Eczema and Rash Treatment options at Orlando Dermatology
A rash indicates an abnormal change in skin color or texture. Rashes are usually caused by skin irritation, which may have many causes. There are many types of rashes, including eczema. Eczema is term for a group of medical conditions that cause the skin to become inflamed or irritated. The most common type of eczema is known as atopic dermatitis, or atopic eczema. Atopic refers to a group of diseases with often inherited tendency to develop other allergic conditions such as asthma and hay fever.
What are the symptoms of Eczema?
No matter which part of the skin is affected, eczema is almost always itchy. Sometimes the itching will start before the rash appears, but when it does the rash most commonly occurs on the face, knees, hands, or feet. It may also affect other areas as well.
Affected areas usually appear very dry, thickened, or scaly. In fair-skinned people, these areas may initially appear reddish and then turn brown. Among darker-skinned people, eczema can affect pigmentation, making the affected area lighter or darker.
In infants, the itchy rash can produce an oozing crusting condition that occurs mainly on the face and scalp, but patches may appear anywhere.
What Causes Eczema?
The cause of eczema is unknown, but it’s thought to be linked to an overactive response by the body’s immune system to unknown triggers. Eczema is commonly found in families with a history of other allergies or asthma.
What is the treatment for Eczema?
The goal of treatment for eczema is to relieve and prevent itching, which can lead to infection. Since the disease makes skin dry and itchy, lotions and creams are recommended to keep the skin moist. Solutions are usually applied when the skin is damp, such as after bathing, to help the skin retain moisture. Cold compresses may also be used to relieve itching.
