dust mites, pet dander, pollen), harsh chemicals in soaps or detergents, extreme temperatures, low humidity, and certain fabrics that irritate the skin.

Microbes: Infections from certain bacteria, viruses, or fungi can worsen eczema symptoms. Staphylococcus aureus, for instance, is a bacterium commonly found on the skin of people with eczema and can exacerbate inflammation.

Stress and Emotional Factors: Stress and emotional factors can influence eczema by triggering immune responses and exacerbating symptoms. Stress management techniques may help in managing the condition for some individuals.

While these factors are associated with eczema, it’s important to note that each person’s experience with eczema can vary significantly. Identifying and managing triggers, maintaining proper skincare routines, and seeking guidance from healthcare professionals can help manage and control eczema symptoms effectively.

What are the Symptoms of Eczema?

The symptoms of eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, can vary in severity and presentation from person to person. Common symptoms include:

Dry and Itchy Skin: The skin affected by eczema often becomes dry, scaly, and extremely itchy. Itching can be intense and persistent, leading to scratching that further aggravates the skin.

Redness and Inflammation: Affected areas may appear red or inflamed due to the body’s immune response, causing increased blood flow to the affected skin.

Rash or Patches: Eczema typically presents as patches of irritated skin. These patches can vary in size, shape, and appearance. In infants, eczema may appear as small, raised bumps, while in adults and older children, it might manifest as dry, leathery patches.

Blisters or Oozing: In some cases, eczema can lead to the formation of small fluid-filled blisters that may ooze or weep when scratched or irritated. This can increase the risk of skin infections.

Thickened Skin: Prolonged scratching or rubbing of the affected areas can cause the skin to thicken and become rough or leathery. This is known as lichenification and can worsen the itching sensation.

Sensitive Skin: Individuals with eczema often have sensitive skin that is prone to react to certain triggers, such as harsh chemicals, certain fabrics, or allergens, leading to flare-ups.

Sleep Disturbances: Due to the intense itching and discomfort, eczema can interfere with sleep, leading to sleep disturbances or insomnia.

What are the Treatments of Eczema?

Treatment for eczema, or atopic dermatitis, aims to manage symptoms, alleviate discomfort, prevent flare-ups, and improve the overall condition of the skin. Here are various approaches and treatments commonly used:

Emollients and Moisturizers: Regularly applying emollients and moisturizers helps keep the skin hydrated, reducing dryness and itching. Thick creams or ointments are often recommended, especially after bathing when the skin is still moist.

Topical Corticosteroids: These medications help reduce inflammation and itching. They come in various strengths and are applied directly to the affected skin under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors: These non-steroidal medications can be prescribed for sensitive areas, like the face and skin folds, to reduce inflammation and itching.

Topical Phosphodiesterase-4 Inhibitors: Prescription creams in this category can help manage mild to moderate eczema by reducing inflammation.

Antihistamines: Oral antihistamines can help reduce itching, particularly at night, and may aid in improving sleep for individuals with eczema.

Wet Wrap Therapy: This involves applying emollients or medicated creams to the skin, followed by wrapping the area with wet bandages to increase moisturization and absorption of the medication.

Phototherapy (Light Therapy): Controlled exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light under medical supervision can help reduce inflammation and itching in some cases.

Systemic Medications: In severe cases where other treatments haven’t been effective, systemic medications like oral corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or biologic drugs may be prescribed. These treatments are usually reserved for more severe or refractory cases due to potential side effects.

Identifying and Avoiding Triggers: Understanding and avoiding triggers that exacerbate eczema symptoms, such as certain fabrics, soaps, detergents, or specific foods, can help prevent flare-ups.

Proper Skin Care Practices: Using mild, fragrance-free cleansers and avoiding harsh soaps or excessive bathing can help maintain the skin barrier.

Stress Management: Techniques to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or counseling, may help reduce flare-ups in some individuals.

Why does Eczema get worse at night?

Eczema tends to worsen at night due to several factors. Firstly, the body’s natural circadian rhythm causes an increase in body temperature during the night, leading to heightened itching and discomfort for individuals with eczema. Moreover, the skin’s moisture loss overnight can intensify dryness, making it more susceptible to itching and irritation. At night, with fewer distractions, individuals become more aware of the itching sensation, prompting increased scratching, which exacerbates symptoms. Additionally, heightened blood flow to the skin during nighttime can amplify nerve stimulation, intensifying the urge to scratch.

Stress levels, which often peak at night, and hormonal fluctuations may also play a role in aggravating eczema symptoms during these hours. Managing eczema at night involves strategies such as moisturizing before bedtime, using gentle fabrics, maintaining a comfortable sleep environment, and employing relaxation techniques to alleviate nighttime symptoms effectively. Consulting with a healthcare professional can offer tailored guidance to manage eczema during nighttime hours.

How do you stop Eczema from spreading?

Preventing the flare-up and spread of eczema involves mindful care and strategic measures. Firstly, identifying trigger foods that induce excessive itching and irritation is crucial. If certain foods elicit such reactions within 24 hours of consumption, it’s advisable to avoid them. Consulting a doctor for an allergy test can help pinpoint specific triggers for a more tailored approach. Secondly, maintaining skin hydration is pivotal.

Utilize moisturizers, vaseline, or suitable skincare products, especially during dry weather and after bathing, to keep the skin adequately hydrated. Lastly, maintaining a cool and sweat-free environment for the skin is essential. While dry skin can be itchy, excessive sweat and heat can also provoke irritation. Avoid humid environments and aim to keep your skin clean and dry to minimize potential flare-ups. These measures contribute significantly to managing and preventing eczema from worsening.

What is the Treatment of Eczema

The treatment of eczema, or atopic dermatitis, aims to manage symptoms, alleviate discomfort, prevent flare-ups, and improve the overall health of the skin. Treatment options may include:

Moisturizers and Emollients: Regularly applying moisturizers and emollients helps keep the skin hydrated, reducing dryness and itching. Thick creams or ointments are often recommended, especially after bathing when the skin is still damp.

Topical Corticosteroids: These medications help reduce inflammation and itching. They come in various strengths and are applied directly to the affected skin under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors: Non-steroidal medications prescribed for sensitive areas, like the face and skin folds, to reduce inflammation and itching.

Topical Phosphodiesterase-4 Inhibitors: Prescription creams in this category can help manage mild to moderate eczema by reducing inflammation.

Antihistamines: Oral antihistamines can help reduce itching, particularly at night, and may aid in improving sleep for individuals with eczema.

Wet Wrap Therapy: This involves applying emollients or medicated creams to the skin, followed by wrapping the area with wet bandages to increase moisturization and absorption of the medication.

Phototherapy (Light Therapy): Controlled exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light under medical supervision can help reduce inflammation and itching in some cases.

Systemic Medications: In severe cases where other treatments haven’t been effective, systemic medications like oral corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or biologic drugs may be prescribed. These treatments are usually reserved for more severe or refractory cases due to potential side effects.

Identifying and Avoiding Triggers: Understanding and avoiding triggers that exacerbate eczema symptoms, such as certain fabrics, soaps, detergents, or specific foods, can help prevent flare-ups.

Proper Skin Care Practices: Using mild, fragrance-free cleansers and avoiding harsh soaps or excessive bathing can help maintain the skin barrier.

Stress Management: Techniques to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or counseling, may help reduce flare-ups in some individuals.

Treatments for Infections

Eczema can compromise your skin’s natural barrier, making it more prone to skin infections. In the event that your skin lesions become infected, your healthcare provider can recommend suitable antibiotic treatments. These treatments may involve the application of creams or lotions directly onto the affected skin to address the infection