What is Eczema?
Eczema is an inflammation of the skin and may be associated
with an allergic reaction, although the cause is often
unknown. Childhood eczema is sometimes found behind the knee
or in the bend of an elbow and will often clear up by the time
the child reaches puberty.
Eczema affects more than 15 million Americans and ten percent
of all children have eczema.
The most common of all eczemas is Atopic and has been linked
with asthma and hay fever. People of all ages can be affected,
but there seems to be a trend for it within some families.
A common symptom is itchiness that can become very
uncomfortable. The skin has an overall dryness, can become
very red, and highly inflamed. Persistent scratching only
worsens the condition and can cause skin infections.
If infected, the skin can weep and have cracks in it. Skin
hydration must be maintained. Eczema Cream can be used for
both skin hydration and to reduce inflammation.
Allergic Contact Eczema results when the body has a reaction
to a skin contact with a substance that the immune system
finds unacceptable. The reaction may be immediate, or can
develop over an extended period of time. Some of the typical
substances are nickel, perfumes, cloth, rubber, and tin. Some
of the offending substances may be found of the commonest of
items, such as rings, buckles, the buttons on clothes,
watches, and other jewelry.
Irritant Contact Eczema is caused by contact with substance
that could be encountered daily, such as soaps, certain
chemicals, and detergents. Hairdressers and beauticians often
find themselves with rashes and inflamed skin. As with atopic
eczema, keeping the skin moist can help in preventing an
outbreak. Herbal products, unlike remedies containing drugs,
can be used often during the day without any adverse side
affects.
Infantile Seborrhoeic Eczema can be very common for children
under 1 year of age. The reason for this condition, also
called cradle cap is not fully understood. While the condition
is not considered to be serious, it can be treated with herbal
products and usually lasts only a few months.
Adult Seborrhoeic Eczema can be more serious than the infant
version. It can be found in the scalp and can spread to the
face, ears, neck, and chest. The skin becomes inflamed, red,
and can flake. Using a product, like Eczema Cream, that can
hydrate the skin while also protecting against infections
should offer quick relief for this type of eczema.
Varicose Eczema is a condition found in the lower leg. People
in their middle to late years are found most likely to
encounter this eczema. Poor circulation is suspected. The
ankles are most often affected and if the skin is left
untreated, ulcers can develop. Typical treatment is an
emollient, especially one that can improved the general health
of the skin.
Discoid Eczema most often is an adult condition. It appears as
a small, coin shaped redness of the skin. Most often it is
found on the trunk or lower legs. These can erupt or weep.
Emollients are a usual treatment, but care should be taken
that the skin does not become infected. (treatment tips).
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