The skin is the body’s largest and most visible organ. It protects our organs from external irritants and pollutants. Having clear and healthy skin is often regarded as one of the first measures of attractiveness. Eczema is a common skin condition that can afflict patients; however it can be difficult to diagnose and treat. Although there is no cure for eczema, its symptoms can be reduced and controlled through various and continuous treatment plans.

Eczema is more common in infants under the age of two. Fortunately, this condition usually completely disappears after the second year. Eczema is thought to be related to hereditary factors. Its symptoms can be aggravated by a variety of external factors. Common triggers are asthma, hay fever, stress, anxiety, or other environmental irritants that come into contact with the skin. In some cases, locating and removing the specific trigger, such as a detergent, is enough to reduce and control eczema symptoms.

Eczema cases that continue into childhood or even adulthood can vary widely in the specific symptoms and severity. In general it is characterized as a skin rash with redness and swelling. Patients often experience a combination of the most common symptoms, which can include dry and either rough and scaly or thick and leathery skin. It is also usually accompanied by severe itching. Patients who scratch constantly at their skin may cause bleeding and compromise the protective barrier of their skin which can lead to infections. Such patients should see a dermatologist immediately for treatment. Other eczema symptoms can include blistering and oozing pus that can crust over. These symptoms cause their sufferers great discomfort and distress and can leave unsightly scars or discoloration.

There is no real cure for eczema, however maintaining a treatment program will help reduce and control the chronic symptoms of eczema. The first step is to diagnose what triggers, if any, are causing the outbreaks of the symptoms. If it is simply an external trigger such as the case of the detergent, minimizing exposure and switching to fragrance-free and sensitive formulas can greatly reduce patient discomfort. For patients whose eczema is inflamed due to allergies, an oral antihistamine can provide relief from allergy related itching and swelling. There are also topical treatments designed specifically for the treatment of eczema. These treatments include topical corticosteroids or non-steroid immunosuppressant creams. Keeping the skin moisturized and as free from irritants and scratching as possible will also minimize eczema symptoms.

If you have been diagnosed with eczema and have been unsuccessful at treating it, or if you are experiencing the above symptoms, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Senait Dyson. Dr. Dyson is one of the premiere dermatologists in Tucson, and has an extensive experience in treating eczema. Contact Dyson Dermatology in Tuscon, AZ, and get started on your treatment for eczema today!

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