Eczema

Eczema (Dermatitis) is a term that describes a number of different skin conditions. Generally, it is a condition where the skin is reddish, moist and oozing, occasionally leading to occurrence of small, fluid-filled bumps. It is a chronic disease, but only one-third of the affected children, continue to have it till they are older.

Causes

The exact cause of eczema is not definitely known. Possible cause factors are believed to be defect in the skin which affects its normal function as barrier and also improper functioning of immune system.
The most common type of eczema known as atopic dermatitis is common in infants and older children who have allergies and a family history of either eczema or allergies like asthma and hay fever. Gene defects too are said to cause Atopic dermatitis.

The other type known as contact dermatitis is caused by skin coming in contact with substances to which the child is allergic or substances which are irritating.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Atopic dermatitis in its early phase are itching, redness, moist and oozy small bumps on the cheeks, forehead or scalp. The rash then spreads to forearms, legs and trunk.. Between four and ten years of age, the second phase of rashes appear mainly in the bends of the elbows, behind the knees, and on the back of wrists and ankles, as circular, slightly raised, itchy and scaly rashes. At about twelve years, the third phase appears as itchy, dry, scaly areas. This may continue upto early adulthood.

Contact dermatitis caused by irritants, is less itchy than atopic dermatitis, and will clear when the irritant is not present. If the condition is caused due to contact with allergic substances, it will produce rashes within hours after contact. The rashes are itchy and even blisters may be produced.

Diagnosis

A thorough physical examination and the patient’s account of the history of the condition, is relied upon by doctors in the process of diagnosis of eczema. The time of appearance, whether it was due to any change in environment or due to contact with any irritating or allergic material or gets aggravated under specific conditions, will be taken note of in diagnosing the condition. Skin biopsy, patch test are other tests used to find the cause for the condition.

Treatment

There is no immediate cure for atopic dermatitis, but this can be controlled, and got rid of in several months or years. Lifestyle changes to avoid triggers for the condition, and use of medications are the treatment for eczema. Applying creams and ointments to keep the skin well hydrated and avoiding over-bathing form an important part of the treatment. Hydrating creams or lotions are best applied on slightly moist skin (immediately after a bath)so that they can help the skin retain moisture and prevent over-drying.Avoiding hot water while bathing (use only lukewarm water) and using minimal quantities of soap will help. Also drying agents like besan or gram flour are to be avoided entirely.Cortisone or steroid creams are commonly used. These creams are of varying strengths and prescription varies with individual’s age, overall health condition, type and severity of the condition. The doctor may prescribe antihistamines and oral antibiotics to control itching, and to prevent or treat secondary infections that are common in children having dermatitis. Severe conditions maybe treated with ultraviolet rays under the supervision of a dermatologist.

Prevention

Self-care measures to prevent eczema are:

• Avoid extreme temperature
• Frequent hydration with creams or ointments
• Avoid known irritants
• Avoid fabrics that cause irritation on the skin
• Avoid strong detergents and chemical exposure