Contents
What is eczema?
Chronic or acute process of inflammation of the skin, eczema appears in red spots with small blisters and, despite prevailing in some parts of the body, such as on the hands and face, the disease can also present itself on the whole body. Even though it is considered a genetic disorder, eczema is not contagious.
When you have an eczema, the oils that our skin produces are not enough and, therefore, the skin becomes dry, hard and can present some crusts and itches too, which ends up confusing it with other diseases that have similar symptoms.
What are the types of eczema?
Eczema can be distinguished into two types: contact eczema and atopic eczema. Irritation of the first type is caused by irritating agents, such as soaps, jewelry and cosmetics. The second type is developed in early childhood and it is more common to appear in those who already have a history of the disease in the family.
Contact eczema
It is estimated that 2% to 6% of the population has this type of eczema which, as explained above, is caused by several irritating agents that are in constant contact with our skin. Contact eczema is allergic and not contagious.
It is important to emphasize that in the sensitization phase, that is, right at the beginning of the contact, there is no manifestation of the disease, but after a few contacts, it can develop.
Atopic eczema
Atopic dermatosis in children, atopic eczema is a chronic disease that causes itching and progresses through crises. Of hereditary origin, this type of eczema has no specific cause and is not contagious.
What are the causes of eczema?
The causes of the disease are not fully understood, but it is known that the genetic factor influences the atopic type and irritating substances influence the type of contact.
People predisposed to this disease end up suffering from skin inflammation and need to adapt to living with this situation that triggers just like that. Some cases are more manageable than others, but proper treatment helps to space out attacks and minimize symptoms.
Can I prevent eczema?
Prevention can not only but must be done. And, for that, it is very simple. Just follow these tips below:
- Instead of scratching the skin, in cases of itching, rub it;
- Sleep properly, so you can reduce stress;
- Hydration of the skin is essential;
- Avoid direct contact with irritating substances, such as cleaning products.
What are the symptoms of eczema?
The symptoms of the disease vary according to its type (contact or atopic) and its frequency (acute or chronic). Some signs of the disease are:
- Redness;
- Itch;
- Bubbles;
- Swelling;
- Flaking;
- Crusts;
- Wounds;
- After numerous itches, the skin can become dark and thick.
Which specialist should I go to in case of eczema?
The area of knowledge on prevention and treatment of skin diseases is dermatology. Therefore, when you notice symptoms of eczema in you or someone in your family, go straight to your dermatologist, so that he can find out the fact and make the correct diagnosis.
Is eczema curable?
There is no simple cure yet for both types of eczema, but several measures to relieve symptoms exist, ranging from home remedies to treatments with medications that your dermatologist will recommend.
What is the treatment for eczema?
Medical help is essential to find out what is the cause of eczema and thus be able to help with treatment. There are several types of treatment and, among them, are:
- Moisturizing ointments or bath oils;
- Urea- based ointments or lotions ;
- Antiseptics are indicated for acute eczema;
- Oral antihistamines;
- Topical corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone acetate and clobetasol propionate ;
- Immunomodulators, such as primecrolimus and tracolimus;
- Phototherapy using ultraviolet or UVB light.
Before using any medication, consult your dermatologist. He will be able to indicate the best treatment for you.
Home treatments for eczema
In addition to the above treatments, there are also several homemade recipes to help cure eczema. Are they:
- Camphor solution (indicated for itching);
- Zinc capsules (help in inflammation of the lesion);
- Tomato juice;
- Wear cotton clothes;
- Application of aloe vera on top of the lesions.
Attention!
NEVER self-medicate or stop using a medication without first consulting a doctor. Only he will be able to tell which medication, dosage and duration of treatment is the most suitable for his specific case. The information contained on this site is only intended to inform, not in any way intended to replace the guidance of a specialist or serve as a recommendation for any type of treatment. Always follow the instructions on the package insert and, if symptoms persist, seek medical or pharmaceutical advice.
If you have any more questions about eczema, you can ask us. We are here to help you always!
