
October is Eczema Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to learn more about this common skin condition and some of the treatment options available. Eczema affects more than 31 million people in the United States and can cause persistent dryness, itching, inflammation, and rashes.
Although eczema is common, it can look different from person to person. Symptoms may come and go, and what triggers a flare-up for one person may not affect another. Fortunately, there are many ways to manage the condition and reduce its impact on everyday life.
What Is Eczema?
Eczema is an inflammatory condition that causes dry, itchy, and irritated skin. It can develop at any age, although it most commonly begins during childhood. It can continue into adulthood, and some people who experienced eczema as a child may have symptoms again later in life.
Eczema is not contagious. You cannot get it from someone else or spread it.
What Are the Symptoms of Eczema?
One of the most common symptoms of eczema is itching. In fact, eczema is sometimes described as the “itch that rashes,” because itching usually occurs before a rash appears.
Common eczema symptoms include:
- Itchy skin
- Dry skin
- Rash
- Inflamed areas
- Discolored skin
- Rough or bumpy skin
- Cracked or scaly skin
- Areas that ooze or crust
Eczema can appear all over the body. For instance, in infants and young children, it commonly affects the face, scalp, arms and legs. In older children and adults, eczema may occur in areas such as the hands, arms, legs, neck and folds of the skin.
Symptoms can also change over time. A person may have periods when the skin is relatively clear followed by an eczema flare-up.
What Causes Eczema?
Although the exact cause of eczema is not known, it is believed to have many potential contributors. Some of these include:
- Genetics or family history
- Environmental triggers
- Stress
Common Eczema Triggers
Triggers vary from person to person, but may include:
- Fabrics or materials
- Fragrances and perfumes
- Soaps or cleansers
- Skincare products
- Dry air
- Extreme hot or cold weather
- Laundry detergent
- Stress
Eczema Treatment: What Are the Options?
There is currently no cure for eczema, but treatment can help manage symptoms, reduce flare-ups and improve the overall health of the skin. Treatment may include:
- Moisturizers and skin care to protect and help strengthen the skin barrier
- Prescription topical treatments such as corticosteroids and nonsteroidal medications
- Phototherapy to help reduce inflammation
- Biologic and oral medications for more severe cases
During an eczema flare-up, gentle skin care can also help reduce irritation. Moisturize regularly, use fragrance-free products, avoid hot water and try to avoid known triggers.
An evaluation with one of our medical dermatology providers can help determine the most appropriate eczema treatment for your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eczema
Can eczema be cured?
There is currently no cure for eczema, but treatment can help control symptoms, reduce flare-ups and improve the health of the skin.
Is eczema contagious?
No. Eczema is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.
Can adults develop eczema?
Yes. Although eczema often begins during childhood, it can develop at any age, including adulthood.
Eczema Treatment in Buffalo, NY
If you’re experiencing persistent itching, dry or inflamed skin, or recurring rashes, an evaluation can help determine whether eczema or another skin condition may be responsible.
Lisa S. Ball, NP at the Neiman Dermatology Building provides medical dermatology care for patients throughout Buffalo, Williamsville, Amherst, Clarence, Orchard Park, East Aurora and surrounding Western New York communities.
Schedule an appointment to have your symptoms evaluated and discuss appropriate eczema treatment options.
Source: The National Eczema Association (NEA)




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