Eczema Resource

What is Eczema?

Any type of an itchy skin rash or dermatitis is generalized as Eczema. There are numerous skin rashes or diseases that are identified as eczema. These include but are not limited to atopic dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, nummular eczema, contact dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis. All eczema symptoms include an itchy skin rash, redness as well as blisters or peeling. When determining which type of eczema you may have, it is best to educate yourself on these different types.

Types of Eczema

Atopic Dermatitis
The most chronic and severe type of eczema is atopic dermatitis. The main symptom is an itchy skin rash coupled with inflammation. This type of eczema usually will start as a child and in most cases as an infant. Doctors diagnose atopic dermatitis in patients before turning one in nearly sixty percent of cases and near ninety percent before turning five years old. This type of eczema skin rash could fade after childhood but in most cases is a life long disease. The areas of the body most affected are the back of the knees, face and elbows however in can show up on nearly any part of the body. This type of skin rash is classified as an atopy disease which describes allergic conditions, hay fever and asthma. This disease falls in this category because it usually affects patients who suffer from asthma. Atopic dermatitis is not contagious and skin rash breakouts are usually episodic.

Contact Dermatitis
The name should give it away. When a person comes in contact with irritants such as industrial chemicals, tobacco smoke, paint, solvents, some foods that are acidic, alcohol that may be found in skin care products and some soaps. These types of irritants can cause itchy skin or redness and possible burning. As this type of eczema is due to contact, the hands are the most common place a skin rash may appear. Certain allergens may also cause a rash to appear, such as vegetable or animal proteins in foods or pets.

Dyshidrotic Dermatitis
Blistering is the main symptom for this type of eczema. It is most common in women and is usually limited to the palms of hands, fingers or the bottoms of feet. You may see flaky or scaly skin that lead to cracking and it can be quite painful.

Nummular Dermatitis
This type of eczema skin rash is most common in men. You may find dry round patches of skin and normally will not itch. It can be found on any part of the body but most commonly shows up on the lower leg. You may find many patches of dry skin and it could last for weeks up to a month or two. This type of eczema is not genetic and is not associated with any type of asthma like atopic dermatitis. Foods will also not cause this type of skin rash and it is not contagious. Bacteria could cause further aggravation.

Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic Dermatitis can show up on many parts of the body. The scalp, eyelids, nose and eyebrows are the more common places it may show up. You will notice scaly skin an itchy rash as well as redness. Oiliness of the skin is referred to as Seborrhea however you will not find redness or scaling.

Eczema Prevention

The most important things to avoid are irritants and allergens such as shampoos, nylon, wool and some soaps. Household dust and animal dander can also affect your eczema as well as some foods. Heat can also irritate your skin rash. Try to avoid hot baths or showers, stick to warm water. You should avoid all over the counter soaps and instead use shampoo and soap replacements. Oils can also help. Using heavy blankets should also be avoided. Try sleeping with a fan on to keep your skin cool.

Keeping the skin moisturized is most important. This will aid in itching and scaly skin and reduce eczema flare ups. Do be cautious of using moisturizers with added perfumes as they can irritate the skin as well. You should try to use moisturizers at least twice a day. Try to apply lotions or ointments directly after a shower or bath to help lock in the moisture.

Learn more about Eczema skin rash symptoms.