Eczema is a common skin condition of the skin. This chronic inflammatory disease results from irritation of the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. Eczema presents with symptoms such as itching, redness, blisters, and dry, scaly skin lesions. Eczema, which usually starts in childhood, can continue into adulthood. Although the exact cause of this disease is unknown, genetic predisposition and environmental triggers are thought to play an important role. Eczema can create both physical and emotional discomfort and affect quality of daily life. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available to relieve and control the symptoms of eczema.
What is eczema?
Eczema is a common inflammatory condition that occurs on the skin. In this case, the outer layer of the skin, the epidermis, is irritated and symptoms such as itching, redness, blisters and dryness are observed. Eczema usually starts in childhood but can occur in adults as well. Although the exact cause is unknown, genetic predisposition, environmental triggers and immune system factors are believed to be involved. Eczema can create physical and psychological discomfort and negatively affect quality of life. Treatment options include a variety of methods to relieve and control symptoms.
What causes eczema?
Eczema is a complex skin condition of unknown cause. However, genetic, environmental and immune system factors are thought to play a role in the development of eczema.
- Genetic predisposition: Eczema is a disease known to be an important factor in genetic predisposition. People with a family history of eczema have a higher risk of developing eczema. Some genetic changes can increase the risk of eczema by affecting the skin’s barrier function.
- Immune System Problems: Eczema has been associated with immune system abnormalities. The immune system protects the skin against infections and irritants. In people with eczema, immune system responses can be altered and over-responsive, leading to inflammation of the skin and the appearance of symptoms.
- Skin Barrier Function: Impairment of the barrier function of the skin is an important factor in the development of eczema. The outer layer of the skin, called the epidermis, protects the skin’s moisture and provides protection against external factors. People with eczema may have a weak skin barrier and increase moisture loss, which can lead to skin irritation and symptoms.
- Environmental Triggers: Eczema symptoms may worsen under the influence of environmental factors. Factors such as allergens, irritants, extreme temperature changes, sweating, stress, and cigarette smoke can contribute to exacerbation of eczema symptoms.
What are the symptoms of eczema?
Eczema is a common skin condition that manifests itself with various symptoms on the skin. These symptoms can vary according to the type of disease and from person to person.
- Itching: Eczema is usually characterized by severe itching. Itching is one of the most obvious symptoms of eczema and can cause serious discomfort.
- Redness: Eczema causes a marked redness of the skin in the affected area. This rash is caused by inflammation and dilation of blood vessels in the skin.
- Blisters and Fluid Filled Lesions: Blisters or fluid-filled lesions may develop on the skin due to eczema. These blisters may break and crust over time.
- Dryness and flaking: Eczema can affect the skin’s natural moisture barrier, which can lead to dryness and flaking of the skin. A dry, crusty and scaly appearance may occur in the affected area.
- Thickened Skin: In chronic eczema, the skin may thicken in the affected areas. This condition occurs when the skin, which is constantly exposed to itching and irritation, thickens in response.
- Stretch Marks and Scars: In severe cases of eczema, stretch marks and scars may form on the skin. This occurs due to damage to the skin barrier and leaving a scar during the healing process.
Facial eczema is a skin condition that occurs in the face area and its symptoms are similar to other types of eczema. Facial eczema may present with symptoms such as itching, redness, blisters, dryness and flaking. This may occur due to the sensitive and open skin structure of the face and the effect of triggers. Facial eczema can often occur in response to allergens, irritants, cosmetics, or extreme temperature changes. Treatment includes relieving symptoms, maintaining skin moisture, and avoiding triggers. A correct diagnosis and treatment plan made by a dermatologist can help control facial eczema symptoms.
How does eczema go?
Although eczema is a chronic skin condition and difficult to cure completely, there are a number of treatments available to relieve and control symptoms. Here are some methods that can help treat eczema:
- Skin care: It is important to keep eczema areas clean and moist. Cleanse and moisturize your skin using mild cleansers and moisturizers. Products that do not contain perfume, alcohol or other irritants should be preferred.
- Moistening: It is important to maintain the moisture of eczema skin. Moisturizing creams or lotions should be used regularly and applied to the skin after bathing. It may also be helpful to use warm water instead of hot water during bathing and to dry the skin gently without rubbing it.
- Avoiding Triggers: It is important to avoid factors that can trigger the symptoms of eczema. These include allergens, irritating chemicals, extreme temperature changes, sweating, stress and certain foods. Trying to avoid these triggers as much as possible can help control symptoms.
- Topical Steroids: Topical steroid creams or ointments are often prescribed to relieve eczema symptoms. These drugs control itching, redness and blisters by reducing inflammation. However, it is important to carefully follow your doctor’s instructions regarding its use.
- Other Drugs: In some cases, medications such as antihistamines, immune modulators, or antibiotics can be used to relieve eczema symptoms. These medications can be used to control symptoms or treat infections.
- Phototherapy: Phototherapy in the treatment of eczema involves exposing the skin under special light sources. Ultraviolet A (UVA) or ultraviolet B (UVB) rays can reduce inflammation and relieve eczema symptoms. However, phototherapy should be applied under expert control.
Eczema treatment should be determined individually and can be different for everyone. That’s why it’s important to consult a dermatologist or skin specialist to determine the best treatment option to reduce and control the severity of symptoms.
How quickly does eczema go away?
Eczema is an incurable condition, but some measures can be taken to alleviate and control symptoms. These include keeping the skin hydrated, avoiding irritants, recognizing and avoiding allergens, practicing proper skin care, and following your doctor’s recommended treatment plan. Eczema treatment should be determined individually and can be different for everyone. A dermatologist or skin specialist can provide the best guidance on managing symptoms and providing appropriate treatment options.
Is eczema contagious?
Eczema is not a contagious skin condition. Eczema is not passed from one person to another through contact or breathing. Eczema is a chronic condition that results from inflammation and irritation of the skin. It is usually associated with genetic predisposition, environmental factors and immune system problems. Contacting or sharing the same environment with someone with eczema does not increase the risk of developing eczema. Showing support and understanding to a person with eczema symptoms can help manage eczema. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional if eczema symptoms are severe or if signs of infection occur.