Bothersome itch that does not go away.
Putting it simply eczema is an inflammation of the upper most layers of skin also referred to as dermatitis. Eczema never fully heals but it can be treated effectively with hydrocortisone ointment or for a more severe case physicians will prescribe a corticosteroid which is a type of steroid. Controversial arguments have proven that a steroid treatment is highly effective however can cause some adverse side effects in younger patients. For mild types of inflammation anti-histamine and anti-itch ointments work just as effectively as a prescription.
There are four main types of eczema that are most common in babies and children.
Atopic Eczema is usually hereditary and accompanied by a very red and itchy rash of tiny inflamed pimples. This is the most common form of eczema and most easy to manage. Places for this rash to appear usually include the face, scalp, neck, and elbows.
Contact dermatitis is usually an allergic reaction produced by exposure to a certain irritant like poison ivy. It consists of a red, itchy rash on the irritated area. Contact dermatitis is considered eczema although it does eventually clear up with proper treatment. Xerotic and Seborrhoeric types of eczema are the two most sever forms usually in the elderly.
The skin is so severely dry that it resembles a cracked riverbed that can sometimes be accompanied by pus, cracking of the skin bed and thickening. In infants seborrhoeric eczema causes a thick, yellow and crust-like rash on the scalp. This is curable if treated within the limit but can be extremely uncomfortable for such a young child.
Diet, weather, climate, stress and heredity are all factors that determine eczema. Eczema usually develops in infancy through the age of 10.After age ten symptoms gradually start to fade and are less severe in later childhood. Keeping the barrier of skin clean and moisturized is the key in controlling eczema flare-ups. It is also recommended to reduce certain foods and stressors as well.
