Eczema

What is atopic eczema?

Atopic eczema (also referred to as atopic dermatitis) is a common skin condition. It causes skin to become itchy, dry, and cracked. It is most common in children and is a long-term condition, though many people ‘grow out’ of the condition as they get older or see significant improvements. Those with diagnosed eczema generally have a family history of asthma or hay fever.

Atopic eczema is prone to flare ups where the condition is more noticeable than at other times. Flare ups can be caused by detergents, soaps, the weather, creams, and stress. Atopic eczema is most found on the scalp, face, and hinges of the body (knees and elbows).

Over the counter, or prescribed creams and ointments can help to reduce the symptoms of flare ups.

Other types of eczema

• Contact dermatitis – eczema that occurs because of the skin coming into contact with a substance which causes irritation.
• Discoid eczema – this appears as circular patches on the skin.
• Seborrheic eczema – this affects the face, with red scaly patches appearing by the eyebrows, sides of nose, ears, and scalp.
• Varicose eczema – this affects the lower legs, caused by issues with the blood flow through the veins.
• Dyshidrotic eczema – also referred to as pompholyx, this causes small blisters on the hands.

Eczema treatments

• Specialist skin care products – ask in clinic for details