Stop Ignoring The Signs And Get To Know The Symptoms Of Eczema
Take A Look At Some Of The Signs Of Eczema
Having itchy, dry, red or inflamed skin? You might be suffering from eczema or dermatitis.
Eczema is a skin condition varying in severity which affects individuals of all ages. The condition can manifest itself on different parts of the body usually on the face, neck, backs of the knees and the insides of the elbows. Although not contagious and dangerous, it is very uncomfortable and unpleasant to look at. In some instances, especially in babies or children, eczema develops as a result to an allergic reaction. In atopic eczema, otherwise known as atopic dermatitis, which is the most common form of eczema, the condition involves sensitivity to things in the environment or allergens. These allergens can be common things we face with or use everyday – grasses, flowers, animals, dust mites, or certain types of food such as dairy products, eggs, nuts and others. Eczema can also be triggered by hot or cold weather. However, the exact cause of eczema is not really known but these mentioned factors as well as heredity and stress have been associated with the roots of eczema.
So how do you know when you have eczema? Here are common symptoms to look out for:
• Severe itching – Unbearable itchiness of the skin is the most common symptom of eczema. The itchiness can disappear and reappear all throughout the day even during sleep.
• Rashes – Not all rashes are caused by eczema so it is best to consult with a physician to properly diagnose the skin. A skin rash appearing on different parts of the body may be due to eczema but symptoms can vary from person to person. Talk to your doctor about your condition including your medical history for proper diagnosis.
• Blistering – The skin forms blisters which are small sacs of fluid appearing on the surface of the skin. Blisters vary in size and break easily which release fluid on the skin.
• Dryness, scaling and flaking of skin – The skin looses moisture and eventually becomes dry. When this happens, the skin flakes off.
• Redness and bumpiness – Redness and bumpiness of the skin come in patches and the more the skin is scratched, the more these symptoms come out.
• Thickened skin due repeated scratching – The scratch-itch cycle will eventually lead to thickening of the skin. The thickened skin take on a life of its own but without contant scratching, the affected areas may begin to calm down.
Scratching due to intense itching breaks the skin and might lead to other serious complications. This could swell into other infections which are fungal or bacterial in nature. Should this be the case, seek medical care immediately especially if you develop high fever of over 101 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, look out for open sores or lesions; change in drainage or fluids from the blisters; and increased redness, warm, and swollen skin.
Get Eczema Treatment
Watching out for these symptoms at an early stage may prevent the onset of eczema or decrease its severity. Thankfully, eczema is curable. Treatments include topical and systemic steroids, light therapy, and creams, among others. Also, nowadays, more and more people are exploring a more natural option to treating the eczema. Botanically derived oils such from primrose, black currant seeds, and borage seeds are said to aid in protecting and repairing the skin.
